Hi. My name is Tim. I enjoy the freedom to travel as I like - just me and my 4kg backpack. I enjoy people, good food, architecture, scenic landscapes, and a little night life. All these things are great but for me it's the social interactions I have while travelling that are the spice of life. I've noticed a change over the years from being excited by what is around me to being excited about who is around me.

I've surfed beds, couches, and hardwood floors in several countries and I'll tell you from experience that all of those are better than sleeping outside because I couldn't find a room. Yes, that happened. Several times. You can find me and more of my travel photos on Insta (@Zarkaya) if you need verification that I am who I say I am.

Occupationally, I am a full time production manager running a window manufacturing facility. Recently I've been working on designing a new facility we will be building. On the side I am a part time artist, selling my paintings in galleries, fairs, and solo exhibitions. I enjoy the outdoors and being active. Currently most of my time goes toward preparing for shows and working on my fitness goals.

Sometimes small towns are better than big cities.

Romance. Let's talk about it. Couchsurfing (CS) is NOT a dating site, but as one of my friends says, it's also not a cooking site and people do that together - a lot. Romance happens sometimes on CS, but if your personal philosophy is to keep CS and romance separate I completely respect that.
I also think there's a benefit to people being more communicative about it, and I think it can be navigated with maturity and mutual respect. Unfortunately I have had some situations where men on CS tried to manipulate me and I have heard stories from women who have had similar situations as well. That's not good and not what I'm talking about. No one should be made uncomfortable - either as a guest or a host. Maybe I'm a trailblazer here, but I think people should include this in their profile:
I am attracted to: Women (Sorry guys)
I hope that couchsurfing results in a romantic encounter: Sometimes, most times that is not part of it
How I feel intentions should be communicated: Preferably in your profile :) For your comfort, indicating before meeting that you keep things strictly platonic is ideal. Sometimes people want to meet and feel it out first. If you want to know my perspective, just ask. If you tell me you are not interested I will respect you and remain comfortable.

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

It's more fun and more interesting. It's the people that make travel worth while. And locals have the unique ability to know what's good that's not necessarily touristy. A good conversation with someone from a completely different place is worth 10,000 sights.

Also, sometimes a stranger in a strange land needs a friend, guide, or help. I have been the host that provides these things and the guest that needs them. I'm more seasoned every time I travel so hopefully I'll do more of the providing than the needing going forward.

Interests

I'm a somewhat successful hobby artist.
I wrote and published a novel.
I play the drums. Was in a band for about ten years.
I enjoy being active and am somewhat athletic.
Love dancing!! Let's goooooooo!!

• arts
• writing
• architecture
• dancing
• dining
• athlete
• board games
• traveling
• eating out
• bouldering
• music
• backpacking
• skateboarding
• sports

Teach, Learn, Share

I have much I can teach, there is much I can learn

What I Can Share with Hosts

I'll gladly hang out, go for drinks or dinner, and share my stories. I want to meet your friends and go dancing. I'm fine with being independent too. Your companionship is what makes travel great and your local knowledge enriches my experience. Of course I'm not opposed to working; I'll do your dishes, help with chores, or even make repairs if you like. I'm very handy. My general intention is to leave a place in better condition than it was when I arrived.
Sometimes I take my host out for dinner/make them dinner as a thank you.

Countries I’ve Visited

Austria, Belgium, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Canada, Croatia, Czech Republic, England, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Liechtenstein, Malta, Montenegro, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, San Marino, Scotland, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United States, Vatican City State

Countries I’ve Lived In

Canada