I'm a laid-back guy from northern Albania. I'm a construction engineer by profession: I spend my week between structural calculations, cement, and dusty construction sites. Perhaps that's why, as soon as I have free time, I need to escape to places where there's no asphalt.

I'm not the type to party until dawn; I prefer a long dinner, a cold beer, and meaningful conversation. I'm pragmatic, tidy (a professional disposition), but very flexible when traveling. I greatly respect other people's space because I value my own.

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

In Albania, we have a concept called Besa, which is a sort of code of honor tied to your word and hospitality. I'm here because traveling while staying locked in a hotel lets you see the monuments, but it doesn't give you an understanding of the country. I want to meet real people, see how you really live, and exchange stories without filters. If I host you, it's because I want to show you the places in my city that the guidebooks ignore.

Interests

• soccer
• art
• nature
• trekking
• trip

Music, Movies, and Books

Music: I grew up on '90s rock and grunge. Pearl Jam, Alice in Chains, Nirvana. I also listen to Albanian polyphonic music when I'm feeling nostalgic, but I won't force you to listen to it if you don't want to.

Books: I read a lot, especially nonfiction or history. If I had to recommend a novel: "The General of the Dead Army" by Ismail Kadare.

Cinema: I like films that demand attention. Interstellar, Into the Wild, or classics like The Godfather.

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

I walked across the Valbona Pass from Theth (in the Albanian Alps), carrying a German tourist who had sprained his ankle halfway, until we found a mule. It was the most tiring day of my life, but the rakia we drank at the end was the best I've ever had.

Teach, Learn, Share

Teaching the basics of the Albanian language. I enjoy understanding how your cities are built, their urban planning, and local history. Sharing a meal, a walk, or simply silence when we're both tired.

What I Can Share with Hosts

I make excellent Byrek, and I almost always carry a small bottle of my uncle's homemade Rakia (warning: it's very strong).
If you have something broken at home, I probably know how to fix it or can tell you why it broke.

Countries I’ve Visited

Brazil, France, Germany, Greece, India, Italy, Russian Federation

Countries I’ve Lived In

Albania