I’m an international school teacher, currently based in Bangkok. I’m passionate about outdoor education, and my dream is to one day run an outdoor kindergarten where the only ‘tech’ kids need is the ability to build dens, treehouses, or fires together. I’m also a single mum to a 6-year-old boy, so life keeps me busy. While I love being surrounded by little people all day, because no adult can be as fully present, imaginative, curious, and in awe as they are, I do miss adult conversations sometimes. 😏

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

After over a decade of living abroad, I’m moving back ‘home’ to the Netherlands mid-July. It’s been a time of big transitions and personal reinvention, so trying to step out of my comfort zone a bit with things... I’ve always (since 2008 😜) wanted to try Couchsurfing, both as a host and a guest, and now feels like the right time.

I’m also naturally curious about meeting new people, especially those with different backgrounds, so I can gain fresh perspectives. Friends say that I’m a great listener, so if you’re looking for a listening ear, I’m your lady!

Interests

I’m passionate about living a balanced, meaningful life. Whether that's hiking through nature, taking a quick dip into an ice bath followed by a long, relaxing sauna, or baking something yummy to share. I'm also interested in wellness, both physical and mental, and I love a bit of reading, writing, and deep conversations, especially at Aristotle's Cafe-style gatherings. My time abroad has shaped much of who I am, and I love connecting with people who are curious about the world, others and themselves.

Music, Movies, and Books

I love stories set in different times and/or cultures. The last novel I read was The Tea Girl of Hummingbird Lane. Currently, I’m fascinated by the Myers-Briggs typology. If you’re into that too, can you guess my type based on my favourite movies? 😉

• Le Fabuleux Destin d'Amélie Poulain
• La Vita è Bella
• The Shawshank Redemption
• Forrest Gump
• Pride and Prejudice (2005)
• The Before Trilogy
• Hit Man (2024)

Music-wise, the (mainly rock) songs I enjoy, sometimes make my heart time-travel a bit. I find I cannot really listen to this when I have company, as I get totally distracted. 🤪 So, when you're around, feel free to ask Google to play whatever... 😇

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

Sitting in ice cold water for five minutes during a cold plunge? But honestly, I believe (and hope) the most amazing thing I will do in life is still ahead of me.

Teach, Learn, Share

In order to go for your dreams, you have to first wake up from them.

What I Can Share with Hosts

I’d love to bake you some Dutch pancakes, either the classic kind or my special 'Hulk' pancakes that I make for my picky son. They’re packed with spinach and other hidden veggies, but still totally delicious. I'm a pancake pro! 🥞😎

Countries I’ve Visited

Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Croatia, England, France, Germany, Greece, Indonesia, Italy, Laos, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Myanmar, Portugal, Spain, Thailand, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, United States, Viet Nam

Countries I’ve Lived In

Brazil, England, Malaysia, Netherlands, Thailand