After graduating from Northern Michigan University, I spent six months traveling the US and living in my 18ft mini RV, a 1986 Toyota Bandit, named Bernadette. I had traveled North America extensively, but never before alone. It was an incredible opportunity to meet others and become familiar with more of my own country.

During that trip, I published a virtual travel diary entitled 'Where is Taylor Sirard?' This diary is a place for me to share my journey, both through the world and within myself. My passion for and experience traveling has been too great not to share, and I will continue to write and document my future experiences.

My experience traveling internationally includes places such as France, Belgium, and Morocco. I have always walked away from foreign travels humbled and amazed by the immersion within a culture different from my own. I am inspired by using travel as a tool to learn and grow. My plan is to keep traveling, writing, and growing.

I am an open-minded and social individual. However, I highly value solitude and make time for it each day. Living authentically is my current top priority. I do this through self-inquiry, health, and compassionate communication. It is important, to me, to accept and honor others as they are.

I enjoy having deep and/or philosophical conversations. I have a passion for drinking warm beverages of all types. I love learning and discovering.

If you are interested in learning more about me, you can read my travel diary here:
http://whereistaylors.blogspot.com/

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

Using services such as Couchsurfing and Workaway greatly benefitted my travels. I have been able to meet gracious hosts and fellow travelers. Each interaction adds a memory that stood out from the ones I made alone. Meeting people along my travels allows me to unlock hidden doors of a location, and enter into perspectives and experiences that are unique from any travel guide. I am so grateful for communities like Couchsurfing.

Interests

• singing
• yoga
• live music
• printmaking
• lgbtqia+

Music, Movies, and Books

Music: Live music is my favorite music. Going to a small/intimate show where people are enjoying themselves and the performers are passionate is one of my favorite activities. I listen to a wide variety of genres, but mostly indie/ alternative. My all-time favorite is Motown/Soul, Otis Redding tops my list.

Movies: I lean towards independent films or documentaries. I don't want to be able to predict the plot or rewatch tropes. Novelty is always sure to keep me interested.

Books: Besides the Harry Potter series (if you're a fan, lets talk), I read mostly non-fiction. I enjoy memoirs and biographies. I read a lot of books that could fall under the category of self-help. I consider anything that would lead me to a further understanding of myself, or the world around me, self-help.

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

In the span of one year (2016-2017) I accomplished so much. I graduated college with a B.F.A. I started and failed my first business. I became a certified yoga instructor. I got a job at the finest dining establishment (and my personal favorite) in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, The Marq. I bought, renovated, and moved into my 18ft Toyota Bandit, Bernadette.

I know this is more than one thing and maybe each thing on its own isn't amazing, but I am really proud I accomplished these things within one year.

Teach, Learn, Share

I am happy to share my yoga practice, whether that be information or leading a yoga session.

What I Can Share with Hosts

I am a clean, kind, and respectful guest.

I would love to share conversation, or any of my interests with hosts.

Countries I’ve Visited

Belgium, Canada, France, Mexico, Morocco, Spain