"Hello! Thanks for stopping by my profile! I'm Mark Lagamia, originally from the Philippines and currently residing in Norway. I'm on a quest to explore every country in the world, aiming to accomplish this before the inevitable challenges of age catch up with me :) While I may have the chance to host you in Oslo, do note that I share my living space with others, though we might be able to work something out soon.

Professionally, I work as an auditor in Norway, and you can find more about my professional background on my LinkedIn profile: [Mark's LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-gerald-lagamia-83580288/). While I haven't built up many references on CouchSurfing yet, you can check out the professional endorsements on my LinkedIn.

I've adopted a minimal presence on social media, practicing a 'socmed cleansing' to keep my achievements more private. It's been effective so far in warding off the evil eyes. However, if you insist, you can find me on Instagram: [markoslooo](https://www.instagram.com/markoslooo/).

I'm an open-minded individual, always eager for new experiences. Sensitivity to my surroundings and understanding different perspectives is something I value, and I strive to put myself in others' shoes to gain a broader understanding."

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

I often find myself in solitude, but not necessarily feeling lonely. My presence on CouchSurfing is driven by a genuine desire to connect with individuals from diverse corners of the globe, where authenticity is valued and there's no need to mask one's true self.

Originally from the Philippines, my journey into exploring the world began when I relocated to Norway. I am eager to encounter open-minded individuals who share at least one common interest, fostering meaningful connections during my travels.

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

One is not enough:
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Hey there! I'm Mark Lagamia, and my journey has been nothing short of extraordinary:

1. **COVID-19 Survivor:** I was the 15th confirmed case during the peak in February 2020 in the Philippines. Despite the challenging times, I decided to share my story on national TV and radio, although I chose to blur my face due to discrimination. You can check out the interview [here](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ebT71uMDskY).

2. **Philanthropy in the Philippines:** I volunteered for a USAID-funded project, collaborating with a US-based volunteer to upskill a coconut farm cooperative. Read about it [here](https://grameenfoundation.org/partners/programs/notes-from-the-field/from-risk-to-resilience-financial-empowerment-for-coconut-farmers-in-the-philippines).

3. **From Scratch to Norway:** I made a bold move to Norway without any family, relatives, or friends. Starting from ground zero, I've built connections and now revel in the amazing life Norway has to offer.

4. **Multilingual Adventure:** I decided to learn Spanish during the Covid-19 pandemic, making it my 5th and 6th language. Join me in the fun and fulfillment of language learning!

Can't wait to share more stories and create new ones with fellow CouchSurfers! 🌍✨

Countries I’ve Visited

Belgium, China, Denmark, Ethiopia, Germany, Hong Kong, Hungary, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Morocco, Myanmar, Netherlands, Norway, Oman, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, San Marino, Serbia, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom

Countries I’ve Lived In

Norway, Philippines