Hey, I'm Tom (he/him), a London based tour guide and arty type; open-minded and never tiring of exploring & meeting people!
Perpetually wide-eyed and curious (though capable of cynicism!), keen to spend my time on this earth trying everything once.
Fully vaccinated, tolerant of all (except the intolerant) and always aware that I have more to learn.

I'm driving through the US until Feb, primarily to view a manuscript in Chicago connected to a passion project I'm researching (ask me about The Cousins' Magazine at your peril!), as well as catching up with some old friends from past 'surfs (and hopefully making some new ones along the way).

IG @Trynottobreathe

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

I'm here to share experiences & stories with people, to live a life less ordinary without forgetting the privileges that allow me to do so, hopefully helping others as I go.
A night on a friend's sofa is always better than one in a hotel bed!

Interests

While it would be shorter to list the things I'm uninterested in (mostly just sports, running & heavy metal), that still wouldn't paint a fair picture.
I adore culture of all kinds (defining a culture as 'high' or 'low' is snobbery), and ultimately anything 'designed' by a human. There is artistry & choice to be seen everywhere, from the design of a lamppost to a painting in the Louvres, and I find joy in trying to decipher what the creator intended.

At home in London I write & perform poetry, volunteer in a charity book shop, play games, enjoy some 420, going down Wikipedia rabbit holes, and try to expand my cooking repertoire.
While exercise will never be my favourite thing, I enjoy cycling, swimming & yoga.

Music, Movies, and Books

Taken as an average?
KC & the Sunshine Band - Give it up
Blues Brothers
Terry Pratchett - Feet Of Clay

Teach, Learn, Share

I tell a mean anecdote. Get me started and I wont stop telling stories until you hit me.
I used to play the bagpipes and the tuba, though its hard to say which made me look more foolish.
I want you to teach me any party tricks you know so I can accumulate a plethora of fun but useless skills.

What I Can Share with Hosts

I just hope to be a good guest and express my gratitude for your trust and hospitality!
I'm happy to cook a meal to say thankyou to my hosts, and am always keen to help out where needed, so if I can be of use during my stay let me know!

Countries I’ve Visited

Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Ecuador, France, Germany, Hungary, India, Indonesia, Italy, Jordan, Mauritius, Mexico, Morocco, Netherlands, Norway, Peru, South Korea, Spain, Svalbard and Jan Mayen, Switzerland, Thailand, United States, Viet Nam

Countries I’ve Lived In

Malaysia, United Kingdom