General Information
| Ramón Ster has been vouched for | | Couch available | No |
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| CouchSurf requests replied to | 100% |
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| member since | February 6th, 2006 |
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| profile views | 22823 |
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| age | 34 |
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| birthday | January 2nd
Everyone can see this. |
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| gender | Male |
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| membername | RAMONSTER |
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| occupation | out-and-out community builder, couchaholic beyond rescue, bubbleman |
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| education | student for/of life |
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| grew up in | Lexmond (population: 2600 souls), Zuid-Holland, Netherlands |
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| Direct Profile URL |
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Languages- Dutch (Netherlands)Expert
- English (United Kingdom)Expert
- Spanish (Argentina)Intermediate
- GermanIntermediate
- FrenchBeginner
- Portuguese (Brazil)Beginner
- ItalianBeginner
- SwahiliBeginner
Groups I Belong ToUtrecht meetings & events team 55:309
Why: =========================== mehere? ===========================
|  Amsterdam 6033:11643
Why: =========================== I AM*dam ===========================
|  Utrecht 1249:5846
Why: =========================== warm feelings for the town i've been practically living in for years ===========================
|  Amsterdam Couch Requests 1044:3050
Why: =========================== what am i doing here? ===========================
| Active in 115 more groups.
Show them all |
Couch Information
No couch currently available for surfing. 
Please at least go through the boxes in this Couch Info section of my profile before contacting me. It is there to your benefit as a traveler to The Netherlands and Am*dam.
This city is one of the most difficult destinations to obtain a couch in. That is bcs on average active local hosts receive btwn 10-15 requests per day, and some as many as 30. For real! If you have too much time and are interested in reading hosts' & travelers' opinions & frustrations, read this or this discussion. But you'd rather cut to the chase and learn some valuable strategies on how to obtain a couch in this popular over-requested destination, wouldn't you?
Worthwhile upcoming events in & around Am*dam Our Am*dam Friday Meetups and our Meet&Eat! homedinners. I highly recommend keeping your eye on our CS-Zone Am*dam. It represents our official CS-hangout in this city. It has the best offtrack info on the city there is. In time all info will be migrated to the Am*dam CS-Wiki. The local CouchSurfing Event-section also shows other events, organised by individual members.
My current hosting status I've reopened my couch availability for the following specific periods: Easter±April24 thru ±May6 (QueensDay & Liberation Day) Please read the linked Group post for details on the latter, and respond accordingly. Your specific off-the-beaten-track travel/exploring/housing questions are now welcome. I prefer meeting up as spontaneously as possible, so I don't have to feel obliged to answer to previous engagements: I'll have the liberty to draw my own plan if it turns out that meeting you does not come at a good time. Text me for short notices: +31(0)6-4151 2288. I'm unable to safekeep your luggage. Store your bags in a locker at Central Station. It will set you back some €3,60-€5,70 for the first 24hrs (max. 72hrs). Do bear in mind the locker storage closes at 23:00 daily.
My facilities at your disposal ridiculously cheap rental bikes [worthless translation here] (€2,85 per 20hrs, max 60hrs) my personally re-edited Am*dam guidebook (although I must confess the info I put in here is more complete) my museumyearcard, providing free access to this country's public museumsthe ability to do your laundry at my house
Specific CS-matters My motivation: This Sodom has a dubious name, which by far is due to its expensiveness only: rude rip-off cabdrivers, the Dutch's cool characters, our presumed lawlessness in drug- and prostitution policy, gay couples being spit upon and beat up by Moroccan juvenile delinquents, and let's not forget the debaucheries of hurdles British youngsters on stag night.. Hosting used to be my contribution to the citycouncil's call upon its inhabitants' hospitality, to help improve our reputation and increase mutual understanding. Soon my involvement in CS became far more than that. By default I act as caretaker and community builder, facilitating bringing people together 'cause it's the calling of what I do best, and a compulsive drive I can barely refrain from.
Strengthening Links: of course I like being regarded as your CS-friend. I know it's a sliding scale, but if it means our Link Strenght would not exceed Friendship Type degree 2 (acquaintance: having met only briefly at a meeting for instance), then to support the integrity of this network I'd rather improve our contact first. Until that time you're most welcome to be attached as a friend at any other social network I'm in, like thru my following accounts at Facebook, MySpace (sleeping), last.fm, Skype (ramonstruo), insanely popular Dutch friends network Hyves (sleeping), Twitter (if I ever even actually start using it), YouTube, or my Flickr photobin (linked to many pics of CS-meetings).
[If you mean to have me in your contact list for easy lookups, the following is what you can do after clicking the 'Add to my friends'-button: choose "no" to the question 'Add to your list of friends'. After saving, view my account through: 'My Profile'=>'My Personal Connections'=>My Other Connections.]
Meaningful References: I only write them when I have a substantial contribution to make. One that benefits other members' contacts with you, and adds up to whatever's referred to already. I hope to receive likewise testimonials only, since using CS-References as a guestbook is diluting its credibility. PLEASE refrain from writing me a Reference out of social courtesy. Without one I'll equally appreciate our acquaintance. I sometimes hear people don't contact me bcs I hardly ever leave a Reference myself. If you're more interested in gaining credibility thru these testimonials than you are in meeting real people, then not contacting me is probably for the best. Friends (185)
 Janneke Ouwehand
33, Female
Amsterdam, Noord-Holland
Netherlands
Friends since January 2008
"From fellow CS'er to partner in crime(fighting) to friend. Hope to have this guy in my life for a long time to come."
Friendship Type: 6 - Close Friend
I vouched for Ramón Ster
  30+  2 |
 Esther van Gelder
30, Female
Leiden, Zuid-Holland
Netherlands
Friends since November 2000
"Long story, with complicated plotturns... it began in Eindhoven, when Ramon moved into the house of my best friend. Our first nice experience together was on the Pinkpop Festival, when he took me to see Muse and afterwards started acting like a goat, frig"
Friendship Type: 6 - Close Friend
|
 Amylin Loglisci
23, Female
Amsterdam, Noord-Holland
Netherlands
Friends since July 2007
"We met up in Amsterdam & NYC."
Friendship Type: 4 - Friend
I vouched for Ramón Ster
1 |
 Laura Horn
29, Female
Amsterdam, Noord-Holland
Netherlands
Friends since May 2008
"We met at a CS picnic in the park - Ramon's commitment and dedication to CS made quite an impression on me"
Friendship Type: 4 - Friend
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 Marek Suchecki
38, Male
Amsterdam, Noord-Holland
Netherlands
Friends since May 2006
"We met via HospitalityClub and CouchSurfing"
Friendship Type: 5 - Good Friend
 2 |
 Dave Rasch
42, Male
New York, New York
United States
Friends since June 2006
"We met thru HC. stayed at his place in Amsterdam for 3 days"
Friendship Type: 4 - Friend
I vouched for Ramón Ster
3 |
 Drayton Hiers
30, Male
New York, New York
United States
Friends since May 2006
"Ramon's a very good friend. Don't be afraid of his rules. You'll like him."
Friendship Type: 5 - Good Friend
I vouched for Ramón Ster
11 2 |
 Rachel Hotchkiss
23, Female
Milledgeville, Georgia
United States
Friends since February 2007
"I've spent a good while at Ramon's place, and I can attest that he's both a lovely host and friend."
Friendship Type: 5 - Good Friend
I vouched for Ramón Ster
12 4 |
 Valentina Vella
30, Female
Rome, Lazio
Italy
Friends since April 2006
"through HC...in late August he finally hosted me in Amsterdam after a few months of online acquaintance"
Friendship Type: 5 - Good Friend
I vouched for Ramón Ster
7 |
 Rose May
24, Female
Amsterdam, Noord-Holland
Netherlands
Friends since October 2007
"Team member of the CS meet-up team!"
Friendship Type: 3 - CouchSurfing Friend
I vouched for Ramón Ster
| | 175 more friends |
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Personal DescriptionI hear people tend to feel intimidated by my profile. Don't let my CS-experience overwhelm you. I'm just a guy. And looking forward to meeting you on a basis of equality. So let's skip the superfluous chatter below the line and get off it, shall we?
________________________________________________________________________
Leisure & Work A long stretch of my life has been dominated by music rather than people, and either feelings/memories songs generated; or how experiences kept having their own suitable soundtrack while they happened, as if they were subtitles to what was taking place. Like being in a film rather than my own life. For decades music has offered grip and safety, and comforted and accompanied me on inner journeys. The wide variety of things that can happen in a lifetime is reflected in the vast taste I developed (and abandoned) over the years. As a kid I have often been blamed for not having a particular taste of my own (and thus not belonging to a group), or referred to as 'the (weird) guy who knows all songs'. Periods/experiences in my life are inextricably bound up with certain music. For a while now I have become pretty lazy when it comes to curiously discovering the new: I tend to settle for easily accessible tunes and things I already know. On one hand I think this attitude pretty much sums up how at present I generally see myself as going for things that are within my grasp (as opposed to outta my league), which is not necessarily positive.. On the other, the devaluation of music in my life is a consequence of an increase in dynamics on an emotional level. There's simply gotten to be far more to life than radiowaves; I turned more receptive to waves flowing on an interpersonal rather than an intrapersonal level.. As you can see, I'm the contemplative type.
Before moving to the capital end of 2004, I've lived in Eindhoven (pop. 200.000) for eight years. I lead a pretty dynamic lifestyle, after having grown up in a tiny suffocating farmers town. I learned to value performing arts and roamed the alternative scene while working at a stage, cultural festivals, and as a voluntary projectionist at a cinema and blackbox theatre. Although nowadays I've more or less 'sown my wild oats', I still enjoy independent film, blackbox plays and modern dance. I tend to think in images, but take little notice of my hidden camera, having a mind of its own when it comes to photographic memory skills. People sometimes think I have a natural aptitude for languages. If so, I'm shamelessly neglecting it. I should've done sth in the food-, or olfactory business, since I keep being reminded of my favorite book (Perfume). Instead, opportunistic worldimprovement tendencies drove me to work as a newsroom editor, and hopefully towards graduation some time soon. My studies easily conflict with my degree of involvement in CS.
Even though having escaped village life at 21, I keep finding it hard to feel at home in the bustle of citylife compared to the meadowlands I grew up in. Yet I cannot suppress a feeling of my environment still being too 'small' for me. At the same time, although I'd very much like to be, I keep finding I'm not much of a traveler. Being outside a familiar context where I know what to expect and which (social) rules apply gets me out of my comfort zone, causing inner agitation. Luckily with CS the world visits me, instead of vice versa.
As every Dutchman I of course adore cycling, which really is the best way to explore the country. I strive to practice Iyengar Yoga as often as I can and enjoy capoeira (although nowadays it's down to watching other people play). I attempt to stick to vegetarian meals and am an ardent non-smoker.
My disposition (possibly of significance when meeting me)
To people from 'warmer' regions who're getting acquainted with Dutch culture, upon first sight it's often described as cold and distant, while the Dutch themselves are labeled as very direct, which often is mistakenly entitled as being rude. I'm no stranger to directness. I strive to be an accessible, standup, open & clear kinda guy with whom one'll always know what's to expect (in which as I hear it I keep failing miserably, btw). If I'm happy I'll let you know and if things are bothering or puzzling me, I'm also likely to address that if circumstances allow it. I do so 'cause I like being in key with people, learn what motivates them, and aspire to prevent miscommunication growing into aversion. It enables mutual emotional growth. I can be subtle and charming, but I don't give socially desired responses. I face people with respect, but do attempt to refrain from social conventions, as they cause unnecessary restraints.
I'm willing to be unpopular bcs of being honest & straightforward, but I do always hope to be treated likewise: if anything at all is occupying your mind I'm _very_ open to hearing about it. On the spot, rather than at a later time when -practically- there's often little to do about it anymore. I will never judge or look upon you strangely bcs of feelings you share. It's all in the game of life. I've gotten accustomed to people sharing great doubts, fears, and most inner secrets with me, and seen a whole spectrum of what can consume a person and damage delicate relationships.
Not everyone in this world appreciates being confronted with certain degrees of personally addressed sincerity, or feels at liberty to freely express his likes or dislikes. Some members feel either offended by me on occasion acting confrontational, or otherwise uncomfortable bcs of me vulnerably opening up to them. If you're the kind that rather uses implicit, or socalled 'passive-aggressive' communication, then consider moving out of my way, cause that's the one thing I can't deal with. How I Participate in CSI've hosted almost continuously for the first year-over (Jan06-May07). I then shifted the balance towards community building rather than the direct convenience of (hosting) guests, as receiving guests made me feel increasingly uncomfortable. I turned into a driving force behind the Am*dam Meetup Team from its birth in Feb/March07, and the backbone of our Am*dam Friday Meetups (March07-May08); during its heydays welcoming 50-70 visitors per edition. I initiated, created and maintain the CS-Zone Am*dam, and am responsible for info on the Am*dam CS-Wiki.
If I don't hold my horses, I turn into an overactive (and successful I might add) event organizer, disregarding day structure or basic life necessities when I see things that call for getting done. The valued Meet&Eat! Homedinners and very popular Am*DutchClasseS are prime examples of that. Although I am quite skilled at bringing people together, I pretty much suck at functioning in groups. I do keep being asked to turn City~ or even Country Amb every once in a while, and have up till now withstood its lures of forthcoming obligations. My place is down there with the rest of you. Right now I attempt to focus on what's important for myself personally. CouchSurfing ExperienceI am an accommodator rather than a surfer. Dated 13 Apr 09 I welcomed
my one hundred and forty-sixth guest
The first about fifty of them reached my residence thru Hospitality Club. I preferably host for a minimum of three nights, with an average of four. Some guests stayed up to two weeks. I am also kind of a sleeping member of BeWelcome, responsive to requests thru Global Freeloaders & Place2Stay, open to advice & service inquiries via Localyte + a newbie member of the TravBuddy community. Although I am very aware of what goes on between members, volunteers and organisations, I do my best to refrain from taking part into the hosting communities' politics and other mudthrowing where Godwin's Law applies.
What I learned from functioning within this community is of great value to me. It is an ongoing process. Just to name a few: how to have to deal with a multitude of different people, and create common grounds to bind them instead of contributing to polarisation; how to stimulate people in a volunteer organisation to reach some new idea I have or need I see emerge. And learning to deal with them logically prioritising their own issues above common responsibilities; trusting that a different outcome can be equally good to what I had in mind originally; learning to also be able to let go of sth I have gotten to feel great involvement with; preventing miscommunication while communicating online (a real challenge I must say, as abt 80% worth of non-verbal contact gets lost); sharing workload instead of pulling _all_ work towards me to carry on my own shoulders. From which follows: demonstrating trust in other people and their effort; guarding boundaries of how far I am willing to go out of my way for ppl without it clashing with what's important for me personally (requires work still); learning to trust that people often _do_ have good intentions. And learning to recognise the rest on time; driving myself to keep communicating with people in cases of irritation, dispute, or misunderstanding, in order to bring us closer together. And accepting that people can have unshakable prejudiced opinions, without condemning that; learning how to deal with upholding responsibilities being the corollary of filling a certain role; should I continue? InterestsLet's say I can be versatile to an extent that keeps surprising me even, but it very much comes in fits and starts. When I do sth, I often do it to the absolute maximum of my capacity and have it consume a large part of my spare and not so spare time (like has been the case with hosting guests). When I've had enough of it, I turn to sth completely different to usually fully focus on.
My CS-Discoveries:
- the legendary icon Kinga Freespirit;
- Burning Man (official), Burning Man (pics), Burning Man (more pics), Burning Man (even more pics), Burning Man (more than even more pics), Burning Man (even more than more than even more pics), Burning Man (the CS-group);
- Adam's Surfing Worldtrip;
- ZIZZEY's crazy cloningpics;
- nutmeg Steve Gargett;
- Banksy in Lauri Shaw's profile;
- Orient Xpress' Funny India photos PhilosophyA motto that seems to fit me: 'Traveler, there is no road;
you make your path as you walk' ©
For when I cannot afford to travel I fill my meantime with desktopcouchsurfing to alleviate my yearnings; while the dreamer in me seeks comfort in inner journeys: In my head there's a Greyhound station
where I send my thoughts to far off destinations
So they may have a chance of finding a place
where they're far more suited than here © Music, Movies, BooksMusicstyles
Just about everything except for Techno, R&B, Rap, Hiphop, Gospel, Fado, Country & Opera. I keep hearing people say that I have the most incompatible collection they've ever seen.
Tunes as metaphores
- 'Still haven't found what I'm looking for'
- 'The Wanderer'
My last played tracks
Past week's most played artists
Film
Although I haven't been keeping up lately, I am still a sucker for independent cinema & documentaries. You can drag me along to *almost* anything. Almost, since I've gotten to respond rather sensitively to violence over the course of the past few years. To me this is a remarkable but welcome sign of finding out to have become more in touch with my emotions, after being a fan of -just to name a few- Kim Ki-duk's The Isle, Irréversible, some of Takashi Miike's films and Takeshi Kitano's works with often sudden and rather casually used violence.
This profile used to have a long list of my favorite films, but what the hell, no-one reads that anyway. Neverthless, there's one film I personally very much identify with, that I cannot leave unmentioned here: Father and Daughter. Hearing the score alone makes me shiver like a straw.
My favorite documentaries
Koyaanisqatsi; Microcosmos; Darwin's Nightmare; Cinemania. TV Series
Shameless; The Twilight Zone; Miami Vice; Jim Henson's The Storyteller; Dinosaurs; Spitting Image; Wallace & Gromit; Tribe (UK)/ Going Tribal (US), with Bruce Parry; Louis Theroux's Weird Weekends; Mad Men; Dutch program De Leugen Regeert, about media lies; Dutch documentary-like program Tegenlicht; Dutch history program Andere Tijden, linking current affairs to the past; Dutch consumer program Keuringsdienst Van Waarde, which investiges how our daily food is produced and subsequently how consumers get fooled. People (myself including) nowadays really don't have a clue how whatever they consume is produced, and I sometimes wonder howmany of us even care at all. Maybe that is bcs one can get shocked of what really goes on in for instance our highly industrialized food chain. More generally, processes in our world have gotten so complicated, that daily life to a great degree requires blind faith in people and organisations, while to many respects it's become virtually impossible to fully determine the consequences of our daily actions. Unfortunately a part of human nature strives to gain personal lucre at the expenses of others; if only bcs consequences of common responsibilities only emerge decades later, or happen to people of whom you'll never hear. Tormentingly twisted maybe, but I like hearing stories about that. It both saddens and drives me.
Books
Patrick Süskind's Perfume; The hitchhiker's guide to the galaxy. Inactive member of Bookcrossing: the practice of leaving a book in a public place to be picked up and read by others; who then do likewise.
I am rather a non-fiction and current affairs kinda guy. Meaning I devour oldfashioned things called newspapers. Types of People I enjoyKeywords to me are: empatheticness, openmindedness, sincereness, trustworthyness, involvement, friendliness and sense of perspectiveOne Amazing Thing I've Seen or DoneI've waded along the edge of this world's widest waterfall, tucked away deep in the jungle where few visitors come, looking at the water plunging down with raging violence. That was awesome, not to say plain perilous.
My TripAdvisor map of visited destinations
Locations TraveledTRAVELED: Argentina, Belgium, Bolivia, Brazil, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Paraguay, Poland, Portugal, Spain, Turkey, United Kingdom, United States
LIVED: Netherlands, United Kingdom
References
 From Andres Eguiguren Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
May 31  Positive Ramon visited Dar es Salaam with a group of fellow journalism students on a two-week trip to Tanzania. Although we were only able to meet once for dinner, it felt like meeting a friend because we had already exchanged numerous emails about life here in Dar and had even chatted on Skype (despite the numerous disconnections due to the unreliability of Internet around these parts). Ramon brought me an insane amount of cheese (still eating my way through it some 5 weeks later!) and I genuinely enjoyed talking to him about Tanzania. Direct and polite at the same time, I am sure he is a great CS host and guest. Safari njema in your future travels Ramon. I hope our paths cross in the future.  From Nicholas Ellens Hamilton, Canada
Mar 11  Positive While it's fairly clear from Ramon's slew of other references that he needs no further references to show the kind of CSer he is, I thought I'd add my voice of praise as a way of thanks.
Ramon got the ball rolling and invested countless hours in organising the Am*dutch classes so that non-Dutch speakers could connect with each other and learn Dutch from a native Dutch CS member. I'm far from fluent but I'm glad to have had the chance to learn the basics and I've really appreciated my class!
Further, Ramon organised a wonderful American Thanksgiving meal for ex-pats. This should give you some idea of the impressive effort this guy puts into the CS community. Get to know him if you have a chance.  From TOURNESOL_25 Bremen, Germany
Mar 10 Positive Ramon stayed at my place for one night. He was quite charming and nice with me. We had some really interesting discussion and his english is excellent. But his conception of "distance" and "guest behavior" was different than mine. I don't like to have photos of myself sleeping in my bed online. And my fridge and water-boiler were empty. But anyway, nice man.  From Kevin Stayner Amsterdam, Netherlands
Mar 10  Positive Ramón is the spirit for couchsurfing and even more for couchsurfing Amsterdam.
He started so many goals to make the flow go.
Ramón Is a very serious, busy, intelligent person with highly developed writing skills.
Always willing to be a helping hand or should I say freen?
If I can't host you.... this guy is a very good host.  From Isa McKechnie Utrecht, Netherlands
Feb 13 Positive Well I must admit that apart from my impression of Ramón being overwhelmingly positive, I also think he is a wee bit strange - in a very very good way! No other 'near stranger' would call me in in the dead of the night (at 3am) saying "hello Isa, I've got your phone number from the internet, I know you're awake because you posted your sleeping habits online, and I'm just interested in talking about the experiment you're doing" :D
Assertive, creative, and unconventional. Since that bizare yet most welcome moment, he has made an appearance in my life a number of times, always smiling, if not with his mouth then still with his eyes (although usually always with his mouth, too). Ramón, I sleep from 2:30 till 5:30 - you know you're always welcome for a nighttime chat :)  From Essie Vreeland Amsterdam, Netherlands
Dec 23, 2008 Positive Ramon has set up the Am*dutch classes with so much dedication en sense of responsability. A very inspriring person. Take care though that you don't overwork yourself!  From Catherine Gemerle Amsterdam, Netherlands
Dec 18, 2008  Positive very active person in amsterdam dutch classes!!  From CHLOEGOODNESS5 San Francisco, United States
Nov 26, 2008 Positive I met Ramon through mutual couchsurfing friends and we got along great. His sweet demeaner is very nice to be around. He also hosted me and a friend for a few night. He is a very caring person who has a ton of Netherlands pride that is wonderful to be around. Should you host or be hosted by Ramon he will be sure to show you the genuine Amsterdam!!  From Marie Helene Toutant Montreal, Canada
Oct 20, 2008 Ramon let me stay at his place when he was out of town, but the few hours a met Ramon help me a lot on my trip in Amsterdam. He give me all the links about the interresting places and he's the owner of the best Amsterdam travel Book in the world! He's also the most active CS member I met since I know the website. Hope you have the chance to met him for a drink in Amsterdam. It's sush the best thing to do if you want enjoy every moment of your time there.
Thanks again Ramon xx  From Urszula Molicka Krakow, Poland
Oct 6, 2008 Positive I've first met Ramón almost a year before I used his couch. but I'm still very impressed by the knowledge he has about the city of Amsterdam. he's also taking part in many community events, so he's taken us for one. although we were extremely tired after hitch-hiking from Sweden, that was fun! :)  From Aldo Golja Rotterdam, Netherlands
Oct 4, 2008 Positive ah! where to begin? One of his great characteristics is that Ramon cares for people, making them feel at ease instantly. He's cared for the CS community in Amsterdam for a long time and sometimes has trouble letting go of that ;-) Basically, Ramon is an honest, interesting, intelligent CS member with a huge heart and a sane sense of humor! I'd host him anytime.  From Gosia Garstka Leiden, Netherlands
Oct 2, 2008 Positive Ramon is crazy and funny guy. I really like meeting him :-)  From Jenna Christian Eau Claire, United States
Sep 15, 2008 Positive perhaps it's redundant among all these positive reviews, but it really was such a pleasure to meet Ramon, even for the brief evening we spent hanging out while i was in amsterdam. we talked about our aspirations to make the world better, about how sometimes those clash with our fears, about meat snacks in a wall, about our countries, and more and it was just a damn delightful conversation and i wish it could have gone on longer. that's all.  From Bartosz Ponicki Plymouth, United Kingdom
Sep 15, 2008 Positive I wasn't only lucky that he answered on my last minute request but I was lucky that it was him, who answered :)
Very nice, friendly and positive guy he is. We spent together just couple of hours but I enjoyed it so the quality is important, not the ammount :) He also coocked a very nice vegetarian dish, will try to make it on my own one day !
Thx again for all and c u again somewhere!  From Sarah Inglewood Fernie, Canada
Sep 8, 2008 Positive I have had some great chats with Ramon and he has helped me so much to integrate into the CS network in A'dam! A nice guy who will always help you out :)  From Louise Martucci Tallinn, Estonia
Sep 2, 2008 Positive It was a pleasure to have met Ramón, although under disarranged circumstances. He supplied emergency accommodation for me when my previous "organised" plans became non existent!
As he states in his profile (yes i did read it), he is a caretaker; which was certainly demonstrated through his informative, accommodating actions concerning hosting; and deep empathy of those close to him, which unfortunately, slightly deludes his own emotions.
It seems Ramón feels a reassuring sense of (much needed) responsibility and seriousness towards CS and Am*dam meet ups. His photography skills and up to date news shows great appreciation by Amsterdam CS hosts and travellers to the city.
I appreciated Ramón's polite, yet direct attitude regarding hosting and conversation (they do work in the same sentence), with hope for more to come in the future.
. . . I wrote this on Stickies first. . .  From Ariel Gutman Leiden, Netherlands
Aug 26, 2008 Positive Ramon has a very friendly attitude and he seems to be very involved in arranging events for the benefit of the CS community. The bike tour to Zaansche Schans was a great fun. Thank you!  From Ronny Junnilainen Lapinlahti, Finland
Aug 25, 2008 Positive It was really nice to meet another photographer. It's great to see how seriously you are documenting the CS meetings. :)
I wish we had more time to chat there but well... some other time.  From Aal Wilson Amsterdam, Netherlands
Aug 19, 2008 Positive I met Ramon years ago through mutual friends. He's this sweet and active guy that sometimes does too much for other people, which probably makes him a great host! I love the long talks about life we have whenever we meet.  From Rigas Parathyras Amsterdam, Netherlands
Aug 18, 2008 Positive Ramon might be an invisible photographer at our CS events in Amsterdam but makes sure the CS spirit is kept alive. Great company and hope to get to know even better.  From Giorgio Vinci Amsterdam, Netherlands
Aug 15, 2008 Positive Well he's a great guy and he put a lot of effort to transform in big success every event. He's one of our engine! Thanks Ramon! :)
Of course it definitely worth to surf his place, host him or just meet him in one of the gathering 'cause he travel a lot and meet thousands of people!  From Hans Berendijk Amsterdam, Netherlands
Aug 3, 2008 Positive really appreciate his work for the cs in Amsterdam  From Paul Wouters Rotterdam, Netherlands
Jul 22, 2008 Positive Ramon is very active in the CS community, always willing to help.
Very friendly guy.  From Brian Kamperman Amsterdam, Netherlands
Jul 21, 2008 Positive Finally after a few meet ups and events briefly speaking to each other it was great to spend the day with Ramón on our CS bike trip to Zaanse Schans. (Windmills and tourists... cheesy but hilarious).
He was a lot of fun to be around and it was really nice to see someone else who loves taking pictures as much as I do from all different, funny and creative angles and perspectives. Just acting goofy and having fun.
Looking forward to the next event and many more good times to come! :D  From Niki Gere Budapest, Hungary
Jul 20, 2008 Positive We met only briefly in Amsterdam, but of course it's better than nothing, because always really good to meet such surfers like Ramon, who takes the CS so seriously and really looking for something more and not just say hello to the fellow CSer, but have a better, a more meaningful relation as well. Keep your spirit, Ramon! Hope to see you again somewhere! :)  From Irma Barten Tilburg, Netherlands
Jul 3, 2008 Positive Wow, this realy was kind of an emergency couchsurf. Never the less a pleasant one! Not much time to chat or to really get to know more about eachother. Being at the same festival, running into eachother but both busy with other stuff. Still...I liked the short conversation at breakfast and you're good company. Trusted you right away, honest and friendly! Hope to meet up again someday :-)...  From Manuela Cunha Vienna, Austria
Jun 9, 2008 Positive It was very good to finaly meet Ramón in Amsterdam. Thanks for spending your time with me and showing me around. See you soon.  From ROSSI IN ROTTERDAM Rotterdam, Netherlands
Jun 5, 2008 Positive I like Ramón as he is really nice and has a b'ful smile. Where Ramón is is where the action is:-)  From Maike Roschenkamper Amsterdam, Netherlands
Jun 2, 2008 Positive I like talking with Ramon, because you can discuss nearly everything with him.
And the best Ramon is always good for surprises, means you get never bored with him  From Joana Rosa Athens, Greece
May 22, 2008 Positive Ramon was my first host via couchsurfing!
Rrrrrramon: a great and intriguing guy with a wonderful taste in music, but not only.
I really enjoyed meeting you although I wish I could've got to know you better.
I'm really grateful you let us stay with you under special circumstances. Come to Lisbon any time you like, Ramon. You would be more than welcome. *  From Viola Laan Amsterdam, Netherlands
May 19, 2008 Positive What can I say about Ramon? He is a great and reliable guy; polite, open-minded and very creative.  From .kiwi. Rotorua, New Zealand
May 15, 2008 Positive Is that a bubble floating in the distance? Then the Ramonster must be at large!
The great Amsterdam organiser, Ramon made my stay in Am*dam superb! Friendly, smiling, laughing and enjoying is what he is all about. Oh and blowing bubbles too.
Was sad to leave and no doubt I will be back so keep the fun times rolling and the sauna steaming (still have to try it!).  From Vineta Jermolova Riga, Latvia
May 9, 2008 Positive Openminded person whom i would like to know bether  From Ivette Ode Guayaquil, Ecuador
May 8, 2008 good guy!!  From Sander Wagter Amsterdam, Netherlands
May 6, 2008 Positive In the past month I have experienced Ramón as an energetic guy who puts his hart and effort in everything he does for CS. I am proud of him for his decision to also take his personal life to the next level.  From Maikel Lourenssen Oss, Netherlands
May 6, 2008  Positive Ramon is MR Couchsurfing for the region Amsterdam and with respect I must say he always did and still does this fantastic.
No Amsterdam meeting is complete without Ramon, Brainstorming with him about new kind of events was also always a lot of fun.
I'm sure we will meetup again and he is one of the people that I fully trust ,support and keep on trusting also for the longer term.  From Nicolas Sahlqvist Rotterdam, Netherlands
Apr 30, 2008 Positive Ramón is part of the Amsterdam Meetup team, he loves soap bubbles, taking photos and bringing a good atmosphere to the meeting. I also bumped into him at the Kinderdijk picnic and it was a pleasure as always!  From Gerard Bosman Bergschenhoek, Netherlands
Apr 29, 2008 Positive I met Ramón for the first time in bar 'the Consul' in Rotterdam. There was a Sinterklaas-party. He made a nice present for my guest Pedro from Brazil. Ramón is very active in Amsterdam but also outside our capital-city. So he joined the bike-tour and pick-nick in Kinderdijk and the pre-Queensday sauna meeting in Thermen Holiday in Schiedam. Although there were only four CS members, we had a nice time. I wish Ramón good luck with all his CS activities and next time he'll get a vegetarian meal, I promise!  From TRA Krimpen aan den IJssel, Netherlands
Apr 29, 2008 Positive Ramón is an active Couchsurfer who set up the Queensday events, I was one of the orgnisers of the Kinderdijk bike tour so we have talked on the phone and by e-mail before the meeting.  From Frank van Steenwijk Rotterdam, Netherlands
Apr 28, 2008 Positive Ramón and I talked on the phone and in emails before we met as we were both organizing several events for the QueensWeek 2008. We were planned to meet during the Picture Quest in that week, but unfortunately Ramón wasn't able to join in the end. But because I joined the Kinderdijk bike tour and picknick which I initially wouldn't have done we met face to face. There were two reasons to hate this guy, but the 1000 things to like him are overtaking. Despite having a Nikon I really like his photography skills from what I've seen.
 From Marten Knol Maastricht, Netherlands
Apr 27, 2008 Positive Ramon has been the only guest i have ever hosted without seeing his face! Dressed like uncle Sam, he must have spent hours for painting the American flag on his face so he couldnt just remove the paint for the night and apply again the next day. He was a very friendly and gentle guest. Hope to meet again, but then "for real"!  From Mike Sevelin Lisbon, Portugal
Apr 26, 2008 Positive He iz the king of CS in Amsterdam.
God man !!!!!  From Lauren Callaway Taipei, Taiwan
Mar 31, 2008 Positive I enjoyed my time with Ramon. He is a good one.  From LETSGOALEX Los Angeles, United States
Mar 26, 2008 Positive Ramon is very active at CS in A'dam and he IS the prefect camera man! Thanks for helping me during my short hectic stay in A'dam. You are such a helpful and friendly person that this CS community needs. Cheers!  From Ambrose Colombo El Cerrito, United States
Mar 22, 2008 Positive I attended the Friday Meetup, and was looking for a couch for a while and gave up. At the end of the night when everyone was getting ready to go i asked once again if anyone had a couch free, Ramon spoke up and said that i could sleep at his place, it was a really generous offer, of which i truly appreciate. Ramon has a vast collection of music, a lot of interesting bands that i like or will probably come to like. He has been an amazing host and a great guy.  From Angela H Hill Melbourne, Australia
Mar 18, 2008 Positive As far as I can see Ramon seems like a very genuine, kind and honest person.  From Justin Hefferan Orlando, United States
Mar 18, 2008 Positive Ramon is always keeping the party going! He is quite an ambassador to his city. I need to find the Flickr account now.  From GPIKKIO Groningen, Netherlands
Mar 16, 2008 Positive Ok! Ramón is cool (and also his leather jacket is cool!)
He is one of the soul of Amsterdam CS community. He organizes meetings and he is very keen about CS. Ramón is a super fun guy to know (and he has a cool leather jacket!) and I am very happy that I met him during my short stay in the A´dam area. Looking forward to meet him (and his cool leather jacket!) again during some CS organization local meeting or during some of the cool and crowded events he organizes!  From Jessica Chidester Rotterdam, Netherlands
Mar 15, 2008 Positive Ramon instantly took my friendship on board and introduced me to people at the Amsterdam meeting. He was lovely and extremely friendly and i treasured his enthusiasm for life and enjoying good people and good conversation.  From Bridget vdw Amsterdam, Netherlands
Mar 15, 2008 Positive Since I told him about hospitalityclub - I dont see him anymore, while he really got into it! :-) He's someone you definately can trust!  From CHAVALES Barcelona, Spain
Mar 15, 2008 Positive Ramón is a super active guy in the Am*Dam community. Helpful, caring, funny and smart. He really helped us in organizing our trip by providing lots of information, and then he took us around his city (even with hangover!). Next time we will have more time to share. Thanks! Carpe Diem, J  From NAT-CHO Amsterdam, Netherlands
Feb 26, 2008 Positive What would the Amsterdam CS community be without the silent workers in the back? Thanks Ramon for being one of the big walls that CS Amsterdam can lean and rely on ! Great symphatic and clear in communication guy !  From Stephen John Paul Galway, Ireland (Republic of)
Feb 25, 2008 Positive I have gotten to know Ramon over the last few months...he contributes enormously to the CS community in amsterdam, we thank you all.we had-have our differences, but we continue to practice openness with each other and sincerity. All i ask Ramon that you don´t forget yourself, to enjoy each moment, to continue reaching out to people...even me, who can give you a tough time, because i want to best for you...  From Svenja Ackermann Amsterdam, Netherlands
Feb 25, 2008 Positive It is next to impossible to be in a bad mood if Ramon is around. he cast a spell on you with his contagious smile and his unsurpassable favour for bubbles.
it's a pleasure to know you, thanks for making me smile!  From Paul Paumier Martinez Toulouse, France
Feb 24, 2008 Positive Nice guy with crazy cats. Extremely organised ! Didn't have much time to get to know each other, though. Next time ?  From Maarten Amsterdam, Netherlands
Feb 23, 2008 Positive Ramon is a very friendly guy who really understands the art of hospitality..
From Esther van Gelder Leiden, Netherlands
Feb 19, 2008 Positive We know eachother for a long time now. Ramon surprises me often with very thoughtful observations, I like listening to him. You will never catch him on a convential thought or opinion. And he is a very good cook!
 From Anick-Marie Bouchard Groningen, Netherlands
Feb 9, 2008 Positive Ramon is motivated, sometimes so much that I can't help but love to get him out of trouble. I'm sure I can count on him and as we met again in Berlin, I had a good deal of fun being around him !  From Stephen Smith Toronto, Canada
Feb 8, 2008 Positive I only met Ramon for one day at a CS meet in Cologne and we had a good talk about couchsurfing and a few places in America. You had a wicked costume and to be honest, I figured there would have been more people that had problems with Uncle Sam... I'm surprised you were only challenged to a fight by one person! Hopefully I'll see you at a friday night meet in amsterdam at some point. Proste!  From Martin Junkermann Berlin, Germany
Feb 4, 2008 Positive I meet Ramon(Uncle Sam) by the Weiberfastnacht in Cologne thats verry Funny:-)
I want you, smile  From Amy Jackson New York, United States
Jan 14, 2008 Positive Ramon put up with my tardiness, my talkativeness, and my theatrics for a marathon eleven hour stretch one Friday afternoon, when we met up for a museum and ended up doing a bookstore, falafel, a play, and drinks as well. He's a cheerful man, with lots of interesting stories, quiet insight, and many new gadgets courtesy of our pathetic dollar situation! Can't wait to hear how your Uncle Sam costume turns out...Until next time!  From Jon Gosier Kampala, Uganda
Dec 28, 2007 Positive Ramón is an awesome guy, very polite and insightful. It was a pleasure meeting him and his friends. MJQ was a blast! Also, thanks for turning me on to some Dutch musicians!  From Joris Sprakel Amsterdam, Netherlands
Dec 16, 2007 Positive ramon is a very friendly openminded person.. active (very) for a long time.. an honour to know you ramon :)  From Rieke Liebrecht Luneburg, Germany
Dec 6, 2007 Positive What shall I say? Ramon is the spirit of Am*dam CS himself! I really like this nice, special, positive and creative guy. And he's very patient with my slow Dutch ;) I'm looking forward a great time in Am*dam!  From Liza van Kuijk Utrecht, Netherlands
Dec 5, 2007 Positive He was one of the few people from Amsterdam at the Rotterdam meeting. Nice easy going creative guy. He was the shining AmSTARdam at the party.  From -MARTINE- Brugge, Belgium
Dec 5, 2007 Positive Ramon came to the meeting in Brugge I organised and I was happy he made it to my place for brunch the day after. He helped me getting the accent right for my play, thank you! It was great seeing him back at CSinterklaas. I always enjoy being around him, there's something special about this one. There must be a way to see him in a less crowded place and talk some more ;-)  From Harald van Gils Amsterdam, Netherlands
Nov 14, 2007 Positive Ramon is a trustworthy and responsible person and does a lot for CS Amsterdam. He is passionate about the project, and has an elaborated opinion about it. He likes bubbles and taking pics. You will probably see him on a weekly meetup!  From Daniela Ponzi Buenos Aires, Argentina
Oct 23, 2007 Positive I just found you! haha
how are you?
We met in a CSmeeting in Amsterdam and he was really open and funny. He's a great guy!
I still have my photo with your CS t-shirt (connecting people)! the one someone gave u hahaha
Good luckk ! :)
 From PETRUCCI67 Duisburg, Germany
Oct 21, 2007 Positive We shortly met at a rather small Amsterdam meeting. He seems to be a devoted host, with a great sense of his responsibly, of justice and of charity as well. He is reflected, serious and idealistic about the whole HC and CS-thing.
If he wasn't like that, we probably wouldn't have met, because he felt that - as a member of the Am*dam Meetup Team - he should show up for a meeting where just four people had subscribed. I guess that my daughter will go on thinking about his recommending Buenos Aires for a longer stay in a Spanish-speaking country ... Thanks for all! From Rose May Amsterdam, Netherlands
Oct 13, 2007 Positive Ramon is our own twinkling STER (Star in English) he is very devoded to the Amsterdam CS community and it is a pleasure working with him at the Amsterdam Meet-up team!
 From Sandra Oerther Offenbach, Germany
Oct 4, 2007 Positive i really liked my first yoga class!  From Anna Schmidt Oslo, Norway
Sep 27, 2007 Positive Definatelly a very interesting person.  From Claudia Lubelli Milano, Italy
Aug 25, 2007 Positive we met for a yoga lesson in amsterdam. i asked him to do something not turistic (in amsterdam very hard) and we went in a little nice bar behind the university. with us there was also an other CS. fanny moment. thanks ramon  From Jannie de Ruiter Amsterdam, Netherlands
Aug 15, 2007 Positive Ramon is a really friendly guy, always sparkling with new ideas and plans. Cool that you came to my goodbye party. Take care, see you back in Amsterdam!  From Stef and Carolina Mamani Jansen Swords, Ireland (Republic of)
Jul 31, 2007 Positive He let me stay at his place last moment, so I could come to Amsterdam to celebrate Newyear. We had a nice, but very turbulent night. We had some nice conversations, but I hope we can give some more when we meet again. I can really recommend him as a good quality host, just look to all the info on his profile, and then you even haven't met him in real life.  From Joshua Tate Eugene, United States
Jul 31, 2007 Positive Ramon is a polite, informative, and courteous host that made Amsterdam fun and accessible. His honesty and genuine personality are hard to come by in this world. I would consider myself blessed to share time with him again.  From Marthe Kerkwijk Amersfoort, Netherlands
Jun 15, 2007 Positive He's dedicated to contribute to the CS community and did a lot to make it work. I truly respect Ramon for that.  From Kat and Jeroen Latet-Ferguson-Mahan Chicago, United States
May 15, 2007 Positive he takes everything in stride and is very thorough, which can never be a bad thing because all your bases are covered. Couchsurfing for the moment is at a loss because Ramon cannot host. I look forward to the day when he can again, so you can have the opppurtunity to experience his hospitality, knowledge, and kindness.  From Flapic Rome, Italy
May 4, 2007 Positive After meeting with Ramon in 2007 we stayed in touch and collaborated about several aspects of CS organization. In February 2009 he hosted me for a couple of days and organized a big meeting in Amsterdam during my stay. Thanks and see you soon! (K'dag?)  From MACHOULIA Rueil-Malmaison, France
May 3, 2007 Positive Ramon is a great host, very helpful and caring. I surfed with him in Amsterdam during 4 days and it was really awesome. He's such an interesting and mysterious person that it makes me wanna know him better!Thanx for your trust and for your kindness... and for the best breakfast ever of course! No need to say that you're more than welcome in Paris... whenever!  From Tiina Helsinki, Finland
May 2, 2007 Positive I like Ramón. He actually listens to what you have to say and helps you out when you're in need. He knows the place for the best bread in town and makes you think outside the box. Ramón's a very hospitable person with a big heart and I'm very happy to know him.  From ONLYONE London, United Kingdom
May 2, 2007 Positive Well, I'll say Ramon is a fab host (hmmm lovely breakfast), just awesome. Its was good to have some chat and chill for a bit, before I head-off. Thanks for having me and your great hospitality. You're a star ;-)  From Giancarlo Russo Cardiff, United Kingdom
Apr 30, 2007 Positive A constant presence in the Queen's day weekend, see you soon!  From Olga Loyev Gainesville, United States
Apr 29, 2007 Positive I surfed with ramon for a few days but hung out with the entire time i was visiting his city. Ramon is very intelligent and warm hearted person. By surfing with him i saw the point and the goodness of CS. He is an amazing host that was very welcoming and helpful. Trully the best first couch surfing experience anyone could ever ask for! can't wait to hang out with him again!  From Manisha Maurya Atlanta, United States
Apr 25, 2007 Positive Ramon didn't scare me, intimidate me, spit on me, curse at me...so yes I would say that he's a good person :)
 From Frank Samms Westport, Ireland (Republic of)
Feb 9, 2007  I was Internet surfing for something entirely different and suddenly came across Ramon's mention he liked my posted cloning pics. Cheers mate. I'll put some more up for you. I am also half Dutch (my father's side), so we are almost related.  From INTELLOCK 5 Varna, Bulgaria
Feb 7, 2007 Positive Ramon is an example for CS-host:organized,fun and well educated on large range of topics.10x for the Amsterdam experience CS-style!Best of luck with everything!  From Nanouk van der Elst Rotterdam, Netherlands
Jan 18, 2007 Positive Ramon seems to be absurd....which is very ok by me!  From Inga Loyev Florence, Italy
Jan 10, 2007 Positive I think it is needless to say that Ramon is an awsome host. Just ask any of the other 99 people he's hosted. Although my sister and I only crashed with him for 4 nights Ramon was more then generous to hook us up with anything we needed for the 2 weeks we were in his town. not to mention that we had a great time hanging out together :)  From MACKADO Berlin, Germany
Dec 26, 2006 Positive Ramon was an amazing host, and were it not for troublesome doors and time issues, I could have really explored more of Amsterdam. He has it all set up with guides and phones to use. I was able to rent a bike, which was most helpful. Truly, an unforgettable experience.  From PAPARINA Bologna, Italy
Dec 22, 2006 Positive I've been so lucky that Ramon had some time to meet up...and biked me around 2 great dinner place, introduced me to other nice CS friends & gave his personal touch to my A'dam time...GRAZIE MITTICOOO!!!  From TAYLSPIN Copenhagen, Denmark
Dec 12, 2006 Positive Had a great time in Amsterdam while staying on Ramons couch. Piles of info on the city and things to do, and when he had time he showed us some awesome places we wouldnt have found on our own. A great and dedicated host who has inspired me to become a better hoster myself. Thanks a bunch Ramon, hope to see you again!  From Walter Heck Rotterdam, Netherlands
Dec 4, 2006 Positive Ramon is a very nice guy, and one of those people you can rely on for a lot of different things (among which a very profound knowledge of Amsterdam). We'll probably meet again I guess :) From Marek Suchecki Amsterdam, Netherlands
Dec 4, 2006 Positive Ramón is a great guy! He organised several HC/CS events that turned into great success. We are both located in Amsterdam and sometimes get to "share" the Guests :-) Very interesting, friendly and reliable person.
 From Jesse Fenton Boston, United States
Nov 30, 2006 Positive Ramon inspired me with how prepared he is as a host. I got a cellphone, museum card, maps, and lots of other great stuff. It was the royal treatment. Thanks for hosting me even when life was so busy for you. Plain and simple Ramon is the man!  From ploenk Hilversum, Netherlands
Nov 15, 2006 Positive I know Ramon for a few years now, and although I don't know him that well, I do know he is one of the good guys. Always helpful, funny, enthusiastic and busy. You have to meet this cycle lover at some point, or you're not a real CS'er at all ;)  From Alex kiriak Brasov, Romania
Oct 19, 2006 Positive ramon is a very helpfull guy with many interesting opinions.we had a nice picnis in one of the parks of amterdam:)too bad we couldnt share more time:)dont miss his advices for amsterdam  From Nicole Mcclure Northampton, United States
Sep 24, 2006 Positive Ramon was a wonderful host and a good friend. My memmories of Amsterdam revolve around the wonderful time I had with Ramon. From Dave Rasch New York, United States
Sep 13, 2006 Positive Ramon is THE MAN in Amsterdam! The guy lives and breathes HC. And I thought I was a fanatic! :-) He really takes care of his guests. He loaned me a cell phone, gave me and a friend museaum passes and arranged for a bike rental for 2.75 Euros a day! His apartment is cozy and nice and he made me feel very at home. Ramon was my first HOST in HC after having hosted over 100 people myself and it was just a great experience. Some tips for staying with Ramon: He has a somewhat tenuous status in his apartment so it is essential that u maintain quietness in the halls of his building so as not to disturb his neighbors. But not a big deal really, just common courtesy actually. Cook him dinner and wash the dishes when u r done heheh! He has a lot of rules for his apartment, but its not a big deal to follow them. Just respect him and his place and all will be great. I have been to Amsterdam many times, but thanks to Ramon this was my best trip there EVER! I cant emphasise enough how much better an experience u will have in Amsterdam if u follow his advise and rent a bike at the ridiculously cheap price of 2.75 Euros a day! A bike in Amsterdam is freedom and everthying is within a very short ride. But the best part is that Ramon is just a really great guy! He is very friendly and helpful and just fun to talk to. He says he can sometimes be too direct, but personaly I didnt see it! He is WAY more polite than me! :) Ramon, u r a really great guy and thanks so much for making my first experience as a guest a really great one. Did i mention he lets u smoke on his balcony? heheh!!! U DA MAN RAMON! Hope to return the favor in NYC some time
 From Eleanor Baker Rotterdam, Netherlands
Sep 11, 2006 Positive Ramon is a really great and friendly guy, both times I have met him I have found him smiley happy and always open to a good conversation.  From Damian Maseda Chapel Hill, United States
Aug 29, 2006 Positive Ramon is a very very kind person, he really believes and forms part of the CS philosophy ;-) He is as well open-minded and will show you many aspects of Dutch culture apart from the typical touristic things. He took me and a friend to a kind of alternative festival which was really cool (Open Haven Festival, if I remember good). He shares his energy and kindness with pleasure with other people and of course you can have a lot of fun with him! Although we share just some hours together during the 3 days I was in Amsterdam, it was an amazingly positive experience to do some stuff together.
It was great to know you Ramon! Keep in contact!
I also share the feeling with the poem from Antonio Machado (Caminante no hay camino, se hace camino al andar). How to say so much things in so few words !  From Dominika Sovikova Povazska Bystrica, Slovakia
Aug 28, 2006 Positive Ramon is so well organized person! He was really nice and generous and willing to help us everytime we needed it.
 From JOSHNZ Auckland, New Zealand
Aug 26, 2006 Positive Ramon has a cool pad, feels like a cafe when the sun starts shining out on the balcony. He is super organised and he wont miss a beat so make sure you dont either. He has alot of couch surfers and hes a busy man but he took me in at the last minute so respect for that.  From Grigoris Poulos Lesvos - Mitilini, Greece
Aug 23, 2006 we haven't met yet but we exchanged friends  From Flo and Yamuna Valenta Vienna, Austria
Aug 20, 2006 Positive I had so much luck to stay at his place, he is such a friendly and generous person, he made me feel very comfortable in his house and also in Amsterdam.
Very well organized in hosting people (maps, city-guide, museumcards, bicycle hire, …) I had a real great time, thank you!  From Dóra Kovács Budapest, Hungary
Aug 20, 2006 Positive me and my sister had a very great time at his place, he is a wonderful host.  From Matthew Evans Sherrill, United States
Aug 19, 2006 Positive Had a hella good time at Ramón's house. Can't say enough how much fun we had and was introduced to possibly the best food few people get to try in amsterdam.  From Victor Plasencia Portland, United States
Aug 17, 2006 Positive this guy is awesome he treated me so well. i wish i'd spent more time with him and had less scotch. but this guy put up with me and was awesome  From Michelle Radecki Seattle, United States
Aug 16, 2006 Positive Ramon was very hospitable, loaned me a great self-edited guidebook, provided me with a map, hooked me up with a cheap bike, and lead me to experiences in Amsterdam I never would have found on my own. He even performed a procedure on my foot that saved me from having to spend my whole trip with a piece of glass in it. I couldn't have asked for a better first host. THANK YOU, RAMON!  From Regina Barona Barcelona, Spain
Aug 11, 2006 we hang out and it was really nice. hope meeting him again sometime in the future :)  From Tim van Boxtel Ulm, Germany
Aug 6, 2006 Positive Ramon was an extremewly warm and welcoming host. He was SUPER organized, knowledgable and very experienced with hosting, which makes him a very reliable and perfect host. I would definitely surf as well as host him anyday.  From Jarret Tomlinson Edmonton, Canada
Aug 4, 2006 Positive He was a great guy to talk with and he had great resources that he personally had edited to make your time in amsterdam better. Its too bad he was so busy and we couldnt spend anymore time together  From Anastasia Pelikh Montreal, Canada
Aug 4, 2006 Positive Stayed over for a couple of nights
Ramon kindly and patiently bore my presence for almost a week . He took the time to show me around and tell me fun and interesting facts about the city. This way I got to see Amsterdam beyond the usual tourist attractions and really get a feel for the city as well as exquisite and refined Dutch cuisine ;-). Through it all, Ramon was very nice and helpful! Hope to see you again soon!  From Promitheus Norwich, United Kingdom
Jul 24, 2006 Positive Hey !!! We have been emailing with Ramon to organise a meeting in Utrecht and then met from close!!! I can still remember the shinny faces of all the participants in the cannoying he organised when they came to find us in a pub. All in all meet Ramon to get loads of fun and smiles together with thoughtful conversations. Nice guy with organizing skills :) |
