Hello from Bahrain, a serene island in the Persian Gulf, neighboring Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Iran! My name is Khalil Sharif, and I find joy in exploring diverse cultures and connecting with people worldwide.

In my spare time, you'll often find me engrossed in books, particularly those on business and self-development. At home, I have a soft spot for canary birds, which I lovingly raise. Traveling is a passion of mine, allowing me to discover unique stories and experiences firsthand.

One of my most cherished travel memories is witnessing the daily ceremony at the India-Pakistan border in Amritsar, a poignant reminder of cultural richness and historical significance.

I'm described as calm and introspective, preferring meaningful conversations over small talk. I deeply respect differing viewpoints shaped by individual experiences and cherish time spent with my close-knit family.

As a host, I value mutual respect and meaningful connections. I appreciate guests who share a similar appreciation for cultural exchange and enjoy discussing profound aspects of life.

I'm thrilled to be part of the Couchsurfing community, where I look forward to sharing experiences, learning about your culture, and fostering lasting friendships. Let's connect and explore the world together!

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

I've always had a passion for traveling, but my career kept me occupied for many years. Now, with a dedicated team managing my business, I finally have the opportunity to explore the world.

Throughout my travels, the most memorable moments have always been the connections made with people along the way. These interactions have enriched my experiences and broadened my perspective. I'm drawn to Couchsurfing because it offers a unique chance to not only discover new places but also to connect with locals on a deeper level, sharing stories, experiences, and cultural insights. I look forward to forging new friendships, learning from different perspectives, and experiencing genuine hospitality around the globe.

Interests

• birds
• sightseeing
• beaches
• football
• reading books
• swiming
• persian culture

Music, Movies, and Books

When it comes to music, I have a profound love for both authentic and modern Persian music, celebrating its cultural richness. I also enjoy exploring diverse sounds from Indian, Moroccan, and Iraqi musical traditions, each offering unique perspectives and rhythms.

In terms of movies, I am particularly drawn to Indian cinema, where I appreciate action-packed films that skillfully blend comedy and drama. I also find myself sometimes captivated by stories that provide deep insights and meaningful reflections, with overwhelming tragedy.

Turning to books, in addition to personal development books, my reading interests gravitate towards business literature, management, leadership, and strategic thinking. Certain books have significantly impacted my life, such as Dale Carnegie's "How to Stop Worrying and Start Living" and "How to Win Friends and Influence People," which have shaped my personal and professional growth. Steven Covey's "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People" and books like "How to Be Miserable" have also been influential in my approach to self-development.

Among business reads, Michael Gerber's "E-Myth Revisited" stands out for its transformative insights into entrepreneurship, profoundly altering my business strategies and life philosophy. Additionally, Jim Collins' meticulously researched books have provided invaluable perspectives on successful and failed companies, enhancing my strategic thinking. Practical books like "High Output Management" have further enriched my managerial skills.

I look forward to sharing these passions and exchanging recommendations with fellow travelers and hosts on Couchsurfing!

Teach, Learn, Share

Teach: I can offer insights intoArab and Gulf culture, influenced by my Persian roots and Islamic upbringing, providing a unique perspective on Bahraini traditions, cuisine, and customs. I'm also knowledgeable about business, management, and entrepreneurship, and I'm happy to share practical advice and strategies from my professional experiences.

Learn: I'm eager to learn about the cultural nuances and everyday life of my hosts from around the world. Whether it's language lessons, local traditions, or new culinary skills, I'm open to immersing myself in the diverse experiences and perspectives of different cultures.

Share: I look forward to sharing engaging conversations on a wide range of topics, from economics and football to literature and travel stories. I'm enthusiastic about exchanging ideas and insights with my hosts, fostering meaningful connections through mutual respect and curiosity.

What I Can Share with Hosts

I bring a rich tapestry of cultural insights deeply influenced by the vibrant Gulf culture, Persian roots, and Islamic traditions, nurtured through my upbringing in Bahrain. Living in the UAE and being married to a Moroccan has further enriched my understanding of diverse cultures and perspectives.

I'm enthusiastic about sharing my knowledge of Bahraini history, traditions, and culinary delights with my hosts, offering curated tours to explore significant landmarks and savor local cuisine. Whether delving into topics like economics, football, or enjoying meaningful conversations, I'm eager to share insights gained from my background in business, management, and entrepreneurship. Above all, I extend warm hospitality, ensuring my guests feel welcomed throughout their stay, from airport pick-up to departure, enriched by their experience in Bahrain.

Countries I’ve Visited

China, India, Iran, Kuwait, Morocco, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Thailand, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom

Countries I’ve Lived In

Bahrain, United Arab Emirates