I have spent most of my working life outside of my country of origin, Australia, primarily as a teacher but more recently with an ngo committed to the visibility and viability of traditional performing arts. The country where I have spent most of my time is Malaysia, which I have come to call home.

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

Everyone says stuff like 'I really like meeting people, and my horizons are forever more broadened when I engage with people different from my own.' Well, I am not exactly a wide-eyed uni-student, but people do interest me and I'm pretty fond of having a conversation. People do define places, and there's no better way to discover than getting to know the people who live there!

Music, Movies, and Books

All my reading is tragically work related, but my all time favourite novelist is Haruki Murakami, and I have pretty much read everything he has written.

I am a film reviewer, so I have watched a fair few, though mostly independent cinema and the sort of stuff that gets a screening at film festivals. My tastes are pretty wide-ranging, but there's a preference for East Asian Cinema, China, Korea and Japan.

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

There are many! But one thing that stands out, it learning Odissi -a classical Indian dance for three years, beginning at the age of 33. This is much like taking up classical ballet at the same age - so if I need a knee replacement in the future, that will probably be the reason why! Most importantly, it helped me understand more the region I have to come to call home.

What I Can Share with Hosts

I'm a pretty good conversationalist, and have lots of stories to share. I'm also pretty hilarious, and make people laugh easily. People generally feel very comfortable with me, and I'm independent and easy-going. What I can share? A round or two of drinks and my curiosity ...when time permits!