Couch Surfing

[AT Hike 2010]

Have you ever tried couch surfing? Is this a good way to travel, why
or why not?

[Nush]

Yes and no. You save a lot of money (or rather, have money to spend
on other things!) and having a friend in that area gives you insight
into local customs, traditions, and hot-spots and opens the door to
experiences that would be impossible otherwise. But you may also end
up feeling less independent having someone around to be your personal
guide and translator.

[Brandon Imp]

I am in FULL support of CouchSurfing.org!!! I have surfed all over
the world and hosted a few times over the summer, and enjoyed every
experience. The first time was in Little Rock, and I wound up on a
party boat with a bunch of french people and a girl named Bambi. Can't
get much better than that!

CouchSurfing is a great way to travel, but of course it's not for
everybody or for every city. It all depends on what you are looking
to do in the destination, and if you are looking to make a new
friend! Sometimes the host will show you around and sometimes they
won't. I'm a firm believer in laying out some details in your initial
message on what it is you are hoping to get out of the surf. Some
people just need a place to crash!

Anyway. CouchSurfing is awesome and look forward to meeting more
surfers in my lifetime!

[Emily Ginger]

Though I've never officially surfed from couch to couch, I have slept on many people's couches while traveling, and my couch has been host to a number of travelers and strangers who were looking for a cheap place to rest their head.  It's my favorite form of traveling because of the free place to stay, and it's a great way to meet interesting new people.