Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Couchsuring
Do you want to truly experience the local culture, save money, and make friends all over
the world? Then you should consider
Couchsuring.org
. The couchsurfing scene has exploded
over the past few years and it is hugely popular in Europe. The service is more than just a free
place to sleep—it's also a rare opportunity to experience Europe like an insider.
HOW COUCHSURFING WORKS
Couchsurfing is a network of people that open their homes/couches/extra beds/floors to
other travelers for free and it's organized online via
Couchsuring.org
. It has grown to be the
largest online hospitality community with millions of members in 237 countries and territor-
ies.
First you create an online profile and fill it in with details about yourself. Then you can
search through lists of hosts indicating they are willing to host travelers for your travel dates.
If you find a host that looks interesting, you send them a message to arrange an agreement
that works for both parties.
Hosts in large cities get inundated with requests, so you may have to try multiple people
before you get a response.
WHAT ARE THE HOSTS LIKE?
The Couchsurfing hosting community is very diverse. Some host travelers every week. Some
host one to ten people at a time. Some will make you meals. I even know of some who may
give you the keys to their houses and leave for the weekend. Or you might have a really busy
host who can only offer you a bed and nothing else. Some hosts are older people and some are
students. Most tend to be open-minded individuals who genuinely want to show off their city
to new visitors.
A lot of hosts will give you advice about where to go and what to see. Many times, they'll
take you around the city and show you good bars and restaurants.
SAFETY CONCERNS
It is understandable to have some concerns about safety.
Couchsuring.org
says 99% of all
stays are positive. All the couchsurfers I know have had positive experiences. But you still
want to be cautious. Use your instincts. Be sure to check references, reviews from past travel-
ers, and don't forget to read each host's profile.
The most vulnerable travelers are single women. Luckily, there are plenty of female hosts
(many of whom will accept only female guests). It is generally advisable to only stay with
