With the proliferating number of online traveling agencies comes a unique and innovative way of seeing the world. CouchSurfing.com, a website that found me, is a network designed to promote deeper cultural understanding between people from different parts of the globe.

How so?

Well, after signing up for a free membership, you get to create your own profile and add friends who have already signed up. You can also visit discussion groups or engage in chat with members who share your interests.

Then, when you decide to travel to some place in Europe or maybe Asia, all you have to do is log on and search for members who live around the area where you want to go. You may reach out to your list of prospects and describe what kind of place you want to stay at. For more specific details, use the “Request to CouchSurf” button.

After confirming your plans, the rest is all up to you.

It’s basically a “wanna crash at my place” type of setting. While you don’t have to pay your host or hostess, you can return the favor by helping out with the chores or making dinner. The whole arrangement allows you to experience the local culture first-hand. It’s also a great way to meet new friends.

Many people are probably a little skeptical about meeting strangers online. The question of safety is always there. However, CouchSurfing.com has conjured a system for its surfers, users and community.

Currently, there are 231, 202 CouchSurfers; 69, 934 successful surfings; 123, 265 friendships created and 219 countries represented.

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5 Responses

  1. benj

    14|Jun|2007

    I know a blogger who does this. :p

  2. jen_chan

    15|Jun|2007

    Ooh… Who? ~:>

  3. Jay

    15|Jun|2007

    I just signed up with CouchSurf. Looks interesting. Thanks Jen!

  4. jen_chan

    15|Jun|2007

    Oh, you’re welcome! Be sure to read the FAQ’s , especially the part about member vouching… It’s in the security section. ~:>

  5. jen_chan

    15|Jun|2007

    This actually reminds me of the house/apartment swapping arrangement. Has anyone here seen “The Holiday?”


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