Hi, I’m Melvin—a London-based hairdresser who loves exploring cultures, dancing (Scottish, French rock, ballroom), and learning languages like Spanish. I teach kids during summer school, follow a spiritual path, and believe in treating everyone (including animals) with kindness. I don’t smoke or party, and I help care for my parent. Into yoga, art, nature walks, food, and deep chats. I live in a quiet part of London—happy to host like-minded, respectful guests.

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

Couchsurfing is a great way to connect with people and experience a place through the eyes of those who live there. I’m here because I love meeting travellers from around the world and sharing real cultural experiences—not just ticking off tourist spots.

During my first solo trip across the U.S., I had many unforgettable “firsts”—snow in Colorado, drag shows and pub gigs in Oregon, target shooting in Utah, and sharing a meal with a family of ten in Salt Lake City. I’m still in touch with some of them!

I did love to see a few places in the world and I want to really get to know what it's like living in different places. What better way than to share this experience with a local? For me, travel is about people, not just places. Couchsurfing lets me be part of local life, and I’m always grateful for the memories and friendships it bring. I think it is exciting to meet unknown people, share a space in their homes and learn about their culture.

Interests

I am into music, nature, films, poetry, biking, drawing, and a good glass of whiskey now and then. I enjoy yoga, writing, dancing, and getting lost in new places. I love learning about different cuisines and cultures, and I’m always up for a deep conversation—whether it’s about history, cooking, or the stars. At heart, hairstyling and ballroom dancing are my biggest passions.

• animals
• arts
• culture
• photography
• tattoos
• make up
• cooking
• wine
• yoga
• meditation
• gardening
• traveling
• socializing
• dance music
• backpacking
• surfing
• sports
• beaches
• hairstyling

Music, Movies, and Books

Books: I enjoy spiritual and philosophical reads like Advaita, and I like the raw writing style of Charles Bukowski. I don’t read often, but when I do, it’s usually non-fiction.

Movies: Big fan of Hitchcock, Kubrick, Miyazaki, and anything with vampires or a good horror twist. I also love classic Hollywood and rhythm-based dance films.

Music: I vibe with jazz, chillout, lounge, house, electro-mix, salsa, and hip-hop—anything with soul and rhythm.

I studied commerce, hair design, and makeup, but at heart, I’m an artist working through hairdressing.

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

One of the most amazing things I’ve done is a solo trip across 15 states in the USA—it was life-changing. I also recently explored Scotland, the Midlands, and Wales, which brought new inspiration. I’m currently working on a memoir called "Beyond the Mirror" about my childhood and travel experiences.

Teach, Learn, Share

I’ve been a hairstylist and makeup artist for over 12 years, so I’d be happy to share some good styling tips. I can also share insights about India—I’ve worked across different cities in the West and South, and every state has its own unique culture, food, and style. If you're planning to travel there, I can definitely offer some helpful tips!

What I Can Share with Hosts

At the moment, I live in a shared home, so I can't host overnight guests—but I'm happy to meet up! If you're ever my guest in the future, I can offer beauty and wellness advice, good conversation, a warm meal, and plenty of laughs.
When I do host, you’ll have clean sheets, towels, soap, maybe even a hairdryer and spare clothes (if they fit!). I have a spare key, so you can come and go as you like.

House rules:
Please no smoking, no mess, and absolutely no violence.
Be kind to everyone in the house, respect the space, and most of all—feel at home.
You're welcome to join in for board games, chats, shared stories, and some hugs if you're the cuddly type!
Just look after yourself and keep things clean and respectful.

Countries I’ve Visited

Aruba, Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba, Colombia, Costa Rica, Croatia, Curaçao, France, Gibraltar, Greece, Jamaica, Malta, Monaco, Nepal, Oman, Panama, Qatar, Scotland, Spain, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, United States, Wales

Countries I’ve Lived In

India, Italy, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, United States