Hi! My name is Leah. I was born in the United States and grew up on the West Coast, in Washington state, before moving to the Midwest for university.

I am an avid adventurer who loves travel, experience new places and being outside. I completed my studies for a degree in journalism a couple years ago and have been working in higher education since my graduation.

I am passionate about meeting people in all corners of the world and reflecting on what our shared humanity can teach one another.

My hobbies are mainly centered around being outside exploring whether that be in a deep forest or a busy, new city. I love to walk, run and hike. I also enjoy reading and writing - especially about my travels and experiences. I have a curious mind and am interested in the culture and history of everywhere I find myself. I love to meet new people and learn about their lives and connect about shared interests.

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

I am currently embarking on a several month trip through Europe and Asia and I love the idea of connecting with people through staying with them. I am eager to get an experience with the local culture in every destination through Couchsurfing.

Interests

• running
• thrifting
• reading
• music
• world music
• outdoor activities
• hiking
• travel
• outdoors
• meeting new people

Music, Movies, and Books

I grew up listening to a vast array of musical genres - but bluegrass and rock really are cemented in my childhood memory. I love Pink Floyd and listening to their music always feels like home to me. I played the saxophone, guitar and piano growing up and have a deep appreciation for instrumentation. Lately, I am really enjoying Arabic music out of Palestine and Egypt, Turkish classical and psychedelic and West African Tuareg music.

I don't watch that much television, but I am a sucker for a romantic comedy. My movie interests do not contain multitudes and cinema isn't something I feel super passionate about. That said, if someone recommends I watch a movie or show - or even better, that we watch it together - I am certainly game. Afterward, discussing our thoughts is my favorite part of the process.

I read a wide array of genres, but I am particularly interested in modern-day (sappy romance) novels, literary nonfiction and memoirs. Prior to traveling, I like to do a load of research on every destination I hope to reach and I consider the research and development stage of trip planning a part-time job. Travel books, blogs and podcasts are quite often found on my physical, or figurative, bookshelves.

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

I grew up on an organic garlic farm in southern Washington state. I played a hand in helping with every single part of the growing process from a young age - planting, weeding, harvesting and curing.

When I was in high school, I saw Roger Waters perform live twice. I've also seen Stevie Nicks, the Pretenders and The Rolling Stones live - all live music experiences I feel indelibly grateful for.

I solo traveled through Central Asia for four months, trekking in the mountains of Kyrgyzstan, driving the Pamir Highway in Tajikistan, visiting Karakalpakstan in Uzbekistan and volunteering at a ski resort in Kazakhstan!

Teach, Learn, Share

I can teach you just about anything there is to know about garlic and the growing process. On a more intangible note, I'm an incredibly resourceful person and love to discuss how to get, and make, the most of everything.

I look forward to learning so much from people all around the world. I think there is something to be remembered from every person you encounter and I cannot wait to learn from those I have the privilege of meeting.

What I Can Share with Hosts

My kind and generous spirit :)

Additionally, my thoughts about the world, an earnestness to connect with others and written notes expressing my gratitude for every stay.

Countries I’ve Visited

Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Canada, Costa Rica, Croatia, England, Georgia, Hungary, Italy, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Macedonia, Malaysia, Montenegro, Netherlands, Serbia, Singapore, Slovenia, Spain, Tajikistan, Turkey, Uzbekistan

Countries I’ve Lived In

United States