Life is where it's at. Expect the unexpected, make the best out of every situation, and take lots of pictures along the way.

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

I use couchsurfing to meet up with people wherever I am traveling, sometimes to find a couch to stay on if I need somewhere to stay.

I've surfed in Vladimir, Russia and met up with people in Russia, Turkey, and Ukraine --- nothing but good experiences so far :)

Interests

• arts
• culture
• theater
• dancing
• dining
• traveling
• music
• camping
• languages

Music, Movies, and Books

I love books, but I find it hard to make time to read them. I have piles and piles of books that I WANT to read, and I am constantly picking up more of them. One day, I'll make time... I am a terrible procrastinator.

My favorite movie is The Princess Bride --- very (in)famous American film. If you haven't seen it, please do.

As far as music, I love listening to anything and everything, but mostly Alternative, Electronic, Folk, and Pop. I constantly have songs running through my head.

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

Camping on the island of Bozcaada off the Western coast of Turkey. Good place to fall in love with the Sea.

Teach, Learn, Share

When traveling in a foreign country, is it better to blend in, or to stick out? That is the question. I spent a lot of time in Russia trying to find the answer to this question in various situations. Is it better to stay silent and stoic, so that people around me will assume that I am just another Russian? Or should I allow myself to be recognized as a foreigner, and thus open myself up to possible responses of locals? Maybe they'll be interested in my story, maybe they'll peg me as an easy target, or maybe they won't care at all. So if I choose option number one, I am safe but alone. Option number two, I'm taking a risk that could have any outcome. Who is to say which is a better choice?

Countries I’ve Visited

Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, Mexico, Netherlands, Poland, Russian Federation, Turkey, United Kingdom

Countries I’ve Lived In

Georgia, Russian Federation, Ukraine, United States