Couch Surfing

On this European adventure, Jill an I have agreed to try a new concept (at least to us) known as couch surfing (www.couchsurfing.org). The concept is this:

1. Participants from all ends of the Earth offer their homes to travelers on the website.
2. Travelers needing a free place to stay while abroad can connect with others to arrange their stay.
3. Travelers meet up with their hosts and later rate them on the website.

At first, I must admit I was extremely skeptical about this idea. What cockamamy person would travel across the world and stay in a random person's home? Who, for that matter, would offer their home to complete strangers?  This entire idea was creepy to say the least.

After visiting the site however, my fears were thankfully laid to rest. Participants have lengthy profiles where friends and other participants can leave comments and reviews about their hosts. The profiles also offer a detailed description of the person including everything from their travel experiences to personal philosophy. Many of the members are even verified by the Couch Surfing organization, which is comforting.

Jill and I are now in the process of embellishing our own profile with information in hopes to find hosts for London, Madrid, and Rome. I am certain this will not be the last time I write on the subject of couch surfing. I can guarantee this will be quite an experience. Until next time...