Hi there! I’m Illyria — a curious soul with a big laugh, a tender heart, and a love for art, nature, and meaningful connection. I’ve lived in a few different countries, and I think life’s a little more magical when shared over stories, food, or spontaneous dance breaks (especially samba, even if I’m still learning!).

I’m an artist and a student, currently immersed in music, movement, and the art of just being human. I tend to connect deeply with people, whether we're talking about the universe or just silently watching the waves roll in.

You’ll see some references that use he/him—they’re from a different chapter in my life. These days, I go by she/her and Illyria (yep, like the Shakespeare play!). If you’re confused by the pronoun switch in my profile vs. references, just know I’m still the same warm person people have met before—just a little more me now.

🧳 I travel light, I laugh a lot, and I will get excited about fruit stands, murals, and dogs I meet on the street. Hosting and surfing, for me, is all about those little sparks of realness that make the world feel smaller and kinder.

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

Because I believe the world is full of small, beautiful chances to connect—over a meal, a walk, a song, a quiet moment watching the sky.

I’m not just traveling for the views (though I do love a good view)—I’m here for the conversations that stay with you, the strangers who become stories, and the sense that we’re not so alone on this wild ride.

Couchsurfing, to me, isn’t about saving money—it’s about sharing life. I love meeting people who are curious, kind, and open to the unexpected. If we cross paths, maybe we can create a little pocket of magic together—something simple and real.

Interests

• yoga

Music, Movies, and Books

🎶 Music
I’m in love with sound that moves the soul. Think: Brazilian jazz, pop, bossa nova, haunting operatic arias, a bit of samba and rock. I also melt for lush string arrangements, deep vocal harmonies, and voices that carry pain, power, or peace. Music is how I breathe sometimes.

🎥 Movies
I like films that make me feel deeply or see the world differently—whether it’s visually stunning, emotionally raw, or just a little weird. I adore character-driven stories, unexpected tenderness, and cinematic poetry. Big fan of classics, quiet dramas, surrealism, and anything where a woman is staring into the distance, contemplating life.

📚 Books
I love words that cut gently. I tend to read things that reflect inner landscapes—memoirs, fiction with a lyrical voice, and books about the human spirit, trauma, healing, and creativity. I enjoy things that feel like they were written for both the mind and the soul.

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

I left everything I knew behind—language, family and friends, land, and name—to become more me. Moving across the world, starting over, and choosing to live in truth and beauty every day… that’s probably the bravest thing I’ve done.

Teach, Learn, Share

Teach – I can share what I know about singing, breathing, voice, and body—especially how they all connect. I also love introducing people to Brazilian music, simple yoga flows, and how to cook with love (even when it's just rice and avocado).

Learn – I’m always eager to learn new dances, languages, instruments, or just how people live and see the world. Teach me how you do things—how you chop vegetables, say “thank you,” or handle heartache.

Share – My stories, my playlists, my belly laughs. I can share presence, good energy, and probably a scarf or two if it gets chilly. I believe in softness, slow mornings, and making space for each other.

What I Can Share with Hosts

My joy, my stories, and my gratitude. I’m a calm and respectful guest who loves to contribute to the energy of a space—whether that’s with music, home-cooked food, deep conversation, or simply quiet presence.

I can share songs (maybe even sing you one), Brazilian flavors, heartfelt listening, and a bit of creative flair. If you're open, I’d love to learn about your life too—and leave a little light behind when I go.

Countries I’ve Visited

Albania, Argentina, Aruba, Belarus, Belgium, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brazil, Bulgaria, Canada, China, Colombia, Croatia, Dominican Republic, England, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Malaysia, Mexico, Monaco, Montenegro, Morocco, Netherlands, Paraguay, Peru, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Puerto Rico, Romania, Russian Federation, Serbia, Singapore, Slovakia, Spain, Switzerland, Thailand, Ukraine, United Kingdom, United States, Uruguay, Vatican City State

Countries I’ve Lived In

Italy, United States