Hi, I’m Martin from Hamburg (Germany), living since 11 years in Brühl (near Bonn and Cologne), I’m 47 years old and work as an engineer with a calm heart, practical hands, and a curious mind.

I work in sustainable building and energy efficiency, helping old houses become warmer, greener and more comfortable to live in. I love practical challenges — from designing details to repairing what’s broken.

At home, I share a big old house with five wonderful flatmates and three dogs. Our garden is a place of sunshine, laughter and muddy paws — full of life and shared meals. I’ve lived with dogs since I was born and feel deeply connected to them.

In everyday life I try to live simply: mostly vegetarian, no car, second-hand clothes, lots of cycling, and a strong appreciation for nature.

Cooking is one of my favorite languages — I love to explore local flavors, learn new recipes and cook together. Food connects people faster than words.

What I like:
🌾 Sustainability & simple living
🏡 Architecture, craftsmanship & building culture
⚙️ Renewable energy & innovative engineering
🛠 DIY projects and hands-on repairs
🍳 Cooking and exploring local food traditions
🚴‍♂️ Cycling and slow travel
🏊‍♂️ Swimming & sailing
🏓 Table tennis & outdoor games
🐾 Dogs, animals & nature walks
📚 Reading, stories & quiet reflection
🧘‍♂️ Meditation, mindfulness & Buddhism
🌍 Cultural exchange & conversations about life

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

For me, Couchsurfing isn’t just about finding a place to sleep — it’s about finding connection, kindness, and shared humanity.

I love the idea that strangers can open their doors and suddenly become part of each other’s stories.
It reminds me that trust still exists, and that the world feels smaller and warmer when people share what they have.

When I stay with hosts, I try to bring a sense of calm, curiosity and respect.
I enjoy helping around the house, cooking together, repairing something, or simply talking over tea about life and the world.

I don’t need luxury — a simple space, good conversation, and mutual kindness are more than enough.
I believe that true comfort comes from being seen, not from what we own.

Interests

I’m interested in how people build, live and care for the world around them. Sustainability and renewable energy are big parts of my work and my personal philosophy.

I love cooking, swimming, cycling, sailing and playing table tennis — basically anything that keeps body and mind moving in a natural rhythm. I read a lot, enjoy local markets and conversations about culture, design and everyday life.

I’m fascinated by architecture, craftsmanship and vernacular building traditions — how things are made to last. I’m also interested into mindfulness, meditation and Buddhist philosophy. 🌈🙏💫

• dogs
• cooking
• sauna
• reading
• hiking
• sailing
• swimming
• table tennis
• bowling
• going out

Music, Movies, and Books

Hip Hop, Soul, Jazz, RnB, Blues, Rock, …

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

One of the best experiences in my life was the year I spent in Australia. It taught me how to live with less, move slowly, and appreciate everyday simplicity — sunsets in the outback, working with my hands, long talks under the stars. It was the first time I truly understood that freedom isn’t about distance, but about mindset.

Another unforgettable journey was a three-week trip to Senegal. The warmth of the people, the rhythm of daily life, and the deep sense of community changed how I see the world. Even without a shared language, kindness and respect built real connections.

Both experiences reminded me that travel isn’t about ticking off places — it’s about learning how others live, and finding gratitude in the small things we share.

Teach, Learn, Share

For me, travel is about learning — not only about new places, but from the people who live there.
Every culture has its own way of seeing the world, and I want to understand those perspectives with respect and curiosity.

I believe that we grow when we listen.
Through Couchsurfing, I hope to share daily life, learn small habits, cook together, talk about work, family, or ideas — the real things that make life meaningful.

I also hope to give something back: help with small repairs, teach what I know about sustainable building, or simply bring a calm, friendly energy to the house.

What I like most is the feeling that, for a few days, we stop being strangers.
We share stories, meals, and time — and that creates something lasting, even when we move on.

What I Can Share with Hosts

I like to share what I know, what I can do, and what makes life easier or more beautiful in small ways.

As an engineer, I’m happy to help with practical things — fixing a lamp, adjusting a door, setting up a tool, or explaining how to save energy at home.
I enjoy challenges and love solving technical problems. 🛠️

I also love to cook and share meals.
It could be a simple German dish, or something we invent together from local ingredients.
Cooking and eating together is my favorite way to connect. 🍳

I can share stories about life in Germany, about sustainability, building culture, and daily life in a house full of people and dogs.
I’m also a good listener — sometimes that’s all that’s needed.

Mostly, I bring a calm energy, curiosity, and a sense of cooperation — I like helping, learning, and making people feel that they are not just hosts, but part of a shared experience.

🪷 I’m not rushing through places — I’m moving through moments. If our paths cross, I’d be glad to share one with you.

Countries I’ve Visited

Australia, Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Denmark, England, Greece, Italy, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Senegal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, Thailand, United Kingdom, United States, Vatican City State

Countries I’ve Lived In

Australia, Germany