Travel
Travelling and exploring different cultures is something I make a point of doing at least once a year, always choosing somewhere I’ve never been before. There’s something exciting about stepping into the unknown and seeing how people live on the other side of the world.
When I’m planning a trip, I almost always use Couchsurfing. It adds a completely different dimension to travel. Instead of booking hotels or hostels, I stay with local hosts who open their homes — sometimes offering a spare bed, sometimes just a couch or a patch of floor. In return, I host people visiting Ireland. It’s a simple exchange, but it creates genuine connections.
The heart of Couchsurfing is the chance to experience real culture, not the polished version you get as a tourist. You share meals, stories, routines, even the random everyday things you’d never see otherwise. I’ve had incredible experiences both staying with people abroad and welcoming travellers into my own home. It’s taught me a lot about trust, openness, and how similar we all are despite growing up in different places.
My hobbies and Passions
Four years ago, just after the pandemic lockdown, when isolation was at its peak, I put up a simple sign in my neighbourhood asking if anyone wanted to play football. I wasn’t expecting much. Instead, I ended up bringing together a group of more than 30 people. We all came from different backgrounds, but over the past 4 years, we’ve grown into more than a team — we’ve become friends. It’s funny how one small idea can pull people together when they need it most.
I am an extrovert. I love having people around me and being part of something social. But when I need to recharge, I head for the bike or the mountains. Cycling and hiking are where I find my balance. There’s something incredibly grounding about being out in nature, especially in Ireland.
Growing up in Lithuania — a country without mountains — I never imagined I’d end up living just minutes away from so many. I feel genuinely grateful every time I lace up my boots or hop on the bike.
I also enjoy a good challenge, whether it’s learning to ski, picking up golf, or pushing through a 200 km cycle in the Wicklow Mountains. Testing my limits and learning new skills is what keeps me motivated and curious.
And as for golf… well, that one’s still testing my patience. I’m slowly learning to appreciate the journey long before worrying about the destination.
