Generated by All in One SEO Pro v5.0.1.1, this is an llms-full.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. # Couchsurfing: Global Community Travel & Connection Platform Couchsurfing is a global travel community with more than 25 million Members connecting with locals, hosting Travelers, and finding authentic experiences across 200,000+ cities worldwide. ## Posts ### [A Couchsurfer's guide to... Detroit](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-detroit-2/) **Published:** December 26, 2019 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Excerpt:** Nathan, our CS Ambassador in Detroit, gives us his tips to experience the real Detroit. **Content:** **Best breakfast in town!** [Dime Store](https://www.eatdimestore.com/). This American Brunch Bar uses in-house sausage and other fresh, high quality ingredients to make it the breakfast and brunch place to be. Their drink menu is as varied as their food, including daytime specialties like locally-roasted [Zingerman’s coffee](https://www.zingermanscoffee.com/), as well as a full bar serving Michigan craft beer, wine, day drinks and classic cocktails. **Best view in the city!** [Fourteen – Restaurant & Sky Lounge](https://www.metrotimes.com/detroit/fourteen-restaurant-and-sky-lounge/Location?oid=21294446). The best views of Detroit are across the river in Windsor. Fourteen’s Sky Lounge takes the cake – and your breath away! ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/shutterstock_1031885941-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C512&ssl=1 "shutterstock_1031885941 - Couchsurfing Blog")View of Detroit from Windsor by [Roland Shainidze](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Roland+Shainidze)shutterstock**Best place to grab a drink!** [The Old Miami](https://www.yelp.com/biz/the-old-miami-detroit). This classic Detroit dive bar boasts a huge back yard, diverse music and performances, and has hosted many a meet-up, Couchsurfing and otherwise. This is the real Detroit! **One museum not to miss!** [Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History.](https://www.thewright.org/) It holds the world’s largest permanent exhibit on African-American culture. The permanent interactive exhibit, And Still We Rise: Our Journey through African American History and Culture, is incredible! In August, the museum hosts the free 3-day African World Festival. ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/shutterstock_1168788643-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "shutterstock_1168788643 - Couchsurfing Blog")Charles H Wright Museum by [alisafarov](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/alisafarov)shutterstock**A treat-yourself meal!** [Lady of the House](http://ladyofdetroit.com-us.com). This Modern American restaurant and bar in Detroit’s historic [Corktown](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Corktown,_Detroit) neighborhood provides an unforgettable dinner party every night, each visit a unique experience for travelers far and near, or neighbors across the street. They also have a strong commitment to community sourcing and support of Michigan farms. **Best quick bite!** [Greendot Stables](https://www.greendotstables.com/detroit-1). Known for their ever-rotating and often-surprising sliders – and cheap drinks! – this windowless Detroit standby is in the historic Corktown neighborhood near Downtown. ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/shutterstock_664178128-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "shutterstock_664178128 - Couchsurfing Blog")Michigan Central Train Depot in Detroit by [R Wellen Photography](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/rwellenphoto)shutterstock**Where to sweat!** [Jabs Gym](https://www.jabsgym.com/) in Eastern Market. They offer a free first class in everything from (kick-)boxing, to HIIT, to cross-training, to yoga – plus an open gym! **Cute cafe!** [AWAKE Cafe](https://www.facebook.com/AWAKECafeDetroit/). This socially conscious cafe sources coffee directly with farmers and teams up with On the Rise Bakery to bring you pastries that not only taste good but leave you feeling good knowing you’ve helped provide housing, training, counseling services, and educational opportunities to locals in need. **Best day trip out of town!** [Ann Arbor](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ann_Arbor,_Michigan). For something completely different from Detroit, check out this “Boulder of the Midwest.” Home to the University of Michigan, and all things progressive, Ann Arbor is beautiful, walkable, and only 45 minutes away! ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/shutterstock_1391619104-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C569&ssl=1 "shutterstock_1391619104 - Couchsurfing Blog")University of Michigan in Ann Arbor By [Agnieszka Gaul](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/espiegle)shutterstock**Where to dance!** [Marble Bar](https://www.facebook.com/marblebardetroit/). This bar in an old bank is in a central industrial area full of creative energy, street art, and Detroit heart. **Where to try the local cuisine!** [Niki’s Pizza](http://nikisdetroit.com/). This [Greektown](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Greektown,_Detroit) standby has the best Detroit style pizza in Detroit (sorry, Buddy’s!). Plus Greektown is a gem of a block to check out. As for Detroit’s only other truly local dish, the [Coney dog](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Coney_Island_hot_dog) (hot dog with chili, mustard & onions), try [American Coney Island](http://americanconeyisland.com/home.htm) and it’s eternal competitor next door, [Layfayette Coney Island](https://www.facebook.com/Lafayette-Coney-Island-143071722397988/). ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/shutterstock_668781583-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C680&ssl=1 "shutterstock_668781583 - Couchsurfing Blog")Greektown By [Kelleher Photography](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/kelleherphoto)shutterstock**Family fun!** [Belle Isle](https://www.belleisleconservancy.org/). Think Central Park as an island. Complete with a Victorian conservatory, one of the nation’s oldest aquariums, a nature center, beach, huge playscape & GIANT slide, and MUCH more, Belle Isle also offers great views of Downtown if you don’t want to cross the Canadian border to Windsor. ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/shutterstock_1447195928-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "shutterstock_1447195928 - Couchsurfing Blog")Belle Isle Conservancy by [Harold Stiver](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Harold+Stiver)shutterstock**One experience not to miss!** Talking to a stranger. Detroiters talk to anyone whenever waiting in line, for the bus, etc. The best way to connect with the real Detroit is simply to speak with anyone you see on the street. Guests who have reached out in this way have been offered dinner, and even given a $100 bill and been told to enjoy the city! **The perfect picture!** [The Heidelberg Project](https://www.heidelberg.org/). This outdoor art environment has turned several blocks of dilapidation into Detroit’s #1 free attraction. Beyond being a mind-blowing spectacle, it’s a Detroit based community organization with a mission to improve the lives of peole and neighborhoods through art. ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/shutterstock_442518340-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "shutterstock_442518340 - Couchsurfing Blog")The Hedelberg Project by [JHVEPhoto](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/JHVEPhoto)shutterstock**Historic moment!** [Second Baptist Church of Detroit](https://www.secondbaptistdetroit.org/). When it comes to Detroit’s role in the [Underground Railroad](https://www.history.com/topics/black-history/underground-railroad), not much is more historically significant than Second Baptist Church. In fact, the safe house in the church’s basement, known as the “[Croghan Street Station](https://www.fox2detroit.com/news/detroits-underground-railroad-croghan-street-station-in-heart-of-greektown),” is one of the only remaining documented Detroit stations on the Underground Railroad still in existence today. **A tourist trap to avoid!** [Campus Martius](http://downtowndetroitparks.com/parks/Campus-Martius). This small plaza in the middle of the street does boast the central point from which all Detroit streets are measured (it’s exactly 8 miles from 8 Mile Rd, see?). There’s also a cafe, a statue, and a fountain. But unless there’s a show or something going on, Detroit has much more to offer. ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/shutterstock_668781511-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C680&ssl=1 "shutterstock_668781511 - Couchsurfing Blog")A city beach set up in Campus Martius by [Kelleher Photography](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/kelleherphoto)shutterstock**Advice from a local!** Detroit is a city of soulful, hardworking, underpaid, hard-hustling, fun-loving, beautiful people who love the music that springs from our waters and factories – and dance to it with abandon. Jump right it, we’re expecting you! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-detroit-2/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-detroit-2/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Guides --- ### [What to Know Before Your First Couchsurfing Stay](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/what-to-know-before-your-first-couchsurfing-stay/) **Published:** September 2, 2026 **Author:** Noami Park **Content:** This guide covers how to find a host, write a strong request, stay safe, and be a respectful guest during your first Couchsurfing experience. So you’ve decided to actually do the Couchsurfing thing. Smart move. You’re about to experience travel the way it’s supposed to work, connecting with actual humans who live in the place you’re visiting. First-time nerves are completely normal. You’re meeting up with a stranger. Maybe staying in their home. They’re trusting you with their space. You’re trusting them with your safety. It feels like a lot because it is. But millions of stays happen successfully because both sides approach it right. Here’s what you need to know before your first one. #### **What Couchsurfing Actually Is** Couchsurfing is a hospitality exchange platform where Travelers stay for free with local Hosts in exchange for cultural connection and conversation. Founded in 2004, Couchsurfing has grown to more than 25 million registered Members across over 200,000 cities worldwide. Let’s clarify the basics. Couchsurfing connects people. Travelers with Travelers. Locals with locals. And most beautifully: Travelers with locals. Travelers want an authentic experience, locals want to show their home to Travelers. You stay for free in exchange for cultural exchange, conversation, and generally not being terrible. Couchsurfing is a cultural exchange, not free hotel. Hosts are not service providers. They aren’t obligated to entertain you, show you around, or make your trip magical. Some do because they love it. Others offer a key and a couch because they’re busy. Both approaches are valid. The core premise: genuine human connection across cultures. You share stories, perspectives, and experiences. Your Host shows you their version of their city, the spots tourists don’t find. You share your culture, language, and worldview. Everybody learns something. This works because of mutual respect and the References system. Bad guests get flagged. Bad Hosts get reported. The community self-regulates pretty effectively. #### **Reading Profiles Actually Matters** Profiles exist for a reason. Read the entire thing before sending a request. Look for what they mention about their living situation: apartment or house, couch or spare room, whether they have roommates, pets, kids. Check their house rules. Some don’t allow smoking, drinking, or guests past certain hours. Note their interests and what they’re looking for in guests. [References](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/articles/50041760259355-What-Are-References-and-How-Do-They-Work) tell you everything. Read through several. Look for patterns: do multiple guests mention they’re rarely home? That they’re chatty versus private? That their place is far from the city? References reveal the reality beyond the profile text. #### **Writing Requests That Work** Your request determines whether you get accepted. Generic copy-paste messages get ignored. Personalized requests get responses. [A great request](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/articles/50010525448219-What-Makes-a-Great-Stay-Request) includes these essential elements: - Why their profile specifically interests you - Why you’re visiting their city - Something about yourself as a real person - A conversational, genuine tone - Clear logistics (dates, length of stay, flexibility) Start with why their profile specifically interests you. Reference something they mentioned like a shared hobby, their cat, their neighborhood, their views on whatever they wrote about. Explain why you’re visiting their city. Are you exploring? Visiting for an event? Passing through on a longer trip? Hosts want context beyond “I need a place to crash.” Share something about yourself. Not your entire life story, but enough that they see you as a real person. Your background, interests, what you do, why you travel. Keep it conversational but not too long. Three solid paragraphs beat five rambling ones. Be genuine: Hosts can tell when you’re performing versus being real. Include logistics clearly like arrival date and time, how many nights you’re requesting, and flexibility if you have it. Make their decision easy. #### **What to Expect the First Time** Every Host runs things differently, but some patterns emerge. Communication before arrival matters. Confirm details a day or two before you arrive. Share your arrival time. Get their address and phone number. Understand how check-in works: are they giving you a key? Meeting you somewhere? Need advance notice before you arrive? Confirm things like where you will sleep and if you need to be up and out at a certain time. Upon arrival, introductions happen. Usually some chatting (where you’re from, your trip plans, their life). This establishes the vibe. Some Hosts give quick tours. Others just show you where to sleep and where the bathroom is. Accommodations range from a spare bedroom to a couch in a shared living room. Privacy is limited, and this is not comparable to a hotel. House rules matter. Pay attention if they mention quiet hours, bathroom schedules, kitchen use, or off-limit areas. Respect these immediately and completely. You’re a guest in someone’s actual home. Time together varies dramatically. Some Hosts hang out extensively, cooking together, showing you around, having long conversations. Others are busy with work and life. Neither means they’re bad Hosts. Different people have different hosting styles. If something makes you uncomfortable, let them know. Hosts should be respectful of you too and you should never be made to feel that you owe them anything simply because they are hosting you. If you feel unsafe, leave. Contact the safety team and Couchsurfing will take it from there. #### **Being a Great Guest** This part’s simpler than it seems. Basic human decency covers most of it. Clean up after yourself immediately. Don’t leave dishes, don’t trash the bathroom, don’t spread your stuff everywhere. Treat their place better than you’d treat your own home. Offer to cook dinner or put some groceries in the fridge. Buy them the first round at a bar. Bring a small gift from home if you have space in your luggage. If you’re on the couch, remove the sheets in the morning so you can both sit on it again. Fold blankets. Strip your bed when leaving. Leave no mess behind. Respect their schedule. If they need to sleep because they work early, be quiet. If they have plans, don’t expect them to cancel for you. Your trip schedule doesn’t trump their actual life. Offer to help. Cooking a meal from your culture works great. Buying groceries and cooking together creates natural bonding. Splitting a meal out. Taking them for coffee. The gesture matters more than the expense. Communication matters throughout. Let them know your daily plans. Tell them roughly when you’ll be back. Ask before bringing anyone over. Check if using kitchen/shower/whatever is okay before assuming. The cultural exchange thing is real. Share your perspectives, ask about theirs, have actual conversations beyond surface small talk. That’s what makes Couchsurfing different from hostels. #### **Safety Considerations** Trust your instincts. If something feels wrong at any stage, you can cancel or leave. If something feels off about a profile, don’t request. If communication before arrival raises concerns, cancel. If you arrive and feel unsafe, leave. Read profiles and References before connecting, use chat to get a feel for someone, and report any odd, inappropriate, or unsafe behavior directly from a Member’s profile. Share your details with someone back home. Send them your Host’s profile, address, and planned dates. Check in regularly. This isn’t paranoia: it’s smart traveling. Meet in a public place first if something feels uncertain. Coffee or lunch before going to their place lets you gauge the situation in person. Ask to Facetime or have a phone call in advance. Have backup accommodation options. Know where nearby hostels are. Keep enough money for a hotel if needed. Being able to leave if necessary gives you control. References matter here too. Lots of positive References from diverse guests indicate reliability. Brand new profiles with zero References require extra caution. [Safety Tools](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/articles/50049666916123-What-If-I-Feel-Unsafe-During-a-Stay) are available from your Library menu and within any active Stay, including a link to the Couchsurfing Safety page, a way to find nearby accommodation, and the ability to contact local authorities in an emergency. The vast majority of Couchsurfing experiences are positive and safe. But staying aware and trusting your instincts ensures yours is too. #### **Saying Goodbye and Following Up** Goodbyes always feel slightly awkward, but that’s normal. Thank them genuinely for their hospitality. Acknowledge specific things they did that made your stay good. Keep in touch if you connected. Send that postcard you promised. Share photos from your trip that include their city. A quick message later saying you’re home and thanks again goes far. Write a thoughtful Reference immediately. While details are fresh, capture what made your stay good (or not). Be honest and specific. Future guests rely on your accuracy. If something went wrong, address it respectfully in your Reference. The system only works if people are honest about negative experiences too. If something didn’t sit right, you can leave a private reference after your stay. It goes directly to the safety team, is never visible to the other Member, and is kept completely confidential. It is a safe way to flag something that didn’t feel quite right, even if it wasn’t serious enough for a formal report. #### **Common First-Time Mistakes** 1. **Treating it like a hotel.** It’s not. You’re a guest in someone’s home, not a customer. 2. **Expecting too much.** Hosts aren’t tour guides or entertainment services. Some are, many aren’t. 3. **Poor communication.** Not confirming arrival details, showing up at weird hours unannounced, not letting them know your plans. These create stress. 4. **Being too passive.** Sitting on your phone instead of engaging. Hiding in your sleeping area. The point is cultural exchange, which requires actual interaction. 5. **Forgetting the Host is doing you a favor.** Gratitude and respect should be obvious but sometimes aren’t. #### **Quick Reference Checklist** Before and during your stay, remember to: - Read the full profile before sending a request - Personalize your request with specific details from their profile - Confirm logistics 1–2 days before arrival - Bring a small gift from home - Clean up after yourself throughout your stay - Write a Reference afterward while details are fresh #### **Why It’s Worth the Nerves** Couchsurfing changes how you experience places. Hotels and hostels put you alongside other tourists. Couchsurfing drops you into actual local life. Your Host knows where people in their city actually eat, hang out, and spend time. They share perspectives on culture, politics, daily life that tourists never access. Conversations go deeper because you’re sharing space and time together. You’ll gain confidence quickly. First stay proves it works. Second stay feels normal. By the third you’re the one offering advice to newer Members. The connections often last beyond the stay. Hosts become friends. Guests you meet become travel partners. That network of people across the world becomes valuable for future trips and life generally. #### **You’ll Figure It Out** First Couchsurfing stay feels like a bigger deal than it actually is. You read the profile, write a decent request, show up on time, be respectful and genuine, clean up after yourself, and thank them afterward. Most Hosts remember being new to this too. They get that you might be nervous. That you might mess up small things. They’ll guide you through their expectations. Millions of successful stays have happened because two strangers decided to trust each other and see what happens. Yours will probably go just fine too. So read those profiles carefully. Send thoughtful requests. Pack light. Show up ready to exchange cultures and stories. The rest handles itself. Welcome to a different way of traveling. It’s going to change how you see this whole thing. --- #### **Frequently Asked Questions** **Is Couchsurfing safe?** Yes, when you take reasonable precautions. Read profiles and References carefully, trust your instincts, share your plans with someone back home, and use the Safety Tools available in the app. The vast majority of stays are positive experiences. **Do I need to pay my Host?** Accommodations on Couchsurfing are free, though you do need an active paid membership to use the platform. Hosts are never permitted to accept payment for a stay, and guests should not offer it either. Money changes the dynamic from a genuine cultural exchange to a transaction, which goes against Couchsurfing’s Conduct Policy. If a Host asks you for payment,[ report it from their profile](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/articles/50050174403995-Someone-Is-Charging-for-Their-Couch-Is-That-Allowed). Showing appreciation through small gestures like bringing a gift, cooking a meal, or buying coffee is very much in the spirit of what Couchsurfing is about. The difference is that none of it should ever be requested or expected. **What if I need to cancel?** If your plans change or something feels off, you can cancel. Communicate with your Host as soon as possible. Your safety and comfort come first. **What does Couchsurfing membership include?** Membership gives you access to hosting and staying with Travelers worldwide, plus Hangouts, Communities, and Events. Couchsurfing requires a paid membership to participate. **How do I start a conversation with a Host who seems shy or private?** Couchsurfing Hosts have different social styles, and if a Host seems shy or private, begin with something from their profile — ask about a hobby they listed, their neighborhood tip, or a photo you liked — to open a gentle, low-pressure conversation that shows you read their profile. If they stay quiet, offer a small shared activity like making tea or cooking together and then give them space if they prefer it. **My Host seems quieter or busier than I expected — how should I handle the stay?** Couchsurfing makes clear that Hosts run things differently, so treat a quieter or busy Host as normal and plan to be partly independent while still staying polite and communicative. Check in about times that work for them, offer to help or share a meal, and respect their routine without taking it personally. **What should I do if a house rule is unclear or I accidentally break one?** Couchsurfing etiquette is straightforward: ask about unclear rules right away and apologize if you accidentally broke one, then offer to clean or make it right. Clear, honest communication usually smooths things over fast, and following the Host’s instructions afterward shows respect. **How should I leave the place when I check out to show appreciation?** With Couchsurfing, leaving the space tidy and ready for the Host is the best thanks you can give: strip and fold any bedding you used, wash or rinse dishes, and pack your things neatly so you leave no extra work. Say a sincere goodbye, leave a short thank-you note or small gift if you can, and write a thoughtful Reference while details are fresh. **Should I always have a backup plan?** Yes. Before any stay, know your alternatives in case something does not work out. Identify the nearest hostel or hotel, or have a backup Host arranged before you arrive. Research your Host’s neighborhood so you know how to get around independently. Having options ready gives you peace of mind and a safe exit if needed. **What if my Host is different from what I expected?** If your Host or their home is different from what you expected, address it politely and directly. Spend a little time getting to know them when you first arrive and see if you feel comfortable. If you cannot resolve concerns through conversation, you have the right to leave at any time. This is why having a backup plan matters. Leave an honest Reference afterward to help other Members make informed decisions. **Why should I communicate through Couchsurfing instead of moving to other apps right away?** Keeping messages on the platform means there is a record of your conversation, and you can report any message directly from the chat if something feels wrong. Move communication off the platform only after you have met someone and feel genuinely comfortable with them. **Should I leave a negative Reference if I had a bad experience?** Yes. An honest negative Reference helps protect other Members. It is not an act of revenge. It shares information that helps others avoid similar experiences. The community relies on Members being open and honest. Anyone reading your Reference will also see your response to any Reference left for you. If something felt off but does not warrant a public Reference, use the private reference option instead. **How should I prepare for cultural differences?** Do your homework before traveling to a new destination. Be aware of cultural and religious differences and general safety conditions for where you are going. Gender roles and expectations can differ widely between cultures. Most governments publish official travel advisories covering safety conditions, entry requirements, and cultural guidance. Check your government’s foreign ministry website before you go. **How can I stay safe at Couchsurfing Events or Hangouts?** Review the profiles of Members attending before you go, and research the location, especially if you are in an unfamiliar area. If someone at an Event or Hangout makes you uncomfortable, you can leave at any time. Use the Safety Tools in the app if you need help finding nearby accommodation or contacting local authorities. Report any concerning behavior to the Trust and Safety team. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/what-to-know-before-your-first-couchsurfing-stay/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/what-to-know-before-your-first-couchsurfing-stay/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/804c3fd9414fa13b9f7668e9c3dbc0319a1c581b0517830298fe16c8b381d13d?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Noami Park [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/elizabethtracy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/elizabethtracy/) **Categories:** Guides, Travel Tips **Tags:** beginner guide, budget travel, couchsurfing safety, cultural exchange, first time couchsurfing, free accomodation, hospitality exchange, How to Couchsurf, travel community, travel tips --- ### [10 Safety Tips for First-Time Travelers](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-safety-tips-for-first-time-travelers/) **Published:** September 2, 2026 **Author:** Noami Park **Content:** Couchsurfing opens the door to genuine human connection, from online conversations and local hangouts to community events and Couch Crashes with people from around the world. Safety is what makes all of it possible. Knowing how to protect yourself across every kind of Couchsurfing interaction lets you engage with confidence and get the most out of the experience. So you’re doing this. You created a profile, browsed some potential hosts, and now you’re thinking about actually sending that first request. The excitement is real. So is the slight nervousness. Your brain is cycling through every possible worst-case scenario. Normal. Everyone does this before their first surf. The difference between people who stay nervous and people who go anyway? Understanding how to stay safe. Couchsurfing is remarkably secure when you use it right. Millions of successful stays happen because people follow basic safety practices. These aren’t paranoid rules. They’re smart strategies that let you experience incredible hospitality while staying protected. **Here are ten essential safety tips for first-time Couchsurfing Travelers:** 1. Read references thoroughly to assess host trustworthiness 2. Prioritize[ verified members](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/articles/49997779463067-What-Is-Verification-and-How-Do-I-Get-Verified) for your first stays 3. Communicate clearly before you arrive 4. [Share your location and check in regularly](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/articles/50048973301403-Tips-for-a-Safer-Couchsurfing-Experience) 5. Trust your gut completely 6. Have a backup plan always 7. Start with strategic host choices 8. Use shared connections wisely 9. Know how to report problems 10. Remember most people are actually good #### **1. Read References Thoroughly to Assess Host Trustworthiness** References are the foundation of Couchsurfing safety. Someone with 100 positive references has been deemed trustworthy 100 times by 100 different people. That’s not luck. That’s a proven track record. Don’t just glance at the overall impression. Actually read what people wrote. Look for specific details. “Great host, made me feel welcome” is good. “Respectful of boundaries, gave me space when needed, clear communication about house rules” is better. Filter to see only recent references. People change. A host with amazing feedback from 2019 but nothing recent might have a different situation now. Current positive references matter most. Red flag: any reference that’s vague, mentions leaving early, or uses coded language like “interesting experience.” Trust your radar when something feels off. After you stay, write a complete and honest reference. Everything was amazing? Write that. They were a little odd and hard to read? Write that. Honest references keep the cycle of safety going. #### **2. Prioritize Verified Members for Your First Stays** A verified Couchsurfing member has confirmed their identity through government ID. People with bad intentions avoid systems that identify them. Prioritize verified hosts for your first few trips. Yes, plenty of non-verified people are perfectly safe. But when you’re learning the system, choose hosts who’ve proven they’re willing to be fully accountable. Also verify yourself. Verification requires a paid membership, but it builds trust immediately. Hosts are more likely to accept verified travelers because it shows you take the platform seriously. Remember, they may be nervous about hosting someone with a brand new profile and no references. #### **3. Communicate Clearly Before You Arrive** The pre-arrival conversation reveals everything. How someone responds to your request predicts how they’ll behave when you’re there. Send a thoughtful, personalized request. If they respond respectfully and answer thoroughly, that’s a green flag. If responses are pushy, vague, or make you uncomfortable, trust that feeling. Ask specific questions. Where exactly will you sleep? Will anyone else be there? What are the house rules? Their willingness to answer directly matters. Get their phone number, address, and emergency contact info. Share all of this with someone back home before you go. Keep communication on Couchsurfing as much as possible, since the platform has built-in safety features including automated content moderation and the ability to report messages directly from chat. #### **4. Share Your Location and Check In Regularly** Tell someone where you’re staying. Not just “Barcelona” but the actual address and your host’s profile link. Give this to someone who will notice if you go silent. Set up a check-in schedule. “I’ll text when I arrive and every evening” gives your contact person clear expectations. If you miss a check-in, they know something’s wrong. Use your phone’s location sharing: - Apple Find My - Google Maps location sharing These tools let trusted contacts see where you are in real time. Take a photo of your host’s door/building when you arrive. Send it to your contact person. It’s a 10-second action that provides crucial information if something goes wrong. #### **5. Trust Your Gut Completely** That uncomfortable feeling in your stomach when something seems off? That’s your instincts trying to protect you. Listen to them. If a host’s messages give you weird vibes before you arrive, cancel. If you show up and the situation doesn’t match what was described, leave. If something happens during your stay that makes you uncomfortable, leave immediately. You don’t owe anyone an explanation. “This isn’t working out, I need to make other arrangements” is a complete sentence. Nobody worth staying with will pressure you to ignore your gut feelings. The ones who do? Those are exactly the ones your gut is warning you about. #### **6. Have a Backup Plan Always** Know where the nearest hostel is before you arrive. Keep enough cash and a working card for a hotel if needed. Download offline maps so you can navigate even without data. Book your first night in a hostel if you’re really nervous. Meet your potential host for coffee. If the vibe is good, stay with them. If not, you already have accommodation sorted. Keep your important stuff (passport, money, cards) on your person or locked in your bag. Have a credit card with available balance specifically for emergencies. Safety Tools are available from your Library menu and within any active Stay, including a link to the Couchsurfing Safety page, a way to find nearby accommodation, and the ability to contact local authorities in an emergency. Backup plans aren’t paranoia. They’re the reason you can relax and enjoy the experience knowing you have options if needed. #### **7. Start With Strategic Host Choices** Your first host shapes your entire perception of Couchsurfing. Choose someone who makes sense for a beginner. Look for experienced hosts. Someone who’s hosted 50+ people knows how to make guests comfortable. They understand nervous first-timers and will help you feel at ease. Members with both hosting and traveling references means they’ve been in your shoes before. Consider host type. Couples, families, or people significantly older often make great first hosts because the dynamic removes any romantic confusion. Women hosting women works well for the same reason. Read their profile thoroughly. Do their interests align with yours? Do they clearly state house rules? Does their description make you feel excited rather than anxious? These details matter. #### **8. Use Shared Connections Wisely** Shared connections means you have mutual friends on the platform. This is gold for safety. Someone you know can vouch for this person in real life. When you see shared connections, message your mutual friend and ask about the host directly. “Hey, I see you stayed with Mike in NYC. What was he like?” That personal recommendation transforms a stranger into someone vetted by your network. It’s the difference between “this person has good references” and “my friend personally confirms this person is trustworthy.” Prioritize hosts you share connections with, especially for your first few experiences. #### **9. Know How to Report Problems** If something goes wrong,[ report it immediately through the app](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/articles/50049586494363-I-Had-a-Negative-Experience-With-a-Member-What-Should-I-Do). Couchsurfing has a Safety and Support team available 24/7 by ticket or email. You’re not alone. Inappropriate behavior that should be reported includes: - Unwanted physical contact - Sexual comments or advances - Making you feel unsafe - Not providing the accommodation described - Violating your clearly stated boundaries Zero tolerance means zero tolerance. Report it. The safety team investigates and removes problematic members. This protects you and every future traveler. You can report any odd, inappropriate, or unsafe behavior directly from a member’s profile or from within chat. Don’t worry about overreacting. If something made you uncomfortable enough to consider reporting it, report it. The safety team determines severity. Your job is just to communicate what happened. When you write a reference (and always write a reference) be honest and clear about your experience. Write a reference as if you were texting your friend or sibling about this person. What would you want them to know before staying with them? That’s what you write. #### **10. Remember Most People Are Actually Good** After all these safety tips, remember: the vast majority of Couchsurfing members are genuinely good people who want to share their cities and cultures with travelers. Your host will probably make you dinner, show you their favorite spots, introduce you to friends, and send you off with recommendations for your next city. They’ll restore your faith in humanity a little bit. The reason these safety measures work is because bad actors are rare exceptions in a community of more than 25 million members. The tools exist to help you identify the rare problems, not because problems are common. Thousands of first-time travelers are having amazing experiences right now. They were nervous too. They used these safety practices. Now they’re having the adventure of their lives. You can be one of them. The safety tools exist. Your instincts work. The community has your back. And the world is full of incredible people ready to welcome you. So send that request. Follow these guidelines. Trust the system and yourself. --- #### **Frequently Asked Questions** #### **What are red flags to watch for when I read References on a host’s profile?** On Couchsurfing, red flags in References include vague praise, mentions that guests left early, very old feedback with no recent activity, or phrasing that hints someone felt uncomfortable; these signals can point to boundary or behaviour issues and deserve extra caution before you accept a stay. If you spot any of these, ask follow-up questions, look for recent References, and trust your instincts if answers still feel unclear. #### **How should I share my location and check in so someone knows I’m safe?** When using Couchsurfing, share the exact address and the host’s profile link with one trusted contact and agree a clear check-in schedule so someone will notice if you go silent; use phone location tools like Apple Find My or Google Maps for real-time sharing when it makes sense. Also send a photo of the host’s door when you arrive and keep conversations on Couchsurfing so Safety can access records if help is ever needed. #### **How do shared connections actually make a stay safer?** On Couchsurfing, shared connections let your mutual contacts vouch for a host by answering specific questions about their behaviour, hosting style, and reliability before you commit to a stay, which gives you an in-person perspective beyond written References. If a mutual contact confirms details from their experience, treat that as a stronger green flag; if you can’t reach someone, weigh that absence against recent References and verification before deciding. #### **What should I keep on my person during a Couchsurfing stay in case I need to leave quickly?** For Couchsurfing stays, keep your passport or ID, emergency cash or card, a charged phone with offline maps, and any critical medications on you so you can leave quickly and navigate independently if plans change. Also set an emergency contact in Settings so the Safety team can reach someone on your behalf, and note a nearby hostel or other backup accommodation before you arrive. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-safety-tips-for-first-time-travelers/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-safety-tips-for-first-time-travelers/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/804c3fd9414fa13b9f7668e9c3dbc0319a1c581b0517830298fe16c8b381d13d?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Noami Park [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/elizabethtracy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/elizabethtracy/) **Categories:** Guides, Travel Tips **Tags:** backpacker tips, beginner guide, budget travel, couchsurfing safety, first-time couchsurfer, hostel alternative, safety, safety tips, solo travel, travel safety --- ### [Common Myths About Couchsurfing — Debunked](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/common-myths-about-couchsurfing-debunked/) **Published:** September 1, 2026 **Author:** Noami Park **Content:** *There’s a lot of misinformation out there. It’s time to set the record straight once and for all!* #### **Why the Myths Exist** Couchsurfing is a global hospitality exchange platform where travelers connect with local Hosts for free accommodation, cultural exchange, and community meetups. It has been around since 2004. That’s a long time for rumors, misconceptions, and outdated assumptions to pile up. Some myths come from people who’ve never tried it. Some come from early experiences that don’t reflect what the platform is today. Either way, they’re worth clearing up. #### **Myth #1: “Couchsurfing Is Just an App for Free Accommodation”** **The reality:** Couchsurfing is primarily a cultural exchange community, not just a free accommodation service. The platform is a global community and most of the connection that happens on it has nothing to do with where you sleep. Here’s what Members actually use it for beyond finding a Host: - **Hangouts:** See who is around you, in real time, looking to hang out. Open the app, and you will see other Members who are in your area and looking to meet in person. Grab a drink, go for a walk, or stay open to whatever. There is always someone looking to connect. - **Events:** Members in most active cities organize regular in-person meetups. Coffee, hikes, pub nights, city walks. No stay required, no Host needed. Just show up and meet people. - **Communities**: Join local or interest-based online groups to meet Members in any city before you even arrive. There are Communities for hikers, LGBTQ+ Travelers, foodies, language learners, and just about every niche in between. Some of the best conversations and friendships on the platform start here. The accommodation side of Couchsurfing is real and it’s great. But Members who only use it for that are missing most of what makes the community worth being in. #### **Myth #2: “Couchsurfing means sleeping on a stranger’s couch”** **The reality:** Hosts offer a wide variety of sleeping arrangements, from spare bedrooms to air mattresses to private guest rooms. What you actually sleep on depends entirely on who you stay with, and that’s all spelled out clearly in their profile before you ever send a request. #### **Myth #3: “You have to host people to use Couchsurfing”** **The reality:** Hosting is completely optional and always has been. All Members are Hosts by default, but you control whether you appear in Host search and can pause hosting anytime. Plenty of Members only travel. Others only use the platform to connect through local Communities, Hangouts, and Events. No hosting or staying involved at all. You get to decide how you participate. That said, hosting is genuinely one of the best parts of the experience if you’re ever in a position to do it. But nobody’s going to show up at your door uninvited. #### **Myth #4: “It’s only for broke backpackers”** **The reality:** The Couchsurfing community includes students, yes, but also professionals, remote workers, retirees, and people who could easily afford a hotel but choose this instead. Why? Because money isn’t the point. Connection is. You can stay at a four-star hotel and still feel completely alone in a city. Or you can stay with a local who takes you to a family dinner on your first night. Most Members choose the dinner. #### **Myth #5: “It’s basically a dating app”** **The reality:** Couchsurfing is not a dating platform, and the community enforces this through clear guidelines and public References. Couchsurfing has clear community guidelines around this, and Members who misuse the platform for romantic solicitation get reported and removed. References are public and permanent, which means bad behavior has consequences. The overwhelming majority of Hosts and Travelers are there for exactly what the platform promises: cultural exchange, genuine connection, and good conversation. If a Host’s profile feels off or their messages get weird, trust that instinct and move on. #### **Myth #6: “It’s not safe”** **The reality:** Couchsurfing includes multiple layers of trust and safety infrastructure, and serious incidents are rare among the many stays that occur annually. The platform provides several safety features to help Members protect themselves: - [**References system**](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/articles/50041760259355-What-Are-References-and-How-Do-They-Work): Public, permanent feedback from other Members about their experiences. Reading References before connecting with someone is one of the most effective ways to assess trustworthiness. - [**Verified profiles**](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/articles/50048775643035-Is-Couchsurfing-Safe-Your-Questions-Answered): Members can verify their identity, adding an extra layer of accountability. - [**Built-in Safety Tools**](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/articles/50049666916123-What-If-I-Feel-Unsafe-During-a-Stay): Available from your Library menu and within any active Stay, these include a link to the Couchsurfing Safety page, nearby hotel searches, a general reporting option, and emergency calling through your device on mobile. - **Confidential reporting**: If something goes wrong, you can submit a confidential report to the Safety and Support team, available 24/7 by ticket or email. Is it zero risk? No. Neither is booking a hotel through a random site or getting in a rideshare. The difference is Couchsurfing gives you the tools to vet people before you ever meet them. **Three steps to stay safe on Couchsurfing:** 1. Read all References on a Host’s profile. 2. Review their profile details and photos. 3. Trust your instincts about any communication. #### **Myth #7: “You’ll be stuck with your host the whole time”** **The reality:** Most Hosts have jobs, lives, and their own plans. You’re not signing up for a guided tour. You’re getting a local home base. Some Hosts love spending time with their guests. Others hand you a key and say “see you when I see you.” Both are valid. It’s all communicated upfront. If you want more hang time, find a Host who mentions that in their profile. If you want independence, find one who’s usually busy. #### **Myth #8: “Couchsurfing is just for young people”** **The reality:** The Couchsurfing community spans every age group. Yes, there are a lot of young Members. It’s a platform built around curiosity and adventure, which tends to attract that crowd. But there are also Members in their 40s, 50s, and beyond who’ve been hosting since the early days and have some of the best References on the platform. Age doesn’t determine how good a Host or Traveler someone is. Openness does. #### **Myth #9: “It’s awkward to stay with someone you’ve never met”** **The reality:** Initial awkwardness typically fades within minutes because both parties have already chosen to be open to connection. There’s something about the Couchsurfing context that shortcuts the small talk. You already know this person is open-minded, curious, and interested in meeting new people because they’re on the platform. The profiles, References, and message exchanges before you arrive mean you’re rarely walking in completely cold. Most Members report that the awkwardness dissolves faster than they expected. --- #### **Frequently Asked Questions** #### **What else can I use Couchsurfing for besides finding a place to stay?** On Couchsurfing you can do far more than look for a place to stay: join local or interest-based Communities, browse and join Events, and use Hangouts to meet Members near you in real time, all without booking a stay. These features are where most of the social magic happens, and you can meet people, swap tips, or join activities without arranging accommodation. #### **How do I know what kind of sleeping setup a Host will offer before I arrive?** On Couchsurfing you can usually see what sleeping arrangements a Host offers before you request a stay because Hosts describe their space and sleeping setup on their profile, so you can pick Hosts who match your preference for privacy or comfort. If anything is unclear, ask the Host through Couchsurfing messaging so expectations are clear before arrival. #### **If I host someone, am I expected to spend all my time with them?** Hosting on Couchsurfing does not obligate you to entertain guests constantly; most Hosts have jobs and routines, and stays range from very social to largely independent depending on what the Host lists and what you both agree on. Read a Host’s profile notes about their social style and agree on expectations in messages so everyone is comfortable. #### **Can strangers just show up at my door because I’m listed as a Host?** No. On Couchsurfing people cannot simply turn up unannounced; potential guests need to contact you and receive your agreement before arriving, and you control your hosting visibility so you won’t appear to Travelers if you don’t want to. You can pause hosting or adjust your profile anytime to reflect the level of availability you prefer. #### **Key Takeaways** - **Couchsurfing is a cultural exchange community**, not just a free accommodation service. Hosting and staying with Travelers is part of membership, alongside Communities, Events, and Hangouts. - **Safety infrastructure is built into the platform**, including verified profiles, public References, and Safety Tools accessible from any Stay. - **Hosting is optional.** All Members are Hosts by default, but you control your visibility and participation level. - **The community spans all ages and backgrounds.** Members include students, professionals, retirees, and anyone curious about connecting with people from different cultures. - **The References system creates accountability.** Public, permanent feedback helps Members make informed decisions about who to stay with or host. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/common-myths-about-couchsurfing-debunked/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/common-myths-about-couchsurfing-debunked/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/804c3fd9414fa13b9f7668e9c3dbc0319a1c581b0517830298fe16c8b381d13d?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Noami Park [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/elizabethtracy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/elizabethtracy/) **Categories:** All Posts, Guides, Travel Tips **Tags:** backpacking, beginner guide, budget travel, community travel, couchsurfing, culture exchange, digital nomads, free accomodation, meet locals, myth busting, safety tips, travel tips --- ### [Is Couchsurfing Safe? An Honest Answer.](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/is-couchsurfing-safe-an-honest-answer/) **Published:** September 1, 2026 **Author:** Noami Park **Content:** #### **TL;DR** - Yes, Couchsurfing is safe when members follow platform guidelines and use our safety tools. We take this seriously. - Over two decades, millions of members have connected through the platform, with the overwhelming majority of stays resulting in positive experiences. - Verification confirms user identity; references provide transparent feedback from past connections. - A 24/7 safety team responds immediately to policy violations, backed by a zero tolerance policy for inappropriate behavior. - You control your experience — whether staying with hosts, meeting through Introductions, or connecting through Communities and Events without any overnight stay required. #### **Is Couchsurfing Safe?** Yes, Couchsurfing is safe for members who follow platform guidelines and leverage our safety tools—like verified reviews, ID checks, and messaging history. Anytime trust and human beings are involved, safety is worth asking about seriously. We’re not going to pretend otherwise. Here’s the honest answer: life involves risk. Every time you meet someone new, on a date, at a job, through a mutual friend, you’re making a judgment call with imperfect information. Couchsurfing is no different, and we won’t insult your intelligence by suggesting it is. #### **What the Numbers Actually Show** Tens of thousands of stays happen on Couchsurfing every year. The overwhelming majority produce exactly what they’re supposed to: a good experience, a new perspective, often a lasting friendship. Over 20 years, millions of members have used this platform. The data isn’t ambiguous—people are, on the whole, genuinely good and kind. That’s what two decades of real human connection looks like. #### **What We Do to Keep You Safe** The community has spent years building a culture of accountability that makes Couchsurfing meaningfully different from opening your door to a stranger. Here’s what’s behind that: - **Zero tolerance policy** for any inappropriate behavior, online or offline - **24/7 safety team** ready to act immediately on policy violations - **References and Verification** so you can make informed decisions about who you connect with - **Automated monitoring systems** that flag suspicious activity and help identify potential safety concerns before they escalate **How Verification Works:** Members verify their identity by confirming their phone number, connecting social media accounts, or submitting government ID. Verified profiles display a verification badge, helping you identify members who have taken extra steps to confirm their identity. For a full overview, see[ What Does Couchsurfing Do to Keep the Community Safe?](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/articles/50048897729435-What-Does-Couchsurfing-Do-to-Keep-the-Community-Safe) **How References Work:** After each interaction—whether a stay, hosting experience, or meetup—members can leave public references on each other’s profiles. These references are visible to all members, creating a transparent history of someone’s behavior and reliability within the community. #### **Safety Tips for Couchsurfing** - Read references thoroughly before accepting or requesting a stay - Meet in a public place first when possible - Trust your instincts—if something feels off, it’s okay to cancel - Tell a friend or family member your plans and check in regularly - Use the platform’s messaging system to keep a record of communications - Start with lower-commitment options like Events or Hangouts if you’re new For more tips, see[ Tips for a Safer Couchsurfing Experience](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/articles/50048973301403-Tips-for-a-Safer-Couchsurfing-Experience) **You Never Have to Do Anything That Doesn’t Feel Right** Couchsurfing is not one-size-fits-all. The platform is built to meet you exactly where you are. **Not ready to stay with someone you’ve never met?** Connect through Introductions: meet members through people you already know, with a built-in layer of trust. **Want to connect online before committing to anything?** Communities let you build real relationships before anyone gets on a plane. Join online Communities for your city, your hobbies, or your next travel destination. Connect by asking or answering questions or just sharing feedback on whatever topic pops up. **Just want to meet people without the sleepover?** Hangouts and Events lets you find Couchsurfers looking to grab a drink or explore the city. No stay required. **Want to contribute without meeting up at all?** Share or browse Travel Guides. Connect over shared interests in online Communities. The goal has never been to push anyone into something they’re not comfortable with. The goal is to make genuine human connection more accessible—at whatever pace, in whatever form, works for you. #### **Frequently Asked Questions** **Is Couchsurfing safe for solo female travelers?** Many solo female travelers use Couchsurfing successfully by reading references carefully, choosing hosts with established histories, and using features like Introductions to connect through mutual contacts. The same safety tools—verification, references, and the 24/7 safety team—are available to all members. See also:[ Safety Tips for Women Travelers](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/articles/50050230785947-Safety-Tips-for-Women-Travelers) and[ Safety Tips for Solo Travelers](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/articles/50050256322843-Safety-Tips-for-Solo-Travelers) **How does Couchsurfing verify members?** Verification involves confirming identity through phone numbers, social media accounts, or government ID. Verified members display a badge on their profile, indicating they’ve completed additional identity confirmation steps. What happens if something goes wrong? Couchsurfing maintains a 24/7 safety team that responds to reports of policy violations. The platform enforces a zero tolerance policy for inappropriate behavior, and members can[ report concerns](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/articles/50049098530587-How-Do-I-Report-a-Member) at any time through the app or website. If you feel unsafe during a stay, see[ What If I Feel Unsafe During a Stay?](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/articles/50049666916123-What-If-I-Feel-Unsafe-During-a-Stay) #### **Key Takeaways** 1. Millions of connections over 20 years tell a clear story: people are mostly good 2. Real tools exist: Verification, references, a 24/7 safety team, zero tolerance policies 3. You set the pace: staying with someone is just one of many ways to connect 4. Hangouts, Communities, and Events exist specifically for members who want connection without commitment 5. Introductions allow you to use your existing network to meet friends of friends 6. Couchsurfing works because it’s built on mutual trust—and that trust has been earned over decades ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/is-couchsurfing-safe-an-honest-answer/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/is-couchsurfing-safe-an-honest-answer/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/804c3fd9414fa13b9f7668e9c3dbc0319a1c581b0517830298fe16c8b381d13d?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Noami Park [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/elizabethtracy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/elizabethtracy/) **Categories:** All Posts, News **Tags:** community, female travelers, first time couchsurfing, safety, solo travel, trust and safety, verification --- ### [15 Cocktails from Around the World to Share with Your Host](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/15-cocktails-from-around-the-world-to-share-with-your-host/) **Published:** August 12, 2026 **Author:** Noami Park **Content:** *The best travel memories often start with a local drink. Here are 15 cocktails from around the world worth knowing, making, and sharing with whoever opens their door to you.* --- One of the quiet joys of traveling the world is discovering that every country has a drink it is proud of. Not a beer or a wine. Something specific. A liqueur made from prickly pears on a Mediterranean island. A vermouth cocktail served in exactly one bar on a side street in Madrid. A purple corn drink that has been around since before the Incas. Showing up to stay with a Host is one of the more intimate travel experiences you can have. You are a guest, not a customer. And one of the oldest ways humans welcome each other is with a drink. Share one of these with your Host and you will give them something better than a bottle of wine: a story, a recipe, and a reason to sit down together. These are 15 worth knowing. --- ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/shutterstock_2662827435-1024x683.jpg "CheerfulFriendsAreRaisingTheirCocktailGlassesEnjoyingARooftop - Couchsurfing Blog")--- #### The Spritzes Spritz culture has spread across summer terraces from Malta to the Alps, and for good reason: they’re light, endlessly riffable, and give you an instant conversation topic. --- #### **1. The Maltese Spritz (Bajtra Spritz): Malta** ![Two cocktails with orange wedges on a wooden table, overlooking a coastal city and blue sky.](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/shutterstock_2264989533-1024x683.jpg "TwoGlassesOfSpritzCocktailWithViewOfVallettaAnd - Couchsurfing Blog")The Maltese Spritz is one of the most unexpectedly good drinks you’ll find in Europe. The base is **Bajtra**, a Maltese prickly pear liqueur, mixed with prosecco or sparkling rosé. It comes out pink, lightly sweet, and surprisingly refreshing. Not bitter like an Aperol spritz, but not sugary either. It’s the kind of drink you order once, then immediately order again. Read the full story over on the[ Couchsurfing blog](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-maltese-spritz/). **How to make a Maltese Spritz / Bajtra Spritz:** - 30ml Bajtra (prickly pear liqueur) - 60ml prosecco, or sparkling rosé for a sweeter, pinker version - Splash of soda water - Ice - Orange slice or maraschino cherry to garnish *Tip: prosecco cuts the sweetness slightly compared to sparkling rosé. Try both.* --- #### **2. Hugo Spritz: South Tyrol, Italy** ![Person in a maroon sweater holds a pale cocktail with lemon and mint in a wine glass over a table with assorted cheeses and meats.](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/shutterstock_2734545221-1024x683.jpg "APersonInABurgundySweaterIsHoldingAWine - Couchsurfing Blog")Created in 2005 by bartender Roland Gruber in South Tyrol, the Hugo has since swept through Austria, northern Italy, and Germany without ever quite breaking through to the rest of the world. Which makes it ideal to bring on the road. You’ll often be the only one at the table who’s had it. Floral, light, slightly minty. It tastes like an Alpine meadow in a glass. **How to make a Hugo Spritz:** - 90ml prosecco - 30ml elderflower syrup or St-Germain - Splash of soda water - 2–3 fresh mint leaves - Slice of lime - Ice - Large wine glass or balloon glass --- #### **3. Aperol Spritz: Italy** ![Woman in a striped top and white sunglasses on a boat, sipping an orange drink, with a white arched bridge and canal behind her in Venice.](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/shutterstock_2189196185-1024x683.jpg "YoungWomanDrinksSummerCocktailOnTheBackgroundOfFamous - Couchsurfing Blog")The one that started the spritz revolution. It earns its place here as the reference point everything else in this section gets compared to. If you show up somewhere with a bottle of Aperol and a bottle of prosecco, you will never be turned away. **How to make an Aperol Spritz:** - 90ml prosecco - 60ml Aperol - Splash of soda water - Ice - Slice of orange --- #### The Classics --- #### **4. The Manuela: Madrid, Spain** ![Bartender squeezes orange into a glass of iced cocktail at a bar surface in the foreground](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/shutterstock_1815614312-1024x667.jpg "MansHandsPouringVermouthIntoTheGlassFromAPitcher - Couchsurfing Blog")The Manuela is a Madrid vermouth cocktail you can only get in one place:[ Taberna La Concha](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g187514-d3470895-Reviews-Taberna_la_Concha-Madrid.html) on Calle Cava Baja in the La Latina neighborhood. Named after the bar owner’s daughter. Three short sprays of gin, red vermouth, a dash of Campari bitters, and an olive and orange peel on a cocktail stick. It’s a ritual as much as a drink. If you want the full story, it’s on the[ Couchsurfing blog](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-manuela-in-taberna-la-concha/). **How to make a Manuela at home:** - 1 martini glass with one ice cube - 5ml dry gin (three short sprays. The gin is a whisper, not a feature) - 90ml red vermouth (vermú rojo) - Generous dash of Campari bitters - Olive and orange peel on a cocktail stick to garnish --- #### **5. Caipirinha: Brazil** ![Golden sunset over the ocean with a glass of lemonade on a lounge chair, straw in the glass, and a leafy plant in the foreground.](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/shutterstock_420087811-1024x683.jpg "CaipirinhaDrinkAtSunsetOnSunChairNextToSmall - Couchsurfing Blog")Brazil’s national cocktail. Cachaça, muddled lime, sugar. Tart, strong, and completely its own thing. The person who grew up making this will have strong feelings about the lime-to-sugar ratio. Ask them to make it. **How to make a Caipirinha:** - Half a lime, cut into wedges - 2 tsp white sugar - 60ml cachaça - Ice *Muddle lime and sugar in the glass first. Add ice and cachaça. Stir.* --- #### **6. Pisco Sour: Peru & Chile** ![Two frosted lemonade glasses with ice and black straws on a sunny table, next to a person slicing meat at a dinning setup.](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/shutterstock_1935258749-1024x683.jpg "APersonEatsATypicalPeruvianFoodAnticuchosServedWith - Couchsurfing Blog")Both Peru and Chile claim it. Don’t take sides. The egg white foam, fresh lime, and two drops of Angostura bitters on top make it one of the most elegant things you can put in a glass. **How to make a Pisco Sour:** - 60ml pisco - 30ml fresh lime juice - 15ml simple syrup - 1 egg white - 2 dashes Angostura bitters *Dry shake (no ice) first to build the foam. Add ice, shake again. Strain into a chilled glass. Bitters go on top of the foam.* --- #### **7. Negroni: Italy** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/shutterstock_2197329261-1024x683.jpg "ClassicCocktailNegroniWithGinCampariAndMartiniRosso - Couchsurfing Blog")Equal parts gin, Campari, sweet vermouth. Stirred, never shaken. Orange peel. The Negroni is a drink for long evenings that are going somewhere. **How to make a Negroni:** - 30ml gin - 30ml Campari - 30ml sweet vermouth - Large ice cube - Orange peel to garnish *Stir with ice for 20–30 seconds. Strain into a rocks glass over a large cube.* --- #### **8. Spicy Paloma: Mexico** ![Woman in a green shirt sipping a pink lemonade with lime slices in a glass outdoors.](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/shutterstock_2372484685-1024x683.jpg "HappyWomanWithBeautifulSmileDrinkingFreshAndIcedPaloma - Couchsurfing Blog")More popular than the Margarita inside Mexico. The spicy version, with a chili salt rim and fresh jalapeño in the shaker, is the one worth making. The heat builds slowly. Whoever you’re drinking it with will ask for another. **How to make a Spicy Paloma:** - 60ml tequila (blanco or reposado) - 90ml fresh grapefruit juice - 15ml fresh lime juice - 1–2 thin slices fresh jalapeño - Pinch of salt - Soda water to top - Chili salt for the rim (salt + chili flakes or Tajín) *Rim the glass with chili salt. Shake tequila, grapefruit, lime, one jalapeño slice, and salt with ice. Strain over fresh ice. Top with soda. Garnish with the second jalapeño slice and a grapefruit wedge.* --- #### **9. Mojito: Cuba** ![Group of friends toasting with mint drinks outdoors, smiling and laughing.](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/shutterstock_2407984987-1024x683.jpg "MultiracialFriendsGroupCelebratingPartyToastingMojitoOutside-Happy - Couchsurfing Blog")Rum, fresh mint, lime, sugar, soda. Belongs equally to dives and rooftops. If whoever you’re staying with has a lime tree or a mint plant on the windowsill, you’re already halfway there. **How to make a Mojito:** - 10 fresh mint leaves - 2 tsp sugar - 30ml fresh lime juice - 60ml white rum - Soda water to top - Ice *Muddle mint with sugar and lime juice gently: press, don’t shred. Add rum and ice, top with soda, stir carefully. Garnish with mint.* --- #### The Niche Ones --- ### **10. Gin Basil Smash: Germany** ![Bartender in a striped shirt and brown apron stirs a green cocktail with a long twisted spoon over a glass with ice and lime leaves.](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/shutterstock_431798482-1024x681.jpg "BartenderIsStirringCocktailsOnTheBarCounter - Couchsurfing Blog")Invented in Hamburg in 2008 by bartender Jörg Meyer. Niche enough that most people outside Germany haven’t encountered it. Simple enough that anyone can make it at home. Fresh basil, gin, lemon, sugar. It tastes like a herb garden in a glass and looks like something from a very good restaurant. **How to make a Gin Basil Smash:** - 8–10 fresh basil leaves - 60ml gin - 25ml fresh lemon juice - 15ml simple syrup - Ice *Muddle basil hard with the other ingredients in a shaker: you want the colour and the oil. Add ice, shake well. Double strain into a chilled glass with ice. Garnish with a basil leaf.* --- #### **11. Fernet con Coca: Argentina** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/shutterstock_1942807795-1024x541.jpg "LandscapesVacationsAndTheOfficialDrinkOfArgentinaArgentineMate - Couchsurfing Blog")Argentina’s unofficial national drink. Fernet-Branca (a bitter Italian amaro) and Coca-Cola, two-to-one Coke to Fernet. Herbal, a little medicinal, oddly addictive once it’s in a glass with ice. Argentines are evangelical about it. It will either convert you immediately or take a few attempts. **How to make Fernet con Coca:** - 60ml Fernet-Branca - 120ml Coca-Cola - Ice in a tall glass *Two-to-one Coke to Fernet. Do not deviate. Stir briefly.* --- #### **12. Raki: Turkey** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/shutterstock_2534659463-1024x559.jpg "InEuropeWeSeePeopleRaisingTheirGlassesHavingFun - Couchsurfing Blog")Turkey’s national spirit turns milky white when water is added, which is why it’s called “lion’s milk.” It’s anise-flavored, always served alongside food, always diluted, never rushed. Raki is a long evening in a glass. **How to serve Raki:** - 45ml raki in a narrow glass - Equal amount of cold water added slowly - Ice added after the water, not before - Serve alongside meze: olives, white cheese, melon --- #### **13. Dark ‘N’ Stormy: Bermuda & the Caribbean** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/shutterstock_1911762814-1024x683.jpg "DarkNStormyHighballCocktailServedAsALongDrink - Couchsurfing Blog")Dark rum, ginger beer, lime. Sharp, warming, completely unfussy. Bermuda trademarked the name with Gosling’s as the required rum, but across the Caribbean, any good dark rum does the job. **How to make a Dark ‘N’ Stormy:** - 60ml dark rum - ~120ml ginger beer to top - Squeeze of half a lime - Ice *Fill glass with ice. Add rum. Top with ginger beer. Squeeze lime over the top.* --- #### The Mocktails Not every Hangout calls for alcohol, and not everyone drinks. These two are genuinely worth making, not polite substitutes. --- #### **14. Agua de Jamaica: Mexico & West Africa** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/shutterstock_2196032579-1024x683.jpg "AguaDeJamaicaIbiscusTeaMadeAsAnInfusionFrom - Couchsurfing Blog")Hibiscus tea, called agua de jamaica in Mexico and bissap across West Africa, is tart, deep red, and naturally stunning in a glass. Served cold over ice with lime and a little sweetener, it holds its own next to anything alcoholic on the table. **How to make Agua de Jamaica:** - 10g dried hibiscus flowers - 500ml boiling water - 2–3 tsp sugar or honey, to taste - Juice of 1 lime - Ice *Steep hibiscus in boiling water for 10 minutes. Strain, sweeten while warm, chill. Serve over ice with lime. Add soda for a fizzy version.* --- #### **15. Chicha Morada: Peru** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/shutterstock_1993705829-1024x695.jpg "GlassWithTypicalPeruvianFreshJuicechichaMoradaSelectiveFocus - Couchsurfing Blog")One of Peru’s oldest drinks, made from purple corn boiled with pineapple peel, cinnamon, and cloves. Non-alcoholic, deeply flavourful, and unlike anything else on this list. Made in large batches and served cold: ideal if you’re staying somewhere for a few days and want to leave something behind. **How to make Chicha Morada:** - 500g dried purple corn (maíz morado) - Peel and core of 1 pineapple - 2 cinnamon sticks - 5 cloves - 2 litres water - Juice of 2 limes - Sugar to taste *Boil corn, pineapple peel, cinnamon, and cloves in water for 45 minutes. Strain. Add lime juice and sugar while warm. Chill completely. Serve over ice. Keeps in the fridge for up to 4 days.* --- #### A Note on Bringing a Drink ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/shutterstock_2747320821-1024x644.jpg "FriendsGoingOutInTheEveningAndMakingPartyYoung - Couchsurfing Blog")Showing up somewhere ready to make one of these with your Host is one of the more naturally generous things a Traveler can do, but worth a quick check first. Not everyone drinks alcohol, for personal, religious, or health reasons. A message before you arrive (“I’d love to bring something. Any preferences, or should I skip the alcohol?”) covers it gracefully. The best encounters on Couchsurfing tend to be the ones where someone brings something local and unexpected. A bottle of Bajtra from a Maltese market. Fernet from a Buenos Aires shop. Hibiscus flowers from a street stall. Couchsurfing connects more than 25 million Members across over 200,000 cities. The trust that makes those encounters possible is built through the References system: public, permanent records visible on every Member’s profile before any stay or meetup is arranged. A paid Membership is what funds that infrastructure, along with host search, Hangouts, and the rest of the community tools. The world is full of Hosts who know a drink you have never heard of. Go find them. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/15-cocktails-from-around-the-world-to-share-with-your-host/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/15-cocktails-from-around-the-world-to-share-with-your-host/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/804c3fd9414fa13b9f7668e9c3dbc0319a1c581b0517830298fe16c8b381d13d?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Noami Park [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/elizabethtracy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/elizabethtracy/) **Categories:** Advice, Travel Tips **Tags:** couchsurfing, hosting, maltese spritz, travel tips --- ### [Product Update: Make a New Friend with Couchsurfing Hangouts](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/product-update-make-a-new-friend-with-couchsurfing-hangouts/) **Published:** June 28, 2016 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** *Last updated: August 11, 2026* Couchsurfing Hangouts is a feature that connects Travelers and locals who want to meet up spontaneously based on their real-time location. Once you enter a Hangout, you become visible to other nearby Members who are also looking to connect, and they become visible to you. It’s 5 o’clock on a Friday. You’re ready for an adventure, but you’ve made no plans. Or maybe you’re traveling and have a few hours to kill. Wouldn’t it be awesome if there was someone who wanted to explore the city with you? Hangouts lets you easily connect with people nearby who are ready to hang out. Whether you’re traveling, hosting, or just getting started, Hangouts helps you meet other Members of the Couchsurfing community in real time. We know traveling is more about the bonds you make than the photos you take. It’s about finding a common language, even if you live halfway across the world. But it can be hard to make plans to meet a new friend due to complicated travel schedules, busy lives, and constantly changing plans. With Couchsurfing Hangouts, you can find Travelers and locals who also want to hang out right now, with no planning required. How Hangouts Works 1. Open the Couchsurfing app and tap the **Hangout** button in the top right corner of the Explore or Events page 2. Choose what you’re in the mood for (for example, Grab Drinks or Chill Outside) 3. Tap **Hangout Now** to confirm and become visible on the map 4. Browse other Members nearby or wait for others to send a join request 5. Once a request is approved, a[ group chat is created](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/articles/50038867454747-How-Do-Chats-Work-on-Couchsurfing) so you can start making plans You can also access Hangouts on the web by clicking the **Hangout** button at the top of the Events page. Key Features - **Real-time visibility**: See who’s available to meet up right now in your area - **Activity types**: Choose what you’re in the mood for, from grabbing drinks to exploring outdoors - **Group chat**: Once a[ second Member is admitted](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/articles/54027327829915-Are-Group-Hangouts-Back), a group chat is created automatically - **Consent-first design**: No one is added to a Hangout automatically; existing Members approve each join request Privacy and Location Entering a Hangout requires your device’s location permission to be enabled. Couchsurfing uses your location to show you nearby Members and place your pin on the map. Your[ exact location](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/articles/50037489608859-Can-People-See-My-Exact-Location-When-I-m-in-a-Hangout) is never displayed to other Members. You can leave the Hangout at any time to remove your pin from the map. More Than Just Meetups Hangouts is just one way to connect on Couchsurfing. With your membership, you can also host Travelers, find a place to stay, join Communities, attend Events, and build trust through References. The References system helps Members share their experiences with one another, making it easier to connect with confidence. Download the Couchsurfing mobile app to get started. Hangouts is right on the Dashboard.[ **Go make a new friend.**](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/articles/50037397548827-What-Is-Hangout-and-How-Does-It-Work) --- Frequently Asked Questions **Do I need a paid membership?** Yes, an active Couchsurfing membership is required to use Hangouts. **Do I need to complete my profile first?** Yes. Members must meet a minimum profile completeness threshold before joining a Hangout. ### **How long does a Hangout stay active on Couchsurfing?** A Hangout on Couchsurfing stays active as long as at least one Member remains in hangout mode, and it is archived immediately when the last person leaves, so the activity does not linger after everyone has exited. If you want to keep meeting people, start a new Hangout; the old one cannot be restarted once it’s archived. ### **What happens to the group chat after the Hangout ends?** The group chat created for a Couchsurfing Hangout persists independently of the Hangout itself, which means the chat can continue after the Hangout is archived and will remain until every person in the conversation decides to leave the chat. That lets Members keep planning or follow up even after the in-person meet-up ends, and the chat is removed only once everyone has left. ### **Are there new Hangout features coming to Couchsurfing?** Couchsurfing is planning new Hangout features, such as Focus Mode to control which audience segments can see your Hangout and a Party Line that would create a city-wide group chat for everyone in hangout mode, though these features are not released yet. Watch for announcements inside the Couchsurfing app for when these features roll out. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/product-update-make-a-new-friend-with-couchsurfing-hangouts/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/product-update-make-a-new-friend-with-couchsurfing-hangouts/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts **Tags:** couchsurfing news, hangouts, product update --- ### [Couchsurfing Through The Years: My Experience](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/cs-through-the-years/) **Published:** July 10, 2018 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** *Last updated: August 11, 2026* I have used Couchsurfing since 2013, and have slept on over 100 couches in North, Central and South America, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. I have also hosted several people at my own home in Biel, Switzerland. I am blown away by the amazing people I have met around the world. #### A Global Community Couchsurfing is a tool that connects travelers and hosts all over the world. Besides the free accommodation, the real magic of Couchsurfing is that it allows you to spend time with locals and form relationships with them. For the intrepid and curious traveler, these relationships provide a different perspective on the culture of a particular destination. I often get travel advice, have the opportunity to use their kitchen and sample local flavors and cooking utensils, and do things I would have never considered trying by myself (e.g. learning how to surf in the US and Costa Rica, Reiki in Thailand, and viewing a presentation about Switzerland at a Japanese university). The list is long. I’ve made lasting relationships with several Couchsurfers and hosted them for a second time and subsequently visited them in their own country or we met up somewhere else. You never know who you’re going to meet and the amazing personalities and life stories you will uncover. #### Ways to Use Couchsurfing Beyond Hosting I also use Couchsurfing to meet people, even in the city where I live. There are great events such as potluck dinners, karaoke parties, living room concerts, and language exchanges. Membership includes access to Events and Communities where you can find: - Potluck dinners - Karaoke parties - Living room concerts - Language exchanges - Local meetups and cultural activities All fantastic ways to meet similar like-minded people. #### The Greatest Gift You Can Give Is Your Time Some hosts prefer not to accept you if you request 1-2 nights on account of not having enough time to get to know each other. Most of the time I request 3-5 nights. There have been a few hosts who requested that I extend my stay with because I gave back through simple things like cooking and cleaning, and looking after children or animals, and most hosts have told me that I am welcome to return any time. The length of time you stay with any host is up to the traveler and the host, but I think too long is probably when it is no longer convenient, comfortable or pleasant for both parties. #### My Experience I enjoy sleeping on a couch. It feels like somebody is hugging me from behind. But I do not say no when my host offers me a spare bed or even a spare room. It is also possible to Couchsurf *and* host with a friend, a partner or as a family. As a woman traveling solo, it is very easy to find a host. Often I can write a request in the morning and have an offer from a host on the same day, which is great for my spontaneity. As a man or a couple, it’s best to ask around 1-2 weeks your planned arrival. The more (positive!) [References](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/articles/50048775643035-Is-Couchsurfing-Safe) you have on Couchsurfing, the easier it is to find a host. My boyfriend and I love to Couchsurf together and look forward to hosting people in our own tiny home in the future. I have never had a negative experience with Couchsurfing, but it is important to always review traveler/host profiles and especially their references. Look for subtle hints; many people do not write a negative reference since they do not want to receive a negative reference themselves. Today it is no longer possible to change a reference, and I think that is good. Once a host in Hungary asked me to change what I wrote about him and when I said “no” he threatened me to write me a negative reference. I did not reply and luckily never heard of him again. As a couple, my boyfriend and I usually set our filter to view “private rooms”. Surprisingly many of the places we have stayed are luxury accommodations. But we have also found the contrary. It’s important to be open-minded, listen to people’s stories and enjoy where the road takes you. #### Safety Starts With You In my experience, most of my hosts have been and continue to be male. As a woman traveling alone, it is important that you learn how to say “no” clearly. Consider it to be an important lesson in the School of Life. I feel much safer and often more comfortable staying with Couchsurfing hosts than staying in a hostel. Most of my hosts treat me with the warmth of a family member or a good friend, and I often feel at home. Hostels are colder, more anonymous, and can get very busy. Locals also know their area better and hosts often times go out of their way to make sure you have a nice experience. When I arrived in Chicago for the first time my host made me a map of the city with x’s on the areas that are considered dangerous. In another place, my host insisted on picking me up from the airport in his car. #### Safety Tips - Always tell somebody where you are staying - Make sure to get your host’s phone number in case you get lost - Ask your host for important geographical information, such as their home address, dangerous areas to avoid, how to use public transportation, etc. - Make sure the host you choose has at least one picture on their profile where you can clearly see their face - Read profiles and References carefully before connecting - If your instinct tells you that there is something wrong, leave [Safety Tools](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/articles/50048897729435-What-Does-Couchsurfing-Do-to-Keep-the-Community-Safe) are available from your Library menu and within any active Stay, including a link to the Couchsurfing Safety page, a way to find nearby accommodation, and the ability to contact local authorities in an emergency. Couchsurfing can be an incredible travel tool, and a valuable way to meet amazing people from different backgrounds and cultures all over the world. But please don’t stay with someone just because it’s free. It’s of the utmost importance that you find a good match for your travel goals and personality. If you can’t find a good host that you’re able to build a good rapport with before you travel, then you shouldn’t use CS for that town. See the original blog post [here](https://bit.ly/2ulASZW). #### Frequently Asked Questions **Can I Couchsurf with my partner or family?** Yes, Couchsurfing welcomes traveling or hosting with a partner, friend, or family member; many members travel together and use their profiles to arrange stays or to host guests as a group. Be clear in your profile and in stay requests about how many people are coming, sleeping arrangements, and any needs so hosts know what to expect. **How long should I request to stay?** There is no single right answer for how long to request a stay on Couchsurfing; it’s a personal choice that should match your travel plans and your host’s availability, and many members find that a few nights gives time to connect while keeping the visit comfortable for everyone. Talk with your host before you arrive about expectations and be ready to leave if the stay stops being comfortable for either of you. **Do I have to sleep on the couch if a host offers something else?** Couchsurfing lets hosts offer whatever sleeping arrangement works for them, so you can accept a spare bed, a private room, or a couch depending on what you prefer and what the host offers; it’s fine either way. Communicate your comfort level before you arrive so there are no surprises and everyone can enjoy the visit. **How can I meet people on Couchsurfing if I don’t want to stay with someone?** Couchsurfing is more than places to sleep; the platform includes Events and Communities where you can join potlucks, language exchanges, meetups, and other activities to meet locals and travelers without staying overnight. Try local events like living room concerts or language meetups to find people with similar interests. **Do Couchsurfing stays ever turn into long-term friendships?** Yes, Couchsurfing often leads to lasting friendships where hosts and travelers stay in touch, host each other again, or meet up in new places, because many members enjoy the cultural exchange and keep visiting friends they made on the road. If you hope to stay in touch, continue the conversation on Couchsurfing after your stay or exchange contact details in person once you both feel comfortable. [![11798307_10100774720955285_1883328004_n-5.jpg](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/11798307_10100774720955285_1883328004_n-5-150x150.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/11798307_10100774720955285_1883328004_n-5.jpg) [![22222040_10155928020217216_5490827039479240812_n-4.jpg](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/22222040_10155928020217216_5490827039479240812_n-4-150x150.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/22222040_10155928020217216_5490827039479240812_n-4.jpg) [![image4-2.jpg](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/image4-2-150x150.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/image4-2.jpg) [![IMG_8609-3.JPG](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/IMG_8609-3-150x150.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/IMG_8609-3.JPG) [![IMG_8266_bearb-1.jpg](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/IMG_8266_bearb-1-150x150.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/IMG_8266_bearb-1.jpg) [![DSC02653-0.JPG](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/DSC02653-0-150x150.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/DSC02653-0.JPG) ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/cs-through-the-years/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/cs-through-the-years/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Stories **Tags:** couchsurfing, CS, female travelers, solo travel, solo travel tips, travel safety tips, traveler stories, traveling alone --- ### [My Journey with Couchsurfing](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/my-journey-with-couchsurfing/) **Published:** August 14, 2020 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** **How 8 Years of Couchsurfing Transformed My Life: Hosting 140 Travelers and Finding Love** *Last updated: August 11, 2026* ##### **By Sam | August 14, 2020** *This article shares one member’s eight-year experience using Couchsurfing as both a host and traveler in Ecuador and beyond.* ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/Rossana-in-Chimborazo-Ecuador.jpg "Rossana-in-Chimborazo-Ecuador - Couchsurfing Blog")**How I Discovered Couchsurfing in New York** When I was first introduced to Couchsurfing in 2012, I did not expect it would have such a profound influence in my life. I was in New York City at the time, by all indications the perfect place for such an introduction. I had recently met up with a cheerful and well-traveled guy with whom I was practicing the latest language I had set out to learn, Italian. One day after we had finished our tandem exchange, he mentioned a “meet-up” I might be interested in joining. He explained it was organized by Couchsurfing, and he proceeded to give a description of the website. “Since you like languages and traveling so much, you should definitely give it a try,” he urged. And so began my journey with Couchsurfing. **My First Hosting Experience in Ecuador** Shortly after that, I returned to my home country of Ecuador. My first exposure to Couchsurfing had taken place at an event, but after learning more about it and talking to members of the community, I was curious about the experience of hosting.After all, I was genuinely interested in meeting people from different places and cultural backgrounds. It would also give me an opportunity to continue to practice the languages I had put so much effort into learning. Being back home gave me the opportunity to do so as there was plenty of room in our house. In fact, by Couchsurfing standards, my “couch” could have been considered a luxury set-up: a private room and bathroom in a semi-private area of a spacious home. In June 2012, I hosted my first surfer, Cynthia, a Québécois on a short trip in Ecuador. I could not have asked for a better first experience.We held insightful conversations about each other’s cultures, shared meals, and visited my city together. **The Benefits of Cultural Exchange** I immediately noticed how the traveling experience was enhanced by Couchsurfing. I was rediscovering places in my own city and at the same time, my guest was exploring her new surroundings from the perspective of a local. Later, I experienced the same effect when I had the opportunity to stay with Couchsurfers around the world during some of my travels. It felt very different from previous experiences staying in hostels and hitting all the tourist highlights. It felt more authentic, less contrived. The greatest benefit, however, was the opportunity to make meaningful connections. **Key benefits I experienced through Couchsurfing:** - Cultural exchange and authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences - Language practice with native speakers from around the world - Rediscovering my own city through the eyes of Travelers - Meaningful connections that last well beyond a single stay - Being part of a global community built on trust and[ References](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/articles/50041920181531-How-Do-I-Leave-a-Reference) Eight years after that first Couchsurfing experience, I have hosted approximately 140 travelers in two countries and four different cities, surfed numerous times, and organized many events. Besides all the benefits I mentioned earlier, I have made lasting connections around the world. For instance, I’m still in touch with Cynthia, my first Couchsurfer, whom I have visited twice in Montreal over the years. **Finding Love Through Couchsurfing** The most meaningful connection, however, would take place in 2019. I was hosting in my hometown of Cuenca, in the Andes mountains of Ecuador. It was the first time I had received a couch request from someone from Puerto Rico, so I jumped at the opportunity. The Caribbean island had been one of my favorite travel destinations in the world, so I was eager to connect with someone from there. My guest Rossana and I connected immediately. After a couple of days, the connection we felt grew stronger; the romantic attraction was undeniable. Rossana extended her stay at my house by a few days. Then, she returned and extended her stay in Ecuador by a couple of months. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/Rossana-in-Cuenca-Ecuador.jpg "Rossana-in-Cuenca-Ecuador - Couchsurfing Blog")To make a long story short, nearly a year later, Rossana and I are in Savannah, Georgia, where we got married. We look back at our time together exploring Ecuador with delight. We are thankful to Couchsurfing and the circumstances that aligned for us to meet. After all, she had previously sent three other couch requests that hadn’t panned out. We are certain that we would have connected with each other regardless of where we met, but we were grateful that Couchsurfing brought people with similar interests and worldviews together. A passion for traveling and exploring different cultures is certainly one of our strongest common interests. Couchsurfing has added tremendously to my life, from helping me explore the world in a unique way to giving me my beloved wife. I have given back to the community as a host and ambassador of each city I’ve called home, and want to continue to do so as a family now. For us, the world with Couchsurfing has become smaller and more connected. Indeed, it has become a global community. **Key Takeaways** - Couchsurfing led to lasting friendships, cultural insights, and meeting my partner - Hosting 140 Travelers across four cities transformed how I see my own home - The References and trust system helped me connect with like-minded people worldwide - Cultural exchange and language practice enriched both my travels and daily life - Membership opens the door to hosting,[ staying with locals](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/articles/50010326627227-How-Do-I-Find-Hosts-and-Send-a-Stay-Request), Events, and Communities ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/Civil-Ceremony-at-Orleans-Square-Savannah.jpg "Civil-Ceremony-at-Orleans-Square-Savannah - Couchsurfing Blog")--- **Frequently Asked Questions** **What was it like hosting your first Couchsurfer?** My first guest, Cynthia from Quebec, set the tone for eight years of positive experiences. We shared meals, explored my city together, and had insightful conversations about our cultures. It showed me how hosting lets you rediscover your own home through fresh eyes. **How did Couchsurfing change your perspective on travel?** Staying with local Hosts felt completely different from hostels and tourist highlights. The experiences were more authentic, and the meaningful connections I made became the most valuable part of every trip. **How did hosting 140 Travelers affect your everyday life?** Hosting 140 Travelers over eight years changed how I used my home, my routines, and my time, turning everyday spaces into meeting points where language practice, shared meals, and unexpected outings became part of normal life on a weekly basis. I adapted by setting clear house rules, carving out time for guests, and treating hospitality as a deliberate practice that made hosting sustainable. **How did you and your partner meet through Couchsurfing?** Rossana and I connected after she sent a stay request while I was hosting in Cuenca, and what began as a warm, shared exploration of Ecuador soon deepened when she extended her stay and we spent many days getting to know one another beyond the usual host and guest routine. Nearly a year later we were married in Savannah, Georgia, a reminder that deep connections can grow out of simple moments of hospitality. **Do you still host now that you’re married?** Yes, Couchsurfing remains central to our life, and we plan to continue hosting together as a family, welcoming Travelers, sharing favorite local spots, and making hospitality part of how we live and travel. We still balance privacy and routines, but the goal is the same: to make guests feel welcome and connected. **What role did Events and Communities play in your story?** Organizing and attending Events and joining local Communities helped me meet many Travelers because Events offered low-pressure ways to share language practice, cultural exchange, and introductions to wider groups beyond a single stay. Over eight years I ran twelve Events, which turned casual meetups into ongoing friendships and repeat visits. **Did hosting change how you see your city?** Yes, hosting changed how I see my city by showing me favorite streets and small businesses anew through Travelers’ questions and curiosity, turning ordinary routes into stories and unexpected discoveries. That fresh perspective made me a better host and a more curious local. --- *This is a community submitted story. All opinions, views and experiences are purely those of the author. If you are interested in sharing your Couchsurfing stories with us you can do so*[ *here*](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-admin/post.php?post=6029&action=edit) *or by emailing the story and accompanying photos to social@couchsurfing.com* ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/my-journey-with-couchsurfing/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/my-journey-with-couchsurfing/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Stories **Tags:** community stories, couchsurfing, hosting --- ### [Ask Couchsurfing: Reviving Local Communities](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/ask-couchsurfing-reviving-local-communities/) **Published:** December 1, 2022 **Author:** Mike Joy **Content:** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/q.png "q - Couchsurfing Blog") How can I revive the CS community in an area where Couchsurfing doesn’t seem very active? *Last updated: August 11, 2026* **To revive an inactive Couchsurfing community, start by**[ hosting regular events**](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/articles/50011093749275-How-Do-I-Create-an-Event) **at a consistent time and venue, even if only a few people attend at first. Partner with your local Ambassador to promote events and invite Travelers passing through your city. Persistence and reliability are the keys to building momentum.** ****Ask Couchsurfing:** We answer your questions about Couchsurfing and traveling right here. Follow our [Instagram](http://www.instagram.com/couchsurfing) and [TikTok](http://www.tiktok.com/@couchsurfing) for travel tips and community highlights.** Key Terms - **Couchsurfing Ambassador**: An experienced Member who helps grow and support the Couchsurfing community in their region by mentoring organizers, promoting events, and welcoming Travelers. - **Local community**: The network of Couchsurfing Members in a specific city or area who connect through events, hosting, and shared experiences. How can I revive the Couchsurfing community in an area where Couchsurfing doesn’t seem very active? --- Venue Selection Tips **Marco from Buenos Aires:** Having been a nomadic ambassador for the past 3 years, Couchsurfing has always been such an amazing resource to “find my friends I haven’t met yet!” I often found myself in cities that didn’t have an active community, so I’d create the weekly events, and when I found the person who was clearly meant to be organizing the events and to whom I’d want to pass the torch when I left, the most common feedback would be that they didn’t want the responsibility or that it’s too much work. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/MarcoCS.jpeg "MarcoCS - Couchsurfing Blog") - It’s important to let these people know you can put as little or as much as you want into creating a weekly event. The biggest thing is just showing up, which is what they want to be doing anyways! There’s nothing wrong with repeating the event at the same time and same place every week if it means it’s going to bring people together. Reliability actually brings more people in! - Having co-organizers to be there if you’re not able to attend for a week can help Members put a face to the group they are trying to find. - If you’re in a spot where it might be hard to find the group, let the bartender or hostess know when you arrive and they are happy to help them find the group. - Organize the event at a time and location that most people are likely to be able to attend. An event at noon on a Tuesday in the outskirts of town is less likely to draw the crowd you’re looking for than 8 pm on Friday somewhere in the city center near public transit. - Have everyone pay as they go. There’s nothing worse than at the end of the night realizing someone forgot to pay their bill, and this also means less organization is needed if there isn’t a huge bill that needs to be divided. - Make sure to [communicate with the venue](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/articles/50036208367771-Guidelines-for-Hosting-an-Event) your intentions and ensure the event will be welcomed. Some places would love to accommodate such an event, while others might think of it as a hassle (e.g., they might not like that some people aren’t necessarily going to buy anything). Make it easy on you and the venue regarding expectations! - Make sure the space is well-suited for mingling! One big long table is nice, but it means you’re only going to talk to the 4–5 people sitting around you. An open setup where everyone can all communicate with each other usually brings people back because they get to meet so many people. - Get in touch with the local Ambassador to ensure the weekly event is good so they can feature it and invite the Travelers who will be in your city. Just getting those invitations out creates awareness and increases the number of people who attend. - Once you do have a budding community, start making those specialized events to go hiking, pub crawling, bowling, BBQs, art museums, walking tours, anything! - Reap the rewards of a thriving Couchsurfing community! --- **Building Consistency Through House Meetups** **Anu from Chandigarh:** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Anu.jpeg "Anu - Couchsurfing Blog") I lived in one small city in India for 3 years where Couchsurfing was not active. No events and no travelers were found in the city when I moved there. Now, the city has an active CS community hosting regular events and also hosted a couch crash in 2021. The key to this was organizing local meetups (in Events) at regular frequency without fail and with discipline. Also, I believe that meetups in some CSers houses can give a more intimate and unique experience that differentiates CS meetups from other similar event groups. The first few meetups were disheartening, with only 2-3 new people turning up every time who did not understand the CS culture very well. In fact, I remember 1 meetup organized at my house where only me and my wife were sitting and waiting for some people to turn up, but they didn’t. But I did not lose hope and kept on organizing monthly house meetups at my house and over months we were able to meet like minded CSers who embraced the concept of CS and started attending regularly and even started hosting meetups at regular frequency and brought new flavors and variety to the type of events happening in the city. We ended up hosting a CouchCrash in the city before I moved on from that city, and 93 people from all over India attended the Crash. The name of the city here is Bhopal, and the city has given me the best CS experience amongst all the 3 other cities where I have lived after joining CS. In short, the crux to get a community alive is to organize regular events with discipline in a comfortable and cozy place that is able to facilitate good and healthy conversations. And do not get discouraged by some failed attempts. Meeting the right tribe is just round the corner. --- **Scaling Beyond Weekly Events** **Jason from Connecticut:** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Jason-1.jpeg "Jason-1 - Couchsurfing Blog") I suggest organizing a monthly event, not weekly. If someone can’t make a weekly event, they just say to themselves that they’ll make the next one but by having a month between them if they miss one they will have to wait a long time to go to another so they will try harder to attend a monthly event. Don’t worry if it is just a small amount of people attending, even two Couchsurfers is a good start! As time goes by you can grow your events and attract more people. We also # our events like Connecticut Meetup #1…#2…#3… this can grow interest over time as members will see it is an established group that meets regularly. I also suggest varying your events. Don’t meet at a bar every month… try hikes, bowling, game nights, dinners etc. Vary the events so you reach people with different interests. --- ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/mike.jpeg "mike - Couchsurfing Blog") **Couchsurfing Mike**: The Ambassadors have more than covered how to best re-energize local communities! So I’ll just say if you still have questions, find them on CS and message them directly – they’ll be happy to help! --- **Key Takeaways** - **Be consistent**: Host events at the same time and place regularly. Reliability builds trust and attendance. - **Start small**: Even 2–3 attendees is a success. Persistence pays off over time. - **Choose the right venue**: Pick a central, transit-accessible location with space for mingling. Communicate expectations with the venue in advance. - [**Partner with your Ambassador**](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/articles/49997386938651-How-Do-I-Find-People-to-Connect-With): They can promote your event and invite Travelers visiting your city. - **Recruit co-organizers**: Having backup ensures events happen even when you can’t attend. - **Vary your events**: Once your community grows, add hikes, game nights, dinners, and other activities to attract diverse interests. - **Don’t get discouraged**: Failed attempts are part of the process. The right community is just around the corner. --- **Frequently Asked Questions** **How can I let Travelers passing through know about my events?** Couchsurfing events reach Travelers passing through best when you list the event clearly, keep the time and place consistent, post in local Communities, and ask your local Ambassador to help invite visiting Members and spread the word. Also use the event description to explain what to expect and mark the event as recurring so visitors can spot it easily. **What should I tell a venue before hosting a Couchsurfing event?** Couchsurfing organizers should tell a venue what to expect by explaining the event size, typical arrival times, whether people will buy food or drinks, and that the group is there to socialize rather than to run promotions or collect fees. Being upfront makes venues more comfortable hosting you and keeps the night running smoothly. **How can I find co-organizers who will stick around?** Couchsurfing organizers find reliable co-organizers by inviting regular attendees who show up consistently, offering very small, specific tasks at first, and making it easy for people to share responsibility so no one feels overwhelmed or permanently on duty. Thanking helpers and rotating roles also keeps people engaged. **Can house meetups really turn into a full local community?** Couchsurfing house meetups can absolutely grow into a full local community if organizers host regularly, welcome new Members warmly, and use small intimate gatherings to teach the culture and invite others to host or organize public events. Start small, be patient, and add varied activities as interest grows. **I don’t want to be the long-term organizer — how do I pass the torch?** Couchsurfing organizers can pass the torch by slowly sharing duties with co-organizers, writing down how you run the event, and gently encouraging a regular attendee to take the lead when they’re ready. Announce the change openly on the event page and ask your Ambassador to help introduce the new organizer so Members know who to contact. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/ask-couchsurfing-reviving-local-communities/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/ask-couchsurfing-reviving-local-communities/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Advice, Community --- ### [Ask Couchsurfing: Tips for Budget Travelers](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/ask-couchsurfing-tips-for-budget-travelers/) **Published:** January 30, 2023 **Author:** Mike Joy **Content:** **Ask Couchsurfing: Where we answer your questions about CS and traveling. Check out our [Instagram](http://www.instagram.com/couchsurfing) and [TikTok](http://www.tiktok.com/@couchsurfing) weekly to watch Mike from Couchsurfing HQ answer the question, or read the responses here!** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/q.png "q - Couchsurfing Blog") I’m a budget traveler. Any tips for me? *Last updated: August 10, 2026* **The top tips for budget travelers are: use Couchsurfing for free accommodation, take public transport, cook your own meals, and choose affordable destinations.** *Ask Couchsurfing: Where we answer your questions about CS and traveling. Check out our*[ Instagram*](http://www.instagram.com/couchsurfing) *and*[ TikTok*](http://www.tiktok.com/@couchsurfing) *weekly to watch Mike from Couchsurfing HQ answer the question, or read the responses here!* I’m a budget traveler. Any tips for me? ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/IMG-8255.jpg "IMG-8255 - Couchsurfing Blog") **Mike from Couchsurfing** As I am currently traveling in India for the Chandigarh Couch Crash with a former surfer of mine, Jonathan, we answered this one together! We decided on 4 main points where you should focus your cost-saving energy: ## 1. Couchsurf Accommodation is one of the biggest expenses when you travel, and Couchsurfing removes that expense entirely. Hosts share their space because they want to, not for money, and stays are based on mutual trust and member References.[ Request a stay](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/articles/50010326627227-How-Do-I-Find-Hosts-and-Send-a-Stay-Request) with a local member who actually knows the city: the hidden cafés, the best viewpoints, the spots that don’t show up in any guidebook. Consider staying in hostels, camping, and taking overnight trains and buses to save money on accommodation as well. ## 2. Take Public Transport Public buses may be slower than private buses but they are much cheaper and will help your money last longer. If you feel comfortable hitchhiking, you can also try your luck on the road with just your thumb. Check local regulations beforehand as in some places it is illegal. ## 3. Cook Your Own Meals Although street food is pretty cheap in some countries, overall cooking at home will save you more money than eating out. Stick to staples and products popular with the locals as those will be the lowest cost items available. Look for local markets and grocery stores where residents shop, and consider simple meals like rice dishes, pasta, or sandwiches that require minimal equipment. ## 4. Choose Your Location Wisely Your money will go much further in Southern Asia than in Western Europe, so check the local prices of common products before you go and choose a place that matches your budget. **Budget-friendly destinations to consider:** - Southeast Asia (Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia) - South Asia (India, Nepal) - Central America (Guatemala, Nicaragua) - Eastern Europe (Albania, Bulgaria) Additionally, track flight prices in advance and check for sales. Flight prices change regularly and you can get good deals if you plan ahead a bit. ## Frequently Asked Questions **Can I mix Couchsurfing stays with hostels, camping, or overnight buses to save money?** Yes, you can mix Couchsurfing stays with hostels, camping, and overnight buses or trains to keep costs down, and using several options together often makes a budget trip more flexible, interesting, and kinder to your wallet. Plan your nights based on your schedule and comfort, and treat each option as part of one trip—book a hostel when you need privacy, camp when the weather’s good, and use Couchsurfing when you want local company and insider tips. **Is hitchhiking a good way to save money while traveling with Couchsurfing?** Hitchhiking can be a low-cost way to travel, but its legality, safety, and cultural acceptance vary a lot, so check local laws, trust your instincts, and only try it where you genuinely feel safe. If you’re unsure, stick to public transport or ask Hosts and local Members for safe, cheap alternatives and road-travel advice in that area. **How can Couchsurfing help me save on food while I’m traveling?** Couchsurfing can help you save on food by connecting you with Hosts and local Members who know the cheapest markets, shared meals, and low-cost cooking options, so ask for tips and offer to cook or bring a small gift as thanks. Read host profiles for details on kitchen access or communal meals, and use Chats to confirm whether sharing a meal is on the table so everyone’s expectations match. **How do I know if a host will let me use their kitchen or cook my own meals?** Always check a host’s profile for lodging details and then ask directly in your stay request or chat whether kitchen access is available, because the clearest way to avoid surprises is to confirm ahead of time. A short, polite question in your request like “Do you mind if I use the kitchen to cook simple meals?” works well and shows respect for the host’s space. **Which destinations stretch my travel budget the most, and how should I pick one?** Choose destinations where everyday costs such as food, transport, and activities are lower and where Couchsurfing has active local Members who can share bargains, free events, and market tips to help your money go further. Think about regions mentioned in the article as starting points, compare local prices before you go, and track flight deals so you can plan travel when both transport and living costs line up with your budget. --- ## Key Takeaways The best tips for budget travelers are to use Couchsurfing for free accommodation with locals, take public transport instead of taxis or private transfers, cook your own meals using local ingredients, and choose destinations where your money stretches further.[ Couchsurfing membership](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/articles/49996228583835-What-Is-Couchsurfing) connects you to a global community of Hosts who open their homes and share authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences you won’t find in a guidebook. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/ask-couchsurfing-tips-for-budget-travelers/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/ask-couchsurfing-tips-for-budget-travelers/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Advice **Tags:** ask couchsurfing, budget travel, couchsurfing, travel tips --- ### [Top 5 Easiest Countries for Backpacker Beginners](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/top-5-easiest-countries-for-backpacker-beginners/) **Published:** April 30, 2026 **Author:** Mike Joy **Excerpt:** These five countries make backpacking feel manageable. They have good infrastructure, established traveler trails, English is widely spoken, and have enough other backpackers around that you won't feel totally lost. They're popular for good reasons. **Content:** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/shutterstock_1322915132.jpg "Male,Asian,Hiker,Looking,At,Majestic,View,Of,Dolomites,Mountain - Couchsurfing Blog")[kan khampanya](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/khampanya)*Last updated: August 10, 2026* **The five easiest countries for beginner backpackers are Thailand, Vietnam, Portugal, Mexico, and New Zealand.** Thailand offers unmatched infrastructure and low costs. Vietnam delivers stunning landscapes at rock-bottom prices. Portugal provides European culture without European prices. Mexico combines proximity to North America with rich cultural diversity. New Zealand guarantees safety and English-speaking ease in breathtaking scenery. So you’re ready to take your first backpacking trip? Amazing. Are you a little terrified? Don’t worry, that’s completely normal. Picking where to start matters. These five countries make backpacking feel manageable. They have good infrastructure, established traveler trails, English is widely spoken, and have enough other backpackers around that you won’t feel totally lost. They’re popular for good reasons. CountryDaily Budget (USD)English ProficiencyTransportation EaseBest Time to VisitThailand$25–40High in tourist areasExcellent (buses, trains, flights)Nov–Feb (cool season)Vietnam$20–35Moderate in citiesGood (sleeper buses, trains, flights)Mar–May or Sep–NovPortugal$35–50HighExcellent (trains, buses, metro)Mar–May or Sep–OctMexico$30–50Moderate in tourist areasGood (buses, colectivos, flights)Nov–Apr (dry season)New Zealand$50–70Native EnglishExcellent (buses, rentals, hitchhiking)Dec–Feb (summer)Thailand ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/shutterstock_2658838617.jpg "River,View,From,A,Bar,In,Bangkok,,Overlooking,Thai,Temple - Couchsurfing Blog")[Anuchit kamsongmueang](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Anuchitss)**Thailand is ideal for beginner backpackers because of its established infrastructure, low daily costs, and high English proficiency in tourist areas.** Thailand basically invented the backpacker trail. Decades of travelers have smoothed out the rough edges. The infrastructure exists specifically to help you move around cheaply and easily. Bangkok’s Khao San Road serves as backpacker central: hostels everywhere, travel agencies on every corner, and enough other confused travelers that you’ll make friends immediately. Khao San not your vibe? Bangkok is huge and has many beautiful neighborhoods if you’re looking for a more authentic feeling. From there, islands in the south, mountains in the north, and cities in between all connect via cheap buses, trains, and flights. The food costs are low and tastes incredible. Street pad thai for $2. Fresh fruit shakes for $1. Even restaurants targeting tourists stay cheap by Western standards. You can eat well on $10 a day without trying too hard. Thai people’s patience with confused foreigners borders on supernatural. They’ve seen it all before and genuinely seem to enjoy helping. English proficiency varies but those working in the tourism industry speak more than enough English to get you through. Thai is a tonal language and difficult to master but there is nothing Thai people love more than helping you through some key phrases. [Safety rarely becomes an issue](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/articles/50048973301403-Tips-for-a-Safer-Couchsurfing-Experience). Petty theft happens in tourist areas, but violent crime stays low. Solo female travelers consistently rate Thailand as comfortable. The biggest danger involves renting motorbikes without proper experience. **Quick Facts: Thailand** **Language:** Thai **Currency:** Thai Baht (THB) **Visa:** Most US/EU citizens get 60 days visa-free on arrival (updated from 30 days in 2024) **Recommended minimum trip:** 2–3 weeks **Budget breakdown:** Figure $25–40 per day total. Hostels run $5–15. Food costs $5–10. Transportation depends on distance but stays reasonable. Activities like island hopping, temple visits, and night markets won’t break you. **Couchsurfing scene:** Strong in cities, especially Bangkok and Chiang Mai. Couchsurfing Members range from locals eager to share their culture to expats who remember being new travelers. Staying with a Host means more than free accommodation: you get insider knowledge about hidden cafés, the best viewpoints, and spots that don’t show up in any guidebook. Beach areas have fewer Hosts but more hostel community vibes. **What to know:** April’s scorching hot. Rainy season (May–October) brings afternoon downpours but also fewer crowds and better prices. Island parties can be fun but also full of drunk idiots so pick your scene. Respect temple dress codes and monarchy rules seriously. Portugal ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/shutterstock_2561023037-1.jpg "Beautiful,View,Of,The,City,Of,Porto,On,A,Beautiful - Couchsurfing Blog")[proslgn](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/alehvaranishcha)**Portugal is ideal for beginner backpackers because it offers European infrastructure and culture at budget-friendly prices with high English proficiency.** Lisbon and Porto anchor the travel scene. Both cities are easily walkable, look gorgeous, and pulse with energy. Yellow trams climb Lisbon’s hills. Porto’s riverfront glows at sunset. The beaches stretch along the southern Algarve coast. Smaller towns like Sintra and Évora make perfect day trips. Public transportation actually works. Trains connect major cities reliably. Buses fill in the gaps. Everything runs regularly and costs little. Lisbon’s metro makes sense. Porto’s fits in your pocket. Portuguese people speak English well, especially younger generations and anyone in tourism. Even when language barriers appear, people help rather than getting frustrated. Safety rates highly. Portugal ranks among Europe’s safest countries. Solo travelers, female travelers, LGBTQ+ travelers all report feeling comfortable. Petty theft exists in tourist areas (Lisbon’s trams are pickpocket heaven) but violent crime stays rare. Public transportation actually works. Trains connect major cities reliably. Buses fill in the gaps. Everything runs regularly and costs little. Lisbon’s metro makes sense. Porto’s fits in your pocket. Portuguese people speak English well, especially younger generations and anyone in tourism. Even when language barriers appear, people help rather than getting frustrated. Safety rates highly. Portugal ranks as one of Europe’s safest countries. Solo travelers, female travelers, LGBTQ+ travelers all report feeling comfortable. Petty theft exists in tourist areas (Lisbon’s trams are pickpocket heaven) but violent crime stays rare. **Quick Facts: Portugal** **Language:** Portuguese **Currency:** Euro (EUR) **Visa:** US citizens can stay 90 days within any 180-day period (Schengen rules). **Recommended minimum trip:** 10–14 days **Budget breakdown:** $35-50 daily works. Hostel beds run $15-25. Food varies: €10 can get you a solid restaurant meal, but grocery stores keep costs lower. Museums and attractions charge admission but nothing outrageous. **Couchsurfing scene:** Excellent in major cities. Portuguese hosts often treat guests like visiting family members. Expect home-cooked meals and genuine cultural exchange. The References system helps you find trusted Hosts, and leaving a thoughtful Reference after your stay strengthens the community for future Travelers. Beach towns in summer have a decent number of active hosts too. **What to know:** Summer (July-August) brings crowds and heat to southern beaches. Spring and fall offer better weather for city exploration. Learn a few Portuguese phrases. They will appreciate the effort even though they’ll respond in English. The food deserves more attention than it gets, pastéis de nata alone justify the trip. Vietnam ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/shutterstock_2716897035.jpg "Halong,Bay,At,Sunrise,In,Vietnam - Couchsurfing Blog")[Stockbym](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/manjik)**Vietnam is ideal for beginner backpackers because it delivers stunning landscapes and incredible food at rock-bottom prices.** The backpacker trail runs predictably: Start in Hanoi, cruise Ha Long bay, head south through Hoi An and Da Nang, end in Ho Chi Minh City. Or reverse it. Either way, the infrastructure exists to move you smoothly. Sleeper buses and trains connect major stops. Domestic flights cost surprisingly little. Food obsessives thrive here. Pho for breakfast. Banh mi for lunch. Street food everywhere in between. Each region has specialties worth eating daily. English levels vary more than Thailand. Tourism industry workers and younger Vietnamese often speak decent English. Outside tourist areas, communication gets creative, think lots of pointing and Google Translate. But Vietnamese people’s helpfulness compensates for language gaps. Safety feels solid for travelers. Violent crime against tourists stays rare. Scams exist (taxi meters that run fast, tourist-price menus) mostly the usual stuff. Common sense handles most of it. Solo female travelers generally feel comfortable with normal precautions. The culture rewards curiosity. Locals enjoy sharing their perspectives on history, development, food, everything. Coffee shop culture encourages long conversations. The Communist past and capitalist present create interesting contradictions worth exploring. **Quick Facts: Vietnam** **Language:** Vietnamese **Currency:** Vietnamese Dong (VND) **Visa:** US/EU citizens get 45 days visa-free; e-visa available for up to 90 days **Recommended minimum trip:** 2–3 weeks **Budget breakdown:** $20-35 daily covers you well. Hostels cost $5-12. You can get by on $10 per day for food. Attractions and activities stay cheap. Museum admission rarely exceeds $5. Even Ha Long Bay cruises, the biggest tourist expense, offer budget options. **Couchsurfing scene:** Growing steadily, especially in major cities. Hosts skew younger and often want language exchange along with cultural sharing. Rural areas have limited options, but cities work well. **What to know:** North and south have different climates so check weather for your timing. Traffic in cities is genuinely insane; cross streets slowly and confidently. The war legacy appears everywhere so approach with respect and open mind. Border crossings with Cambodia and Laos make multi-country trips easy. New Zealand ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/shutterstock_2608672429.jpg "Three,Sisters,Rocks,,New,Zealand.,Scenic,View,Of,A,Rugged - Couchsurfing Blog")[stuecken](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/stuecken)**New Zealand is ideal for beginner backpackers because it’s English-speaking, exceptionally safe, and designed specifically for independent travelers.** The country isn’t particularly large, but landscape diversity packs an incredible range into small distances. Mountains, beaches, glaciers, rainforests, geothermal areas, wine regions, all accessible and often free or cheap to explore. Infrastructure caters specifically to backpackers. Hostels everywhere, often with organized activities. Campgrounds blanket the country. The bus networks (InterCity, Naked Bus) connect everything. Hitchhiking remains common and relatively safe. Rental cars and camper vans create ultimate flexibility. [Solo travelers](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/articles/50050256322843-Safety-Tips-for-Solo-Travelers) of all types feel comfortable. Kiwis are genuinely friendly and helpful. The culture values outdoor adventure and environmental consciousness. There’s a community feel even for travelers, everyone’s hiking the same trails, camping the same spots, sharing tips. Safety ranks exceptionally high. New Zealand consistently tops global safety indexes. Solo travelers of all types feel comfortable. The biggest dangers involve underestimating weather conditions on hikes or driving unfamiliar mountain roads. **Quick Facts: New Zealand** **Language:** English, Māori **Currency:** New Zealand Dollar (NZD) **Visa:** Most visitors are not visa-free — a NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) is required before travel. US citizens: up to 90 days. UK/British citizens: up to 6 months. **Recommended minimum trip:** 3–4 weeks **Budget breakdown:** Here’s the catch: New Zealand isn’t cheap. Figure $50-70 daily minimum. Hostels run $20-40. Food costs add up fast, though cooking yourself helps. Activities like bungee jumping, skydiving, and glacier hikes cost real money. Transportation eats budget, especially if renting vehicles. **Couchsurfing scene:** Active in cities and larger towns. Kiwi hosts often love outdoor activities and take surfers on adventures. Rural areas have fewer options, but that’s where camping shines anyway. **What to know:** Seasons reverse from the Northern Hemisphere so December-February is summer. The country splits into North Island (more geothermal and Maori culture) and South Island (more dramatic mountains and glaciers). Both deserve time. Sandflies on South Island are vicious so bring bug spray. The environmental consciousness is real, respect Leave No Trace principles. Mexico ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/shutterstock_2597639857.jpg "Chichen,Itza,Pyramid,,El,Castillo,,Is,A,Stepped,Maya,Temple - Couchsurfing Blog")[ecstk22](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/ecstk21)**Mexico is ideal for beginner backpackers because it’s close to North America, affordable, culturally rich, and wildly diverse.** The backpacker trail isn’t as defined as Southeast Asia’s, which means more freedom and discovery. Oaxaca draws culture seekers. Tulum attracts beach people. Mexico City reveals the real modern Mexico. Guadalajara, San Cristóbal de las Casas, Guanajuato, each offers different flavors. Transportation works well. First-class buses between cities are comfortable and cheap. Colectivos (shared vans) handle shorter distances. Domestic flights fill in for long hauls at reasonable prices. Within cities, rideshare apps exist everywhere and stay affordable. Spanish helps tremendously but isn’t mandatory. Tourism areas have enough English speakers to manage. Translation apps bridge most gaps. Many travelers use Mexico to learn Spanish, classes are cheap and homestays with language schools abound. Safety requires more awareness than other countries listed. Some areas have legitimate dangers: cartel violence affects specific regions. But most backpacker destinations stay safe with normal precautions. Research current conditions. Don’t flash wealth. Trust local advice about where to go and avoid. The food alone justifies visiting. Tacos, mole, tlayudas, pozole, tamales, every region has specialties. Street food costs $1-2 per meal and tastes incredible. Markets overflow with fresh produce. Mezcal and tequila education happens naturally. **Quick Facts: Mexico** **Language:** Spanish **Currency:** Mexican Peso (MXN) **Visa:** US/EU citizens get 180 days visa-free on arrival **Recommended minimum trip:** 2–4 weeks **Budget breakdown:** $30-50 daily works comfortably. Hostels run $10-20. Food costs $5-10 if eating street food and markets. Museums often charge admission but rarely more than $5-10. Beach activities and ruins add up, but free beaches and historical centers exist everywhere. **Couchsurfing scene:** One of the strongest Communities out there. Most cities have a decent number of Hosts and Events. There’s an annual National Meeting that rotates from city to city and any given month there is bound to be a Couch Crash in another city. Check the [Couch Crash calendar](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/calendar/) before going, there are often Crashes, Invasions or the National Meetings going on with a ton of friendly locals looking to share their culture with you. **What to know:** The country’s massive so don’t try to see everything in one trip. Learn basic Spanish phrases; effort gets appreciated. Water safety matters; stick to bottled or purified water. Altitude affects some cities like Mexico City and Oaxaca, take it easy your first days. Day of the Dead (November 1-2) offers incredible cultural experiences if you’re there then. --- Why These Work for Beginners Notice the pattern? Infrastructure, safety, English availability, established trails, affordable costs. These factors let you focus on the actual experience rather than constant problem-solving. Starting in one of these countries builds confidence. You learn how hostels work, how to navigate new places, how to meet other travelers, how to handle being uncomfortable sometimes. Those skills transfer everywhere else you’ll go. The other benefit: established communities of travelers. You’re never truly alone in these destinations. Someone at your hostel just did the bus route you’re planning. Another traveler has restaurant recommendations. You’ll meet people, maybe travel together for a bit, learn from each other’s mistakes. None of these countries will ruin you with difficulty, but they also won’t bore you. They each offer genuine culture, beautiful places, and enough adventure to feel like real travel rather than an extended vacation. So pick one based on what draws you: beaches, mountains, food, culture, whatever. Book a flight. Find a hostel or[ Couchsurfing Host](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/articles/50010326627227-How-Do-I-Find-Hosts-and-Send-a-Stay-Request) for your first few nights. The rest figures itself out along the way. That’s how this works. Choose wisely for your first one, and you’ll want to keep going. Frequently Asked Questions **What if I want to visit a beach or rural area and there are few Couchsurfing Hosts?** Couchsurfing tends to have more Hosts and Events in cities, so if your beach or rural destination shows few Hosts, plan for backups by searching nearby towns, booking a hostel or campsite, and checking local Couchsurfing Communities or Events to meet people when you arrive. The article notes that beach and rural areas often have fewer Hosts, so treating nearby hubs as bases usually works well. **Can I use Couchsurfing just to meet people if I don’t want to stay with a Host?** Yes — Couchsurfing is built for meeting locals as well as offering stays; your membership gives access to Events, Communities, and Hangouts where you can join meetups, activities, or casual hangouts without arranging a stay. This is a great way to learn local tips, practice language, and make friends while keeping other accommodation plans. **What etiquette should I follow when staying with a Couchsurfing Host?** Treat your Couchsurfing Host’s home like a guest: be punctual, clear in your communication, tidy, and respectful of house rules, and consider bringing a small gift or offering to help with a meal to show appreciation. Good pre-stay communication and leaving an honest Reference afterward help the whole community. **Will staying with a Couchsurfing Host actually save me money compared to hostels?** Couchsurfing can reduce accommodation costs because Hosts offer stays based on hospitality and cultural exchange rather than payment, but the main benefit is local insight and connections rather than pure savings. Always keep a backup plan and budget for nights when Hosts aren’t available or when you want other comforts. **Is Couchsurfing a good option for a first-time solo backpacker?** Yes — Couchsurfing can be especially helpful for first-time solo backpackers because Hosts, Events, and Communities make cities easier to navigate, offer insider advice, and help you meet fellow Travelers so you won’t feel isolated. Follow community safety advice: read References, keep communication on the platform, and share your plans with someone you trust. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/top-5-easiest-countries-for-backpacker-beginners/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/top-5-easiest-countries-for-backpacker-beginners/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Advice **Tags:** backpacking, couchsurfing, travel --- ### [How to Plan Your First Couchsurfing Trip](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/how-to-plan-your-first-couchsurfing-trip/) **Published:** May 4, 2016 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** Planning your first Couchsurfing trip starts with [completing your profile](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/articles/49998026369179-How-Do-I-Complete-My-Profile), gathering references, sending personalized stay requests, and creating a Trip to connect with hosts. Couchsurfing is a hospitality exchange platform where travelers stay with local hosts, building meaningful connections through shared experiences. The References and trust system helps both hosts and travelers feel confident about who they’re connecting with. **Name:** Zareen **Role:** Community Team **Surfing in…** Greece Quick-Reference Checklist: 7 Steps to Plan Your First Couchsurfing Trip - Complete your profile with detailed information about yourself (4–6 weeks before departure) - Gather References from friends or by attending local Events - Research hosts and read their profiles and References carefully - [Send personalized stay requests](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/articles/50010525448219-What-Makes-a-Great-Stay-Request) (1–4 weeks before arrival) - Create a Trip to let hosts find and invite you - Book flexible backup accommodation in case plans change - Share your itinerary with family or friends For those of you who aren’t familiar with Couchsurfing’s Staff in the Wild program, here’s a quick rundown: every month, we send one employee to a mystery destination to get out of the office, stay in touch with the Couchsurfing community, and have some fun! When I learned that my coworkers had selected Greece as my destination, I was so excited. I’ve been lucky enough to see much of Europe, but have never been able to visit Greece. Since I joined the team a year ago, I’ve been bombarded by awesome stories from other members. So, for all of you who are considering your first Couchsurfing adventure, here’s how I planned my trip to Greece! First Steps My first step, when I learned I was going to be Couchsurfing in just 5 weeks, was to fill out my profile. As a new member, I’m at a disadvantage because I don’t have References from previous hosts and travelers. I only had basic information on my profile, so I went through and added some more detail. I wanted my potential hosts to have a good picture of my personality from reading my profile. How to Get References as a New Member If you know you’re going to be Couchsurfing well in advance, it’s a good idea to host a few travelers or attend some Events. Hosting is part of your Couchsurfing membership, and opening your space to travelers is one of the best ways to build trust and add [References](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/articles/50041760259355-What-Are-References-and-How-Do-They-Work) to your profile. This is also a great way to get to know the Couchsurfing community. Unfortunately, I didn’t follow my own advice. While I’ve attended several Couchsurfing Events in the past, I’ve always been too caught up in the moment and conversations to remember to ask people for their profile or contact information. And, living in San Francisco, my living situation doesn’t really allow me to host. With three people in a two bedroom apartment, I don’t even have a couch for people to surf on! However, even if you can’t host or get to Couchsurfing Events, you should still get some personal References from your friends! With more than 25 million registered members in over 200,000 cities, chances are you have some friends in our network already. If you **connect your Facebook** account to your Couchsurfing account, you’ll be able to see which of your Facebook friends are already on Couchsurfing, so you can add them as a friend. Afterwards, send them a message to ask them to write you a personal Reference. I emailed my coworkers and asked them to write me References. Check. Planning Out Your Trip Once I bought my tickets in and out of Athens, I was ready to plan out more of my vacation! Since this is a Couchsurfing trip, I didn’t want to be too attached to going to a particular place. Some places have more hosts than others, and on the islands of Greece, I knew that some of the smaller islands were going to have fewer available hosts. If you’re traveling to rural places, it’s good to keep in mind that you may not be able to find a host everywhere you go. Based on this, I planned to spend the majority of time in Athens, and then made a list of islands to explore. I wanted to research the hosts in each island, choose my favorite hosts to send requests to, and then plan those days around who was available to host me. *A note about booking your plane tickets:* It’s a good idea to keep in mind that you are going to be a guest in someone’s home, so if you can avoid landing late at night, do that! I chose a pretty inconvenient plane flight (departing at 6:30 am) so that I’d land in Athens at 9:15 am instead of late at night. It’s also a little bit safer. If, for some reason, you don’t feel safe with your host, you’ll have the whole afternoon and evening to get to a backup hostel, and won’t have to wander around a foreign city in the middle of the night. Sending Stay Requests Finding a compatible host is the most time consuming part of your trip, and something that is worth doing right. The ideal timing is 1–4 weeks before you arrive. Too far out and it’s hard for hosts to commit. Too last-minute puts them in a tough spot. Here is my strategy: Write stay requests to a few hosts that stood out, and then create a Trip in the area. Of course, I make sure to read each host’s profiles, any house rules listed in the My Home section, and all of their References before sending them a request. I wanted to [create a Trip](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/articles/49998152638363-What-Are-Trips-and-How-Do-I-Create-One) because there was no way I could read through hundreds of profiles! A Trip shares where you’re headed and lets hosts discover you. Hosts can see your Trip and reach out to invite you to stay. What if there was an awesome host that I didn’t see in search? I realized in some ways, it might be more efficient to see who responded to my Trip, and then check out their profile and References to see if they’d be someone I wanted to stay with. I lucked out in Athens and Santorini with Trips. I found an amazing host in Athens that hadn’t come up in my initial search, and a host in Santorini to whom I hadn’t sent a request because I didn’t meet his requirements. He normally only accepts travelers who plan to stay for 3+ nights, and I was only planning to be in Santorini for two. I wanted to check out Delphi because I love the Ancient Greek history. Unfortunately, Delphi doesn’t have many hosts, and many of them hadn’t logged in in a while. I sent a few requests, but only heard back from one host, who wasn’t sure if she’d be in town. She hasn’t responded in a few days since she’s currently on a business trip, so I booked a hostel for one night in Delphi. I verified that the hostel had a flexible cancellation policy in case she responds positively at the last minute. I’d so much rather stay with her and hear her travel stories than stay at the hostel 🙂 For my second stint in Athens, I decided not to create a Trip. I wrote two requests to hosts who stood out to me. I received an enthusiastic “Yes!” from one host and didn’t hear back from the second. What to Do If Your Host Cancels Unfortunately, my host in Santorini had to cancel on me two days ago, due to unforeseen circumstances. So I’m now working on plan B for my second weekend in Greece. Here’s what I recommend: - **Send new requests immediately.** I sent a few requests to hosts in Crete, Corfu, and Mykonos and created Trips in each of those cities as well. - **Book flexible backup accommodation.** Look for hostels or hotels with free cancellation policies. - **Stay calm and flexible.** Cancellations happen for many reasons. I’m confident that something will pan out soon. Using Events and Hangouts to Meet Locals Even when you’re not staying with a host, Couchsurfing offers ways to connect with locals and other travelers. Events and Hangouts are included with your Couchsurfing membership. I used the Athens [**City Page**](https://www.couchsurfing.com/c/locations/athens-attica-greece) to see what was going on while I was there and I found an awesome Event for my first night! It is a Seaside Nightwalk led by some Athens hosts. I figured that would be a great way to kickstart my trip, get to know some locals, and meet other travelers in the area I could potentially go sightseeing with. **Hangouts** let nearby members know you’re available to meet up in real time. It’s a great way to make spontaneous connections, whether you’re looking for a coffee companion or someone to explore the city with. Creating an Itinerary I purposely left my schedule in Athens flexible and a little empty. I want to make sure I had time to spend with my host, and the other traveler he has staying with him at the same time too. I’m glad I did. My first Athens host contacted me yesterday to ask if I wanted to go on a day trip with him on Saturday to some of his favorite attractions. Count me in! I contacted a few travelers in the area to see if they wanted to sightsee or go exploring with me. The Travelers search is awesome, especially if you are traveling by yourself. It’s a list of people who don’t have to go to work, are probably going to want to explore some of the tourist attractions, and also want to meet new people. Packing There are tons of good internet resources for what to pack when you’re traveling by yourself. So I won’t go into detail here, plus I wouldn’t call myself the “Best Packer in the World”. This is another reason why it’s important to read the “My Home” section of a host’s profile, because what each host can offer can vary widely. I have a compact travel towel and a travel blanket that folds up small and is easy to transport, so I’m bringing those just in case my host can’t offer them. I also picked up a few San Francisco postcards so I could write thank you notes, swiped some Couchsurfing swag from the office to give out, and baked a little something for my generous hosts. Safety Tips for First-Time Couchsurfers - Read all References on a host’s profile before accepting or sending a request - Trust your instincts. If something feels off, it’s okay to decline or leave - Arrive during daylight hours when possible - Share your itinerary with family or friends, including your host’s name and profile link - Know the location of nearby hostels as a backup - Keep your phone charged and have local emergency numbers saved - Meet in a public place first if you prefer Planning for the Unexpected I’m 23, I’m a girl, and I’ve never travelled by myself before, especially not in a country where I don’t know the language. I may be a little overzealous in my planning, but better to be too prepared than be stuck in a foreign country. I made a Google doc for my family and my boss so that they knew my plans. In it, I included my location, my host’s name, a link to their Couchsurfing profile, and when I was arriving and departing from my host’s home. I also looked up the closest hostels to each of my host’s homes, just in case. I don’t expect to use them, but I want to know where they are. I’ve worked with members who have had to cancel on their travelers due to unforeseen circumstances. In one case, their house burned down the night before they had a traveler arriving, so they had to cancel the request last minute. It was a stressful, horrible situation for both parties, and one that I want to make sure I’m prepared for. And now it’s time for me to head home and pack for my flight tomorrow! Be sure to follow all my adventures. I’ll be posting on Instagram [**@couchsurfinginthewild**](https://www.instagram.com/couchsurfinginthewild/). Frequently Asked Questions **What information should I share with family or friends before a Couchsurfing stay?** Share your Couchsurfing host’s full name, the city and neighborhood where you’ll be staying, your arrival and departure dates, and a link to the host’s Couchsurfing profile so family or friends can look them up; include any backup plans like nearby hostels and contact details. Put this into a single document that you keep updated and give access to a trusted person so they know how to reach you or where to go if plans change. **My host hasn’t replied and my trip is soon—what should I do?** If a host hasn’t replied close to your trip, send requests to a few other compatible hosts, create or update Trips for nearby destinations so hosts can find you, and book flexible backup accommodation to avoid being stranded. Stay calm, keep messaging a handful of hosts politely, and use Events or Hangouts to meet locals while you wait. **Is it okay to arrive late at night when staying with a host?** Try to avoid landing late at night when possible—arriving during daylight gives you time to meet your host comfortably, check other options if something feels off, and it’s generally safer than wandering a new city after dark. If you must arrive late, tell your host your estimated arrival time, confirm they’re okay with it, and have a known backup spot in mind. **What small gifts or gestures are good to bring for a Couchsurfing host?** Small thoughtful gifts like local postcards, a homemade treat, a tiny souvenir from your hometown, or something practical such as a compact travel towel show appreciation without being fancy, and hosts usually value the thought more than the price. A short thank-you note, an offer to help with dishes or cooking, or sharing a story about your hometown are simple, welcome gestures. **How can I meet locals or other travelers if I can’t find a host in a town?** Use Couchsurfing Events and Hangouts to find in-person meetups and spontaneous meet-and-greets, check the city page for scheduled activities, and search for Travelers in the area who might want to explore with you. These options are part of your Couchsurfing membership and are great ways to make friends, get local tips, and build References even if you don’t have a stay arranged. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/how-to-plan-your-first-couchsurfing-trip/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/how-to-plan-your-first-couchsurfing-trip/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts, Travel Tips **Tags:** couchsurfing, travel tips, trip planning --- ### [Ask Couchsurfing: Solo Traveling](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/ask-couchsurfing-solo-traveling/) **Published:** November 11, 2022 **Author:** Mike Joy **Content:** Essential Tips for First-Time Solo Travelers *Last updated: August 10, 2026* **Solo travel opens the door to meaningful connections and personal growth.** The key is staying flexible, using platforms like Couchsurfing to meet locals and fellow travelers, and being willing to start conversations with strangers. Below, experienced Couchsurfing members share their best advice for making the most of your first solo adventure. Couchsurfing is a global community of more than 25 million members in over 200,000 cities where travelers can stay with local hosts for free, attend events, and connect with like–minded people. Stays are based on mutual trust and member References, making it ideal for solo explorers looking for authentic local experiences. Quick Tips for Solo Travelers - Stay in hostels that host social events like potlucks or group tours - Use Couchsurfing Hangouts and [Events](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/articles/50011089113243-How-Do-I-Find-and-Join-Events) to meet other travelers and locals - Post a Trip to let locals know you’re coming and get tips before you arrive - Build flexibility into your itinerary to allow for spontaneous connections - Always have a [backup accommodation plan](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/articles/50050256322843-Safety-Tips-for-Solo-Travelers) in case plans change - Communicate arrival times clearly with your host and provide updates - Start conversations with strangers: the best connections often begin with a simple hello How to Meet People While Traveling Solo **Carly from Memphis:** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Carly-1.jpeg "Carly-1 - Couchsurfing Blog") Solo travel can be amazing! I would recommend staying in hostels for some of the trip, especially hostels that host potlucks, happy hours, or group tours. Also using Couchsurfing meetups and Hangouts is a great way to meet other solo travelers and explore the new area together. You can also check out what local tips are on Couchsurfing, and some locals will meet up just for a drink or give you suggestions for their city even if they can’t host you. **Henri from Brussels:** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Henri.jpeg "Henri - Couchsurfing Blog") Plan your trip: if you want to meet people on Couchsurfing, make it a day more than strictly necessary, and with some flexibility. Book a hostel you can cancel last minute. [Create Trips](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/articles/49998152638363-What-Are-Trips-and-How-Do-I-Create-One) and send out messages to hosts with a high response rate. Best Practices for Staying with Hosts **Liana from Bend:** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Liana-1.jpeg "Liana-1 - Couchsurfing Blog") Always have a [backup plan](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/articles/50050256322843-Safety-Tips-for-Solo-Travelers), in case a host has an emergency and cannot host suddenly. Communicate with your host letting them know what time you will arrive, and give updates the day of arrival letting them know you are on schedule (or not). How to Use Couchsurfing as a Solo Traveler ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/mike.jpeg "mike - Couchsurfing Blog") **Couchsurfing Mike:** Use Couchsurfing! So many Couchsurfing members know what it’s like to travel solo. Couchsurfing is all about connection, so staying with a host or attending Events and Hangouts will be a great way to meet people. Outside of Couchsurfing, my biggest advice is START THE CONVERSATION. I have made some of my closest friends in hostels where I just turned to them and introduced myself. Next thing you know we’re exploring Myanmar together and a year later I stay with her for 2 weeks in Brighton. Go to a bar or cafe alone and say hi to the person sitting next to you, or compliment a stranger’s shoes or hair or t–shirt. It is nerve–racking to start talking to a complete stranger but just try it and see what happens. Worst case, you never see that person again. Best case, you just met your new best friend and your life is never going to be the same. So start the conversation. Frequently Asked Questions **Is solo travel safe?** Solo travel can be very safe with proper preparation. Read host profiles and References before connecting, trust your instincts, and always have a backup accommodation plan. Couchsurfing provides Safety Tools accessible from your Library menu, including ways to find nearby accommodation and contact local authorities in an emergency. **How do I find accommodation as a solo traveler?** Couchsurfing lets you request stays with local hosts who share their space because they want to connect, not for money. You can also book flexible hostel reservations as a backup. Post a Trip to let locals know you’re coming and receive tips or stay offers. **What is the best way to meet locals?** Attend Couchsurfing Events and Hangouts in your destination city, or reach out to members directly through the platform. Many locals are happy to meet for coffee or share recommendations even if they can’t host you. Key Takeaways - Couchsurfing connects solo travelers with local hosts and a global community built on trust and References - Post a Trip before you travel to connect with locals and fellow travelers at your destination - Stay flexible and always have a backup accommodation plan - Attend Events and Hangouts to meet people organically - Communicate clearly with hosts about your arrival time and any changes - Be open to starting conversations: the best travel experiences often come from unexpected connections - Trust your instincts and use Couchsurfing’s Safety Tools when needed Additional Tips from Community Members **How do I start a conversation with someone when I’m traveling alone?** A quick, low–pressure way to start a conversation is to offer a simple compliment or ask a one–question opener that fits the moment — Couchsurfing members and hostel folks often respond well to genuine small talk like *“Nice shirt—where did you get it?”* or *“Have you tried the local coffee here?”* Smile, keep it light, and if the person seems uninterested, politely move on. **Should I bring a gift or a sleeping bag when I stay with a host?** When staying with a host, bring a small, thoughtful gift and anything your host asked for — Couchsurfing encourages little gestures like local snacks or a postcard, and you might bring a sleeping bag or linens if the host’s profile or pre–stay chat suggests that setup. Always ask ahead so you know what the host prefers and keep your space tidy and helpful while you stay. **How can I mix hostels and Couchsurfing on my first solo trip?** Mix hostels and Couchsurfing stays to balance social time with deeper local connections: use hostels for nights when you want built–in events and Couchsurfing for authentic local experiences and quieter nights. Book flexible hostel reservations as a backup, use Events and Hangouts to meet people between stays, and coordinate openly with any hosts you contact. **How do I stay flexible with Couchsurfing without causing problems for hosts?** Keep your Couchsurfing plans flexible by posting Trips with broad dates, booking cancellable hostels as backups, and communicating openly with hosts about possible changes so you can shift plans without surprises. Let hosts know as early as you can if your arrival might move, and always have a clear backup place to stay so you can accept new connections confidently. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/ask-couchsurfing-solo-traveling/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/ask-couchsurfing-solo-traveling/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Advice **Tags:** ask couchsurfing, couchsurfing, solo travel, travel tips --- ### [Community Post: How to be a Good Couchsurfing Guest and Host](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/community-post-how-to-be-a-good-couchsurfing-guest-and-host/) **Published:** July 26, 2017 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** *Last updated: August 7, 2026* *Below is a blog post written by [Francis Tapon](http://francistapon.com/). Francis is producing a book and documentary called [The Unseen Africa](http://theunseenafrica.com/), based on his 2013-2018 overland travels to all 54 African countries.* #### Quick Summary Being a good Couchsurfing guest means giving back to your host through groceries, cooking, cleaning, or thoughtful gifts. Being a good host means offering essentials like a shower, food, and wifi while respecting your guest’s need for rest and personal time. Both roles require generosity, clear communication, and mutual respect. For more guidance, see the help center articles on [being a great Couchsurfer](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/articles/49997686629659-How-Do-I-Be-a-Great-Couchsurfer) and [hosting on Couchsurfing](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/articles/50010602632987-How-Do-I-Host-on-Couchsurfing). Whenever people come to my events or read my books, they ask me, “How do you manage to get invited to so many people’s homes when you travel?” ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/CShosts1-300x169.jpg "CShosts1 - Couchsurfing Blog") Couchsurfing is a hospitality exchange platform that connects Travelers with local Hosts who offer free accommodation. It gives insight into a culture that would be hard to get when staying at a hotel or hostel. First, I am social when I travel. I talk with whomever I’m sitting next to on the bus. I chat with vendors. I banter with people while waiting for a train. I ask for directions even when I’m pretty sure I know where I’m going. The more people you talk to, the more people learn about your journey, the more likely that someone will say, “Hey, if you don’t have a place to stay, why don’t you stay at my home?” Second, I meet potential Hosts on Couchsurfing.com. Such insight was essential for writing my latest book, *The Hidden Europe: What Eastern Europeans Can Teach Us.* It’s important that people don’t think of Couchsurfing as just a free roof. Technically, it is; however, the reality is that a guest should always give back economically to the Host. Therefore, it’s important that you learn how to be a considerate guest. #### How to be a great Couchsurfing guest The best Couchsurfing guests are generous and thoughtful. Here are several ways you can give back economically to your Host: 1. **Buy groceries for you and your Host.** Stock the fridge with items you’ll both enjoy. 2. **Cook a meal and clean up afterwards.** Taking over kitchen duties shows appreciation. 3. **Treat them to entertainment.** A movie, concert, or local event works well. 4. **Fill up their car with gasoline.** Especially if they’ve driven you around. 5. **Bring a useful, practical gift.** Food is best, but once I brought 20 rolls of toilet paper for my Host! They loved it, saying, “Finally a gift I can use!” 6. **Clean their house, bathroom, car, or yard.** This gives back without spending money. 7. **Help with repairs, errands, or babysitting.** Another way to contribute your time instead of cash. If you’re unwilling to do things like that, then you probably shouldn’t couchsurf. I don’t know of any culture in the world that doesn’t encourage guests to bring a gift for their Host, so follow the worldwide practice. For more tips on being a respectful guest, see the [guide for Travelers requesting a stay](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/articles/50050665228443-How-Do-I-Request-and-Manage-a-Stay-A-Guide-for-Travelers). #### What should you give or do for your Couchsurfing Host? At minimum, cover your Host’s costs for water, electricity, and food. There are two ways of thinking about it: 1. **Consider what you are costing the Host** in water, electricity, and food, and make sure you give them back *at least* that much. Be generous. 2. **Consider the value of what the Host is delivering to you.** You’re often getting shelter, shower, clean sheets, towel, a concierge, laundry, and computer/wifi. Sometimes you also get food, transportation, and a tour guide. Although this is all common sense, it amazes me how many couchsurfers just take, take, take and don’t give back economically. I almost never host (because I’m usually traveling), but my Hosts tell me about selfish couchsurfers. These couchsurfers think, “But I give back by sharing my amazing travel stories about my awesome and wonderful life!” ![Walter hosted me in Mississippi. He's a book editor for a university press. He not only provided shelter, but also great intellectual discussions.](http://s3.amazonaws.com/images.couchsurfing.us/RRAMNA5/14930445_l_818a7d3c57bfa90834e806ec1805eca5.jpg "Walter hosted me in Mississippi. He's a book editor for a university press. He not only provided shelter, but also great intellectual discussions.") Sorry, but stories, “thank yous,” and smiles don’t pay the bills. Some Hosts receive so many couchsurfers (several per week) that it would add up significantly if nobody considered their costs. The Hosts are often just as budget-conscious as the couchsurfers and are trying to save for their own travels too. Help them like they are helping you. If you don’t, then your Host may feel like they’re just being used. The disappointed Host might leave the Couchsurfing Community, which would be a loss to all. Remember, couchsurfing isn’t like staying with an old friend or family member, who may roll out the red carpet, feed you, and not expect anything in return. Never expect such treatment from a CS Host. All you should expect is a place to crash. By the way, if you treat a close friend or relative with the same thoughtfulness you’d show a couchsurfing Host, they will appreciate your generosity too. It’s because the law of reciprocity is something humans all share: give back to those who give. Moreover, don’t think, “But I’ll give back to my Host when they visit me!” That may never happen, so give back today. Similarly, don’t think, “But dude, it’s about karma, man. You get something when you’re a guest, and you give when you’re a Host. I give selflessly when I host.” That might work if everyone acted like that AND if everyone hosted and traveled equally, but that doesn’t happen. For example, I’m the guest 95% of the time; other Couchsurfing Members are Hosts 95% of the time. Focus on rewarding and giving to the person who is helping you right now: your Host. Lastly, after couchsurfing, the guest should always [leave a Reference](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/articles/50041920181531-How-Do-I-Leave-a-Reference) as soon as possible. Sometimes I write it on my last day with the Host, so that they get it as soon as I leave. A positive Reference is like a thank-you note. It feels good for the Host to receive it and it’s rude to not do it quickly. The worst is when the Host has to remind or ask the guest to write a Reference. **Why the long rant?** Because too many CS Hosts have told me that some of their CS guests just take, take, take. Although they may not be aware of it, they’re not being considerate. They may be friendly, interesting, and honest, but they’re selfish and inconsiderate guests. #### How do you find long term places to stay? For long stays, I have been lucky. If you do these nice things with all your CS Hosts, then once in a while, if you are lucky, one of them will offer to let you stay for several weeks or months. I have had at least 3 Hosts (Moldova, Montenegro, and Slovenia) make me such an offer. They make such offers because they can see that you’re a considerate guest and that you won’t abuse their generosity. With long term stays, the same principle applies: at the very least, cover their costs. The more generous you are, the more likely they will let you stay with them even longer. ![Ben and Amanda (and their dogs) were my friendly hosts in Mobile, Alabama](http://s3.amazonaws.com/images.couchsurfing.us/HN8KOOF/12623510_l_44940f98917f547ca88745c3e7e8d207.jpg "Ben and Amanda (and their dogs) were my friendly hosts in Mobile, Alabama") Other “normal” friends I have (outside of CS) have also offered me similar long term stays. So I could, thanks to my generous friends and CS Hosts, do extended stays all over the world. However, that’s only because I am lucky and because I try to give back to my Hosts. If you do the same, extended stay options will start popping up. It is a bit harder when you are a couple than when you are a single Traveler, but it is still possible. #### How to be a good Couchsurfing Host First, ignore what I wrote above. Don’t expect the guest to give you anything or do anything nice. It’s hard, but give unconditionally. If you expect guests to give back, then you’ll eventually meet one that doesn’t and you’ll be disappointed. Second, whenever I host I remind myself how a guest feels and what they need. Right when the guest walks into the door, I ask if they need: 1. Shower 2. Drink (water/tea) 3. Food (fruit/crackers minimum) 4. Laundry 5. Internet 6. Nap/sleep ![Nikola Trifunovic was one of my favorite hosts. So easy going. He entertained me when I wanted it, but didn't mind if I didn't want to stay out until 3 a.m. with him. ](http://s3.amazonaws.com/images.couchsurfing.us/IX2FO5/4954714_l_3a790aa53a8e1c98c04226b583089828.jpg "Nikola Trifunovic was one of my favorite hosts. So easy going. He entertained me when I wanted it, but didn't mind if I didn't want to stay out until 3 a.m. with him. ") 39. **Be sensitive to guest energy levels.** Ask about their day before suggesting activities. 40. **Offer flexible activity options.** Let them choose between a quiet night in or going out. 41. **Give your guest space and time alone.** They may need to talk with loved ones, update their blog, do remote work, read, plan their next leg of travel, or catch up on sleep. 42. **Don’t feel guilty about being busy.** Guests may secretly appreciate having time to do their own thing. For more guidance on hosting etiquette and expectations, see the [guide for Hosts managing stay requests](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/articles/50055202137115-How-Do-I-Receive-and-Manage-Stay-Requests-A-Guide-for-Hosts). All these activities can easily take several hours. If you monopolize your guest’s time, they may have to stay up extremely late to do all the things they want to do. This may leave them sleep deprived, unless they’re willing to fall behind on all their other goals (which is no fun either). Some Couchsurfing Hosts don’t like to host during the week, “because they don’t have time to spend with their guests.” That’s fine. But don’t feel guilty about not entertaining your guests. They may secretly love that you give them space to do their own thing. #### My confessions Because couchsurfing is about having a cultural exchange, I confess that sometimes I prefer to camp. For example, when I was traveling Latvia in February, I was so utterly exhausted at 6 p.m. that I just wanted to sleep. I didn’t want to put on a happy, energetic face for my Latvian Host. I would have felt guilty walking in her house and saying, “Nice to meet you. Where’s the bed? Good night.” So I canceled and decided to camp outside, even though it was snowing. I slept for 12 hours. I just didn’t want to socialize since I had been traveling hard for several days. I also confess that some of my favorite Hosts were the ones who just gave me the key to the place and said, “I’m busy, so come and go as you wish. If you need something, ask. Otherwise, make yourself at home.” I loved these Hosts. I happily cooked for them and showered them with gifts. I also confess that I’m no saint. There’s been a few times that I’ve received much more than I’ve given. Some Hosts are just incredibly stubborn and absolutely refuse all your gifts and generosity no matter how persistent you are. It’s rare, but it sometimes happens. Other times, I arrived at my Host’s house empty-handed and left in a rush without giving much to my Host. I felt bad, but long-term travel can be a bit chaotic at times and we’re not always in our best behavior. At least make up for it with a fantastic Reference. #### Key Takeaways - **Guests:** Always give back through groceries, cooking, cleaning, or thoughtful gifts. - **Guests:** Cover your Host’s costs at minimum. - **Guests:** Leave a positive Reference promptly after your stay. - **Hosts:** Offer essentials (shower, food, wifi) and ask what your guest needs upon arrival. - **Hosts:** Give guests space and time alone; don’t monopolize their schedule. - **Both:** Generosity and clear communication build trust and strengthen the Couchsurfing community. In conclusion, Couchsurfing requires a paid Membership, but it is often more culturally interesting than hostels. Be a generous guest. Be a compassionate Host. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/community-post-how-to-be-a-good-couchsurfing-guest-and-host/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/community-post-how-to-be-a-good-couchsurfing-guest-and-host/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** Advice, Community Updates **Tags:** community stories, guest etiquette, hosting, hosts, references --- ### [New and Improved: Verified Membership](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/new-and-improved-verified-membership/) **Published:** February 15, 2017 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** Last updated: August 7, 2026 **Couchsurfing Verification confirms your identity with a government-issued ID and unlocks a set of features designed to help you get hosted faster, stand out on the platform, and connect with more confidence.** Key Benefits at a Glance - **Hosts Trust You Faster** – Your Verification Badge shows hosts your identity has been confirmed - **Get Accepted More** – Verified profiles get picked first by hosts - **Be Seen Sooner** – Priority placement in host and traveler search results - **Unlock Exclusive Features** – Some features are available to Verified members only - **24/7 Priority Support** – Priority access to the Couchsurfing Support Team around the clock 24/7 Priority Support Verified members receive priority access to the Couchsurfing Support Team, available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. No matter where you are in the world, help is available when you need it. Verification Badge Verification confirms your identity using a government-issued ID – a passport, driver’s license, national identity card, or residence permit. Once verified, a Verification Badge appears on your profile and across your activity on the platform. Hosts and travelers can see at a glance that you’re a real person, which builds the trust that makes the community work. How to Get Verified Getting verified is quick and takes just a few minutes. You’ll find Get Verified prompts throughout the app and on the web. Tap or click Verify Now to get started. For step-by-step instructions, accepted ID types, and answers to common questions, see the Help Center: - [What Is Verification and How Do I Get Verified?](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/articles/49997779463067-What-Is-Verification-and-How-Do-I-Get-Verified) - [What Types of ID Are Accepted for Verification?](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/articles/50048521645211-What-Types-of-ID-Are-Accepted-for-Verification) - [What Are the Benefits of Verification?](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/articles/49997959455131-What-Are-the-Benefits-of-Verification) Verified vs. Standard Membership Feature Verified Member Standard Member24/7 Priority Support✓✗Verification Badge✓✗Priority placement in search✓✗Send hosting requests✓✓Create a profile✓✓Ad-free experience✓✓Frequently Asked Questions **Is Couchsurfing Verified worth it?** Verified members get more responses from hosts, appear higher in search results, and carry a trust signal that makes a real difference when reaching out for a stay or welcoming guests. **How long does verification take?** Automated checks usually complete in just a few minutes. Some submissions may take longer if additional review is needed. **What’s the difference between a membership and verification?** They are two separate things. A membership subscription unlocks premium platform features such as 24/7 priority support. Verification is an identity confirmation process using a government-issued ID. See [What’s the Difference Between a Membership and Verification?](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/articles/50607696099611-What-s-the-Difference-Between-a-Membership-and-Verification) for more detail. **Why does Couchsurfing require a government ID?** A government-issued ID is the strongest signal that a member is who they say they are. It helps protect everyone from fraud and impersonation and gives the Verification Badge a clear, consistent meaning across the community. Learn more: [Why Couchsurfing Requires Government ID for Verification](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/articles/50107222021275-Why-Couchsurfing-Now-Requires-Government-ID-For-Verification). **Is my information secure?** Yes. Couchsurfing partners with Entrust for secure ID verification. Your documents are encrypted and used only to confirm your identity. They are not shared with other members or used for marketing. Sound interesting? Verify your account now! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/new-and-improved-verified-membership/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/new-and-improved-verified-membership/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** News **Tags:** couchsurfing news, membership, trust and safety, verification --- ### [How to Travel with Couchsurfing](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/how-to-travel-with-couchsurfing/) **Published:** March 10, 2017 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** *Last updated: August 7, 2026* **Couchsurfing is a global hospitality exchange platform that connects travelers with local hosts who offer free accommodation, creating opportunities for cultural exchange and authentic travel experiences.** We’re on a mission to connect the world, one couch at a time. By building connections, we learn to respond to diversity with curiosity, appreciation, and respect – all while having a blast! Couchsurfing will change your perspective of the world and the way you view travel – but first you have to find a host. Ready to get started? ## Quick Start Summary 1. **Create your profile** – Add photos and write a compelling bio 2. **Get references** – Ask friends or family to vouch for you 3. **Search for hosts** – Filter by dates, interests, and preferences 4. **Create a Trip** – Required before you can send Stay Requests 5. **Send personalized requests** – Explain why you want to meet each host 6. **Attend local events** – Meet the community through Hangouts and meetups ## What You Need Before You Start - A complete profile with multiple clear photos showing your face - A detailed bio explaining who you are and what hosts can expect - At least one personal reference from someone who knows you - A verified account (recommended for better response rates) - A clear idea of your travel dates and destinations ## How Couchsurfing Differs from Airbnb and Hostels Unlike paid accommodation platforms, Couchsurfing focuses on **cultural exchange and human connection** rather than transactions. Hosts don’t receive payment—they open their homes because they want to meet travelers, share their city, and build friendships. The experience often includes local insights, shared meals, and authentic interactions you won’t find in traditional lodging. ## Fill Out Your Profile You know you are awesome – help hosts see it too. Make your profile shine! If you are not sure if your profile is complete, take a look at experienced host or surfer’s profiles to see how they’ve filled theirs out. At a minimum, it’s great to have a few different photos that clearly show your face, and a good summary of who you are and what a host can expect when they meet you. For step-by-step guidance, see [How Do I Complete My Profile?](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/articles/49998026369179-How-Do-I-Complete-My-Profile) and [How Do I Make My Couchsurfing Profile Great?](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/articles/49998039041051-How-Do-I-Make-My-Couchsurfing-Profile-Great) **Tip:** *Look at your profile and think “Would I feel comfortable and excited about inviting this person into my home?”* ## Ask Friends and Family for Personal References The reference system is the backbone of the Couchsurfing community and helps both hosts and surfers make informed decisions. A Personal Reference from friends or family vouching for you will make it easier to find a host. **Tip:** *Most people know someone who uses Couchsurfing. Add your contacts to see who in your network already has a profile, or invite the ones who don’t to join and leave you a reference. If nobody in your circle is on Couchsurfing yet, a local Couchsurfing event is a great way to make friends before your trip.* ## Search for Hosts Search for hosts in your destination, and filter your results to meet your own criteria – through filters, you can find hosts that share specific interests with you, are pet-friendly, and more. Scroll through the list of hosts and select several hosts that you’d like to meet. **Tip:** *Use the date filter to only view hosts who are available during your stay.* ## Read Profiles Now that you have a few hosts selected, learn more about them. Read their profiles and references thoroughly to get a good picture of who you want to meet. Couchsurfing isn’t about having a place to stay – it’s about creating connections and lifelong friendships. Find a host you can’t wait to meet! **Tip:** *It’s crucial to both your and your host’s safety to learn about each other before you meet. Be sure to read every reference and the information about your host’s home, in addition to their profile, before sending a Stay Request.* ## Create a Trip Before you can send a Stay Request, you’ll need an active Trip. [Creating a Trip](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/articles/49998152638363-What-Are-Trips-and-How-Do-I-Create-One) takes just a minute and lets hosts and other travelers know you’ll be in the area – you can set one up as soon as you know your dates, even before you’ve picked out a host. **Tip:** *Set up your Trip as soon as you lock in your travel dates. It only takes a minute, and you’ll need it in place before you can send any Stay Requests.* ## Send Stay Requests Once you have a list of hosts you’d like to stay with, it’s time to ask them if you can stay! [Write them a Stay Request](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/articles/50010525448219-What-Makes-a-Great-Stay-Request), introducing yourself to them. It’s a good idea to include a little bit about yourself, about your trip, and most importantly – why you want to meet them. See the full guide: [How Do I Request and Manage a Stay?](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/articles/50050665228443-How-Do-I-Request-and-Manage-a-Stay-A-Guide-for-Travelers) **Tip:** *Always tell your host why you want to meet them! Mention specific sentences in their profile that interested you or that you’d like to learn more about.* ## Meet Locals and Other Travelers: Hangouts and Couchsurfing Events Enrich your Couchsurfing experience even more by immersing yourself into the community. Check out the local Couchsurfing Events and use Couchsurfing Hangouts to meet up with both locals and travelers. If you’re traveling alone, Hangouts is particularly useful to find other people to explore the area with. **Tip:** *Most major cities (and even a lot of smaller towns!) have weekly Couchsurfing meetups where the local community and other travelers get together to swap travel stories and learn about each other. You can find these meetups by searching for Events in your destination.* ## What to Expect During Your Stay - **Communication is key** – Confirm arrival times and any house rules before you arrive - **Be a gracious guest** – Respect your host’s space, schedule, and privacy - **Bring a small gift** – A token from your hometown or a treat to share is appreciated - **Spend time together** – Share a meal, explore the city, or simply have a conversation - **Leave a reference** – After your stay, write an honest reference for your host ## Have Fun! Couchsurfing experiences are overwhelmingly positive, with many guests forming lifelong friendships with their hosts. There’s no better way to travel than with a local by your side – we know you’ll have a great time! ## Frequently Asked Questions **Is Couchsurfing free?** Couchsurfing hosts never charge for accommodation. The platform is built on cultural exchange rather than transactions, so staying with a host doesn’t cost anything beyond building a genuine connection. **Is Couchsurfing safe?** Safety is built into the platform in several layers: profiles can be verified, References give you a track record from real past stays, and our Safety Team is available around the clock if something feels off. Before confirming any stay, read every reference on a host’s profile (not just the summary), trust your instincts if anything feels wrong, and communicate openly about expectations, house rules, and arrival details ahead of time. If you ever have a safety concern, don’t try to work it out alone – contact the Safety Team directly through a [Safety Team ticket](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/requests/new?category=safety). Learn more: [Is Couchsurfing Safe?](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/articles/50048775643035-Is-Couchsurfing-Safe) and [Tips for a Safer Couchsurfing Experience](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/articles/50048973301403-Tips-for-a-Safer-Couchsurfing-Experience). **How do I get my first reference?** Ask friends or family members who use Couchsurfing to write you a personal reference. You can also attend local Couchsurfing events to meet community members who can vouch for you. Also see: [How Do I Be a Great Couchsurfer?](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/articles/49997686629659-How-Do-I-Be-a-Great-Couchsurfer) **What if a host doesn’t respond?** Send requests to multiple hosts to get the best chance of a response, and make sure you have an active Trip so hosts can find you too. Personalized messages that reference the host’s profile tend to get better responses. > [Traveling is so much more fun when you’re enjoying it with complete strangers turned new friends. ??????????☀ #miami #wynwood #artdistrict #newfriends #couchsurfing #friends #amigos](https://www.instagram.com/p/BPEsv-sjLvk/) > > A post shared by @bonneaventureblog on Jan 9, 2017 at 10:15pm PST ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/how-to-travel-with-couchsurfing/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/how-to-travel-with-couchsurfing/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** Travel Tips **Tags:** couchsurfing, find a host, hosts, meeting locals, references, travel community, travel tips --- ### [5 More Multi-Day Treks That'll Change Your Life](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/5-more-multi-day-treks-thatll-change-your-life/) **Published:** June 2, 2026 **Author:** Mike Joy **Content:** There’s hiking, and then there’s trekking. In our first post, we covered five unforgettable multi-day treks. But there are too many incredible routes to stop there. Here are five more journeys that trade comfort for challenge, pushing you through extraordinary landscapes and rewarding you with experiences that stay with you long after the trail ends. Like the first five, e ach is accessible from destinations with active Couchsurfing communities, making it easy to connect with locals before and after your adventure. ## 1. **GR20 – Corsica, France** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/shutterstock_2132989281.jpg "Panoramic,Image,Of,Cascade,Des,Anglais,Waterfall,And,Crystal,Clear - Couchsurfing Blog")**Why it’s worth it:** Two weeks crossing Corsica from north to south along the island’s mountainous spine. Widely considered Europe’s toughest long-distance trail, the GR20 delivers constant challenges, incredible mountain scenery, swimming holes, refuges with personality, and a genuine sense of accomplishment. The terrain is relentlessly vertical. You gain and lose thousands of feet daily over rocky, exposed terrain. But Corsican mountains are stunning, granite peaks, clear streams, Mediterranean views, wildflowers, and the island’s unique culture. Refuges provide social atmosphere where trekkers bond over shared suffering. **Distance and duration:** 112 miles over 10-16 days depending on pace and route variations. **Difficulty:** Challenging to very challenging. Technical sections require scrambling and some exposure. Long days with serious elevation change. Good fitness and some scrambling experience recommended. **Base cities:** Bastia (north start) and Porto-Vecchio (near south end) have Couchsurfing communities. Many hosts in Ajaccio (mid-island) help trekkers with logistics. The community includes Corsicans and French mainlanders who love the island and know the GR20 well. **Permits and logistics:** No permits needed. Refuges cost $15-20 per night, camping near refuges $8-10. Food available at some refuges but expensive, most carry supplies. You can resupply at villages along the way. Total cost: $500-800 including food and transportation. **Best time:** June-September only (snow closes route outside this). July-August is peak (refuges crowded). June and September offer fewer people but some services may be limited. **What you need:** Strong fitness, scrambling comfort, good boots, lightweight camping gear, via ferrata comfort helps. Weather can be hot but also stormy. Good head for heights on exposed sections. **Couchsurfing connection:** Corsican hosts provide invaluable advice about the trail, help organize gear, and often pick up trekkers at endpoints. Many have completed the GR20 themselves and share detailed beta about difficult sections and resupply strategies. ## **2. Overland Track – Tasmania, Australia** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/shutterstock_2648425681-1.jpg "Hikers,Near,Waldheim,Chalet,And,Ronny,Creek,At,The,Start - Couchsurfing Blog")**Why it’s worth it:** Six days through Tasmania’s wilderness, from Cradle Mountain to Lake St. Clair, walking through ancient rainforest, alpine plateaus, and glacial valleys. Australia’s premier alpine trek showcases wilderness that feels primeval, thick forest, unique wildlife, dramatic mountains, and ecosystem found nowhere else. The infrastructure is excellent. Huts provide shelter (though you need to carry tent as backup). The trail is well-maintained but still challenging. Tasmanian devils, wombats, wallabies, and unique birds appear regularly. The sense of remoteness despite the good infrastructure creates an ideal wilderness experience. **Distance and duration:** 40 miles over 6 days (can only hike north to south during peak season). **Difficulty:** Moderate. Long days but not technical. Weather is the main challenge, Tasmania’s weather is famously unpredictable with four seasons possible in one day. Optional side trips include summiting mountains with exposure. **Base cities:** Launceston (1.5 hours from Cradle Mountain) and Hobart (2 hours from Lake St. Clair) both have active Couchsurfing communities. Hosts help organize gear, explain transportation logistics to remote trailheads, and often host trekkers before and after for recovery. **Permits and logistics:** Permits required, must book months ahead for peak season (October-May, $200). Off-season (June-September) is unrestricted but more challenging conditions. Transportation to start and from finish requires planning (shuttle services exist, $200-300 round trip). **Best time:** December-March offers the most stable weather (relative term in Tasmania). October-November and April-May are quieter but weather is more unpredictable. June-September is winter (experienced only, serious snow). **What you need:** Excellent rain gear, warm layers, tent (mandatory even with hut bookings), strong boots, all food for 6 days, fuel for cooking. Weather preparation is critical. Leeches are common in wet season. **Couchsurfing connection:** Tasmanian hosts are outdoor enthusiasts who understand the Overland Track logistics. They help with food shopping, gear loans, shuttle coordination, and provide current condition reports. Many have walked the track multiple times. ## **3. Kilimanjaro – Machame Route – Tanzania** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/shutterstock_2576520743.jpg "Hiking,Machame,Route,On,Mount,Kilimanjaro - Couchsurfing Blog")**Why it’s worth it:** Seven days climbing Africa’s highest peak (19,341 feet) through five climate zones, from rainforest to alpine desert to glaciers. Standing on Uhuru Peak at sunrise after a night summit push, looking out over Africa with clouds below you, delivers something profound. Kilimanjaro isn’t technical climbing but the altitude is serious. The Machame Route (Whiskey Route) offers better acclimatization than faster routes. Porter teams carry your gear and set up camp, so you focus on walking and adjusting to altitude. The mountain changes completely each day as you climb through different zones. **Distance and duration:** 37 miles over 6-7 days. **Difficulty:** Challenging due to altitude. The walking isn’t technical but summit night involves 6-8 hours of steep climbing at extreme altitude in darkness and cold. Success rate around 85% on Machame Route (higher than Marangu). **Base cities:** Moshi and Arusha both have Couchsurfing communities. Hosts help vet tour operators (critical to find ethical companies that treat porters fairly), organize gear rental, and provide advice on acclimatization. Some hosts are guides themselves. **Permits and logistics:** Must go with licensed operator. Costs range from $1,500-3,000 depending on company and route. Price includes park fees, guides, porters, food, camping gear, and transportation. Book reputable operators that follow porter welfare guidelines. **Best time:** January-March and June-October are dry seasons (best conditions). April-May and November are rainy (avoid). June-October is most popular. **What you need:** Good fitness, mental toughness for summit night, warm layers for extreme cold at summit, comfortable boots, altitude medication. Training on hills helps but altitude affects everyone differently. **Couchsurfing connection:** Moshi and Arusha hosts provide crucial information about which operators are ethical and effective. They help organize pre-climb acclimatization hikes, gear shopping/rental, and often celebrate successful summits together. The community is tight-knit and supportive. ## **4. Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu – Peru** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/shutterstock_2201360385.jpg "Snow,Covered,Mt,Salkantay,With,Large,Stones,And,Path - Couchsurfing Blog")**Why it’s worth it:** Five days through high mountain passes and cloud forest, ending at Machu Picchu. Less crowded than the Inca Trail (no permit limits), more dramatic scenery in some sections, and typically cheaper. The route crosses a 15,213-foot pass beneath Salkantay Mountain, then descends through every ecosystem to subtropical jungle. The trek combines serious mountain scenery with cultural immersion, local communities provide accommodation and meals. Hot springs midway through offer recovery. The final day approaches Machu Picchu through jungle, entering the site from a different perspective than the Inca Trail. **Distance and duration:** 45 miles over 5 days (some operators do 4 days). **Difficulty:** Moderate to challenging. The first day’s pass is higher than anything on the Inca Trail. Long days but no technical sections. Altitude and steep descents challenge knees and endurance. **Base city:** Cusco (same as Inca Trail). The massive Couchsurfing community provides the same benefits, acclimatization advice, operator recommendations, gear storage, and group formation. Many hosts specifically recommend Salkantay as a better alternative to the crowded Inca Trail. **Permits and logistics:** No permit required (major advantage). Tour operators charge $200-400 for budget trips, $500-800 for comfort options. Price includes guides, camping or basic lodging, meals, and Machu Picchu entry. Mules carry gear in some sections. **Best time:** May-September is dry season (ideal). April and October are shoulder season (decent weather, fewer people). November-March is rainy (challenging and less scenic). **What you need:** Good fitness, altitude acclimatization, warm layers for the pass (freezing at night), rain gear, comfortable boots. Same preparation as Inca Trail but budget for longer days. **Couchsurfing connection:** Cusco hosts know Salkantay well and often recommend it over Inca Trail for budget travelers. They connect people booking trips simultaneously and help negotiate better group rates with operators they trust. ## **5. Everest Base Camp Trek – Nepal** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/shutterstock_2477366617.jpg "Natural,Real,Human,Caucasian,Woman,Stand,Joyful,Made,It,To - Couchsurfing Blog")**Why it’s worth it:** Two weeks trekking into the Khumbu region to stand at the base of the world’s highest mountain. The mountain views are spectacular throughout, but the cultural immersion in Sherpa villages, Buddhist monasteries, and the hospitality of the Himalayas makes this about more than just the destination. Walking through Namche Bazaar’s mountain town energy, stopping at Tengboche Monastery, acclimatizing in villages where people live full lives at extreme altitude, and finally reaching base camp where climbers prepare for Everest attempts, it’s pilgrimage and adventure combined. **Distance and duration:** 80 miles round trip over 12-14 days. **Difficulty:** Moderate. Longer than Annapurna Circuit but better infrastructure. Altitude is serious (base camp at 17,598 feet). You need good endurance but no technical skills. Acclimatization days are built into the schedule. **Base city:** Kathmandu has Nepal’s largest Couchsurfing community. Hosts help with everything, gear, flights to Lukla, operator recommendations, current trail conditions, and connecting trekkers. Many have done EBC themselves and provide detailed advice. **Permits and logistics:** Requires Sagarmatha National Park permit and TIMS card (total around $45). Can trek independently or hire guides/porters. Tea houses provide accommodation ($3-10 per night, increasing with altitude) and food ($20-40 daily, more at higher elevations). Flight from Kathmandu to Lukla is notorious for weather delays but necessary ($350 round trip). Total trek cost: $800-1,500 depending on support and comfort level. **Best time:** October-November is peak season (best weather and visibility). March-May is spring season (warmer, rhododendrons blooming). December-February is possible but cold. June-September is monsoon (clouds obscure views). **What you need:** Strong endurance, altitude awareness, warm layers, good boots, sleeping bag, water purification. Acute mountain sickness affects many people, descend if symptoms appear. Slow and steady wins this one. **Couchsurfing connection:** Kathmandu hosts organize EBC trekker meetups before departure where people form groups, share gear, and coordinate logistics. The community includes many Nepalis and expats who trek regularly and provide current condition updates. Some hosts offer to store luggage during long treks. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/5-more-multi-day-treks-thatll-change-your-life/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/5-more-multi-day-treks-thatll-change-your-life/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Stories **Tags:** backpacking, couchsurfing, hiking, travel, trekking --- ### [What's New on Couchsurfing: August 2026](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/whats-new-on-couchsurfing-august-2026/) **Published:** August 5, 2026 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** #### **Group Hangouts are back! And we’ve shipped a whole lot more…** *Meet up with more than one person at a time, take control of your profile photos, and get ready for a new walkthrough that will make exploring Couchsurfing even easier.* One thing we heard from the community again and again was that meeting one person at a time wasn’t always enough. Sometimes you just want to gather a group and see who shows up. So we brought Group Hangouts back, and while we were at it, we made a whole bunch of improvements across the app. Here’s what’s new: #### **Group Hangouts are here** See who’s around and create a Hangout that anyone nearby can join. No more coordinating one person at a time. Heading to your favorite café, a park, or anywhere else? Create a Group Hangout, give it a name, add a location, and invite others to join. Or browse Hangouts that are already happening nearby and jump right in. Whether you’re looking to explore a new city, grab a coffee, or meet fellow Couchsurfers, getting people together is now easier than ever. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/image-1024x576.png "image - Couchsurfing Blog")#### **No more bad photos** You can now edit every photo on your profile right in the app. Just go to **Profile > Edit > Edit Photos**, then move, zoom, and reposition each photo until it’s framed exactly the way you want. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/image-1-1024x576.png "image - Couchsurfing Blog")#### **Coming soon: A walkthrough for the app and website** We know it hasn’t always been obvious where to go or what to do next. That’s why we’re launching a new walkthrough for both the app and website next week to help you get started and discover everything Couchsurfing has to offer from the moment you arrive. #### **Everything else we tightened up** **Login, fixed.** We resolved the login issues many of you ran into and streamlined the login flow to make it faster and more reliable. **Contact and calendar sync, improved.** Sync your contacts to find friends who are already on Couchsurfing, and sync your calendar to automatically detect upcoming trips. It’s the fastest way to discover your people and start making plans. **A cleaner feed.** We simplified the feed to make it easier to browse and easier to understand why you’re seeing each post. With so much happening across the community, it’s now easier to keep up with what matters to you. **Chat and stay requests, smoother.** You can now decline a stay request without ending the conversation. Sometimes a host can’t accommodate a stay but still wants to offer advice, grab a coffee, or stay in touch. **Hundreds of improvements behind the scenes.** Over the past month we’ve shipped hundreds of bug fixes and performance improvements to make Couchsurfing faster, more reliable, and easier to use every day. #### What’s next The new app and website walkthrough arrives next week. In the meantime, update your app to get Group Hangouts, photo editing, and all of the improvements above. Until the next Hangout, The Couchsurfing Team ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/whats-new-on-couchsurfing-august-2026/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/whats-new-on-couchsurfing-august-2026/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** News **Tags:** couchsurfing, product updates, travel --- ### [Destined For Travel: Georgian Mountains. There and back again.](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/destined-for-travel-georgian-mountains-there-and-back-again/) **Published:** February 19, 2025 **Author:** Mike Joy **Content:** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Screen-Shot-2025-02-19-at-9.36.18-AM.png "Screen-Shot-2025-02-19-at-9.36.18-AM - Couchsurfing Blog")The day you stop moving is the day the world stops turning. Our DNA contains the ancestral nomadic way of life that is locked beneath the modern cultural tendencies that keep us from moving through nature in balance and harmony. Modern humans roamed this planet that we call Earth for more than two hundred thousand years. They were moving like waves hitting sands with the currents of nature’s laws. Weather, migrating animals, and many more reasons to keep moving through the landscapes of the virgin lands that cover this vast planet. But the most important one was; Curiosity. This was what made us uncover the codes hidden beneath the surface and understand the laws of the universe we live in. We seek adventure and discovery as hope was always over the horizon. Today we are locked by borders and the different political struggles that do nothing to benefit our own well-being or freedom. Containing ourselves into Hermit Crab shells of ideologies and protecting ourselves from the unknowns of strangers. The comforts of modern life and the sub-sufficient freedoms we think we acquire by living in some parts of this world seem futile in giving life meaning. Since life is for living and for the living only. I found resistance in myself towards leaving this comfort zone and experiencing the world for myself. The tales of strange lands were always tolled through lenses of great distortion and viewpoints of certain types of people we found ourselves relating more. I needed to break all these lenses and look into this world and its people with my own two naked eyes. It was my first time leaving my beautiful country of Turkey. Georgia as a country was one that I never considered myself to travel in all my life. Until the summer of 2023. The idea came to me from a friend who circumstantially had a life better than me. She was able to travel and see the world in a way that I could not do. I took inspiration as I witnessed her travel to the city called Tbilisi. I was uneducated about this country before this time. I had an urge to learn and see this totally new country which was in my peripheral vision. Now it was the center of all my attention. I did a fair bit of research about the place but I kept myself from learning too much and just having another lens added to my vision before I went there. I only bought a one-way ticket to Tbilisi after that. My original plan was to travel through Turkey hitchhiking my way to Georgia but the timing and my profession declared it was a better option to fly there. I had no plan other than that I would be in this city in September of 2023. No plan on where to stay or whom I would spend my time with. I had total trust in my abilities of discovery and my love for adventure. Friedrich Nietzsche once said in his trilogy of books called Human, All Too Human: A Book for Free Spirits (Menschliches, Allzumenschliches: Ein Buch für freie Geister) Part III: The Wanderer and His Shadow (Der Wanderer und sein Schatten) “Along the journey, we commonly forget its goal. Almost every vocation is chosen and entered upon as a means to a purpose but is ultimately continued as a final purpose in itself. Forgetting our objectives is the most frequent stupidity in which we indulge ourselves.” I indulged in all the stupidity I could muster up. The journey itself was the savior that unsheathed her broadsword and slayed the dragon that was the prison that I was in, in my own beautiful country. My journey took me to places that I could never imagine. The moment I lay my eyes upon the snowy peaks of the mountains, they were calling for my name. I felt this irresistible force of nature calling me up and higher toward the sky. My awestruck lips uttered the name; Kazbegi. First I came by car then I started walking, and after climbing up the hills and valleys covering the landscape. The more I climbed the peek seemed to get further away from me. I felt like I was climbing backward. The heights were dizzying and the beautiful vistas were vibrating with the sounds of the eagles. I decided to stop going more since if I did not stop I knew I would never be able to survive the cold treacherous mountain. It was a challenge to say this was it. I had to return back down. Back down following my steps back. Winding down into the pillow I put my head on since I was born. But I did not go back empty-handed. I brought back the mountain inside my heart carrying it with me forever in a form that only my own two eyes could decipher. It snows and storms in me and I feel the rooted freedom staying stone strong. And from the mountains, I walked into the sea in total darkness as my naked body felt the warm embrace of the Blacksea that held her hands stretched out before me now. Sirens call me deep beneath the waves as my eyes stare into the sea as if they were fixed by steel wires down into the hearth of the ocean. The salty kiss wrapped my lightless body and gave myself back to me. My personal experience of this poetic and magical trip was truly a life-changing one. I couldn’t thank enough each person I met there in Tbilisi, Kazbegi, Gori, and Batumi. The soul of traveling is about life itself and how life can be found again each morning with a different perspective. The wise people understand that life is for living and incorporate it into each action they take. The range in which our freedoms roam is where we discover the meaning or drown in meaningless thoughts of action. I took my action and it woke me up. Now I can only think about climbing higher and higher mountains and swimming deeper and deeper into the sea. Only then my soul will be free. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/destined-for-travel-georgian-mountains-there-and-back-again/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/destined-for-travel-georgian-mountains-there-and-back-again/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Stories --- ### [Product Update: Host Preferences and Search Enhancements](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/product-update-host-preference-and-search-enhancements/) **Published:** February 11, 2016 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** **As a host,** you may be used to receiving more requests than you can accept. Due to your detailed profile and glowing references, you may receive multiple requests for the same night. Or, maybe you are not receiving as many requests as you’d like because surfers are waiting for responses from unavailable hosts. **As a surfer,** it can be frustrating to send several requests to hosts, only to be rejected because they already had surfers lined up for that night. Perhaps you’re tired of examining the profile and references of a potential host, only to learn that they don’t accept guests on Tuesdays. Hosts, we only want you to receive requests that you are able to accept. Surfers, we only want you to have to write requests for available hosts! We’re excited to announce that we’ve introduced new features to make it easier to arrange your next Couchsurfing adventure! **New Hosting Preferences** When you [edit your profile](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/articles/50042950287643-How-Do-I-Edit-My-Profile), you’ll notice several new Host Preference options so you can better control who can find you in Host Search. Under the *My Home* tab, you’ll be able to select: - If you want to receive last minute (same day) Couchrequests - The maximum number of travelers you can host - Whether you can accept requests from multiple groups of travelers at the same time - What days of the week you can or cannot host If you do not change your preferences, you will appear in every search, as before (except if you have an accepted/confirmed couch visit during that time). **Host Search Enhancements** Now, when you search for a host in a specific city, you’ll see a dropdown menu where you can select the dates that you are surfing, as well as the number of people you are traveling with. The search results page will exclude hosts that are not able to host your group. This may sound familiar if you live in a big Couchsurfing city, as we’ve been testing this feature over the past few months in a few select locations. This feature will now be available for every city across the globe! This is just the first wave of features to make it easier for our members to manage their requests. In the coming months, we hope to release more Host and Surfer preference options. We’re excited to make Couchsurfing easier to use so that you can spend less time negotiating logistics, and more time with your Hosts and Guests. *If you have any feedback about our new changes, or other Host/Surf preference options you’d like to see, please send us your feedback.* ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/product-update-host-preference-and-search-enhancements/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/product-update-host-preference-and-search-enhancements/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts, News **Tags:** couchsurfing news, hosting, product update, search --- ### [A New Chapter. Same Magic.](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-new-chapter-same-magic/) **Published:** May 6, 2026 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** The Couchsurfing community deserves a platform that matches what it’s always been: extraordinary. We’ve been building exactly that and we’re proud to finally show you what we’ve made: a brand new platform, built from the ground up. A lot went into this. Late nights, big decisions, and one question that never left the room: does this make it easier for people to connect? And this is just the start. There will be hiccups along the way, but we’ve never been more committed to making Couchsurfing the best it can be, starting with some exciting features already on the way. You are our guide. If you run into a bug or have an idea for making Couchsurfing even better, we’d love to hear it. [Let us know here.](https://www.research.net/r/LZQZWKX) #### **Why We Built This** Couchsurfing has always been about the in-between moments. Not the itinerary. Not the tourist spots. The early morning chats over coffee when the conversation gets real. The afternoon with no plans where someone says “want to just walk around?” and four hours later you know a city better than any guidebook could teach you. The dinner that becomes a night that becomes a friendship that becomes a standing invitation on the other side of the world. **We built this new platform with one question guiding every single decision: will this actually bring people together?** Not easier to scroll. Not easier to browse. Easier to actually reach out, show-up, and share something real with another person. #### **What’s New** **Communities** Members have been asking for this for a long time. Online forums built around cities and shared interests. Now living inside the platform where they belong. - Find your city’s Community and plug straight in - Connect over shared passions beyond just exploring - Built for members who want more than just a place to sleep **Introductions** Simple idea. Powerful result. Got a friend heading somewhere another friend lives? Introduce them in one tap and start the chat. - Works directly inside the platform - No awkward copy-paste intros over chat - Some of the best Couchsurfing moments start with “you have to meet my friend”. Now that’s just one tap away **Hangout** You know that feeling: new city, beautiful afternoon, and you just want someone to explore with? Or you’re home on a Sunday and you’d love a coffee with an interesting person? That’s Hangout. - Connects you with members nearby who are available **right now** - Spontaneous, real, no planning required - Woven into Events (where it should be!) - Works whether you’re the one exploring or the one who knows all the good spots **Curated Events** Because the best nights out usually start with someone saying “did you hear about this thing?” We’ve brought local events we think you’ll actually like straight into the platform. Concerts, farmers markets, festivals, weird little gallery openings. The kind of things worth leaving the house for. - Cool events in your area, matched to what the Couchsurfing crowd actually enjoys - Hit “Going” and you’re in (or interested to stay updated!) - Chat with other members who are interested, make a plan, show up together No more turning up somewhere solo hoping it’ll be good. You’ll already know people before you walk in the door #### **What This Means for You** This isn’t a redesign. It’s a recommitment. Every feature, every update, every small detail was built for the same reason this community has existed from the start – because real connection between real people is worth building for. #### **Your Next Move** Fill out your profile. Add your friends. Sync your calendar. Join a Community. Start a Hangout. Plan a trip. Host a traveler. Surf with someone awesome. Say yes to the thing that sounds a little outside your comfort zone. We built this for moments that don’t fit in a caption. Go make some. *See you out there.* *The Couchsurfing Team* ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-new-chapter-same-magic/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-new-chapter-same-magic/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** News **Tags:** couchsurfing news, platform redesign, relaunch --- ### [I Ran Out of Water on a Hike in New Zealand. Then Something Unexpected Happened.](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/i-ran-out-of-water-on-a-hike-in-new-zealand-then-something-unexpected-happened/) **Published:** April 14, 2026 **Author:** Mike Joy **Excerpt:** A chance encounter on a mountain reminded me exactly why Couchsurfing changes how you travel... and how you connect. **Content:** *Somewhere between the dehydration and the descent, a stranger reminded me what I love about travel, Couchsurfing, and the moment when a complete stranger becomes the centrepiece of a memory I’ll carry for years.* *That’s the whole point, isn’t it?* ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/hike_3.jpg "hike_3 - Couchsurfing Blog")#### **Van Life Is Incredible. Van Life Is Also Very, Very Quiet.** For the past month I’ve been living out of a campervan, road-tripping around New Zealand. The scenery is unreal. The freedom is unreal. The amount of time spent alone with my own thoughts? Also unreal. I am extremely social by nature, I will chit chat with a squirrel if it’s within earshot, so this has been a challenge to say the least. For the last 6 weeks my daily human interaction averages out to two 15-minute coffee shop stops. That’s it. That’s the list. So I’ve leaned hard into something I already loved: **talking to strangers.** Some of my closest, longest friendships started with a random conversation at a bar or a café. Solo travel just turns the dial up on that instinct. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/hike_6-2.jpg "hike_6-2 - Couchsurfing Blog")campervan dinner vibes#### **The Hike I Did Not Plan For** Here’s where it gets embarrassing, then beautiful. I was at Mt Cook on what was supposed to be an overcast, low-key day. I set off on a casual 3km walk with just a sweatshirt and small backpack. I had already walked this route a day earlier. Then the clouds cleared. And I could see that the viewpoint *600 meters away* was going to be absolutely stunning. It was one of the hikes I had wanted to do but wouldn’t be worth it in cloud cover. What I did not register: that was **600 meters of elevation.** Not distance. Elevation. If you’re thinking right about now, *“wow he’s dumb…”* I agree. And it gets worse. The hike was really just a series of stairs that felt like they went on forever. A stairmaster would have told me I’d done enough. About an hour later I reached the first viewpoint, which was gorgeous, and realized I had no water. What I *did* have was half a liter of a New Zealand lemon soda called Lemon & Paeroa Zero Sugar. Delicious. Not exactly hydrating. At the viewpoint I got chatting with two groups, one on the way up, one on the way down, and both of them raved about the views from the actual summit, only 500 meters further. *No stairs this time*, they said. Reader, I kept going. The soda was gone. My legs were done. There was a mountain hut at the top where I had convinced myself there would be water. There was no water. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/hike_4-2.jpg "hike_4-2 - Couchsurfing Blog")summit pic i survived#### **The Part That Actually Matters** On the descent, dehydrated, tired, quietly questioning my life choices (and survival ability) I started chatting with a guy who had been at the summit with me. We’d been hiking at the exact same pace for 30 minutes. He was literally in the background of my summit selfie. We’d been leapfrogging each other the entire way down without speaking. Then, at the viewpoint where I had originally made the fateful decision to keep climbing, we both stopped to rest. He spoke first. We talked about hikes, about our travels around New Zealand. He was Italian, living the full-time nomad life and had just been island-hopping across the Pacific. I asked about budget travel out there: Airbnbs, hostels, that kind of thing. He said it was pretty well set up for budget exploring. Then he paused. *“Do you know Couchsurfing?”* ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/hike_2-1.jpg "hike_2-1 - Couchsurfing Blog")notice someone#### **That Look on His Face** I happened to be wearing a backpack with the Couchsurfing logo on it. I smiled, pointed to the bag, and said: *“I work for Couchsurfing.”* The look that spread across his face was absolutely priceless. He’d been Couchsurfing for over 10 years. He’d Couchsurfed his entire way around the Pacific Islands, staying with Tongans, Fijians, Samoans, etc. He spoke about those experiences the way you talk about something you genuinely love: with softness, with care, almost protectively. If you’d overheard us and had to guess which one of us worked for Couchsurfing, you’d have picked him. No question. We spent the rest of the descent trading Couchsurfing stories, exchanging travel recommendations, and, on my part, narrating in vivid detail every cold drink waiting for me back at the van. #### **Why Couchsurfing Creates a Different Kind of Connection** What struck me most wasn’t the coincidence of it all (though that was pretty wild). It was how *instantly* we connected the moment Couchsurfing was on the table. Here’s the thing about meeting a fellow Couchsurfer: **you already understand each other.** You haven’t shared the same hosts or the same stays. But you’ve both sat at a stranger’s dinner table and felt like family. You’ve both experienced something completely ordinary to your host (a Sunday meal, a local market run, a drive to a friend’s house) and walked away knowing it would become one of your most treasured memories of that place. My most memorable experience from six weeks in New Zealand? A weekend I spent with a local Kiwi family. A family I found through a girl I met at a hostel in Myanmar in 2017. That’s how Couchsurfing works. It builds a web of moments and people that keep giving, years later. When I meet a fellow Couchsurfer, I know they’ve lived closer to the real texture of a place than most travellers ever will. We’ve eaten the food that locals actually eat. We’ve had the conversations that don’t happen on tour buses or hostel common rooms. And we’ve kept doing it, for years, because it gives us something that nothing else in travel quite replicates. #### **That Tone. You Know The One.** There’s a specific tone people use when they ask *“do you know Couchsurfing?”* It’s tender. Slightly cautious. Like they’re ready to be defensive if needed (because they’ve had to defend it before) but also quietly hoping you’re about to become someone they can share something real with. I heard it in his voice on that mountain. I recognized it immediately because **it’s the same tone I use.** That soft, careful question. That readiness for either a blank stare or a moment of genuine connection. He got the latter. So did I. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Hike_1.jpg "Hike_1 - Couchsurfing Blog")new friends**Have a story like this? Share it in the community *[here](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/community-stories/).*** We want to hear about the moments that reminded you why you Couchsurf. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/i-ran-out-of-water-on-a-hike-in-new-zealand-then-something-unexpected-happened/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/i-ran-out-of-water-on-a-hike-in-new-zealand-then-something-unexpected-happened/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Stories **Tags:** backpacking, couchsurfing, hiking, New Zealand, travel --- ### [Top 5 Festivals to Plan Your Trip Around](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/top-5-festivals-to-plan-your-trip-around/) **Published:** April 16, 2026 **Author:** Mike Joy **Content:** *Showing up anywhere during its biggest festival isn’t just good timing, it’s a completely different country. The food is better, the streets are alive, and suddenly every door that’s usually closed swings wide open. This is how you stop being a visitor and start actually being there.* ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/shutterstock_441216841.jpg "Woman,In,Carnival,Costume,Looks,At,A,Man,In,Morning - Couchsurfing Blog")Venetian Masks during Carnival shutterstockAndrey+NastasenkoLook, you could show up to a city on any random Tuesday. Or you could time it so you’re there when the whole place loses its mind in the best possible way. Festivals aren’t just about the event itself, they’re about the energy shift that happens when thousands of people decide normal rules don’t apply for a few days. Streets close. Strangers become friends. Your carefully planned itinerary goes out the window and somehow that’s exactly what needed to happen. Here are five festivals worth building your entire trip around. Dates can change year over year so double check this year’s festival dates before you book that flight! #### **Las Fallas – Valencia, Spain (March 15-19)** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/shutterstock_1188038356.jpg "Water,Sprays,From,Fire,Men,Are,Next,To,The,Burning - Couchsurfing Blog")Las Fallas Valencia shutterstockvivvismakPicture this: An entire city spends a year building massive, intricate sculptures out of wood and papier-mâché, parades them through the streets, and then sets them all on fire. That’s Fallas. All of them except one, the crowd votes to save a single sculpture for the museum. The rest? Up in flames on the final night. **When:** March 15-19 (burning night is March 19, St. Joseph’s Day) **Where:** Valencia, Spain’s third-largest city on the Mediterranean coast Valencia transforms completely during Fallas. Every neighborhood builds their own falla, these satirical monuments that poke fun at politicians, celebrities, current events. Some reach several stories tall. The craftsmanship is genuinely stunning, which makes watching them burn even more intense. But Fallas isn’t just about the sculptures. Daily fireworks competitions shake the city at 2pm sharp, locals call it the mascletà, and it’s less about visual spectacle and more about pure noise that rattles your chest. At night, massive street parties take over, vendors sell buñuelos (fried dough that’ll ruin your diet), and the whole city smells like gunpowder and sugar. **Why go:** The combination of art, fire, chaos, and Spanish party culture creates something you can’t replicate anywhere else. Plus, Valencia in March has perfect weather and way fewer tourists than Barcelona. Couchsurfing hosts here get flooded with requests during Fallas so send yours early and mention which neighborhood fallas you want to see. Locals have strong opinions about which ones are best. **Budget tip:** Accommodation prices triple, but if you can score a Couchsurfing stay, you’re golden. The street events are all free. Bring earplugs for sleeping though, the city doesn’t quiet down. #### **Songkran – Thailand (April 13-15)** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/shutterstock_1076075192.jpg "Blur,Thailand,Songkarn,Festival,buddha,Image,On,The,Town - Couchsurfing Blog")Songkran Festival shutterstockCHUCHATDAYThailand’s New Year celebration has one simple rule: everyone gets soaked. What started as a respectful water blessing turned into the world’s largest water fight, and nobody’s complaining. **When:** April 13-15 (though some cities stretch it longer) **Where:** Nationwide, but Chiang Mai and Bangkok throw the biggest parties The entire country shuts down for three days of water warfare. Trucks filled with people and water barrels cruise the streets. Locals set up hose stations. Tourists buy water guns that could double as small weapons. Everyone’s a target. Monks, cops, that elderly woman on the corner. Nobody’s safe. It’s beautiful chaos. Chiang Mai’s old city becomes ground zero. The moat provides endless ammunition. Street parties blur together into one long, wet celebration. Bangkok’s Khao San Road turns into a drenched nightclub under the sun. Smaller towns throw their own versions with more traditional elements: think water blessings mixed with local temple festivities. **Why go:** It’s impossible to have a bad time when everyone’s laughing, soaked, and slightly drunk by noon. The heat in April makes the water feel less like an attack and more like relief. Plus, Songkran captures something essential about Thai culture: that sense of sanuk, the idea that life should be fun. The festival also coincides with Thailand’s hottest month, so the timing works perfectly. Traditional elements still exist if you wake up early. Temple visits, offering food to monks, respectful water blessings for elders. But by midday, all bets are off. **Budget tip:** Thailand’s already cheap, but prices spike during Songkran. Book accommodation early or find Couchsurfing hosts who’ll let you store dry clothes at their place. Waterproof everything. Your phone will get wet no matter how careful you think you’re being. #### **Carnival – Rio de Janeiro, Brazil (February/March, dates vary)** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/shutterstock_2485945071-1.jpg "Carnival,,Performance,And,Woman,With,Samba,For,Dance,,Parade,And - Couchsurfing Blog")Carnival Performance in Brazil shutterstockPeopleImagesCarnival happens across Brazil and in various forms throughout Latin America, but Rio does it bigger, louder, and with more sequins than anywhere else. This is the festival other festivals dream about being. **When:** Dates shift based on Easter (usually late February or early March), Friday through Fat Tuesday **Where:** Rio de Janeiro, though Salvador and Recife throw legendary versions too Rio’s Carnival centers on the Sambadrome: a purpose-built parade stadium where samba schools compete in an all-night extravaganza of floats, dancers, and coordinated chaos. Each school tells a story through their parade, and the competition gets fierce. Tickets range from cheap to obscene depending on your section. But the real magic happens in the blocos, free street parties that take over different neighborhoods. Hundreds of blocos happen throughout Carnival week. Some draw millions of people. Band plays, crowd follows, everyone dances through the streets. Beer flows. Costumes range from elaborate to “I’m wearing a funny hat.” The energy feels less like a party and more like the city’s collective decision to celebrate existence. **Why go:** Because it’s Carnival in Rio. That sentence does the heavy lifting. The scale, the passion, the music, the beautiful madness of it all! You either get it or you need to experience it to understand. Beyond the main events, Rio itself transforms. Beaches fill with impromptu parties. Neighborhoods you’d normally skip become centers of celebration. The whole city operates on Carnival time, which means sleep becomes optional and anything before sunset feels pointless. **Budget tip:** Rio isn’t cheap, and Carnival makes it worse. Accommodation books out months ahead. Couchsurfing becomes essential unless you want to pay hotel prices that make you cry. Many hosts throw Carnival parties or join blocos together so mention in your request that you want the local experience, not the tourist version. Bring costumes or buy cheap ones there. Stay hydrated. Pace yourself because this marathon lasts days. #### **Holi – India (March, date varies)** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/shutterstock_2137600131.jpg "India,,17,March,,2022,:,Holi,Festival,,Young,Indian,Woman - Couchsurfing Blog")Holi Festival India ShutterstockSunanda+MalamThe festival of colors, spring, love, and throwing pigmented powder at strangers. Holi started as a Hindu celebration but evolved into something more universal: a sanctioned excuse to make a beautiful mess. **When:** Full moon day in March (Phalguna month in Hindu calendar) **Where:** Throughout India, but Mathura, Vrindavan, and Jaipur throw legendary celebrations Holi starts with Holika Dahan the night before, bonfire ceremonies that symbolize burning away the old and evil. But the main event happens the next day when color takes over. Gulal powder in every shade gets thrown, smeared, and blasted via water guns. White clothes don’t stay white for long. Everyone becomes a walking rainbow. Different regions celebrate differently. Mathura and Vrindavan, cities associated with Krishna, extend celebrations for days. Jaipur throws massive organized events. Smaller villages offer more intimate, traditional experiences. The vibe shifts from place to place, but the core remains: spring arrived, winter died, let’s celebrate with color. Street parties erupt. Music plays. Bhang, a legal cannabis drink, flows freely in some areas, adding to the hazy joy. Strangers become friends through shared color attacks. The usual social barriers dissolve. Everyone’s equally messy. **Why go:** Holi represents India at its most vibrant and welcoming. The festival’s message, good triumphs over evil, spring brings new life, gets communicated through pure, childlike joy. Plus, the photos are incredible. You’ll get drenched in color, possibly slightly high from bhang if you choose, and definitely caught up in the infectious energy. Locals welcome foreign participation. Just respect the boundaries, not everyone playing is fair game, and “no” still means no even during festivals. **Budget tip:** India’s already budget-friendly, and Holi doesn’t change that much. Wear clothes you don’t love because they won’t survive. Natural colors wash out easier than chemical ones, but honestly, assume everything’s ruined. Coconut oil on skin and hair before playing helps with cleanup. Couchsurfing hosts often invite surfers to play Holi with their families, which offers the authentic experience tourists pay tour companies for. #### **Oktoberfest – Munich, Germany (September/October)** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/shutterstock_397852789-2.jpg "Munich,,Germany-,October,2,,2014:,People,Drinking,In,The,Hippodrom - Couchsurfing Blog")Oktoberfest Tent shutterstocktichrYes, it’s touristy. Yes, it’s crowded. Yes, you should still go. The world’s largest beer festival earned its reputation for good reason. **When:** 16-18 days ending the first Sunday of October (starts mid-to-late September despite the name) **Where:** Munich, Bavaria, Germany Six million people descend on Munich’s Theresienwiese grounds. Massive beer tents, each run by different Munich breweries, create temporary villages. Traditional Bavarian bands play. Dirndls and lederhosen aren’t just for locals anymore. One-liter steins of beer fuel the festivities. The atmosphere somehow maintains gemütlichkeit, that cozy, friendly vibe Germans do so well despite the massive crowds. Each tent has its own personality. Some cater to older crowds and traditional music. Others pack in young people and occasionally play American pop covers. Securing a table requires strategy, arrive early or reserve ahead. Once you’re in, you’re in for hours of singing, swaying, and drinking beer that actually tastes good. Outside the tents, carnival rides, food stalls, and general chaos fill the grounds. The whole city shifts into Oktoberfest mode. Even locals who skip the main event enjoy the seasonal beers and festive atmosphere that takes over Munich. **Why go:** It’s a masterclass in organized celebration. Germans know how to throw a party that’s simultaneously massive and functional. The beer’s legitimately great. Oktoberfest brew follows strict rules. The food (pretzels, roasted chicken, pork knuckles) soaks up alcohol efficiently. And the communal tables force interaction with strangers from everywhere. Beyond the main event, Munich itself shines in autumn. The English Garden offers recovery space. Day trips to Bavarian castles work perfectly. The city blends traditional and modern in ways that feel genuine rather than performed. **Budget tip:** Munich’s expensive normally and Oktoberfest makes it worse. Accommodation gets ridiculous so book months ahead or camp outside the city. Better yet, find Couchsurfing hosts willing to brave the chaos with you. A liter of beer costs around €13-15 in the tents. Food adds up fast. Going with a group helps split tent reservations and makes the experience more fun. Arrive at tent openings (usually 9am on weekends) to grab unreserved seats. --- #### **The Real Reason to Plan Around Festivals** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/shutterstock_2597439099.jpg "Sri,Lankan,Traditional,Dancers,Performs,During,The,Annual,Katharagama,Perahera - Couchsurfing Blog")Sri Lankan traditional Dancers performs during the annual Katharagama Perahera shutterstock3RD+AXISFestivals crack cities open in ways normal days don’t. Locals let their guard down. Streets that usually empty at 10pm stay alive until dawn. The version of a place you see during its biggest celebration isn’t the everyday version, it’s heightened, amplified, more itself somehow. Timing trips around festivals requires flexibility. You’re committing to crowds, higher prices, and less control over your schedule. Your carefully planned itinerary might get derailed by spontaneous street parties. Accommodation gets harder to find. But that’s exactly the point. Festivals force you out of the typical tourist routine. You’re not just visiting, you’re participating in something the city organizes for itself, and you happen to be there. That shift changes everything. The best festival experiences come from finding local connections. Couchsurfing hosts during festival periods offer insider knowledge like which blocos to hit, which tents open early, and when to avoid the worst crowds. They know the shortcuts, the local spots, the rhythm of how their city celebrates. So pick a festival. Build your trip around it. Send those Couchsurfing requests early, mention specifically that you’re coming for the festival and want the local experience. Pack clothes you can ruin. Bring an open mind and realistic expectations about sleep schedules. Then show up and let the chaos be exactly what your trip needed. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/top-5-festivals-to-plan-your-trip-around/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/top-5-festivals-to-plan-your-trip-around/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Guides **Tags:** backpacking, couchsurfing, festivals, travel planning --- ### [Why People Couchsurf (And Why It Matters More Than Ever)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/why-people-couchsurf-and-why-it-matters-more-than-ever/) **Published:** April 21, 2026 **Author:** Mike Joy **Excerpt:** We're more connected than ever. So why does it feel like the opposite? Loneliness is at an all-time high. The WHO called it a public health crisis. And yet most of us have never been more reachable, more followed, more online. This piece gets into why that is and why Couchsurfing exists as an answer to exactly that. Not as a platform. As a philosophy. The idea that the person on the other side of the door is worth knowing. **Content:** *We’re more connected than ever. So why does it feel like the opposite? Loneliness is at an all-time high. The WHO called it a public health crisis. And yet most of us have never been more reachable, more followed, more online. This piece gets into why that is and why Couchsurfing exists as an answer to exactly that. Not as a platform. As a philosophy. The idea that the person on the other side of the door is worth knowing.* ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Screenshot-2026-04-21-at-12.07.39 PM.png "Screenshot-2026-04-21-at-12.07.39 PM - Couchsurfing Blog")#### **The Numbers Are Hard to Ignore** More people report having no close friends than at any point in recent recorded history. More people feel disconnected from their communities, their neighbors, the basic sense that they belong somewhere. Loneliness has been declared a public health crisis by the WHO. The US Surgeon General called it an epidemic. These aren’t abstract statistics. They’re describing someone you know. They might be describing you. And before we go any further, this is not a character flaw. This is not a generation failing to try hard enough. This is a structural problem. The world we live in was not designed for the kind of connection we actually need. #### **People Haven’t Changed. The World Has.** Here’s what hasn’t changed: ***what we want.*** We want the same things we’ve always wanted. Connection. Belonging. The feeling that someone in this world genuinely knows you and is glad you exist. That is as hardwired into us as breathing. What has changed is everything we’ve been handed to fill that need. Scroll. Like. Follow. Post something carefully considered and watch the numbers tick up. Build an audience. Optimize your profile. Curate your life into something palatable and hope that the engagement feels like love. It doesn’t. We all know it doesn’t. A thousand followers and still nothing to do on a Friday night. An inbox full of notifications and no one to call. The performance of connection has replaced the real thing. We are more reachable than any humans have ever been in history. And somehow, a lot of us have never felt more alone. #### **This Is Where Couchsurfing Comes In** Think of Couchsurfing not as an app. As a philosophy. The reason people Couchsurf is the same reason people have always opened their doors to each other, because human beings are genuinely good and kind, and we feel better when we act like it. Hospitality is not a transaction. It’s not a service. It’s an expression of who we are at our best. It’s what we look like when we stop performing and start showing up. Couchsurfing is what happens when you decide that the person on the other side of the door is worth knowing. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Screenshot-2026-04-21-at-11.59.12 AM.png "Screenshot-2026-04-21-at-11.59.12 AM - Couchsurfing Blog")My Couchsurfer Jonathan and I on a trip to Brighton England a year after I had hosted him in NYC#### **People Find Their Way Here for Different Reasons** Some people come as travelers. They’ve done the hotels, the hostels, the carefully curated itineraries and they still left feeling like tourists. They want to go deeper. To know what a city actually tastes like, sounds like, feels like at 11pm on a Wednesday when the tourists have gone to bed. The only way to get that is through someone who lives it. Some people come as locals. They love where they live and they want to share it. They’re curious about the world but not always in a position to chase it. So they let the world come to them one member at a time, from places they’ve never been, with stories they’ve never heard. Some people are somewhere in between. Not quite sure what they’re looking for, just certain that what they have isn’t enough. They want a network that feels real. They want to know that if they show up somewhere new and don’t know a single soul, there’s someone who will show up for them anyway. All of these people are right. All of these reasons are valid. And all of them lead to the same place. #### **The Need Underneath Every Reason** Whatever brought you here: wanderlust, curiosity, generosity, or just the quiet ache of wanting more, the underlying need is the same. You want to matter to someone. You want someone to matter to you. You want to feel, even briefly, that the world is smaller and warmer and more full of good people than the algorithm would have you believe. It is. We promise you it is. Couchsurfing has known this for over 20 years. Not because we’re optimists. Because we’ve watched millions of people open their doors to strangers and walk away with friends. Because we’ve seen what happens when people stop performing connection and start actually making it. The loneliness epidemic is real. But so is the cure. It starts with a door. And someone willing to open it. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/DFC0D800-41BC-4719-B89C-FBBE81FB9584-branded.jpg "DFC0D800-41BC-4719-B89C-FBBE81FB9584-branded - Couchsurfing Blog")Me with my Couchsurfer Dan on my Couch with Arthur D ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/why-people-couchsurf-and-why-it-matters-more-than-ever/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/why-people-couchsurf-and-why-it-matters-more-than-ever/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Stories **Tags:** connection, couchsurfing, friends --- ### [10 Tips for Your First Backpacking Trip](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-tips-for-your-first-backpacking-trip/) **Published:** April 23, 2026 **Author:** Mike Joy **Excerpt:** First backpacking trip nerves are completely normal. Everyone who's done this felt the same mix of excitement and terror. These ten tips come from people who've been there, made the mistakes, and lived to travel another day. **Content:** *So you’re doing this. You’ve watched the vlogs, talked to friends who’ve traveled, maybe stalked a few Instagram accounts. Now you’ve booked a flight, and the reality of actually going is setting in. First backpacking trip nerves are completely normal. Everyone who’s done this felt the same mix of excitement and terror. These ten tips come from people who’ve been there, made the mistakes, and lived to travel another day.* ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/shutterstock_1019302492.jpg "Happy,Smiling,Woman,Looks,Out,From,Window,Traveling,By,Train - Couchsurfing Blog")***Note: Our #1 would obviously be ‘Use Couchsurfing!’ and you absolutely should… But we’re going to show restraint and give you 10 other tips to get you on the right track. But just know that it is taking everything in us to not start this list with: Couchsurf!*** ## **1. Pack Way Less Than You Think You Need** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/shutterstock_2677927125.jpg "Young,Woman,With,Hiking,Backpack,Enjoying,Hiking,In,Mountains.,Hiker - Couchsurfing Blog")Seriously. Cut your pile in half, then cut it again. That’s probably still too much, but it’s closer. You don’t need seven pairs of shoes. You don’t need jeans (they’re heavy and don’t dry). You don’t need that “just in case” jacket that you might wear once. Pack for a week even if you’re going for three months, you’ll wash clothes or buy what you’re missing. The 40-45 liter backpack is the sweet spot. Big enough for necessities, small enough that you won’t fill it with junk. If you’re packing a 70-liter bag for your first trip, you’re doing it wrong. What actually matters: comfortable walking shoes (one pair plus flip-flops), quick-dry clothes, a small first-aid kit, photocopies of your passport, a portable charger/adaptor, and earplugs. Everything else is optional. ## **2. Don’t Plan Everything** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/shutterstock_2703141921-2.jpg "A,Tourist,Woman,With,A,Beret,Hat,Sits,At,The - Couchsurfing Blog")The urge to plot every single day is strong. Resist it. Over-planning kills spontaneity and makes you rigid when things inevitably change. Book your first few nights’ accommodation and your major transportation between cities. That’s it. Leave gaps. The best experiences happen when you extend somewhere an extra few days because you met people or discovered something worth staying for. That tour everyone recommends? You can book it when you arrive. That famous restaurant? You’ll find it. The hostel in the next city? You can search tonight for tomorrow’s arrival. Plans change because of weather, new friends, better recommendations, or just vibes. Travelers who locked down rigid itineraries months ahead miss opportunities daily. ## **3. Stay in Hostels, At Least at First** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/shutterstock_2215331135.jpg "Groups,Of,Travelers,From,Various,Nationalities,Gather,In,A,Hostel, - Couchsurfing Blog")Hostels aren’t just about cheap beds: they’re social hubs where you’ll meet other travelers, get recommendations, and find people to explore with. Pick hostels with good reviews that mention social atmosphere. Look for common areas, organized activities, kitchen access. Avoid the party hostels unless that’s specifically what you want, they’re loud, messy, and full of people in their teens treating travel like spring break. Dorm rooms force interaction. Yeah, sharing a room with strangers feels weird initially. By day three you’ll be swapping stories and making breakfast plans. ## **4. Talk to People** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/shutterstock_1517139188.jpg "Trendy,Friends,Having,Fun,In,Hostel,At,Party,Night, - Couchsurfing Blog")The point of traveling isn’t just seeing places, it’s connecting with humans outside your normal bubble. Talk to other travelers. Talk to locals. Ask questions. Be curious. Start simple in hostels. “Where are you from?” and “How long are you traveling?” open every conversation. Move to “What’s been your favorite place?” or “Any recommendations here?” Share your own stories. Listen to theirs. With locals, ask for recommendations. People love sharing their favorite spots. That café question leads to conversations about their city, their life, their perspective. Suddenly you’re not just visiting, you’re learning. Yes, small talk with strangers feels awkward if you’re not used to it. Do it anyway. Some conversations go nowhere. Others turn into travel partnerships or genuine friendships. You won’t know which is which unless you try. ## **5. Trust Your Gut About Safety** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/shutterstock_1580423149.jpg "Girl,On,Roof,,,Lifestyle,People,Concept,.,Romantic,Mood. - Couchsurfing Blog")Your instincts exist for reasons. That sketchy situation making you uncomfortable? Leave. That person giving you weird vibes? Politely extract yourself. That shortcut through the dark alley? Take the long way. This doesn’t mean being paranoid, most places are safe and most people are good. But awareness matters. Don’t flash expensive stuff. Don’t get blackout drunk with strangers. Don’t leave drinks unattended. Don’t wander alone in places locals warn you about. Share your location with someone back home. Check in regularly even if it feels annoying. Keep emergency numbers saved. Have backup plans for accommodation if something falls through. ## **6. Budget Will Explode in Week One** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/shutterstock_2608876927.jpg "Young,Woman,Putting,Euro,Money,Into,Her,Wallet - Couchsurfing Blog")Everyone overspends the first week. New city energy hits and suddenly you’re eating every meal out, buying rounds at the hostel bar, and saying yes to every tour and activity. Set a daily budget and actually track spending. Apps help, or just write it down. Once you see where money goes, you’ll adjust. Cook some meals. Choose the free walking tour over the expensive bus version. Drink at the hostel before going out. Build in buffer money for emergencies and unexpected opportunities. Your flight getting canceled, needing a doctor, or finding an amazing side trip you can’t skip, these things happen. Having cushion reduces stress dramatically. Remember: you can always spend more later, but you can’t un-spend money when you run out three weeks early and have to cut your trip short. ## **7. Embrace Being Uncomfortable** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/shutterstock_2285698021.jpg "Confused,Tourist,Lover,Lost,Looking,Map,Sheet.,Young,Asian,Couple - Couchsurfing Blog")Travel highlights look amazing on Instagram. But those posts don’t show the uncomfortable parts, getting lost, language barriers, cultural confusion, loneliness, bad food, worse bathrooms, and moments where you genuinely question why you left home. That discomfort is the point. Growth lives in uncomfortable spaces. You figure out problems. You adapt. You learn that being lost or confused or out of place doesn’t kill you. It teaches you. Some days will suck. You’ll miss home. You’ll be tired of hostels. You’ll want familiar food and people who understand your references. That’s normal. Push through it. The next day usually improves things. ## **8. Slow Down** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/shutterstock_2727518365.jpg "Young,Woman,With,Backpack,And,Hat,Sits,On,A,Temple - Couchsurfing Blog")The temptation to see everything is real. But sprinting through ten cities in two weeks leaves you exhausted and barely remembering any of them. Three days minimum per place. A week feels better for cities with depth. This lets you move past tourist attractions into neighborhoods, routines, and actual feel for places. Slower travel costs less too. You’re not constantly paying for transportation and first-night-in-town tourist mistakes. You find the cheap local spots instead of eating near your hotel. You do free stuff because you have time. Some places you’ll want to leave after two days. Others will pull you in and you’ll extend. The point is leaving room for that rather than rigid schedules forcing you out when you’re just getting comfortable. ## **9. Your Phone is a Tool, Not a Security Blanket** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/shutterstock_270113804.jpg "A,Young,Woman,Is,Looking,At,The,Sunset,Over,A - Couchsurfing Blog")Yes, maps and translation apps and hostel reviews help enormously. But if you’re experiencing everything through your screen, you’re barely present. Put the phone away during meals. Make eye contact with people. Look at the architecture instead of photographing it constantly. Have conversations that don’t get interrupted by checking messages. The travel anxiety hits strongest when you’re doom-scrolling in your hostel bed instead of going to the common room. Instagram comparison makes you feel like your trip isn’t measuring up. Staying too connected to home life prevents you from being where you actually are. Take photos. Document things. But not at the expense of the actual experience. Nobody remembers the photographer, they remember what they actually saw and felt. ## **10. Be Open to Things Not Going to Plan** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/shutterstock_2475024719.jpg "Solo,Traveler,With,Backpack,And,Hat,Waiting,At,Train,Station - Couchsurfing Blog")Flights get canceled. Hostels aren’t what you expected. Weather ruins your plans. People bail on things. You get sick. Your bag gets delayed. That place everyone raved about disappoints you. Roll with it. Travelers who freak out when plans change have miserable trips. Travelers who adapt and find alternatives have adventures. Some of the best travel experiences come from things going wrong. You miss your bus and end up staying in a tiny town nobody visits. Your hostel’s full so someone offers their couch. Rain cancels your hike so you spend the day in a cafe meeting locals. Flexibility and humor go further than perfect planning ever will. The point isn’t executing a flawless trip, it’s having experiences that change your perspective. Those rarely happen according to plan. --- ## **You’re Ready (Enough)** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/shutterstock_1022604823.jpg "Young,Woman,Enjoying,Train,Ride,From,Ella,To,Kandy,Among - Couchsurfing Blog")Here’s the secret: nobody feels totally ready for their first backpacking trip. You’ll forget things. You’ll make mistakes. You’ll have moments of panic and doubt. Then you’ll figure it out. You’ll meet people who just did what you’re about to do and they’ll help. You’ll discover you’re more capable than you thought. You’ll learn things about yourself that only emerge when you’re outside your normal context. The first trip is the hardest because you don’t know what you don’t know yet. But it’s also the most transformative because everything’s new. Every little success builds confidence. So pack that bag lighter than you think you should. Book those first few nights. Board that plane. The rest figures itself out along the way. That’s how everyone who’s done this started. Now it’s your turn. *Ready to connect with locals and other travelers? Check out Couchsurfing’s communities and events to find people who’ve been exactly where you’re going and are happy to help.* ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-tips-for-your-first-backpacking-trip/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-tips-for-your-first-backpacking-trip/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Advice **Tags:** advice, couchsurfing, travel, traveler --- ### [The Truth About Solo Travel: It Gets Lonely](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-truth-about-solo-travel-it-gets-lonely/) **Published:** April 28, 2026 **Author:** Mike Joy **Excerpt:** Solo travel isn’t about avoiding loneliness. It’s about learning how to sit with it. In the quiet moments between hikes, conversations, and long drives, you start to understand what truly fulfills you. And in that space, you often find a deeper connection. Connection to yourself, to others, and to the world around you. **Content:** *Solo travel isn’t about avoiding loneliness. It’s about learning how to sit with it. In the quiet moments between hikes, conversations, and long drives, you start to understand what truly fulfills you. And in that space, you often find a deeper connection. Connection to yourself, to others, and to the world around you.* ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Screenshot-2026-04-27-at-11.48.30 AM.png "Screenshot-2026-04-27-at-11.48.30 AM - Couchsurfing Blog")I caught up with a friend yesterday, someone I hadn’t seen since getting back from four months in New Zealand and Australia. He asked about my favorite part of the trip. Easy answer: renting a camper van and spending a month driving around New Zealand’s South Island. No plans, just moving between campgrounds and freedom camping spots. Hiking, swimming in lakes, pulling over whenever something felt worth stopping for. Just… vibing. He said it sounded incredible, but also like his nightmare. “I’d get way too lonely,” he told me. “I could never do that alone for a month.” Then he asked, “Do you ever get lonely when you travel solo?” I laughed a little because… well, of course I do. #### Loneliness Is Part of the Deal ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Screenshot-2026-04-27-at-11.51.45 AM.png "Screenshot-2026-04-27-at-11.51.45 AM - Couchsurfing Blog")I think we assume solo travelers have somehow “figured that part out”… that they’ve unlocked a way to avoid loneliness. But the truth is simpler: loneliness is part of it. It’s built in. Solo travel is, by definition, being alone for long stretches of time. You can’t really opt out of that. You can only decide how you navigate through it. I told him: loneliness in solo travel is like dirty dishes after cooking a great meal. It comes with the experience. You don’t avoid it… you accept it. And I think a lot of us are uncomfortable with being alone because we’ve been conditioned to see it as a negative. Like if you’re not surrounded by people, something’s missing. Like your experience, or even your worth, is somehow less. I’ve found the opposite to be true. #### Alone Doesn’t Mean Disconnected When I’m alone, I feel more connected than ever. Not less. Connected to myself. To nature. To small, unexpected moments. To strangers I might otherwise overlook. When you’re traveling with someone, your world naturally centers around that person. When you’re alone, it opens up. You talk more: to locals, to other travelers, to the barista at a coffee shop, to someone swimming in the same lake as you. You notice more. You feel more. #### The Small Moments Feel Big ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Screenshot-2026-04-27-at-11.49.35 AM.png "Screenshot-2026-04-27-at-11.49.35 AM - Couchsurfing Blog")On that trip, I listened to Zach Bryan on repeat, probably 20 times all the way through. I wore the same cologne whenever I felt genuinely happy, just to anchor the moment. I listened to 7 audio books. Seven. And read 5 more. I had full conversations with strangers that started with something as simple as “How’s the water?” And some days? The only words I said out loud were “can I get a flat white?” or “you’re welcome” after holding the door for someone. Were there moments I felt lonely? Absolutely. A lot of them. #### Where Loneliness Leads ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Screenshot-2026-04-27-at-11.49.58 AM.png "Screenshot-2026-04-27-at-11.49.58 AM - Couchsurfing Blog")But that loneliness forces something important: it pushes you back onto yourself. When you can’t rely on friends, partners, or familiar faces to fill your time or validate your experience, you start asking a different question: What actually fills me? You end up doing things purely because you want to. Listening to an album three times in a row. Choosing a hike that’s too long (or too easy!) for anyone else. Sitting in silence. Starting conversations you might normally avoid. A 20km hike alone isn’t just about the destination. It’s about the space it creates. Space to think. To notice. To feel. That can be uncomfortable. Even scary. But uncomfortable doesn’t mean bad. Sometimes it means necessary. #### You Experience More When It’s Just You I experience places more deeply when I’m alone. I connect more with people, with my surroundings, with myself. I couchsurf more. I follow my instincts more. I do exactly what I want, whether that’s a long hike or staying in and watching TV. And yeah, sometimes that also means sitting with thoughts I’d usually avoid. Thinking about past relationships, mistakes, memories. Calling friends during long drives. Filling the silence. Or not. I remember listening to an audio book that was about a relationship that reminded me so much of one of my own that I paused the book and had a 5 minute monologue about my own relationship. As if I was narrating my own life story. Why? I have no idea. Did it help? Who’s to say. But there was no one to hear me or judge me. I just did it and when it was out of my system I simply pressed play and drove on. #### Life is A Little Lonely ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Screenshot-2026-04-27-at-11.50.59 AM.png "Screenshot-2026-04-27-at-11.50.59 AM - Couchsurfing Blog")At the end of the day, loneliness isn’t just part of solo travel. It’s part of life. We come into the world alone, and we leave it alone. In between, we spend a lot of time trying to connect: with others, with experiences, with meaning. But what we spend far less time doing is connecting with ourselves? What we pass off as connecting with ourselves is distracting ourselves. There is so much value in taking classes, in meeting with friends, in going to therapy. But there is also value in sitting in silence with yourself. Connecting with others is one of the most beautiful things we do in this life. But how well can we really connect with anyone else if we haven’t connected with ourselves first? How can you truly know someone if you don’t know who you are? How can you be a good friend if you’re not one to yourself? #### So… Do You Ever Feel Lonely? The next time someone asks me if I get lonely when I travel solo, I’ll probably just smile and say: That’s kind of the point. Because sometimes, it’s only in those moments of loneliness that you find the deepest kind of connection. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/DB21E4C0-6AD2-4E84-AEF6-F414DC7EB0E8_1_105_c.jpeg "DB21E4C0-6AD2-4E84-AEF6-F414DC7EB0E8_1_105_c - Couchsurfing Blog")*Thinking about your first solo trip? Start a trip on CouchSurfing and find people who’ve been where you’re going or may want to connect with you along the way…* ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-truth-about-solo-travel-it-gets-lonely/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-truth-about-solo-travel-it-gets-lonely/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Stories **Tags:** adventure, backpacking, travel --- ### [Why We Did This](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/why-we-did-this/) **Published:** May 8, 2026 **Author:** Mike Joy **Content:** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Facebook.png "Facebook - Couchsurfing Blog")A lot of you are probably wondering why we rebuilt Couchsurfing in the first place. And honestly, we take that as a compliment. It means a lot of the problems with the old app and website weren’t obvious to you, even though behind the scenes they were becoming impossible for us to manage, let alone evolve. Couchsurfing has created millions of connections across almost every country on Earth, but the old platform was limiting what we could build, how fast we could move, and where we could take this community next. So we built a new one. Now look, we know there are some kinks right now. Growing pains as we like to call them. But weirdly, that’s also a good sign. The response in the first 24 hours was bigger than even we expected. A huge wave of people came back to Couchsurfing all at once. And yeah, that has caused some speed, stability, and membership payment issues that we are actively fixing (make sure you’re on the latest version of the mobile app). The difference now is that this platform was built from the ground up with modern infrastructure and incredibly talented and mission-driven engineering, product, design, and support teams. This means that issues that used to take months to fix can now take days. Sometimes hours. And yes, the site looks different. That’s intentional too. The old platform was designed through the lens of 2012. Be honest… do you remember 2012? Exactly. We all needed a little glow up. But this wasn’t just about making things prettier. We wanted profiles to actually feel like people again. When you’re staying with someone or inviting them into your home, the important stuff isn’t just an essay they write about themself and where they’re from. It’s their entire vibe. Are they outdoorsy? Quiet? Chaotic? Early riser? Social? Cool with smoking? The little things matter. We also built this around how people *actually* use Couchsurfing. Not how we imagined they used it. We studied everything: How many and the types of photos people engage with on a profile.. How much time is spent reviewing profiles. What profile information is important to members. What helps people decide that they want to meet someone. And dozens of other things. We redesigned the experience around real behavior, not assumptions. Simply put, we provided a way for people to better contextualize themselves to others. And beyond the design, this thing is built strong. We’re investing in this for the long term. This isn’t some cosmetic refresh. This is the foundation for the next era of Couchsurfing. Step one of many. We are nowhere near finished. In all ways, this is just the beginning. Did we remove some features? Sure. But in every case, either people weren’t really using them, or we found a better way to build the same functionality into the experience. For example: We removed “Last Login” because the search algorithm now automatically prioritizes active members first. That assumption should’ve always been true. Now it is. But we also want to surface members when there are strong reasons to connect (for instance, if you share multiple friends in common, have shared interests, or have been recently active. Along with many other characteristics). Your engagement with the community will determine how the platform dynamically behaves, and it will create a personalized experience for each of you. People wanted Hangouts to be more location-based, so now there’s a map. You can see who’s nearby **without revealing anyone’s exact location**. Your blue dot shows *you* exactly where you are, but other people only see a general area. Safety matters. And yes, dark mode. Because it was requested over and over again. We love light mode too. As soon as the platform stabilizes, it’s high on the list of things we will implement. The difference now is we can move way faster than we ever could before. Also: every single profile was migrated. All of them. And there were… a lot. If you can’t find yours, there’s a good chance you’re either using a different email or getting tripped up by the new onboarding flow, which everyone goes through now. Existing members included. Be sure to log in with the email used to create your original account, complete the onboarding, and check again. If something still looks off, support will help get you sorted. [Reach out here.](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/requests/new) We know change takes a minute to settle into. And we will be fixing things like allowing people to edit their photos for this new unique display format. Just give us a couple of weeks. We genuinely know what was built is leagues ahead of where we were and a foundation for some exciting things to come. The way people travel, connect, meet, and experience Couchsurfing is evolving. And we know it’ll take a little getting used to. But we know you’re going to love where this is headed. And we’re really happy you’re here for the ride. The Couchsurfing Team ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/why-we-did-this/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/why-we-did-this/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** News **Tags:** couchsurfing news, platform redesign, relaunch --- ### [The 5 Most Travel-Friendly Places on Earth](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-5-most-travel-friendly-places-on-earth/) **Published:** May 13, 2026 **Author:** Mike Joy **Excerpt:** Some places just get it. Infrastructure that works, locals who don't hate tourists yet, prices that let you stay a while, and that intangible vibe that makes traveling feel easy instead of exhausting. **Content:** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/shutterstock_2510160871.jpg "Airplane,Flying,Low,Over,Foggy,Mountains,,View,From,Plane,Window - Couchsurfing Blog")*Some places just get it. Infrastructure that works, locals who don’t hate tourists yet, prices that let you stay a while, and that intangible vibe that makes traveling feel easy instead of exhausting.* *These five consistently top the list for good reasons. They’ve figured out how to welcome travelers without losing what makes them special.* ## **Taiwan** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/shutterstock_2613444135.jpg "Tourist,Attractions,In,The,City,Park,Of,Taiwan,,Asia,Business - Couchsurfing Blog")Taiwan doesn’t get the attention it deserves, which works in your favor. Less crowded than Japan, more developed than Southeast Asia, and weirdly welcoming to random visitors. The transportation system rivals Japan’s efficiency at a fraction of the cost. The high-speed rail connects north to south in hours. Local trains hit smaller towns reliably. Buses go everywhere trains don’t. In Taipei, the metro makes perfect sense with bilingual signs, clear maps, and trains that actually run on schedule. English signage appears everywhere. Younger Taiwanese often speak conversational English. Even when language barriers exist, people go out of their way to help. The culture values hospitality and seems genuinely curious about foreign visitors rather than exhausted by them. Safety feels absolute. Taiwan ranks among the world’s safest places. Solo travelers, female travelers, anyone: you’ll feel comfortable. Violent crime barely exists. The most dangerous thing you’ll encounter involves crossing streets where scooters dominate traffic. The food scene deserves its own paragraph. Night markets overflow with cheap, incredible eats. Beef noodle soup, stinky tofu, oyster omelets, bubble tea (yeah, it started here), shaved ice and it all costs next to nothing. Street food you’d pay $15 for in the West runs about $2-3. Even sit-down restaurants stay surprisingly affordable. Nature accessibility stands out. Mountains ring the island. Hot springs bubble up in various regions. The east coast offers dramatic cliffs meeting ocean. Taroko Gorge’s marble canyons blow minds. All of this stays accessible via public transport or affordable tours. **What makes it travel-friendly:** Everything works. Public WiFi blankets cities. Convenience stores (7-Eleven, FamilyMart) on every corner sell actual meals plus handle bill payments and transit cards. Healthcare quality ranks high if you need it. The combination of Japanese efficiency, Chinese culture, and its own unique identity creates something special. ## **Slovenia** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/shutterstock_2596198121.jpg "Beautiful,Slovenian,Alpine,Landscape,Featuring,The,Small,Sveti,Duh,Or - Couchsurfing Blog")Europe’s hidden gem that’s not so hidden anymore, but still manageable. Slovenia packs absurd natural beauty into a tiny country where everything stays accessible. The whole country is roughly the size of New Jersey, which means you can base yourself in Ljubljana and day-trip almost anywhere. Lake Bled’s fairytale castle island sits an hour away. The Julian Alps provide serious hiking. The Adriatic coast peeks in at the southwest corner. Caves, rivers, forests: all compact and connected. Infrastructure works smoothly. Buses link every town. Trains cover major routes. Roads stay well-maintained for those renting cars. Ljubljana’s old town walks easily in an afternoon but rewards longer stays with cafe culture and riverside hangouts. English fluency is high. Slovenia’s small population means locals learn multiple languages out of necessity. Tourism industry workers all speak English. Even outside tourist zones, you’ll find English speakers, especially among younger Slovenians. Safety never becomes a concern. Slovenia ranks as one of Europe’s safest countries. The crime rate sits low. Solo travelers feel comfortable everywhere. The biggest risk involves overindulging in excellent wine. The prices undercut Western Europe significantly while matching quality. Hostels cost half of what you’d pay in Italy or Austria next door. Restaurant meals satisfy for €10-15. Even Ljubljana, the capital, stays affordable compared to other European capitals. **What makes it travel-friendly:** Stunning landscapes without the hassle of huge countries. Friendly locals who welcome visitors. Infrastructure that functions efficiently. Enough tourism development to make things easy without turning into Disneyland. Plus, it borders Italy, Austria, Hungary, and Croatia, perfect for multi-country trips. ## **Japan** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/shutterstock_2695613025.jpg "Narai-juku,,Nagano,,Japan,Historic,Post,Town,Along,The,Nakasendo,Historic - Couchsurfing Blog")Japan should intimidate first-time visitors more than it does. Instead, it’s weirdly easy once you figure out the basics. The transportation system is legendary. Trains everywhere, always on time, clean and efficient. The Japan Rail Pass makes unlimited travel affordable for tourists. In cities, metros navigate logically with color-coded lines and English signs. Even the buses make sense once you learn the payment system. Language barriers exist, Japanese people’s English levels vary widely. But the tourism infrastructure compensates. Signs include English. Translation apps work well. Japanese people’s helpfulness when you look lost borders on comical, they’ll often walk you directly to your destination rather than just point. Safety exceeds almost anywhere else. You could leave your laptop on a cafe table and return an hour later to find it untouched. Violent crime barely registers. Streets feel safe any time of day. Vending machines on dark corners don’t get vandalized. It’s kind of surreal. The culture of service means things function smoothly. Restaurants, hotels, trains, shops: everything runs with consideration for user experience. Toilets have more features than your phone. Convenience stores sell legitimate food. The obsession with doing things properly benefits travelers constantly. Technology integration helps navigation. Free WiFi in many areas. Mobile hotspot rentals at airports. Apps for everything: trains, subways, restaurant reservations, translation. The tech-forward culture makes traveling easier despite language gaps. **What makes it travel-friendly:** Systems that work flawlessly. Safety you don’t even think about. Food from $5 convenience stores to Michelin stars. Cultural experiences from ancient temples to robot restaurants. The mix of traditional and modern creates constant interest. Yes, it’s expensive compared to Southeast Asia, but budget options exist everywhere. ## **Singapore** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/shutterstock_2734803931.jpg "Singapore,Skyline,At,The,Marina,During,Twilight. - Couchsurfing Blog")The easiest city-state on earth for travelers. Singapore functions like someone designed a place specifically to make visiting simple. English is an official language. Everyone speaks it. Signs, announcements, menus are all in English plus Chinese, Malay, and Tamil. Zero language barrier stress. The transportation system is pristine. The MRT (metro) connects everything. Buses supplement where trains don’t reach. Taxis and Grab cars cost little. Everything’s clean, air-conditioned, and runs exactly on schedule. First-time visitors figure it out in minutes. Safety is absolute. Singapore’s laws are famously strict, which means crime stays virtually nonexistent. Solo travelers of any type feel totally comfortable. The most dangerous thing you’ll encounter is overeating at hawker centers. The food scene delivers incredible variety. Hawker centers serve Chinese, Malay, Indian, and fusion dishes for $3-5 per meal. Michelin-starred street food stalls exist. High-end dining represents every cuisine imaginable. It’s a food paradise at all price levels. The city itself stays spotlessly clean and well-maintained. Parks everywhere. Gardens by the Bay looks like science fiction. The waterfront areas mix old and new architecture beautifully. Everything’s walkable despite the heat and humidity. **What makes it travel-friendly:** Zero friction in daily logistics. Cultural diversity means food and neighborhood variety. English everywhere. Perfect base for exploring Southeast Asia with cheap flights to everywhere. Yes, Singapore’s expensive by regional standards, but hawker centers keep food costs down. Hostels exist in reasonable price ranges. Most attractions are free or cheap. ## **Iceland** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/shutterstock_2519750123.jpg "Reykjavik,,Capital,City,In,Iceland,In,Winter,At,Evening - Couchsurfing Blog")Remote island in the North Atlantic that’s somehow become one of the most accessible destinations. Iceland makes experiencing raw nature surprisingly easy. The tourism infrastructure developed rapidly and intelligently. Rental cars make sense for exploring, but organized tours reach everything if you don’t drive. Roads stay well-maintained. Gas stations dot even remote areas. Mobile coverage works almost everywhere. English proficiency is universal. Every Icelander speaks it fluently. No language barrier whatsoever. Signs include English. Menus, museums, everything: zero communication stress. Safety ranks extremely high. Iceland’s crime rate barely registers. The biggest dangers involve nature, weather changes fast, ocean waves surprise people, geothermal areas have actual boiling water. Respect nature warnings and you’re fine. The landscapes deliver constant amazement. Waterfalls everywhere. Glaciers, volcanoes, hot springs, black sand beaches, Northern Lights in winter, midnight sun in summer. The whole island feels otherworldly. Most attractions are free, nature doesn’t charge admission. The Ring Road circles the entire island, making navigation simple. Major sights sit right off this main highway. Even remote places stay accessible with decent planning. **What makes it travel-friendly:** Nature experiences without jungle trekking or dangerous wildlife. Infrastructure that works despite remote locations. English everywhere. Safe for solo travelers. Clear tourist trail but still feels adventurous. The downside: it’s expensive. Very expensive. But camping, self-catering, and choosing your splurges carefully makes it manageable. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-5-most-travel-friendly-places-on-earth/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-5-most-travel-friendly-places-on-earth/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Guides **Tags:** backpacking, iceland, singapore, traveling --- ### [10 Tourist Sites That Actually Live Up to the Hype](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-tourist-sites-that-actually-live-up-to-the-hype/) **Published:** May 20, 2026 **Author:** Mike Joy **Excerpt:** These ten sites deliver on the hype. They're worth the crowds, worth the photos everyone's already seen, worth organizing your trip around. Plus, they're all in places with strong Couchsurfing communities and reasonable budgets, which means you can actually afford to go and connect with locals who'll show you the non-touristy sides of these touristy places. **Content:** Tourist traps exist. We all know this. That famous landmark turns out to be smaller, more crowded, and less impressive than the photos suggested. The “must-see” attraction drains your wallet and delivers disappointment. But some places earn their reputation honestly. They’re famous because they’re genuinely incredible. Yeah, they’re packed with tourists and plastered across Instagram, but experiencing them in person still hits different. These ten sites deliver on the hype. They’re worth the crowds, worth the photos everyone’s already seen, worth organizing your trip around. Plus, they’re all in places with strong Couchsurfing communities and reasonable budgets, which means you can actually afford to go and connect with locals who’ll show you the non-touristy sides of these touristy places. ## **1. Angkor Wat – Siem Reap, Cambodia** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/shutterstock_2624964381.jpg "Exterior,View,Of,Angkor,Wat,At,Sunset - Couchsurfing Blog")**Why it lives up to the hype:** The largest religious monument in the world, built in the 12th century, sprawling across 400 acres of jungle. Angkor Wat itself is just one temple in a massive complex of ruins where nature and ancient architecture blend into something genuinely magical. Sunrise at Angkor Wat is touristy for a reason. Watching the sun emerge behind those towers reflected in the water pools actually delivers. But the real magic happens exploring lesser-known temples in the complex where you’ll find yourself alone with 800-year-old carvings, tree roots consuming stone walls, and the kind of atmosphere that makes you understand why people travel. Beyond the main temple, Ta Prohm (where trees grow through ruins) and Bayon (with its massive stone faces) offer completely different vibes. You could spend three days exploring and barely scratch the surface. **Getting there:** Fly into Siem Reap International Airport (REP). Direct connections from Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, and major Asian cities. From Phnom Penh, buses run regularly for $10-15, taking about 6 hours. **Cost:** One-day temple pass is $37, trust us it’s worth it. Three-day temple pass costs $62. Tuk-tuk drivers charge $15-20 daily to take you around the complex. Bicycle rental runs $2-3 daily if you’re feeling ambitious in the heat. Overall budget: $25-40 daily including accommodation, food, and temples. **When to visit:** November to March offers cooler, dry weather. April and May are scorching. June to October brings rain but fewer crowds and dramatic skies. Sunrise crowds are worst December-February, but even then, walking 15 minutes from the main viewing spot gets you away from the masses. **Local tip:** Skip the main sunrise spot. Locals and experienced hosts know better viewpoints with fewer people. Ask your Couchsurfing host for alternatives. ## **2. Machu Picchu – Cusco, Peru** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/shutterstock_2606982311-2.jpg "Aerial,View,Of,Machu,Picchu,In,The,Peruvian,Andes - Couchsurfing Blog")**Why it lives up to the hype:** A 15th-century Incan city perched on a mountain ridge 8,000 feet up, surrounded by peaks and often shrouded in mist. The engineering alone is mind-blowing. The setting is genuinely breathtaking. The history is fascinating. It delivers on every level. Yes, it’s crowded. Yes, everyone’s been there. But standing in those ancient plazas, watching clouds roll through the valleys below, seeing how precisely the stones fit together without mortar, you understand why it’s one of the New Seven Wonders. Some places earn iconic status by being genuinely incredible. This is one. The journey there matters too. Whether you trek the Inca Trail, take the cheaper alternative treks, or ride the train, arriving at Machu Picchu feels earned. The site itself rewards exploration. Hire a guide for context, then wander on your own finding quiet corners. **Getting there:** Fly into Cusco (CUZ) via Lima. From Cusco, it’s either a 4-day Inca Trail trek (permits required, book months ahead), alternative treks like Salkantay (cheaper, permits easier), or train to Aguas Calientes then bus up. Budget option: take buses and walk part of the train route to save money. **Cost:** Entrance ticket $50-65 depending on circuit. Train from Cusco/Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes runs $55-85 each way (local trains cheaper but harder to book). Bus from Aguas Calientes up to the site costs $12 each way, or walk it in 90 minutes. Overall budget in Cusco: $30-50 daily. Add $150-200 for Machu Picchu day trip via train. **When to visit:** May to September is dry season (peak tourist time). April and October offer shoulder season deals with decent weather. November to March is rainy but cheaper and less crowded. Early morning visits beat afternoon crowds year-round. Keep in mind the Inca Trail is closed in February due to rain, maintenance and conservation. **Local tip:** Stay overnight in Aguas Calientes to catch the first bus up and experience the site before the train groups arrive. Your Couchsurfing hosts can help plan the most affordable route. ## **3. Hagia Sophia – Istanbul, Turkey** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/shutterstock_2672051955.jpg "Aerial,View,Of,Hagia,Sophia,Mosque,(ayasofya,Cami) - Couchsurfing Blog")**Why it lives up to the hype:** A building that was the world’s largest cathedral for a thousand years, became a mosque, then a museum, now a mosque again. The history layered in these walls spans Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman empires. Walking inside, the scale hits you immediately. The massive dome seems to float. Light streams through windows. Christian mosaics coexist with Islamic calligraphy. The architecture influenced religious buildings for centuries. Photos don’t capture the feeling of standing in a space this significant, this old, this beautiful. It’s free now that it’s a functioning mosque again, though non-Muslims can only visit outside prayer times. The nearby Blue Mosque, Basilica Cistern, and Topkapi Palace create a full day of incredible history all within walking distance. **Getting there:** Fly into Istanbul Airport (IST) or Sabiha Gokcen (SAW). Metro connects both to the city center. From the airport to Sultanahmet (old city), figure 60-90 minutes. Within the city, trams and metro go everywhere. **Cost:** Hagia Sophia is free. Most major mosques are free. Museums charge $10-20 admission. Overall daily budget: $25-40 including accommodation and food. Istanbul offers incredible value for a major global city. **When to visit:** April-May and September-October offer the best weather and manageable crowds. Summer (June-August) is hot and packed. Winter is cold but cheap and less crowded. Visit Hagia Sophia early morning or late afternoon to avoid peak tourist hours. **Local tip:** Your Couchsurfing host can explain the complex history better than guidebooks and show you the surrounding Byzantine ruins tourists walk past without noticing. ## **4. Petra – Wadi Musa, Jordan** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/shutterstock_2386645111.jpg "The,Ancient,Al-dayr,Monastery,In,Petra,,Jordan,During,The,Daytime - Couchsurfing Blog")**Why it lives up to the hype:** A city carved into rose-red cliffs by the Nabataeans 2,000 years ago, hidden in the desert, accessible through a dramatic narrow gorge. The Treasury facade emerging as you exit the Siq corridor justifies every Indiana Jones reference you’ve heard. But Petra is massive beyond that famous shot. The Monastery (bigger than the Treasury) requires climbing 800 steps but rewards with incredible views and fewer crowds. Royal Tombs, Roman theater, High Place of Sacrifice, you need multiple days to explore properly. The scale and preservation are remarkable. Walking through streets carved from solid rock, seeing the detail in facades, climbing to viewpoints overlooking the entire site, it exceeds expectations even for people who’ve seen a thousand photos. **Getting there:** Fly into Amman (AMM). From Amman to Wadi Musa, JETT buses run daily for about $12, taking 3-4 hours. Shared taxis and minibuses offer cheaper but less comfortable alternatives. Many travelers combine Petra with Wadi Rum desert. **Cost:** One-day entry: $70. Two-day: $85. Three-day: $100. Prices are high, but considering preservation costs and what you’re seeing, it’s worth it. Stay in Wadi Musa: budget hotels $15-25, hostels $10-15. Overall daily budget: $30-45 excluding entry ticket. **When to visit:** March-May and September-November offer the best weather. Summer (June-August) is brutally hot. Winter (December-February) can be cold but sees fewer tourists. Start exploring at opening time (6am) to avoid heat and crowds. **Local tip:** Bring snacks and lots of water. Food inside is expensive and limited. Comfortable shoes are essential. Your host can help arrange the cheapest transportation and recommend which areas to prioritize if you’re only doing one day. ## **5. Taj Mahal – Agra, India** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/shutterstock_2387591325.jpg "Taj,Mahal,Is,A,White,Marble,Mausoleum,On,The,Bank - Couchsurfing Blog")**Why it lives up to the hype:** The most beautiful building on earth according to many who’ve seen it in person. Emperor Shah Jahan built it as a mausoleum for his wife in the 1600s. The white marble, the symmetry, the inlay work, the scale, it’s architectural perfection. Seeing it in photos your whole life doesn’t diminish the impact of seeing it in person. The proportions, the way light changes the marble’s color throughout the day, the craftsmanship visible up close, it’s one of those rare monuments that exceeds expectations rather than disappoints. Sunrise visits offer the best light and fewer crowds. The reflecting pools create iconic shots, but walking around the structure seeing the detailed marble inlay work reveals the real artistry. **Getting there:** Fly into Delhi (DEL), then train to Agra (2-3 hours, $5-20 depending on class). Buses run frequently for similar prices but take longer. Many visitors do sunrise at Taj Mahal, then return to Delhi same day. Agra airport exists but limited domestic flights. **Cost:** Taj Mahal entry: $15 for foreigners (Indians pay less). Open sunrise to sunset except Fridays. Agra Fort (also incredible): $8. Overall daily budget in Agra: $20-35 including accommodation and food. India offers extreme budget travel value. **When to visit:** October-March offers pleasant weather. Summer (April-June) is scorching. Monsoon (July-September) brings rain but fewer crowds and dramatic skies. Sunrise visits require arriving by 6am, but worth it for the light and manageable crowds. **Local tip:** Full moon nights, they open for night viewing (extra ticket required, limited availability). Book ahead if your timing works. Your Delhi or Agra host can explain the fastest transportation options and help navigate the chaotic train station. ## **6. Iguazu Falls – Foz do Iguaçu, Brazil / Puerto Iguazú, Argentina** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/shutterstock_2705626929.jpg "Beautiful,View,To,Iguaçu,Falls,Waterfalls,In,Paraná,State,,Border - Couchsurfing Blog")**Why it lives up to the hype:** The most voluminous waterfall system on earth. Not one fall but 275 separate cascades stretching nearly 2 miles across the border between Brazil and Argentina. The sound alone is incredible. The mist creates rainbows. The scale makes Niagara look modest. The Brazilian side offers panoramic views of the entire system. The Argentine side puts you right in it with walkways extending to the edge of Devil’s Throat, where millions of gallons plunge 80 meters. Both sides deserve visits. The power of that much water moving that fast, the jungle setting, the wildlife, it’s nature at its most dramatic. Eleanor Roosevelt supposedly said “Poor Niagara” upon seeing Iguazu. That quote captures it. **Getting there:** Fly into Foz do Iguaçu (IGU) on Brazilian side or Puerto Iguazú (IGR) on Argentine side. Both airports connect to São Paulo, Buenos Aires, and regional cities. Buses run between the towns and to the park entrances frequently for $3-5. **Cost:** Brazilian park entry: $20. Argentine park entry: $25. Two-day Argentine pass: $35. Overall daily budget: $30-45. The region is affordable for South America. Hostels run $10-18. Street food and local restaurants stay cheap. **When to visit:** March-May and August-October offer the best balance of water volume and weather. June-July is cooler but lower water. December-February is hot and crowded but highest water volume. Avoid Easter and Brazilian holidays when parks get packed. **Local tip:** Stay on the Argentine side (cheaper accommodation) and visit both parks. Your host can explain the border crossing process, help with transportation, and recommend the best trails and times to avoid crowds. ## **7. Bagan Temples – Bagan, Myanmar** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/shutterstock_2615234763.jpg "Valley,Of,The,Temples,In,Bagan,,Myanmar - Couchsurfing Blog")**Why it lives up to the hype:** Over 2,000 Buddhist temples and stupas scattered across plains, built between the 11th and 13th centuries. Sunrise hot air balloons floating over ancient temples with mist in the valleys creates one of the most striking landscapes on earth. You can explore by e-bike, stopping at whichever temples call to you. Some are massive and tourist-filled. Others are small, abandoned, and completely empty. Climbing certain temples for sunset views, wandering through ancient corridors, seeing the sheer number of structures spread across miles, it’s genuinely magical. The balloon rides are expensive but worth it if you can swing it. Even from ground level, watching balloons drift over temples at sunrise delivers. **Getting there:** Fly into Mandalay (MDL) or Yangon (RGN), then bus to Bagan (8-9 hours from Yangon, 5-6 from Mandalay, both around $10-20). Domestic flights to Nyaung U airport near Bagan run $50-100 and save significant time. Some travelers take the boat from Mandalay (full day, beautiful but slow). **Cost:** Bagan Archaeological Zone entry: $25 for 5 days. E-bike rental: $3-5 daily. Hot air balloon: $300-400 (splurge but incredible). Overall daily budget: $25-40 including accommodation and food. Myanmar offers excellent value despite recent tourism changes. **When to visit:** November-February offers the best weather (cool and dry). March-May is scorching. June-October is monsoon season (fewer tourists, lower prices, but rain disrupts plans). Sunrise balloon season runs October-March. **Local tip:** Wake up early for sunrise, rest during midday heat, explore again at sunset. Your host can recommend lesser-known temples and help arrange e-bike rentals and balloon bookings. ## **8. Dubrovnik Old Town – Dubrovnik, Croatia** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/shutterstock_2686044349.jpg "Dubrovnik,Old,Town,Cityscape,With,Cathedral,And,Red,Roofs - Couchsurfing Blog")**Why it lives up to the hype:** A perfectly preserved medieval walled city jutting into the Adriatic Sea. Marble streets, baroque buildings, the city walls offering views of terracotta roofs and blue water, it’s genuinely stunning. Yes, Game of Thrones tourism exploded here. Yes, cruise ships dump thousands of tourists daily. But walk those walls at sunrise before the crowds arrive and you understand why UNESCO protects it. The architecture, the setting, the history, it delivers. Beyond the obvious tourist spots, exploring the walls thoroughly, finding quiet corners in the early morning, and swimming at the beaches just outside the old town show you why people fall in love with this place. **Getting there:** Fly into Dubrovnik (DBV). Direct flights from most European cities. Buses connect to Split (4.5 hours, $15-25), Zagreb (10 hours, $30-45), and other Balkan cities. Ferries run to nearby islands and up the coast. **Cost:** Old Town entry is free. City walls: $35 (worth it for the views). Museums charge $5-15. Daily budget: $40-60. Croatia isn’t as cheap as it used to be, but still reasonable by Western European standards. Accommodation in or near Old Town is pricey; Couchsurfing becomes especially valuable here. **When to visit:** May-June and September-October offer the best balance of weather and crowds. July-August brings heat, crowds, and high prices (especially when cruise ships dock). November-April sees few tourists but many businesses close. **Local tip:** Visit city walls at 8am opening to avoid crowds and heat. Your host can show you local beaches, recommend restaurants away from touristy Stradun street, and explain the best times to explore without cruise ship hordes. ## **9. Borobudur Temple – Yogyakarta, Indonesia** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/shutterstock_2704492645.jpg "Aerial,View,Of,Borobudur,Temple,In,Central,Java,,Indonesia.,Ancient - Couchsurfing Blog")**Why it lives up to the hype:** The world’s largest Buddhist monument, built in the 9th century, rising from the jungle in central Java. Nine stacked platforms topped by a central dome, covered in relief panels and Buddha statues. Sunrise here rivals Angkor Wat for atmosphere. The design represents Buddhist cosmology, you ascend through levels representing the path to enlightenment. The stone carvings tell stories. The whole structure radiates intentionality and meaning beyond just being impressive architecture. Combine it with nearby Prambanan (Hindu temple complex) and you’ve got two UNESCO World Heritage sites in one region. The surrounding countryside, traditional villages, and Javanese culture add layers beyond the monuments themselves. **Getting there:** Fly into Yogyakarta (JOG). Connections from Jakarta, Bali, and other Indonesian cities. From Jogja center to Borobudur: 1.5 hours by bus ($3-5) or arranged transport. Most visitors do sunrise tours (leave Jogja at 3:30am). **Cost:** Borobudur sunrise ticket: $30. Regular entry: $25. Prambanan: $25. Combined tickets offer slight savings. Daily budget in Jogja: $20-35 including accommodation and food. Indonesia remains incredibly affordable. **When to visit:** April-October is dry season (best weather). November-March brings rain but fewer crowds and green landscapes. Sunrise visits require 4:30am arrival. During Vesak (Buddhist holiday, usually May), special ceremonies happen, check dates if you’re interested in that experience. **Local tip:** Skip organized sunrise tours if you can. Arrange shared transport with your host or other Couchsurfers for much cheaper. Stay afterward to explore when tour groups leave. Your host can explain the symbolism that tourist guides rush through. ## **10. Tikal National Park – Flores, Guatemala** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/shutterstock_2475743785.jpg "Tikal,National,Park,Located,In,Guatemala - Couchsurfing Blog")**Why it lives up to the hype:** Massive Mayan temples rising from Guatemala’s jungle, some still partially buried under vegetation. Climb Temple IV and stand above the rainforest canopy with temple peaks emerging through the trees. Howler monkeys provide the soundtrack. It’s Indiana Jones level adventure. The scale surprises people. Tikal was a major city, and the ruins spread across miles of jungle. You can explore for full days, discovering temples and plazas tourists skip. Wildlife is everywhere, monkeys, toucans, coatis, maybe even a jaguar if you’re incredibly lucky. Unlike some archaeological sites that feel like outdoor museums, Tikal feels like exploration. The jungle setting, the wildlife, the fact that many structures aren’t fully excavated, it maintains a sense of discovery. **Getting there:** Fly into Flores (FRS) from Guatemala City. Buses from Antigua take 8-10 hours overnight ($20-30). From Flores to Tikal: 1 hour by shuttle ($10-15 round trip) or chicken bus ($5 round trip but less comfortable). Many stay in Flores and day-trip to Tikal. **Cost:** Tikal entry: $20. Sunrise entry: $30 (requires 4am arrival but worth it). Daily budget around Flores/Tikal: $25-40. Guatemala offers excellent budget travel value. Flores accommodation ranges from $8 hostels to $25 hotels. **When to visit:** November-April is dry season (best for hiking and wildlife spotting). May-October brings rain but fewer tourists and dramatic jungle atmosphere. Sunrise visits offer the best wildlife activity and that famous view of temples emerging from morning mist. **Local tip:** Stay overnight at one of the lodges near the park entrance to catch sunrise without 3am departure from Flores. Or coordinate with your host and other travelers to share early morning transportation costs. Bring bug spray. The mosquitoes are serious. ## **Why These Places Work** Notice the pattern? These sites became famous for legitimate reasons. The hype isn’t manufactured marketing. They’re genuinely special. But experiencing them well requires strategy. Go at the right times, stay longer than one rushed visit, connect with locals who know how to avoid crowds, and approach them as cultural and historical sites rather than just photo opportunities. That’s where Couchsurfing becomes valuable. Hosts in these destinations have seen the tourist patterns. They know when cruise ships arrive in Dubrovnik, which Bagan temples stay empty, how to experience Machu Picchu without the crowds, when to visit Petra to beat the heat. They also provide context guidebooks miss. The history behind Hagia Sophia’s architectural evolution. The cultural significance of Borobudur beyond “cool temple.” The geopolitical complexity of living on the Brazil-Argentina border. That local knowledge transforms visiting famous places into understanding them. Plus, Couchsurfing solves the budget problem. These destinations aren’t dirt cheap (entry fees add up), but connecting with hosts for free accommodation makes them accessible on backpacker budgets. You spend money on the experience rather than just surviving. So pick one. Book a flight. Find a host. Experience something genuinely incredible that lives up to every photo you’ve seen and exceeds expectations you didn’t know you had. Some places earn their fame honestly. These ten did. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-tourist-sites-that-actually-live-up-to-the-hype/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-tourist-sites-that-actually-live-up-to-the-hype/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Advice **Tags:** backpacking, couchsurfing, travel --- ### [5 Multi-Day Treks That'll Change Your Life](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/5-multi-day-treks-thatll-change-your-life/) **Published:** May 27, 2026 **Author:** Mike Joy **Content:** There’s hiking, and then there’s trekking. Hiking is a day out with some views. Trekking is committing days or weeks to walking through landscapes that rewire how you see the world. Multi-day treks push you. Your feet hurt. Your pack feels heavier each day. You smell terrible. You’re tired, sore, and completely removed from normal life. And somehow that discomfort cracks you open in ways comfortable travel never does. These five treks deliver transformative experiences. They’re famous because they’re genuinely incredible, not because marketing sold them well. Yeah, you’ll meet other trekkers. But walking for days through mountains, jungles, or deserts creates something Instagram can’t capture. Plus, they’re all accessible from places with strong Couchsurfing communities, which means you can base before and after the trek with locals who know the logistics inside out. #### **1. Inca Trail to Machu Picchu – Peru** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/shutterstock_320599586.jpg "Machu,Picchu,Illuminated,By,The,Last,Sunlight.,The,Inca's,City - Couchsurfing Blog")**Why it’s worth it:** Four days following stone paths built by the Incas, crossing mountain passes over 13,000 feet, passing through cloud forest, seeing ruins tourists skip, and arriving at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate at sunrise. The destination is incredible, but the journey there makes it meaningful. The trail itself is beautiful. Mountain views, Inca ruins at campsites, the sense of following the same route people walked 500 years ago. Porter teams carry your gear and cook meals, so you just walk. The camaraderie with your trekking group, the challenge of Dead Woman’s Pass, the moment Machu Picchu appears through morning mist after four days of walking toward it, it delivers completely. **Distance and duration:** 26 miles over 4 days, 3 nights camping. **Difficulty:** Moderate to challenging. Altitude is the biggest factor. The second day climbs to 13,828 feet. If you can walk uphill for several hours with a daypack, you can do this. Fitness helps but determination matters more. **Base city:** Cusco has a massive, active Couchsurfing community. Hosts help with acclimatization advice, recommend tour operators, and often let trekkers leave extra luggage during the trek. Weekly events and hiking groups happen constantly. **Permits and logistics:** Only 500 people daily allowed (including porters and guides). Book 3-6 months ahead, especially for May-September. You must go with a licensed operator. Costs range from $550-800 for budget operators to $1,500+ for luxury. Price includes permits, guide, porters, food, camping gear, and Machu Picchu entry. **Best time:** May-September is dry season (peak time). April and October offer shoulder season with fewer people. November-March is rainy season, trail closes in February for maintenance. **What you need:** Good fitness, acclimatize in Cusco for 2-3 days minimum, solid hiking boots, layers for all weather, headlamp, water purification. Altitude medication helps many people. **Couchsurfing connection:** Cusco hosts often connect trekkers doing the trail at similar times. Some organize group treks through operators they trust. The community provides invaluable local knowledge about which operators treat porters fairly and offer the best experience for budget. #### **2. Annapurna Circuit – Nepal** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/shutterstock_2713124921.jpg "Blurred,Rear,View,Of,A,Woman,Traveler,Looking,At,Machapuchare - Couchsurfing Blog")**Why it’s worth it:** Two to three weeks circumnavigating the Annapurna massif, crossing the 17,769-foot Thorong La pass, experiencing every ecosystem from subtropical jungle to high alpine desert. Hindu and Buddhist villages, mountain views that don’t quit, tea houses every few hours, and a sense of accomplishment that comes from walking across the Himalayas. The circuit shows you rural Nepal. Village life, farming terraces, monasteries, diverse ethnic groups, and hospitality culture that welcomes trekkers genuinely. The mountains are spectacular, but the cultural immersion and variety make it special. Each day brings different landscapes and villages. **Distance and duration:** 100-145 miles depending on route variations. 12-21 days depending on pace and side trips. **Difficulty:** Moderate. The altitude is serious but you acclimatize gradually. Long days (6-8 hours walking) require endurance more than technical skill. Thorong La day is tough but manageable if you’ve acclimatized properly. **Base cities:** Kathmandu and Pokhara both have active Couchsurfing communities. Hosts help organize gear, explain current trail conditions, connect you with other trekkers, and often host you after for recovery and celebration. Some trekkers base in Pokhara for training hikes before starting. **Permits and logistics:** TIMS card and Annapurna Conservation Area permit required (total around $30-40). You can trek independently or hire guides/porters. Tea houses along the route provide accommodation ($3-5 per night) and food ($15-25 daily). Total trek cost: $400-800 depending on your comfort level and whether you hire support. **Best time:** October-November offers the best weather and visibility. March-May is spring trekking season with rhododendrons blooming. December-February is possible but cold at high elevations. June-September is monsoon (skip it). **What you need:** Good endurance, acclimatize in Kathmandu/Pokhara, comfortable boots, layers for extreme temperature variation, sleeping bag, water purification. Altitude awareness is critical. **Couchsurfing connection:** Kathmandu and Pokhara hosts often trek themselves and provide up-to-date trail information. Many organize pre-trek meetups where trekkers meet, share gear, and form groups. The community includes Nepalis and long-term expats who know the trails intimately. #### **3. Tour du Mont Blanc – France, Italy, Switzerland** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/shutterstock_2557814051-1.jpg "Two,Hikers,Are,Heading,To,The,Aiguilles,De,La,Penaz - Couchsurfing Blog")**Why it’s worth it:** 110 miles circumnavigating Western Europe’s highest peak, crossing through three countries, staying in mountain refuges, experiencing Alpine culture, and walking through landscapes that defined mountaineering history. The infrastructure is incredible, the food is amazing, and the views rival anywhere on earth. Each day brings different valleys, different cultures, different languages. French alpine villages give way to Italian hamlets, then Swiss efficiency. The route stays high, offering constant mountain panoramas. Unlike many treks, the food and accommodation are legitimately good, not just survival-level. **Distance and duration:** 110 miles over 7-11 days depending on pace and route variations. **Difficulty:** Moderate to challenging. Long days with significant elevation gain and loss (up to 5,000+ feet daily). Good fitness required but no technical climbing. The trail is well-marked and maintained. **Base cities:** Chamonix (France) and Geneva (Switzerland, 1 hour away) have active Couchsurfing communities. Hosts help with logistics, transportation to trailheads, and storing extra gear. The outdoor community in Chamonix particularly embraces Couchsurfing culture. **Permits and logistics:** No permits needed. You can hike independently but book refuges (mountain huts) ahead in summer. Refuge costs: $40-70 per night including dinner and breakfast. Camping is restricted in many areas. Transportation between countries requires planning. Total cost: $800-1,500 depending on accommodation choices. **Best time:** Late June-September. July-August is peak season (book refuges months ahead). June and September offer fewer crowds but some refuges are closed and snow may remain at high passes. **What you need:** Strong fitness, comfortable boots broken in completely, layers for all weather, good rain gear. Summer conditions but Alpine weather changes fast. Navigation skills helpful though trail marking is excellent. **Couchsurfing connection:** Chamonix hosts are often serious mountain people who can advise on current conditions, help with last-minute refuge bookings, and recommend route variations. Some hosts shuttle trekkers to starting points or retrieve them at endpoints. #### **4. W Trek, Torres del Paine – Chile** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/shutterstock_2496668577.jpg "Sunset,With,Cordillera,Paine,Seen,Over,Pehoé,Lake,,Torres,Del - Couchsurfing Blog")**Why it’s worth it:** Four to five days hiking through Patagonia’s most iconic landscapes. Massive granite towers, turquoise lakes, glaciers, guanacos everywhere, and weather that changes every hour. The W follows a route between refuges with viewpoints that justify every photo you’ve seen and then exceed them. Patagonia delivers on the hype. The Torres themselves, three granite towers rising vertically, are worth the trip alone. Add Grey Glacier, French Valley’s amphitheater of peaks, and Lago Nordenskjöld’s impossible blue water, and you’ve got constant visual overload in the best way. **Distance and duration:** 50 miles over 4-5 days, can extend to 7-9 days doing the full circuit. **Difficulty:** Moderate. Well-marked trails, no technical sections, but Patagonian wind is serious. Some days involve 6-8 hours of walking with elevation gain. Weather can be brutal (rain, wind, cold even in summer). **Base city:** Puerto Natales (gateway town) has a small but active Couchsurfing community. Hosts help organize gear rental, explain transportation to the park, connect trekkers for shared costs, and celebrate successful returns. Punta Arenas (3 hours away) has a larger community. **Permits and logistics:** Park entry: $35. You must book refuges or campsites ahead in high season (reserve 6+ months for December-February). Refuges cost $100-150 per night with meals. Camping costs $30-40 per night, you provide gear and food. Full camping trip costs around $500-700 including gear rental, food, and transportation. **Best time:** November-March is summer (only realistic time for most people). December-February is peak (book far ahead). November and March offer fewer crowds, lower prices, but more unpredictable weather. **What you need:** Excellent rain gear, windproof layers, good boots, high-quality tent if camping. Weather can be extreme. Physical fitness for long days with wind resistance. Mental toughness for potentially terrible weather. **Couchsurfing connection:** Puerto Natales hosts often trek regularly and provide current trail conditions, gear rental recommendations (which shops to trust), and honest advice about refuges versus camping. Many organize group departures to share transportation costs. #### **5. Laugavegur Trail – Iceland** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/shutterstock_2654922527.jpg "Landscapes:,Laugavegur,Trail,(,Landmannalaugar,–,Porsmork,55km,Distance),South - Couchsurfing Blog")**Why it’s worth it:** Three to four days through Iceland’s highlands between Landmannalaugar and Þórsmörk, experiencing geothermal areas, lava fields, glaciers, black sand deserts, and every color in nature’s palette. The landscapes feel otherworldly, volcanic and raw and unlike anywhere else. Hot springs at the start let you soak before trekking. The route crosses impossible terrain, multicolored mountains, snowfields in summer, rivers, green valleys. Each day brings completely different landscapes. The midnight sun in summer means hiking past normal bedtime while the sun circles the horizon. **Distance and duration:** 34 miles over 3-4 days. Can extend by adding Fimmvörðuháls trail to Skógar (2 more days). **Difficulty:** Moderate. The terrain is rough (volcanic rock, loose surfaces) but not technically difficult. River crossings can be challenging depending on conditions. Weather is the biggest challenge, wind, rain, cold possible even in summer. **Base city:** Reykjavik has a strong Couchsurfing community despite Iceland’s expense. Hosts help organize transportation to trailheads (expensive if not sharing), provide gear advice, and explain current conditions. Many hosts trek themselves and love sharing their country’s highlands. **Permits and logistics:** No permits but book mountain huts far ahead (they fill up months in advance). Hut costs: $50-75 per night. Camping next to huts: $20-30 per night. Bus transportation from Reykjavik to Landmannalaugar: $90-120 round trip. Total trek cost: $400-600 depending on accommodation and transportation sharing. **Best time:** Late June-early September only (snow closes route outside this window). July-August is peak season. Late June and September offer fewer people but potentially worse weather and some facilities may be closed. **What you need:** Serious rain and wind gear, warm layers, river crossing shoes, good tent if camping. Weather can be severe even in summer. Water is plentiful so less carrying needed. Navigation skills helpful as fog can reduce visibility to meters. **Couchsurfing connection:** Reykjavik hosts coordinate transportation sharing (the biggest expense), loan gear, and provide up-to-date trail condition reports. The community organizes group treks where experienced locals join, making logistics and safety easier. #### Why take a multi day trek? Multi-day treks leave a lasting mark in ways day hikes rarely can. As the days unfold, you fall into the simple rhythm of walking. Everyday distractions fade into the background, the challenge becomes almost meditative, and the landscapes stay with you long after you’ve returned home. Each of these ten treks offers something different—high-altitude endurance, technical terrain, cultural discovery, remote wilderness, or a journey rooted in tradition and pilgrimage. Yet they all share a common thread: they demand commitment, test your limits, and reward you with experiences that continue to shape your perspective long after the trek is over. The Couchsurfing community surrounding these routes provides more than practical advice. It connects you with people who understand the draw of the trail, who have faced the same anticipation before setting out, and who can offer guidance, encouragement, and stories from their own journeys. Choose the trek that speaks to you. Prepare for it. Connect with a host in the gateway town and fellow travelers along the way. Then dedicate those days—or weeks—to moving through extraordinary landscapes, embracing the challenge, and discovering what happens when you step away from the noise of everyday life. There will be difficult moments. Your legs will ache, the weather may test your resolve, and you’ll likely question your decision at least once. But you’ll also experience moments of awe, accomplishment, and connection that make every step worthwhile. That’s the power of a great trek—not because it’s easy, but because it transforms you. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/5-multi-day-treks-thatll-change-your-life/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/5-multi-day-treks-thatll-change-your-life/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Guides **Tags:** backpacking, couchsurfing, hike, travel, trekking --- ### [A Month In. Here’s What We’ve Been Up To.](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-month-in-heres-what-weve-been-up-to/) **Published:** June 12, 2026 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** You showed up. A lot of you. More than we expected, honestly. And with that came feedback. Some of it glowing. Some of it not. All of it is useful. We’ve spent the last month listening and building. This is what that looks like. #### The Growing Pains We knew this update would come with some bumps. We didn’t know everywhere they would show-up. Members ran into trouble logging in. Members who originally signed up with one email address saw their past contributions get tied to a different email address after logging in through one of the new login options. Some references were missing. We heard all of your feedback. So we got to work. Across login, subscriptions, references, and general platform performance. We have been shipping fixes continuously. The experience is a lot smoother than it was on day one. And there is still more on the way.. One of the reasons we rebuilt the platform from the ground-up was exactly for this reason: Issues that used to take months to fix can now take days. Sometimes hours. You’re seeing that in real time. #### What’s New Beyond the bug fixes, here are three things that are live or landing very soon. ***Member Events: Available now.*** Our goal has always been to make it easier for the Couchsurfing community to connect with one another. We’ve met some great friends at Couchsurfing events and have had some of the best times. Even the times we don’t remember all that well. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/image.png "image - Couchsurfing Blog")Member events are now easier to spot on the map, tagged to stand out in lists, and simple to filter for so that you don’t miss them. Curated events are a great way to find things to do with others, but community-hosted events should always be prioritized. We’ll keep working to make this better. ***Smarter Search: Available now.*** Finding the right host takes work, and we want to make it easier to connect with members. More messages that get responses. Less sending into the void. - Recently Active filter – Find members who are active on the platform. There is also a “Recently Active” tag to help you spot hosts even when you are not filtering. - References filter – Filter for members who have references from the community, so you can connect with more confidence. - Travelers – We’ve also sorted travelers by their trip dates (yeah, we couldn’t believe we missed that either ??‍♂️). - We also are constantly making changes to our search algorithm to help you find the right host. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/image-1.png "image-1 - Couchsurfing Blog")***Hosting Availability: Coming early next week.*** Take pauses from hosting and you won’t show when people are searching for hosts. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/image-1-1.png "image-1-1 - Couchsurfing Blog")Thank you for this feedback. Sincerely, every report filed, every piece of feedback sent, every forum post written – it all went somewhere. It went into this update. And it’s going into the next one. This community has always been built by the people in it. Keep it coming: [Couchsurfing Feedback Form](https://www.research.net/r/LZQZWKX) [Couchsurfing Bug Report Form](https://www.research.net/r/RPMGSBC) There are more improvements and new features coming. Make sure you’re on the latest version of the app to see everything that’s new. Check your app store to ensure you have the most recent version. See you out there, The Couchsurfing Team ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-month-in-heres-what-weve-been-up-to/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-month-in-heres-what-weve-been-up-to/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** News, News **Tags:** couchsurfing news, hosting, product update, relaunch --- ### [Chicago Couch Crash](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/chicago-couch-crash/) **Published:** July 15, 2026 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** **2026 ChicagoCrash Events** **Event Name/Type****Time****Organizer****CS Event Status****Notes/Link****ChicagoCrash 2026**Chicago CS CommunityPosted EventNEW LINK: [https://www.couchsurfing.com/c/events/3B3MLLmNMG0VbleAPUBAkS0vl35\_ho](https://www.couchsurfing.com/c/events/3B3MLLmNMG0VbleAPUBAkS0vl35_ho)**Thu Jul 16**Pre-Crash Meet and Greet8pmRoger & ShakibIn ProgressEmporium – 2363 N Milwaukee Ave [https://www.couchsurfing.com/c/events/3DQEghRiSBixrlw8xBXw8dMQg63\_ho](https://www.couchsurfing.com/c/events/3DQEghRiSBixrlw8xBXw8dMQg63_ho) Conversation and Dancing10PMPaul EPosted EventThe Charleston – 2076 N Hoyne Ave [https://www.couchsurfing.com/c/events/3Be118zosd6itt264pJJwmDLjQ5\_ho](https://www.couchsurfing.com/c/events/3Be118zosd6itt264pJJwmDLjQ5_ho) **Fri Jul 17**Welcome/Breakfast Event10AMRoger TPosted EventWildberry – 130 E Randolph St. [https://www.couchsurfing.com/c/events/3FCOvLNlQDGjXi7FNFB6SIhlPjC\_ho](https://www.couchsurfing.com/c/events/3FCOvLNlQDGjXi7FNFB6SIhlPjC_ho) Walking Tour3PMShakibPosted EventChicago Cultural Center – 78 E Washington St [https://www.couchsurfing.com/c/events/3FCHIkDt6niAt0FBjDZgB8DLFDF\_ho](https://www.couchsurfing.com/c/events/3FCHIkDt6niAt0FBjDZgB8DLFDF_ho) Tacos & Tamale Festival5PMYaizaIn ProgressDo your own souvenir, eat tacos tamales, PilsenBridgeport Art Walk7PMJames & JoshPosted EventBridgeport Art Center – 1200 W. 35th Street [https://www.couchsurfing.com/c/events/chicagocrash-2026-artwalk-3GTXDsFbUbUYKv491yfTafjJwoN\_ho](https://www.couchsurfing.com/c/events/chicagocrash-2026-artwalk-3GTXDsFbUbUYKv491yfTafjJwoN_ho?tab=organizing&latitude=41.92404&longitude=-87.71321&locationId=2v0hbIkxnzBAvPlA1wqlXIrqvMy_lc&hangoutSources=2)Afterparty Party10PMJames & JoshPosted EventMarias – [https://www.couchsurfing.com/c/events/chicagocrash-2026-after-party-at-marias-3GTW4kywQNxyEKCrgya8Bn0NxQ3\_ho](https://www.couchsurfing.com/c/events/chicagocrash-2026-after-party-at-marias-3GTW4kywQNxyEKCrgya8Bn0NxQ3_ho?latitude=41.8382&longitude=-87.6511&locationId=2pdzDyAsTzlHbThITldfbOYxJ4q_lc) **Sat Jul 18**Bike Ride Along Lake10AMJames HNot startedWater Taxi1PMShakibPosted Event[https://www.couchsurfing.com/c/events/3FCNaRnEmcamCkGmvh070MNA832\_ho](https://www.couchsurfing.com/c/events/3FCNaRnEmcamCkGmvh070MNA832_ho) China Town Walk2PMShakibPosted Event[https://www.couchsurfing.com/c/events/3FCO9pTqTzRUQxIMOvqS154nd4i\_ho](https://www.couchsurfing.com/c/events/3FCO9pTqTzRUQxIMOvqS154nd4i_ho) Beach Event3PMRachel KPosted Event[https://www.couchsurfing.com/c/events/chicagocrash-2026-beach-3FsfgpUoCl59wkLzkqoqkZJYbaz\_ho](https://www.couchsurfing.com/c/events/chicagocrash-2026-beach-3FsfgpUoCl59wkLzkqoqkZJYbaz_ho) Animals in the Zoo4PMJames HNot startedLincoln Park Zoo**C**hicago**C**rash **B**BQ6PMNEED 1 ASAPNot startedHumboldt Park? Montrose? Foster? ChicagoCrash – Saturday Fireworks Navy Pier10PMJackiePosted Event[https://www.couchsurfing.com/c/events/chicagocrash-saturday-fireworks-navy-pier-3FseYNk76M5ZApUkZqjZmyub5Xt\_ho](https://www.couchsurfing.com/c/events/chicagocrash-saturday-fireworks-navy-pier-3FseYNk76M5ZApUkZqjZmyub5Xt_ho) Not started**Sun Jul 19**Farewell Breakfast Event10AMMarwinPosted Event[https://www.couchsurfing.com/c/events/3GQB8ezj6ZlRPJq3H3e5bIOAoLK\_ho](https://www.couchsurfing.com/c/events/3GQB8ezj6ZlRPJq3H3e5bIOAoLK_ho) Not startedNot startedAlices Lounge – karaokeJackieIn ProgressPotentially move to Sat?Not started**2026 ChicagoCrash Calendar** [**\[Link Here\]**](https://calendar.google.com/calendar/u/0?cid=MWRjZWFhYmYzODNlYTZiZWU4OTFjN2MxZTkyNjQ2NDYyZTk4Y2U1NWY5OTVlNjE0ZTAyN2E4YmQzNTNiOWNkYkBncm91cC5jYWxlbmRhci5nb29nbGUuY29t) Screenshot Updated 2026-07-13 **Opener/Closer Potluck Events** Potluck description: Join us for a themed potluck, Couchcrash edition! Rather than everyone just bringing store-bought snacks and drinks, we want those of you with kitchen access to get creative! For our international visitors, please prepare either your fav dish from your country of origin, or one most representative of it. And rather than ending up with 20 people bringing hotdogs, cheeseburgers, and potato salad, we want you to prepare a dish from the LAST country you’ve been to or the NEXT one you plan to visit. You can make an entree, appetiser, dessert, or local drink! Just make sure to bring enough to share with many others and some tupperware for leftovers! And don’t forget relevant condiments, large knives, ladles, etc for your dish. Those without kitchens please put in the comments which of the following you can bring: disposable cups/plates/silverware; large non-alcoholic drinks; ice; cooler; fruit, napkins/trash bags; speaker; large blanket, flow toys, etc. Such people (non-cooking) should be willing to stay behind for clean-up. *Thoughts? Edit as needed. Dep on where it is/time idk if I can make it/host but I do think those instructions should be clear.* Opening EventClosing EventLatin DancingWater Taxi to ChinatownDim Sum in ChinatownDeep Dish & 606 WalkWelcome night at RecessPub CrawlRiverwalk TourFamily BreakfastLincoln Park Conservatory Botanical GardensAnimals in the ZooArtfestFunky Beats and DancingMexican FiestaBike RideThai FestivalEvent Ideas so far July 16: The Kickoff **Riverwalk Opening Mingle:** A casual hangout at the **233 E. Riverwalk** area to catch the sunset. **Latin Dancing Night:** Roger mentioned being open to hosting dancing events again, which would be a high-energy way to start. -Alt option - **Water Taxi to Chinatown: A budget-friendly way to see the skyline ($6).** - **Chinatown Exploration:** A classic budget food crawl. Roger specifically suggested a **Food Crawl** for local favorites. - **The “L” Experience:** John’s idea to ride the Loop and Brown Line for the best architecture views. (China town to event) - - **Taste of River North:** This festival officially starts today at **5:00 PM** (River North neighborhood). It’s free to enter and has great live music. - **Kingston Mines Blues Night:** A late-night option to experience authentic Chicago blues. - **Riverwalk History Tour:** A free walking tour of the main branch of the Chicago River. - **Lincoln Park Zoo & Conservatory:** Lynette suggested a tour of the Lincoln Park Zoo, which is completely free. - **Taste of River North (Day 2):** Open from **11:00 AM – 10:00 PM** with more live performances. - **Picnic & Volleyball Tournament:** Roger suggested a park picnic with volleyball or frisbee—ideal for a budget afternoon. - **Sheffield Music Festival & Garden Walk:** A North Side alternative (Lincoln Park) with indie music and garden tours. - **Navy Pier Fireworks:** A free show at 9:00 PM to wrap up the night. - **James & Mido’s Lakefront Bike Ride:** A scenic ride from the South Loop/Pilsen area up to the North Side. Roger also noted interest in **bike rides** ending with lake activities. - **Pilsen Mexican Fiesta:** Exploring the street art and authentic tacos in the South Loop/Pilsen area. - **Thai Festival:** Lynette highlighted this as a favorite from last year; it’s a great North Side cultural and music stop. - **The Grand Finale: BBQ & Potluck (3 PM – Close):** - **Location:** **Montrose Beach** (Rachel’s recommendation for better parking and space). - **Activities:** Swimming, sunset “vibe check,” and group grilling. ### **Volunteer Match-up (Based on Form Responses)** - **Roger:** Has a car and can help move supplies or provide rides. He can also provide **speakers and outdoor gear** for the beach BBQ or picnic. - **Lynette:** Can provide **folding chairs** for the beach or park events. - **Mido:** Interested in hosting—could be a great co-host for the “L” train tour or the bike ride. ## Getting Here and Getting Around **Plane** Chicago is served by two primary airports. Your choice will likely depend on your airline or your final destination within the city: - **O’Hare International Airport (ORD):** - **Best for:** International travelers and those flying[ United Airlines](https://www.united.com/) or[ American Airlines](https://www.aa.com/), as ORD is a major hub for both. - **Location:** 17 miles northwest of downtown. - **Transit:** The **CTA Blue Line** train runs 24/7 directly from the terminal to the Loop (approx. 45–60 mins). - **Midway International Airport (MDW):** - **Best for:** Domestic travelers looking for a smaller, easier-to-navigate airport. It is the primary hub for[ Southwest Airlines](https://www.southwest.com/). - **Location:** 8 miles southwest of downtown. - **Transit:** The **CTA Orange Line** train provides quick access to downtown (approx. 25–35 mins). Remember - **Best Time to Book:** Aim for **1–3 months in advance** for domestic flights. - **Cheapest Days:** Flying on **Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays** typically offers lower fares than busy Monday or Friday “business travel” days. **Bus** Chicago is lucky to have one of the best public transportation systems in the country, the [Chicago Transit Authority](https://www.transitchicago.com/) (CTA for short). You can buy a [Ventra Card](https://www.ventrachicago.com/howitworks/) at any CTA train station (like at the airport) or download the [Ventra Application](https://www.ventrachicago.com/app/) on your phone to tap and ride. Here’s a quick site that describes how to get around town. **Divvy Bikes / Lime Scooters** In Chicago, your main options for shared micromobility are Divvy (the city’s massive bike-share system) and Lime (e-scooters). Both systems are designed for short trips and integrated into the city’s transit network. **1. Divvy (Bikes & Scooters)** Divvy is the primary system in Chicago, operated by Lyft. It offers classic pedal bikes, e-bikes (black), and e-scooters (gray). - **How to Rent:** Use the **Divvy app** or the **Lyft app**. You can scan the QR code on the handlebars to unlock the vehicle. - **Pricing (2026 Rates):** - **Single Ride:** **$1.00** unlock fee + **$0.20/min** for classic bikes or **$0.44/min** for e-bikes/scooters. - **Day Pass:** **$19.90** for unlimited 3-hour rides on classic bikes (e-bikes/scooters still have per-minute fees). ### **2. Lime (Scooters Only)** Lime operates independently but follows similar city-wide regulations. Their scooters are typically green and white. - **How to Rent:** Use the **Lime app** or the **Uber app**. - **Pricing:** Generally mirrors Divvy’s non-member pricing (~$1 unlock + ~$0.44/min), but check the app for “LimePrime” passes which can waive unlock fees. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/chicago-couch-crash/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/chicago-couch-crash/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Crashes, Invasions and More! --- ### [My Couchsurfing Story](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/my-couchsurfing-story-2/) **Published:** March 14, 2024 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** By: [Holly](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/h0llypops) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/holly.jpeg "holly - Couchsurfing Blog")I can’t remember exactly the first time I heard the word Couchsurfing. I think it was the first time I travelled by myself in Europe, on the way to meet my best friend who was studying in Austria. I think it was at an airport bus stop. I was wishing I’d studied German instead of Spanish in high school, fumbling through a bus schedule leaflet. I thought the consequences of getting on the wrong bus were high enough to trot over and ask the only other person there if he knew which bus went towards Paracelsusstr, the area of the youth hostel I was to meet Susanna in. When he spoke we both realised we came on the same flight from Aberdeen. He smiled, reached in his jacket and took out a Salzburg guide book and gave it to me to look through. He asked if I was part of Couchsurfing. I shook my head, more focused on finding my bus. I was still looking at the book when my bus came, he waved me on the bus and told me to keep the book. As the bus doors closed, he told me he was working in a pub downtown and told me I could give the book back to him there. I never did find that pub, but the gift of a guidebook by a complete stranger touched me. It wasn’t until weeks later that I did a web search for Couchsurfing and made a profile – and since then Couchsurfing has been a constant background in my life. I’ve made friends and shared experiences on Couchsurfing through surfing, meet ups, house parties, hosting (where I could) in Scotland, England, Germany, Brazil, France, USA, New Zealand and Brazil. This may be stretching it a bit- but I recently got invited to go mushroom hunting for the first time (here in Northern California), which has opened my eyes to the wonders of mushrooms! – Couchsurfing feels to me like a giant friendly mushroom, an underground mycelium web that spreads for miles on miles and connects the world. Everywhere I go, I can log on to Couchsurfing and I trust I’ll find kind people with open minds who are willing to share life without expectations. Some of my close friends today I found on Couchsurfing, and despite not seeing them for (sometimes) years we are in regular touch- it doesn’t matter where we are in the world we are! The connection from our shared experiences is stronger than the bond of many other surface level interactions in my day-to-day working life. My favourite part of Couchsurfing is not one specific moment, but is more a gentle sense of belonging mostly around mundane activities – making and sharing coffee, wandering to the top of a library, meeting for picnics in the park. I’ve always felt welcomed, no matter where I come from, my time in the location, age, career, I’ve felt accepted for myself. And in a way Couchsurfing has allowed me to feel more myself. A gentle reminder that I do not need to follow the one straight path, but can make my own life journey and that whatever I choose, that there are good people out there and life will turn out alright! When I’m with people I meet on couch surfing it’s easy to ask the deep questions- to observe how other people live. I often feel after an evening together I’ve known the person for far more than one night. It’s often times the shared desire to learn, live, and love life. I can’t say I’ve had any negative experiences on Couchsurfing – or if I have the minor inconveniences have been dwarfed in the setting of the overall positive experience, the community feeling. I remember going to the Couchsurfing anniversary party on Ocean Beach, San Francisco in (?)2016, the many people who gathered. It felt like a big family. None of the awkwardness of a large party with people trying to impress or justify their words, but just people being themselves and genuine. This is a lot of what Couchsurfing means to me. I hope to continue to be part of the community wherever I am, whenever I am. I don’t think it’s something I will outgrow, because traveling and meeting people is such a core part of my identity ( thanks to Couchsurfing), and I’m grateful for that! On a solo-trip to Hawaii, I met a fellow Couchsurfer (Saji) and we hiked Stairway to Heaven ( Haiku Stairs) in Oahu! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/my-couchsurfing-story-2/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/my-couchsurfing-story-2/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Stories --- ### [My Unforgettable Couchsurfing Experience with Sasa Travels](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/my-unforgettable-couchsurfing-experience-with-sasa-travels/) **Published:** February 1, 2024 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** I had the absolute pleasure of hosting Sasa Travels from China through Couchsurfing, and it turned into a delightful experience filled with shared passions and memorable moments. Sasa and I quickly discovered our mutual love for food, and it became the perfect foundation for our Couchsurfing connection. As we explored the flavours of my Nepali cuisine, we decided to take our culinary adventure a step further and created our very first Nepali food reaction video on YouTube. The excitement and curiosity in Sasa’s eyes as she tasted traditional Nepali dishes for the first time were priceless. From Dhido and saag, Nepalese national food, to the aromatic spices of radish pickle and dried leafy vegetable pickle, we captured it all on camera. Sasa’s genuine reactions and eagerness to explore new tastes highlighted the beauty of cultural exchange through food. The experience wasn’t just about the food; it was about the bond we formed, the stories we shared, and the laughter that echoed through my home. Sasa’s openness to trying something new, her enthusiasm for sharing this adventure with the world, and our shared joy in celebrating our differences made this Couchsurfing encounter truly special. We posted our Nepali food reaction video on YouTube, and it was heart-warming to see the positive responses from viewers. Through Couchsurfing, not only did I gain a wonderful friend in Sasa Travels, but we also created a lasting memory that celebrates the spirit of connection, adventure, and the joy of shared experiences. It’s moments like these that make Couchsurfing an invaluable platform for genuine connections and cultural exchange, reminding us that the world is full of wonderful people waiting to share their stories, one meal at a time. Thank you, Couchsurfing, for making these beautiful experiences possible. To all fellow Couchsurfers, may you find the same warmth, friendship, and inspiration that I found in my Couchsurfing journey with Sasa Travels! [![Screenshot 2024-02-01 at 9.23.43 AM](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Screenshot-2024-02-01-at-9.23.43-AM.png)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Screenshot-2024-02-01-at-9.23.43-AM.png) ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/my-unforgettable-couchsurfing-experience-with-sasa-travels/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/my-unforgettable-couchsurfing-experience-with-sasa-travels/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Stories --- ### [The Couchsurfing Ambassador Program](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-ambassadors/) **Published:** October 23, 2019 **Author:** Mike Joy **Excerpt:** Ambassadors are the most active Couchsurfers in their local communities. They are living, breathing examples of our values and their generosity is instrumental in keeping the spirit of Couchsurfing alive. Read more about them here! **Content:** What is a Couchsurfing Ambassador? Simply put, Ambassadors are the most visible Couchsurfers in their local communities. They are living, breathing examples of our values and their generosity is instrumental in keeping the spirit of Couchsurfing alive. They have demonstrated that they are trustworthy and committed to helping grow and strengthen their local communities and have the upmost respect for Couchsurfing’s values, guidelines, and terms of use. They are truly the backbone of the Couchsurfing community. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/CSambsliveandbreathe.jpg "CSambsliveandbreathe - Couchsurfing Blog")What do they do? ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/AnnaritaProfile-1024x562.jpeg "AnnaritaProfile - Couchsurfing Blog")Three ambassadors celebrating Couchsurfing Annarita Ana and Jean Marc What don’t they do! To be an ambassador you have to demonstrate that you are extremely active on Couchsurfing, both on the site and off! Off-site they are organizing weekly meetings and fun excursions. They are spreading Couchsurfing to new members and new people who attend their events or just see them out in the wild. Beyond creating these amazing spaces for people to discover and dive deeper into Couchsurfing, they attend other amazing events, joining hangouts and are examples of what a true Couchsurfer is. On-site you can find them in groups and discussions, offering advice and help to members as needed! You may have gotten a welcome message from an Ambassador when you first joined Couchsurfing as well! Who are they? ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/screen-shot-2013-10-15-at-1-20-08-pm1.png "Screen Shot 2013-10-15 at 1.20.08 PM - Couchsurfing Blog") If you go to a weekly meeting or search for events in a city, chances are you will find an ambassador (or two!) They are spread all over the world, from Canada to Ethiopia to China to Guyana and many places in between. We are always looking for new incredible Couchsurfers to join the Ambassador program and encourage current Ambassadors to tap incredible active members to join the program. To meet a few of them, check out our series ‘[10 Questions with a Couchsurfing Ambassador.](http://10.9.0.204/category/all/community/ambassadors/)‘ Here ambassadors share their Couchsurfing experiences with us and tell us a little bit about themselves. Take a look and get to know the members that keep our spirit strong! How do I become an ambassador? ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Event-CS_FridayWeeklyMeeting2-1024x927.jpg "Event-CS_FridayWeeklyMeeting2 - Couchsurfing Blog")Niccolo Ambassador in Milan at a CS meeting Well, the first and most important thing to do is to be extremely active in your community! When selecting ambassadors, we look at a variety of factors, but primarily they need to be active in creating local events that connect and expand Couchsurfing. Whether that is a weekly or monthly meeting, hiking trips, beach clean-ups, or movie nights – an Ambassador does what an Ambassador does, represent Couchsurfing to the world and spread our message. We also want to see them active in hosting, hangouts, groups, or discussions. We require that potential ambassadors have been active members for at least a year, have more than 40 references, have created events for the past 12 months or hosted multiple travelers every month for the past 12 months, have no safety or commercial violations, and have plenty of positive feedback from the community! We also look for members who are interested in the future of Couchsurfing, and who can share their feedback in constructive, positive ways. Our ambassadors also must abide by our [community guidelines](http://about.couchsurfing.com/about/guidelines/) and live our [core values](http://about.couchsurfing.com/about/values/). If you want to become an ambassador and fit the criteria listed above, then get in touch with a current Couchsurfing Ambassador by searching for hosts in a city or country on the website and using the ‘Ambassador’ filter. They will review your profile and the program with you and share their findings with the Ambassador team here at CSHQ. If you don’t currently meet the event or safety requirements, take the next year to dive into Couchsurfing and then apply in 12 months! Happy Couchsurfing! ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/couchsurfingmadridpicnic.28-09-19-68-1024x684.jpg "couchsurfingmadridpicnic.28-09-19-68 - Couchsurfing Blog")### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-ambassadors/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-ambassadors/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Community, Community Updates, Featured **Tags:** ambassadors, couchsurfing, Couchsurfing Ambassador --- ### [My Couchsurfing Adventure in Rural India](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/my-couchsurfing-adventure-in-rural-india/) **Published:** November 30, 2023 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Screenshot-2023-11-30-at-9.52.26-AM.png "Screenshot-2023-11-30-at-9.52.26-AM - Couchsurfing Blog")Once upon a time, I dreamed of being a teacher. But life led me down different paths—I started in the world of computers, then became an organic farmer. Still, the dream of teaching lingered in my heart. As I traveled, I used Couchsurfing for short stays since 2014. It was during these travels that I thought, “Could someone on Couchsurfing help me find my way to becoming a teacher?” That’s when I discovered the magic of the “create a public trip” option. I posted about my dream on Couchsurfing, hoping to find guidance. To my surprise, in just a few days, a fellow Couchsurfer offered more than just a place to stay. They invited me to their village in North India, where they had a school. The catch? They wanted me to be a teacher in exchange for a place to stay—an opportunity for an entire year! ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/198662F3-3C3F-4E0E-8901-DAF5D0FC5403-1.jpg "198662F3-3C3F-4E0E-8901-DAF5D0FC5403-1 - Couchsurfing Blog")Curious and excited, I went to the village to get a feel for the place. The school was nestled away from the city, surrounded by vast farms where people grew sugarcane to make a living. The person hosting me was educated and had opened the school for the village children. Even though they didn’t earn much, it was their way of giving back—a true social service. The school welcomed kids from playgroup to 8th grade, a small but close-knit community. I decided to volunteer as a teacher, teaching subjects like computers, maths, and social studies. But it wasn’t just about teaching in the classroom; I also helped with administrative work. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Screenshot-2023-11-30-at-9.53.09-AM.png "Screenshot-2023-11-30-at-9.53.09-AM - Couchsurfing Blog")During my stay, I got the chance to experience the richness of local life—sampling delightful local foods, participating in lively weddings, and immersing myself in various cultural events. The weather, language, people’s mindset, and daily life were different from anything I had known. India, I discovered, is like a continent within itself, where every 300 kilometers brings a change in daily life, food, and language. The experience was unlike anything I had imagined. The village, the sugarcane fields, the warm smiles of the people—it all became a part of my journey. And to think, I never expected that Couchsurfing would be the key to making my dream of becoming a teacher come true. For my fellow backpackers, hitchhikers, social media influencers, and volunteers, this story is a testament to the amazing connections you can make on Couchsurfing. Your journey might take unexpected turns, but it could lead you to fulfill your dreams in ways you never imagined. So, embrace the adventure, connect with the world, and let Couchsurfing be your guide to extraordinary experiences! ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Screenshot-2023-11-30-at-9.51.43-AM.png "Screenshot-2023-11-30-at-9.51.43-AM - Couchsurfing Blog")[![Screenshot-2023-11-30-at-9.53.09-AM](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Screenshot-2023-11-30-at-9.53.09-AM.png)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Screenshot-2023-11-30-at-9.53.09-AM.png) [![Screenshot-2023-11-30-at-9.52.26-AM](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Screenshot-2023-11-30-at-9.52.26-AM.png)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Screenshot-2023-11-30-at-9.52.26-AM.png) [![198662F3-3C3F-4E0E-8901-DAF5D0FC5403-1](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/198662F3-3C3F-4E0E-8901-DAF5D0FC5403-1.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/198662F3-3C3F-4E0E-8901-DAF5D0FC5403-1.jpg) [![Screenshot-2023-11-30-at-9.51.43-AM](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Screenshot-2023-11-30-at-9.51.43-AM.png)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Screenshot-2023-11-30-at-9.51.43-AM.png) [![198662F3-3C3F-4E0E-8901-DAF5D0FC5403](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/198662F3-3C3F-4E0E-8901-DAF5D0FC5403.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/198662F3-3C3F-4E0E-8901-DAF5D0FC5403.jpg) ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/my-couchsurfing-adventure-in-rural-india/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/my-couchsurfing-adventure-in-rural-india/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Uncategorized --- ### [Check out these alternatives to your favorite European cities!](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/check-out-these-alternatives-to-your-favorite-european-cities/) **Published:** July 20, 2023 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** With summer fully underway, we suggest you check out these amazing alternatives to the tried-and-true European gems! Not only are these cities just as stunning as their more famous brothers, but they often have plenty of Couchsurfing hosts who love to welcome travelers and see far fewer requests! **If you love Paris, try Lyon:** Lyon offers a vibrant cultural scene, excellent cuisine, and beautiful Renaissance architecture, without the crowds of Paris. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/shutterstock_1262099407.jpg "Pedestrian,Saint,Georges,Footbridge,And,The,Saint,Georges,Church,In - Couchsurfing Blog")**If you love Barcelona, try Valencia**: Valencia boasts stunning modern architecture, beautiful beaches, and a lively atmosphere, making it a great alternative to Barcelona. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/shutterstock_712575202.jpg "View,On,Peniscola,From,The,Top,Of,Pope,Luna's,Castle - Couchsurfing Blog")**If you love Amsterdam, try Utrecht:** Utrecht offers picturesque canals, charming streets, and a vibrant arts scene, providing a quieter alternative to the buzz of Amsterdam. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/shutterstock_1081108346.jpg "Traditional,Houses,On,The,Oudegracht,(old,Canal),In,Center,Of - Couchsurfing Blog")**If you love Santorini, try Milos, Greece:** Milos boasts stunning beaches, unique rock formations, and a laid-back atmosphere, offering a less touristy Greek island experience than Santorini. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/shutterstock_1675535239.jpg "Typical,Greece,Scenic,Island,View,-,Small,Harbor,With,Fishing - Couchsurfing Blog")**If you love Dubrovnik, try Split:** Split’s historical center, Diocletian’s Palace, and nearby islands provide a delightful escape from the crowds of Dubrovnik. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/shutterstock_311158274.jpg "Split,Waterfront,And,Marjan,Hill,Aerial,View,,Dalmatia,,Croatia - Couchsurfing Blog")**If you love Venice, try Verona:** Verona’s charming streets, ancient Roman ruins, and Shakespearean connections offer a romantic and less crowded alternative to Venice. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/shutterstock_516926059.jpg "Panoramic,View,To,Bridge,Ponte,Pietra,In,Verona,On,Adige - Couchsurfing Blog")**If you love Prague, try Brno:** Brno boasts a vibrant arts scene, unique architecture, and a lively student population, making it a refreshing alternative to Prague. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/shutterstock_2291715869.jpg "Skyline,Of,Brno,City,With,The,Cathedral,Of,St.,Peter - Couchsurfing Blog")**If you love Budapest, try Szeged:** Szeged’s beautiful architecture, vibrant cultural events, and thermal baths offer a more relaxed and equally authentic Hungarian experience than bustling Budapest. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/shutterstock_1836990811.jpg "Szeged,,Hungary,-,Aerial,Panoramic,View,Of,The,Votive,Church - Couchsurfing Blog")**If you love Interlaken, try Lucerne:** Lucerne’s picturesque setting on Lake Lucerne, historic bridges, and surrounding mountains make it an attractive alternative to the resort town of Interlaken. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/shutterstock_501767854.jpg "View,To,Pilatus,Mountain,And,Historic,City,Center,Of,Luzern, - Couchsurfing Blog")### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/check-out-these-alternatives-to-your-favorite-european-cities/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/check-out-these-alternatives-to-your-favorite-european-cities/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Advice, Guides --- ### [Love the Camino Santiago? Check out these routes!](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/love-the-camino-santiago-check-out-these-routes/) **Published:** July 27, 2023 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** The Camino de Santiago is possibly the most famous rote in the world. An 800 km (500 miles) long pilgrimage route that starts in the Pyrenees of France and ends at Santiago Compostela, it crosses through nearly all of Northern Spain and offers dramatic landscapes and stunning views. While there is no other route quite like it, there are several other long-distance walking and hiking trails that offer unique and rewarding experiences for travelers. Here are ten travel routes you should check out if you love the Camino de Santiago: ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/shutterstock_1716458776.jpg "Pilgrim,Walking,In,Camino,De,Santiago,,Over,A,Sea,Of - Couchsurfing Blog")**Kumano Kodo, Japan:** The Kumano Kodo is a 180 km (115 miles) long network of ancient pilgrimage trails nestled in the serene Kii Mountains of Japan. Emperors, samurais, and pilgrims seeking spiritual enlightenment have walked these paths for centuries. Leading to the three Grand Shrines of Kumano, the route immerses travelers in lush forests, sacred shrines, and peaceful onsen (hot springs), providing a profound connection with nature and Japan’s spiritual heritage. **Where to Couchsurf:** Tanabe, Hongu, Nachi, Shingu. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/shutterstock_424009768.jpg "Nachi,Waterfalls,(nachi-no-taki),And,Three,Stories,Pagoda,In,Wakayama,,Japan. - Couchsurfing Blog")**Via Francigena, Europe:** The Via Francigena is a historic pilgrimage route that dates back to medieval times, originating from Canterbury, England, and culminating in the heart of the Catholic Church, Rome, Italy. Following this ancient trail takes travelers on a journey through picturesque European landscapes, quaint villages, and cultural landmarks, retracing the steps of pilgrims from across the continent. The route varies by which paths you take but it is between 1600 km to 2200 km (1000 miles to 1356 miles). **Where to Couchsurf:** Canterbury (England), Calais (France), Lausanne (Switzerland), Aosta (Italy), Siena (Italy), Rome (Italy). ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/shutterstock_2006667557.jpg "Monteroni,D'arbia,,Route,Of,The,Via,Francigena.,Curved,Road,,Field - Couchsurfing Blog")**St. Olav’s Way, Norway-Sweden:** St. Olav’s Way is a revered 643 km (400 miles) long pilgrimage path honoring St. Olav, the patron saint of Norway. Beginning in Oslo, Norway, the route winds through awe-inspiring Scandinavian landscapes, dense forests, and charming rural areas before reaching the Nidaros Cathedral in Trondheim, Norway. The journey offers a profound connection with nature and a glimpse into Norway’s rich history and traditions. **Where to Couchsurf:** Oslo (Norway), Hamar (Norway), Lillehammer (Norway), Trondheim (Norway). ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/shutterstock_2258261441.jpg "Typical,Waymarking,On,The,St.,Olav's,Way,,Gudbrandsdalsleden.,The,Pilgrimage - Couchsurfing Blog")**Te Araroa, New Zealand:** Te Araroa is an epic 3,000 km (1864 miles) trail stretching the length of New Zealand’s North and South Islands, showcasing the country’s breathtaking diversity. From rugged mountains to pristine beaches, dense forests to rolling farmlands, Te Araroa offers the adventure of a lifetime, immersing travelers in Maori culture, friendly communities, and stunning natural beauty. **Where to Couchsurf:** Cape Reinga, Auckland, Wellington, Queenstown. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/shutterstock_1230124225.jpg "Silhouette,Of,A,Hiker,Descending,Down,From,Stags,Saddle,In - Couchsurfing Blog")**The Appalachian Trail, USA:** Meandering through the scenic Appalachian Mountains, the Appalachian Trail is a 3,500 km (2175 miles) trek that stretches from Springer Mountain in Georgia to Mount Katahdin in Maine. Hiking this iconic trail takes adventurers through diverse landscapes, including dense forests, rocky peaks, and picturesque meadows, offering an unparalleled opportunity to reconnect with nature and experience the camaraderie of fellow hikers. **Where to Couchsurf:** Atlanta (Georgia), Asheville (North Carolina), Harpers Ferry (West Virginia), Hanover (New Hampshire), Bangor (Maine). ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/shutterstock_1195345237.jpg "Hiker,On,Appalachian,Trail,In,Maine,,Lush,Mountain,Vista - Couchsurfing Blog")**The West Highland Way, Scotland:** The West Highland Way is a 154 km (96 miles) hiking trail that winds through the majestic Scottish Highlands, starting from Milngavie, near Glasgow, and concluding in Fort William. Along the way, hikers are treated to awe-inspiring vistas of lochs, mountains, and glens, passing through charming villages and historical sites, encapsulating the essence of Scotland’s rugged beauty and rich heritage. **Where to Couchsurf:** Milngavie, Drymen, Tyndrum, Kinlochleven, Fort William. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/shutterstock_1273426786.jpg "Buachaille,Etive,Mor,And,West,Highland,Way,Sign,In,Scotland - Couchsurfing Blog")**The Lycian Way, Turkey:** Turkey’s Lycian Way is a 540 km (335 miles) coastal trek along the country’s stunning Mediterranean shoreline. Traversing ancient Lycian ruins, azure waters, and rocky cliffs, the route provides a captivating blend of history and natural beauty. Travelers can indulge in the warmth of Turkish hospitality while exploring hidden coves and traditional villages. **Where to Couchsurf:** Fethiye, Kas, Demre, Cirali, Antalya. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/shutterstock_636194621.jpg "Hiking,In,Famous,Lycian,Way,In,The,Turkey.,Backpacker,In - Couchsurfing Blog")**The Great Ocean Walk, Australia:** Offering captivating vistas of the Southern Ocean, the Great Ocean Walk is a 104 km (65 miles) trail along Victoria’s coastline, beginning from Apollo Bay and ending at the Twelve Apostles. The route showcases iconic rock formations, pristine beaches, and lush rainforests, promising a tranquil journey that allows travelers to connect with Australia’s unspoiled coastal wilderness. **Where to Couchsurf:** Apollo Bay, Port Campbell, Twelve Apostles. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/shutterstock_692958859.jpg "Great,Ocean,Walk,Sign,Post,,Victoria,,Australia - Couchsurfing Blog")**The Hadrian’s Wall Path, England:** The Hadrian’s Wall Path is a 135 km (84 miles) trail that follows the ancient Hadrian’s Wall, built by the Romans in the 2nd century AD. Stretching from coast to coast across England, the path offers a fascinating glimpse into the country’s Roman heritage while guiding hikers through charming countryside, quaint villages, and historic forts. **Where to Couchsurf:** Newcastle upon Tyne, Carlisle, Hexham. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/shutterstock_1120282244.jpg "Roman,Wall,Near,Caw,Gap,,Or,Hadrian's,Wall,,A,World - Couchsurfing Blog")**The Israel National Trail:** The Israel National Trail spans approximately 1,100 km (680 miles) from the northern border of Israel to its southernmost tip, Eilat. Traversing diverse landscapes, from lush forests to arid deserts, the trail immerses travelers in Israel’s rich history, religious heritage, and natural wonders, passing through ancient sites and offering a unique perspective on this culturally significant land. **Where to Couchsurf:** Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, Nazareth, Haifa, Eilat. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/shutterstock_1240783972.jpg "Hiking,Desert,Part,Of,Israel,National,Trail.,Trail,Sign,,Backpack, - Couchsurfing Blog")These routes offer a mix of cultural, historical, and natural experiences, attracting travelers seeking a unique and enriching journey. Each route has its own character and allure, making them special in their own way. Keep in mind that although some routes may be clearly marked with signage and regularly maintained, the level of infrastructure may vary across routes. Before beginning any of the above routes (or any long-distance hike in general), make sure to research the specific trail, check any local websites for trail updates, reach out to locals via Couchsurfing, ensure you have all the necessary gear, and be prepared for all types of trail conditions. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/love-the-camino-santiago-check-out-these-routes/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/love-the-camino-santiago-check-out-these-routes/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Guides --- ### [How to plan a Couch Crash](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/how-to-plan-a-couch-crash/) **Published:** December 3, 2019 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Excerpt:** Ever wondered what a Couch Crash was? Or considered planning your own? Here is all of the information you could need to get your first (or 10th!) Couch Crash off the ground! **Content:** ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/couchsurfingmadridpicnic.28-09-19-68-1-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C684&ssl=1 "couchsurfingmadridpicnic.28-09-19-68-1 - Couchsurfing Blog")**What is a Couch Crash?** Great question! A Couch Crash is a multi-day event held by a local Couchsurfing Community. They may happen yearly, every two years, or just once. They are incredible experiences and allow locals to show off their city to travelers (and other residents). It is also an incredible opportunity to meet Couchsurfers from all over the world. Many Couchsurfers travel specifically for these crashes and they always have an incredible energy to them. **Where are they held?** Everywhere! Take a look at the [Global Events Calendar](http://10.9.0.204/calendar/) to see where the upcoming crashes are. Also check out the community posts on some previous crashes like [Veracruz Carnaval](http://10.9.0.204/carnaval-veracruz-couch-crash/), [MadCrash 2019](http://10.9.0.204/mad-crash-2019/), or the traveling [WinterCamp](http://10.9.0.204/wintercamps-the-annual-new-years-eve-event-you-cant-miss/) – held in a new location annually! ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/Screen-Shot-2019-10-25-at-3.09.01-PM.png?fit=1024%2C590&ssl=1 "Screen-Shot-2019-10-25-at-3.09.01-PM - Couchsurfing Blog")PhotoBooth at MadCrash Picnic 2019**What is the difference between Crashes, Invasions, Camps and National Meetings?** Although there may be minor differences (camps are sometimes at a campground and are not in an urban area) the basic principle is the same in all of these events. Multi-day events held by local communities meant to connect travelers and locals and show off the city! **How do I plan one?** Great question! Here are our top tips for planning a Couch Crash – sourced from the Couchsurfing Ambassadors who have the most experience of anyone in planning these events! ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/ConnectiCOUCH-2016-Pool-Party-1-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C768&ssl=1 "ConnectiCOUCH-2016-Pool-Party-1 - Couchsurfing Blog")ConnectiCouch 2016**Logistics!** Plan. Plan. Plan. Then plan some more! Get a group of committed organizers together and start getting the plans together. Choose a date (3-6 months in the future). Choose a location (if it is National Event – you will need to choose a city, if it is your City’s Crash – then you already have that done!) Choose locations for events that are central, easy to get to and can fit between 50-200 people depending on the event. Plan to meet regularly with organizers to check on progress and fix any issues that may arise early! **Anchor Events!** Each day should have an anchor event – one main event that can accommodate everyone coming. A large bar or rooftop for a welcome party. A public park for a picnic. A beach party. Somewhere that can be found easily and can accommodate the whole group. Having one ‘anchor’ event each day will allow for smaller events to be planned around it and be more specific to varying interests. **Assign Events!** Have an organizer or active member plan an event that interests them. Having one person in charge of one event makes the whole planning more manageable. Someone loves the history of the city? Great, they can do a walking tour. Someone loves running? Great, have them do a morning run for the event. Someone loves wine? They can do a wine tasting at their favorite bar. You can limit spaces for the smaller events if there are capacity maximums. And feel free to have overlapping events, give people options! ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/Screen-Shot-2019-10-25-at-3.08.23-PM.png?fit=1024%2C627&ssl=1 "Screen-Shot-2019-10-25-at-3.08.23-PM - Couchsurfing Blog")Mad Crash Organizers 2019**Post it!** Get it all online in a schedule. Have a primary event for the whole CouchCrash. In the info section, have the schedule posted with a link to each sub event. This will help people see what the plan is and attend all the individual events they plan on attending! **Swag!** If you have a T-shirt design, Couchsurfing can post it on the [store](https://store.couchsurfing.com/collections/clothing) so people can order it for themselves and you don’t need to front any costs. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/Screen-Shot-2019-10-25-at-3.06.10-PM.png "Screen-Shot-2019-10-25-at-3.06.10-PM - Couchsurfing Blog")Couchsurfing Wristbands**Want more help?** One of our USA Country Ambassadors, [Jason](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/jhg), has provided the following tips to help you get your Crash off the ground. He has been instrumental in planning the bi-annual [ConnectiCouch Crash](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/connecticouch-2018) in Connecticut, USA for the past few years and has much wisdom to pass on to you! ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/ConnectiCouchCaseStudy-1.png?fit=360%2C1024&ssl=1 "ConnectiCouchCaseStudy-1 - Couchsurfing Blog")He has also graciously shared the [ConnectiCouch Schedule](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1j9zbTLKhsZkfRYWpUUUfiWX4HW8WiXu3/view?usp=sharing) which he has offered others to use as the basis for planning their own schedule out. You can access it [here](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1j9zbTLKhsZkfRYWpUUUfiWX4HW8WiXu3/view?usp=sharing)! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/how-to-plan-a-couch-crash/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/how-to-plan-a-couch-crash/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Community, Community Updates, Crashes, Invasions and More! --- ### [A Couchsurfing Birth Story](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfing-birth-story/) **Published:** May 17, 2023 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/shutterstock_2291207825-2.jpg "Rugged,Landscape,Of,Aftas,Beach,In,The,Chill,Coastal,Town - Couchsurfing Blog")In 2019, I was stranded in Morocco due to an unexpected pregnancy. My children and I were living in Mirleft, Morocco and we had been hosting couchsurfers throughout our travels as we lived in Agadir and Taghazout. We met some really interesting people who we are still in touch with today! Fast forward to December 2019, my baby was 2 weeks overdue. I had planned to have a home water birth with a friend of mine attending, but the baby was so late that her visa was going to run out and she had to go home the morning of December 19th. The night before, I received a request from a Sicilian couchsurfer who asked to stay with us. I told him “sure, no problem, but just so you know, I’m having a baby any day now and I am having her at home so she might come when you are here and it’s up to you if you’re cool with that”. He actually said that if the baby came while he was there, he hoped he could help. Game on! So of course, after having a lovely beach visit and dinner out on the 18th, I started having small signs of labor and the morning of the 19th, I knew she was coming soon. Our couchsurfer helped attach a hose to our shower so that when it was time to fill up the pool we could do so. I was fine all day and the couchsurfer and I made a dinner of roast chicken, potatoes, and green beans all while I was having small contractions. I was actually in complete denial that I was in labor at that point because the contractions weren’t bad and I thought maybe it would be the next day. We ate and I was so hungry, I downed my food, never suspecting that my body was needing that energy for what was to come. By that time it was about 9 PM and contractions were starting to hurt a bit more, but not bad enough for me to say hey, she’s coming soon. My older kids went out to ride their bikes. At about 10:30pm, I put out the pool I was going to give birth in, but I didn’t have the energy to fill it. Our couchsurfer asked me if I needed help, but I told him my daughter would do it when she got home. Finally, the older kids came home and started to fill the pool but it was too late. I stood up to get in the pool and felt her head coming. So, my daughter, Nayaira was born into my hands at about 11:10 PM. Quite a magnificent day if I do say so myself! Our couchsurfer, Saro, helped by running to get the neighbor lady who then accompanied me to the hospital to make sure everything was all good. While I was at the hospital, he must have helped my older kids clean up because everything was in order when I returned home a few hours later, although I never directly asked him about it. He put the shower back together so I could shower when I got home at like 2 AM also. So he got to witness birth and hold an hours-old newborn for the first time. A year later, he messaged me to wish Nayaira a Happy Birthday! And when she was about 18 months old, we made plans to visit him and his mother in Sicily! That was a really fun experience which brought the whole thing full circle. Nayaira loved meeting her honorary “Nonna” and we had a lovely time swimming with Saro in the Mediterranean Sea. I would never in my life have thought that something like that would be one of my life experiences, but Couchsurfing brought that magic to life. I feel very lucky to have met so many wonderful people that I will never forget! Nayaira is now 3 years old and has met lots of Couchsurfers, been a Couchsurfer in Paris, London, and Madrid, and has traveled to 9 countries so far. I hope that when she grows up she will continue to meet other travelers through Couchsurfing. [![Rugged,Landscape,Of,Aftas,Beach,In,The,Chill,Coastal,Town](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/shutterstock_2291207825-2.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/shutterstock_2291207825-2.jpg) ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfing-birth-story/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfing-birth-story/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Stories --- ### [Couch Crash Bukhara 2022](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couch-crash-bukhara-2022/) **Published:** May 10, 2023 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** ##### By: Aygul ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Screenshot_20230421_101821_Instagram-1.jpg "Screenshot_20230421_101821_Instagram (1) - Couchsurfing Blog")I used hitchhiking to come from my city Kazan to Kazakhstan and from there I took a bus to Tashkent. Luckily I met an organizer, Jamik, there who also was in the capital and together we went to Bukhara. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Screenshot_20230421_101721_Instagram.jpg "Screenshot_20230421_101721_Instagram - Couchsurfing Blog")Jamik and I got along very quickly because he is very friendly, talkative and an easy-going person who will deal any problem and find any solution in any situation! He provided me some room to sleep in his Caravan Saray and the following days his friend hosted me. The central and main place of all meetings was the Caravan Saray, which was our holy place with unique atmosphere. It is useless to describe everything that happened there, only those who personally visited there understood that it was something very warm and hospitable, as in childhood – when you just feel good! But I will try to describe it… ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Screenshot_20230421_101732_Instagram.jpg "Screenshot_20230421_101732_Instagram - Couchsurfing Blog")On the first day we had a photo tour and a tasting of samsa (it was so huge that I couldn’t handle it all). The photo tour included interesting historical locations, a bazaar and even a bird market. In the evening, a local group of musicians performed an incredible concert with old Tajik-Uzbek songs – it was a magical evening! The next day an Ambassador from Tashkent, Mirzakarim, showed us a master class on how to make videos correctly and shared the secrets of successful videography. Then we went to an excursion to the doll museum. All our time we spent together was combined with endless walks around the city (mostly in the evening), talking and tea ceremonies with special tea that only Jamik can make 🙂 One evening we watched a movie on the big screen in a Caravan Saray. And all these 4 days we met people from different parts of the world – India, Tajikistan, Kazakhstan, USA and many other countries. We became one big family very quickly and spent time all the time together! Even not knowing people well or long time we established connections with each other! Initially I was planning to stay 4 days but in reality it was one week because I just couldn’t leave this hospitable Caravan Saray! And as I know other people-guests of Jamik had the same feelings! I was really happy being in Bukhara and meeting other travelers who are open-minded and kind! But I had to continue my journey and explore other countries around. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Screenshot_20230421_191530_Couchsurfing.jpg "Screenshot_20230421_191530_Couchsurfing - Couchsurfing Blog")And when I heard that Jamik is going to repeat this event this year I’ve already knew that I won’t miss this chance to participate in this event again! So I recommend everyone attend this event, I promise you will enjoy every day and remember this time as one of the best in your life! ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Screenshot_20230421_191502_Couchsurfing.jpg "Screenshot_20230421_191502_Couchsurfing - Couchsurfing Blog")### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couch-crash-bukhara-2022/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couch-crash-bukhara-2022/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Stories --- ### [A Couchsurfer's Guide to Marseille](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-marseille/) **Published:** April 14, 2023 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/shutterstock_1492901261.jpg "Saint,Jean,Castle,And,Cathedral,De,La,Major,And,The - Couchsurfing Blog")# Best breakfast in town! Have you really been to France without stepping into a French bakery? Make sure it’s the first thing ticked off your list at **Le Panificateur** in La Joliette. The mouthwatering smell of butter alone will entice you to try all the wonderful pastries they have to offer, all made with organic flour. Plus their coffee is from a local specialty roaster, **Café Corto**. If instead you intend on breakfasting in bed, plan ahead and head over to **Maison Saint-Honoré** in Castellane or Saint-Victor. Their selection of sourdoughs made with a myriad of heirloom grains are the perfect base for jam and butter, fresh tomatoes and olive oil, or even just on their own. It’s that good. # One museum not to miss! If you only have time for one museum in Marseille, let it be **Mucem**. It’s on all the tourist guides for a reason. Although the exhibitions are worth every penny, entry to Mucem and the fort is free, so you can still enjoy the rippled patterns in the building’s delicate envelope, the curated gardens and sweeping views atop the fort, and float between the two over the walkway. If time is on your side, then it’s time to check out **Friche La Belle de Mai**. A cultural venue that brings together art, gardening, sport, music and dance, for ages 0 to 100. You can be sure there’s something new here every time you come back to the Cité Phocéenne. **Don’t forget, all the permanent exhibitions in museums have free entrance every first Sunday of the month.** # Best place to grab a drink! Take a “petit jaune”—a glass of pastis for the uninitiated—at **Au Petit Nice** at Place Jean Jaurès. It doesn’t matter who you are or where you come from, everyone is treated like a regular here, and even though the *terrasse* might seem full of regulars, somehow you’ll always find enough seats for your party. If the flavour of anise is a little too strong for your taste, try it sweetened with some syrup: Le Perroquet, with mint syrup La Tomate, with grenadine Or La Mauresque, with orgeat (my personal favourite) If beer is more your thing, you’ll find a cave of treasures at **La Cane Bière** in Cinq Avenues (not to be confused with Marseille’s main thoroughfare). It might take a while to choose from the floor-to-ceiling collection of brews from around the globe, but whatever you pick I’m sure it will be fabulous. And for those who can’t miss the game, a lively crowd awaits you at the **Shamrock** in Le Vieux Port. # Where to dance! Go to the oldest nightclub downtown: **Trolleybus**. Open from midnight to 6am and conveniently located at the Vieux Port, inside find 3 dance floors each with different music, converted from a 17th century galley arsenal. Before the nightclub was founded, the arsenal housed a pétanque terrain, a typical Provençal game. Even the nightclubs have history in Marseille. # A treat-yourself-meal! For a delightful Mediterranean meal in a cute courtyard, book a table at La Cantinetta, just next to Cours Julien. Don’t worry about checking the menu on google maps, as it changes every day—each time as good as the last, if not better! This is the place for fine wines and even finer dining. Or, make a reservation that will take you back to the fifties, where the future is full of wondrous possibilities, at **Le Ventre de l’Architecte**. Located in Le Corbusier’s Cité Radieuse, you can combine food and architecture in a truly unique setting. # Best quick bite! Every region has their slang, and Marseille’s no exception. ‘Tarpin’ is a Marseillais word that means ‘really’ or in the UK, ‘bloody’—as in, “it’s really bloody good”. Anyway! If you’re looking for a quick bite to eat around Rue de Rome high street, grab a Berliner kebab at **Le Tarpin Bon**. It’s not local cuisine, sure, but it’s really tarpin good. # Where to sweat! One of the most scenic running spots in Marseille can be found along **La Corniche**. You can incorporate some sightseeing into your jog with the Marégraphe, the observatory that determines France’s altitude 0—or in other words, sea-level. Every last Sunday of the month, the City of Marseille closes off the whole Corniche from motorised traffic in an event called ‘La Voie est Libre’. The whole serpentine road is free for bikes, skateboards, rollerblades and runners alike. Once you’ve finished your cardio, cool off with some saltwater in the **Piscine Maritime** at **Vallon des Auffes** or **Les Bains Militaires** at Endoume. If the sea’s looking rough but you still want to take a dip, try a municipal pool in the shape of a sunflower. That’s right, France was into biomimetics way back in the 1980s, building over 180 sun-loving swimming pools featuring a dome that can open up its ‘petals’ 120 degrees depending on the weather. Some of them have even been given the label ‘20th Century Heritage’, including **Bonneveine municipal pool** in the 8th arrondissement. If you’re looking for a little more flavour than a traditional workout, try some rock climbing at **Arkose** Prado. The chill, convivial vibes will help you overcome any fear of heights. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, take a seasonal salad in the canteen… or a burger and a beer, we won’t judge. # Best view of the city! Best view from the summit: capture the rugged limestone and pine of the national park of Calanques with the baked roof tiles of the city at **Col de La Gineste**, just past Vaufrèges. Best view from the sea: take the scenic route from Le Vieux Port to either Pointe Rouge or to L’Estaque, with **La Navette** ferry service. You can also take the ferry to the Iles du Frioul to enjoy an insular version of the Calanques, or stop off at Château d’If to relive the story of the Count of Monte Cristo. Don’t forget, take sunscreen as there are no trees, and the last ferry from the island is at midnight. # Cute café! You want really great coffee? You’re in the Vieux Port? Check out **Deep**, a local roaster revelling in the current coffee renaissance. They regularly change up their offer of grains with techniques like black honey process and anaerobic fermentation. They also collaborate with unique artisans and publications so you can always check out some new curated curios. # Best day-trip out of town! Get your car keys, we’re going on a ride! Follow the picturesque road through the national park, over La Gineste, down to **Cassis**, over la Route des Crêtes, and back down to **La Ciotat**. Bonus points if you catch the sunset over the cliffs. Just be careful: in the summer, grab the first parking spot you find in Cassis, because you probably won’t find another one. Or take the M8 bus for €2 and avoid the parking altogether! Prepare a picnic and head to Calanque de Port Pin, or enjoy an aperitif by La Ciotat harbour. You can also take the train to **Arles**, situated at the head of the Rhône river delta, known for its artistic and photographic history. Further afield, catch a glimpse of flamingos in the Camargue region, where its own variety of rice is grown. # Where to try the local cuisine! € – After a healthy hike along La Côte Bleue, you’ve earned a little bit of unhealthy goodness. It’s time to try panisses at **Chez Freddy** in l’Éstaque, essentially fried chickpea slices that need nothing more than a touch of salt and pepper. If you’ve got room for dessert after that, try some chichis, or orange-blossom flavoured doughnuts. €€ – Enjoy the balmy evening air, a welcoming atmosphere, and delicious local dishes at **Le Refuge** in Le Panier. Their daily menu is inspired by classic Provençale cuisine, so if you’re looking for local, take refuge in this cosy restaurant. €€€ – If there’s one dish Marseille is known for, it’s bouillabaisse. But this fish dish is not for the fainthearted: treat it with respect by booking a table at **Chez Fonfon** in Vallon des Auffes, and you will be rewarded with a wonderful experience of fine French food in one of the loveliest corners of the city. Don’t forget to eat another old specialty called “navettes”: these authentic biscuits are made in an old bakery, called **La Four des Navettes** near abbaye St Victor. They make a great souvenir gift too. # The perfect picture! There’s only one place that comes to mind. Take the B1 bus to Parc National des Calanques, and start climbing until you reach the Belvédère de Sugiton. Honestly though, every spot along the Col de Sugiton is breathtaking, so have your camera ready as you make your way down to the beach. # Family fun! Where else to have some family fun than at the beach or the park? And why not both? Spend an afternoon at **Parc Borély**, located a stone’s throw from the city’s beaches. It has 17 hectares of gardens, water features, kiosks, and most importantly, play areas! Curiously, it also has some special inhabitants, and they’re not your typical pond-dwelling ducks: 50 or so coypu, or ‘ragondins’ in French, call the park home. **Campagne Pastré**, half park, half forest, is nestled between the sea and the hills of Marseilleveyre, and is another great spot for families, children and pets, who can roam around free in certain areas. # Historic moment! **La Cité Radieuse**, affectionately dubbed ‘Le Corbu’, is a landmark residential building in Sainte-Anne. Designed by Le Corbusier and inaugurated in 1952, the project was a turning point for the architect and for the city of Marseille, which had suffered heavy bombing during the Second World War and was about to witness a building boom. Today you can visit for free the ‘streets’ on the 3rd and 4th floors, have a drink in the bar, or enjoy the wind and the skies on the cruise ship-like rooftop. If you want to go even further back in time, discover the Greek origins of Massilia and the Original Old Port at the **Musée d’histoire de la Ville de Marseille**. If you’ve got extra time for history, also check out Palais Longchamp, l’abbaye Saint-Victor, le quartier du Panier, la cathédrale La Major, and *bien sûr* la Basilique Notre Dame de la Garde! (AKA *La Bonne Mère*) # One experience not to miss! Escape the hustle and bustle of the city centre: find peace and tranquillity in the **Calanques National Park.** Even in the summer, there’s space enough for everyone along the rugged cliffs and beaches. Just bring plenty of water and wear good shoes for the walk. Sure, the national park is not a hidden gem, but that doesn’t mean it’s not an experience to miss! I’ll let every other guide to Marseille fill you in on the best spots. # A tourist trap to avoid! Beware the dozens of souvenir shops selling soap. According to Made in Marseille, 95% of soap sold with the label Savon de Marseille are fabricated in other countries. Only a handful of companies make their soap in Marseille with the traditional recipe. Look for olive green or cream coloured soaps with labels such as Cheval de Fer or Marius Fabre, which belong to the Union des Professionnels du Savon de Marseille, an association petitioning for an IGP (Indication Géographique Protégée). # Anything else to add… C’est Marseille bébé ! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-marseille/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-marseille/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Advice --- ### [Facebook Login Currently Unavailable](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/facebook-login-currently-unavailable/) **Published:** January 1, 2023 **Author:** Mike Joy **Content:** There is currently an issue accessing Couchsurfing through Facebook. This impacts both new and current members. While we work on fixing the issue, this is how to access Couchsurfing without Facebook: **If you are a new member and creating an account:** Please use your email address and create a custom password on the login page: ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Screen-Shot-2023-03-24-at-8.48.06-AM.png "Screen-Shot-2023-03-24-at-8.48.06-AM - Couchsurfing Blog")**If you are a current member who logins to Couchsurfing using Facebook:** 1\. At the top left of the screen, click ‘Log ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Screen-Shot-2023-03-24-at-8.49.45-AM.png "Screen-Shot-2023-03-24-at-8.49.45-AM - Couchsurfing Blog")2\. Click **‘Forgot Password’** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Screen-Shot-2023-03-24-at-8.49.50-AM.png "Screen-Shot-2023-03-24-at-8.49.50-AM - Couchsurfing Blog")3\. Enter the email associated to your Facebook account. If you changed your Facebook email AFTER signing up for Couchsurfing, it would be the email associated with your Facebook when you signed up for Couchsurfing. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Screen-Shot-2023-03-24-at-8.50.00-AM.png "Screen-Shot-2023-03-24-at-8.50.00-AM - Couchsurfing Blog")*If you are having issues receiving a password reset email or don’t remember the email associated with your Facebook account, please email **support@couchsurfing.com** or [click here](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/requests/new) to create a support ticket!* ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/facebook-login-currently-unavailable/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/facebook-login-currently-unavailable/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** News --- ### [The Unexpected Benefits that Couchsurfing Brings](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-unexpected-benefits-that-couchsurfing-brings/) **Published:** March 22, 2023 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/jeffrey-blog-post.jpg "jeffrey-blog-post - Couchsurfing Blog")Photo attribution Marcin Nowak | Unsplash##### Written by Jeffrey, a Couchsurfer from London. Couchsurfing can deliver wonderful surprises. I live in an outer London suburb. I love hosting and I host at least one person most weeks. However, I had a week in October when nobody was booked to stay with me. I thought I was in for a dull week with no guests when I received a request from Ilya. He wanted to stay for three nights starting that night. His profile looked good, so I accepted him and my week was transformed. Despite having spent forty years in IT, I am now technically challenged. I can tell you how a computer worked in the 1970’s, but I have no idea how they work now. Ilya is the CIO for an Estonian/French start-up. He got the thermostat on my new boiler to talk to its app and he made the app from my phone provider recognise me again. I had not been able to sign into it since I changed my phone in the summer. He also made some other minor repairs that I have not been able to do. He is originally from Russia but has been working in Estonia developing the start-up and helping Ukrainian refugees. Although he is travelling on an Israeli passport and works for an Estonian company, the Estonian authorities refused to give him an extended residency because he still has his Russian passport and they kept delaying the decision on his appeal. He had several people plus his employer working to get him and his family their permits. His family’s Schengen visas were close to expiry, so they had to leave Estonia. He told me that they needed somewhere to stay until their Estonian residency permits could be sorted out. I do not normally offer long stays, but there was an exceptional need so I said that they could stay with me until it was resolved. They came to me a week later. This was a very good decision for all of us. I, as host, solved Ilya’s accommodation problem and provided him with a proper base from which he could continue to work remotely. I ensured that his family was reasonably comfortable and was properly fed. I suggested some potential clients in the UK for him, which he followed up and his company is negotiating with them. Ilya, as guest, tidied my junk room and the bedroom where his family was staying. During his stay he also did some other repairs. My house is transformed and I am happier as a result. He bought the food whilst he was with me. We ate a lot of food, including two or three packets of biscuits a day. I enjoyed his visit immensely. It was Couchsurfing at its best and was full of surprises. I had already arranged other visitors before Ilya and his family came to me. Although the house was pretty crowded, this is Couchsurfing, so I let them come. Ilya is an experienced host himself and he and his wife helped me. Having shown that it was possible to host other guests, I continued to accept Requests and I hosted a steady stream of short-stay guests whilst Ilya was with me. The experiences with all my guests were good, but three of them were exceptional and showed how Couchsurfing can deliver unpredictable benefits even to non-Couchsurfers. On a day when my house was particularly full with pre-booked visitors, I received a message from Dani whom I had hosted in 2019. His was a lovely visit. He is originally from Morocco, but now lives in Malaysia. We got on very well together and at the end of his stay in 2019 he invited me to go to Morocco where he would take me on a tour. This time, he said that he was in Paris visiting his sister and that he would like to come to London to see me. Of course, I accepted him despite the house being full. We spent a day going around the local Christmas market then went into Central London to see the lights. We had a lovely day and he repeated his offer to take me on a tour of Morocco. I will probably take him up on it. One of the stalls in the Christmas market was run by somebody from Turkey who was selling hand-painted plates and dishes from his family business. Dani took his business details to pass on to his sister in Paris who is a wholesaler. He did pass on the details. Hopefully this Turkish man and Dani’s sister have been able to set up a business deal. If so, then they will have both benefitted thanks to Couchsurfing. Days later, I hosted Toby from Brazil. He is an exuberant and dynamic character. He is full of energy and knows where he wants to go in life. He is great fun and was a delightful guest. Before I accepted him, I looked at his profile and found that he had stayed with somebody else who lives nearby and who stayed with me a year ago whilst he was having work done on his flat. He was originally from Syria and his UK citizenship had come through during the few days that he was with me. I was able to witness his joy when it was approved. I invited him to join us for supper. We had a great evening together. It was a real highlight. The only thing we missed out on was that Toby sings and plays the guitar. There was no time for him to do that during his visit. Our loss, I think. Finally, I must mention Tima. Tima came as a random visitor from Kazakhstan. He turned out to have exactly the 3D modelling skills that Ilya was looking for. Ilya gave him an assignment which he did immediately, saving Ilya the need to go through a search and recruitment process. Tima got an unexpected job and Ilya’s company benefitted from a shortened timescale and something to present to clients straight away. Tima also had a contact in a company in Kazakhstan that Ilya’s company was interested in doing business with and Ilya contacted them. Thus, Tima landed in Ilya’s lap as a contractor. Tima got an unexpected job and Ilya’s company and the company in Kazakhstan may gain a business relationship and it was all through Couchsurfing connections. How could anyone predict this? Couchsurfing is extraordinary and amazing. I love it. Tima is sitting in the room with me on his second visit as I write this. He has just completed a second assignment that Ilya has told me he is very pleased with. He is planning to work with Tima long-term. When Tima leaves later this afternoon, I will have an empty house for the first time in over two months. It will give me a chance to catch up on washing and ironing. I have more guests coming next week. One is a return visitor and one is new. I am looking forward to their visit. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-unexpected-benefits-that-couchsurfing-brings/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-unexpected-benefits-that-couchsurfing-brings/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Community, Stories --- ### [Nico's Walk Towards the End of the World](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/nicos-walk-towards-the-end-of-the-world/) **Published:** March 22, 2023 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** ##### Written by [Nico](https://www.instagram.com/pieroad____/?hl=en), a Couchsurfer from Italy On the outskirts of Quito, capital of Ecuador, rainbow-colored block letters state that we are on the “Mitad del Mundo,” or the equator line. On the opposite side of Latin America, south, a humble but equally striking sign is the traditional departure or arrival point for cyclists traveling along Ruta 40, the road through Argentine Patagonia. On the latter sign, in the city of Ushuaia, travelers and tourists read “Welcome to the End of the World”. Twelve thousand miles of adventure separate the two points: one continent, four countries, the Andes, the driest desert in the world and dozens of natural wonders, stories, and people. Some people travel this distance by bike, some by motorcycle, some by van or camper. Two years ago, I decided to cover it on foot. My name is Nico and my dream is to [walk around the world](https://www.instagram.com/pieroad____/?hl=en). I started from home in Italy, pushing a stroller named Ezio that carries everything I need, from food to a tent. After crossing Western Europe by walking and the Atlantic Ocean by boat, I arrived in Latin America and decided to walk it from north to south towards the End of the World. This is a short story about that journey. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/nico3.jpg "nico3 - Couchsurfing Blog")#### **First Steps in South America** The stop in Panama was brief but significant. I had interrupted the walk in Spain, on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean, and wanted to pick it up from where I had stopped and take it across the strait to the shores of the Pacific Ocean. Humberto was the first person to host me in Latin America. We had met on Couchsurfing a few days before I arrived and although he was a decent walker, I saw him hesitate when I proposed to come with me. Ninety kilometers in equatorial heat is an unappealing idea for anyone. I decided to leave Ezio at Humberto’s house so as to travel lighter. I would cover the distance in two days so apart from the tent I did not need much equipment. Only one item was out of place: a large iron machete lent by a ranger. The reason? Try sleeping in 35 degrees and 90 percent relative humidity! The cool feeling of the iron on my body was a panacea, and I was able to fall asleep only by lying shirtless on top of the machete. Less than 48 hours later I had dipped my hands in both Oceans. The world wide walk had landed on the other side of Latin America. I chose to continue from Quito, so as to begin the descent south and the End of the World from its iconic Mitad. One of the stories you get if you travel on foot is that from the airport to the nearest city it can take up to two days. I landed at 3 p.m. local time, 40 km to Quito; not doable before nightfall. I headed for Tumbaco, one of the capital’s suburbs, where Couchsurfing had connected me to David. It took me a few hours to get there, but when I arrived and started knocking on the door, no one answered. Lights were off. I don’t know why, but I decided to pull down the doorknob and – come on! It was open! My eyes were immediately caught by the rectangular whiteness of a sheet of paper resting on top of the table. A message? “Hi Nico, sorry but I had to leave for work and will be back the day after tomorrow. I wrote you but I don’t think you’ll get the message because you still won’t have the local sim. Make yourself at home, I hope to see you, text me when you’ll have data, I’ll catch you in Quito.” I looked up from the slip of paper, dumbfounded. Welcome to Ecuador! We managed to meet a few days later over a pizza and wine. David was friend with Alejandra, my host in Quito, so we had arranged a rendezvous at his home. The first week had flown by and my new friends had been great hosts. We had spent entire afternoons talking about history, geography, legends and folk festivals, and now I had some general knowledge about Ecuador. I set off amidst hugs and began the descent of the Andes in a state of euphoria. From the 2800 meters of Quito I arrived in a few weeks at the coast, near the city of Manta and the starting point of the Ruta del Spondylus, a shell sacred to the native peoples that lends its name to the southern coastal road. I traveled it all the way to Guayaquil, the country’s second biggest city, and after five years I was reunited with Juan Pablo. #### **“Buena Onda, Pana!”** We had met while working in Australia, had kept in touch, and now Juan Pablo – JP to his friends – was hosting me at his home in the Couch mood. His father had passed me a list of typical foods to try, with the promise that if I ate at least half of them I could declare myself Ecuadorian by adoption! I was well on my way and without knowing it, I had come close to the quorum. Chontacuro’s Bicho, on the other hand, was missing. “What is it?” I asked Pablo. He burst into laughter and when I looked at him he replied crying, “A huge worm typical of the Amazon! Very rich in protein, you should try it!” From Guayaquil I made a pleasant detour to the Galapagos, the archipelago of dreams where nature coexists with man. It was May 2021, covid vaccines were starting to come out and the Galapagos had been chosen by the government to start vaccinations. They wanted to make them covid-free to bring tourism back to the islands. There was a rumor that they were vaccinating foreigners as well, so I wanted to try the gamble. I had a local contact, another Alejandra, who would host me. I took a flight to San Cristobal and in a few days I got the first dose. I would have to wait for the second one on the island, so I stopped to rest in that natural paradise. From San Cristobal I moved on to Isabela, the wildest island, and although it was also the least inhabited I managed once again to Couchsurf – and double, too. I met Liz for a beer and Cesar at his family’s restaurant. It was the latter who hosted me and recommended several hidden goodies, including a cave unknown to most people on the island. Ceiling and walls were encrusted with sulfur, which condensation made glow like gold. If you tried to touch the treasure, the magic vanished, because the moisture would fall off and you would find yourself staring at a yellow wall. Upon returning from the trip, Cesar informed me that it was his birthday and he was having a huge barbecue with the whole family. “Are you coming?” Not really asking… These are the best experiences Couchsurfing can give! ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/nico1-1.jpg "nico1-1 - Couchsurfing Blog")#### **Walking in Peru** I returned to the mainland to resume the journey. From Guayaquil I headed toward the border of Peru, crossing the endless banana plantations in the El Oro region. After a thousand kilometers on foot, I was about to leave Ecuador. I thought I would cross the border at Aguas Verdes, but a message I had received a few days earlier had made me take another route. Gian is Couchsurfing ambassador in Peru and had contacted me, offering me to stay with him in Piura. The town was about a hundred kilometers from the border and when I asked him what he thought about the crossing he suggested to cross further east, near Lalamor – less traffic, quieter. I followed the tip and in a few days we were face to face in his home in Piura, the City of Eternal Summer. I will always remember the comment I made as soon as I arrived: *“Gian, where is the roof?”* *“It never rains here, so there is not one.”* Just as Alejandra had been my guide to Ecuador as soon as I had arrived, Gian was happy to explain to me how things worked in Peru. We saw the route together – all along the coast to make it easier. But again, Gian changed my mind. He pulled out a few photos of the Cordillera Blanca, a section of the northern Peruvian Andes with spectacular views, and showed me the trekking routes I could take once I reached them. Alright, Ezio and I were going to the Andes! The ascent from the coast to the 2,400 meters of Caraz, the first village overlooking the White Andes, was slow and gradual. Thanks to the advice of Dani, a guy I had met through hangouts and who had traveled the length of Peru on his bike, I had managed to avoid the 4,000-meter pass laying between the Panamericana and Caraz valley. The road along the Pato Canyon was longer, but had the advantage of being significantly safer and more scenic. Considering that I was traveling exclusively on foot, pushing a stroller that between supplies and equipment weighed 50 kilograms, choosing a road without high mountain passes was the best strategy for my legs. The Cordillera Blanca treks kept me there for almost a month: it was there that I fell in love with Peru. September was done when my eyes had enough of the enchanted lagoons and majestic glaciers. The appointment in Lima was again with Gian, who had some business to attend to in the city just on the days I was passing through. We met at his house with some other guys he was hosting and I was able to tell them about the wonders I had seen thanks to our host’s advice. Lima is located half the length of Peru: 1,500 km to the north were gone, now it was time for the southern part, the most desert and least populated. I would have to carry more water and food, and do free camping between towns. I got used to the routine of setting up camp when the hike was over and taking it down early in the morning, before dawn. I was walking an average of 40km a day, and truth be told, I was serene and enjoying it. The Peruvian desert is warm and dry, it doesn’t rain and there is little wind – these are ideal conditions for people who want to walk. Every now and then I would arrive in a village, refuel, visit something and then leave again. I remember a warm welcome in Ica, famous for its wine and the oasis in the dunes that looks like a postcard. Alberto had contacted me via Instagram offering his hospitality and I had spent beautiful days with him and his family, competing to see who could cook the best meal. I was the first person they were welcoming this way, so I told them about Couchsurfing – that this was exactly what we were doing. Alberto liked the idea so much that he signed up the same day I showed him the app. It’s been a year since we met and despite time and distance my friend is always eager to share the stories of the people he is hosting. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/nico2.jpg "nico2 - Couchsurfing Blog")#### **The Longest Country in the World** The gps was marking 4000 km in Latin America (7000km since the round-the-world walking trip had begun) when I crossed the border into Chile and entered the driest desert in the world: Atacama. Some regions have not recorded rain in seventy years, and the air is so dry that even in the absence of wind your lips crack. Despite this, it was paradise for me: apart from the wind rising in the afternoon, conditions for walking were perfect. And I will tell you more: even in the driest desert in the world I found fertile ground for new friendships. In every town I passed through, there was someone to welcome me: Marcelo in Arica, Maribel in Iquique, and Nelson in Antofagasta. Every time I left the desert I could recover and talk with someone about the thoughts birthed during the weeks of solitude leading me to a treasure: dialogue with myself. But another treasure, of a completely different kind, was waiting around the corner…. I arrived in La Serena, concluding the journey in Norte Grande, the most desolate part of Chile. I was greeted by Belén. We talked for hours about our lives and one night we stayed up late talking about the concept of beauty with which we interpret what we experience. It was one of the questions that had pushed me to leave: if my life were a work of art, would I go and see it? I would if it teaches me something or is beautiful, but then what does it mean to live a beautiful life? We took apart and reassembled hypotheses for hours until we concluded that we had no conclusion. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/nico4.jpg "nico4 - Couchsurfing Blog")#### **South** I resumed my journey and passed Santiago, the capital. The south of the country is famous for being tremendously rainy, however, it is also definitely populated. The new balance brought the tent to rest inside Ezio and me to find shelter from dozens of people through Couchsurfing. I was struck by the variety and creativity of the characters I was meeting. Here, people made concrete crafts or huge papier-mâché masks in the shape of fantastical animals called Alebrijes. One guy, Ivan, had just returned home after leaving his boat moored in the Caribbean, waiting for the hurricane season to end so he could sail back among the white-sandy islands. Belén joined me twice. Belén suggested to walk a piece of the world wide walk with me. I accepted and we set a date for a few weeks later, on the starting line of the legendary Carretera Austral, the road of wonders in southern Chile. A few days before we rejoined, I celebrated together with Claudio the 100th night in Couchsurfing. I had met dozens of people, met an ambassador and was becoming one too by talking about the wonderful experiences I had had and leading people to join the network of contacts nurtured by Couchsurfing. I reached the Carretera Austral and for the first time in two years I walked with someone by my side. We were a trio: Belén, me and Ezio, which was carrying both our luggages plus a cardboard box set up outside with all the supplies. Belen is a biologist, so every tree and animal had a name: thanks to her patience I learned to recognize them and give them a story. At the end of the three month Carretera journey, in Villa O’Higgins, I found out the border to Argentina was still closed from covid era. If I wanted to stick to my commitment and do it all on foot, I would have to take a 500-kilometer detour to get to the other side. So I did. I had to go back 50 kilometers (a considerable distance on foot) and then out the hellish Mayer Pass, a tangle of river fords, swamps, paths that got lost and a sheeps footbridge suspended over a rushing stream. At the end, hundreds of miles of desolate pampas, an incessant wind screaming all day long and absolute desolation. I could only rely on myself and my faithful companion, no possibility of refueling, all the food had been stowed inside the stroller. It took me two weeks to reach Chaltèn, Argentina’s national trekking capital. I continued the walk south after being duly refreshed and rested, passing close to Calafate and Perito Moreno, one of the most famous and scenic glaciers. I wanted to return to Chile because by then I had traveled it all, from the far north of Arica to Bahia Bahamonde, where the road ended. I could have been the first to travel the entire length of Chile by walking. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/nico5.jpg "nico5 - Couchsurfing Blog")#### **The End of the World** On Christmas night I camped at the border, Argentine side. The gendarmes let me pitch the tent behind the guardhouse – and they even gave me something to eat! The next day I was in Chile again, greeted by a blizzard with 80km/h winds, gusts powerful enough to move Ezio despite his 50 kg. I arrived in Punta Arenas ready for the last act: Tierra del Fuego. It is an island farther south than Patagonia and home to the world’s southernmost city, my destination and the end of the South American chapter of the world wide walk: Ushuaia, the End of the World. I walked the last stretch of Chile, from Porvenir to the San Sebastian Pass, ending the epic journey in the longest country of the world. It had taken me a year to cross it, time in which I had walked almost 6,000 kilometers from Arica to San Sebastian. I don’t know of any other people who had ever done it: I was the first person to do it. I was in Argentina again and 450km from the border, the End of the World was waiting for me. I arrived there on January 24, 2023, after [traveling 12,000km](https://www.instagram.com/pieroad____/?hl=en) through four countries: Ecuador, Peru, Chile and Argentina. I had crossed three deserts, climbed the Andes and worn out nine pairs of shoes since I left Quito and the Mitad del Mundo two years earlier. I could write a book about what happened in the meantime – and probably I will – but what can I leave you in a short story of a few lines? “If you believe in your dreams you can achieve them,” as cheesy as it sounds, it’s true. So I’ll tell you this: slow down. Go slowly, don’t rush to do things and then say you’ve done them. Take your time, put some effort and give meaning to it, so that when you get to the sign that marks the finish line you will not just embrace a piece of wood, but yourself and the time you have spent making your dream come true. Have the curiosity to see beauty in diversity and the patience to grasp diversity in slowness. Slow down, because going slow is the best way to become who you are. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/nicos-walk-towards-the-end-of-the-world/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/nicos-walk-towards-the-end-of-the-world/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Community, Stories --- ### [Super Couchsurfer Alejandro pays help and kindness forward as a CS host](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/super-couchsurfer-alejandro-pays-help-and-kindness-forward-as-a-cs-host/) **Published:** February 25, 2023 **Author:** Mike Joy **Content:** ##### Welcome to the Super Couchsurfer Spotlight: where we feature some of the most active members in the Couchsurfing community. Every month we highlight two Couchsurfers who play a huge part in hosting, surfing, and/or event organization. This month, we’re introducing you to Alejandro ([@alelunanomada](https://www.instagram.com/alelunanomada/)), a Couchsurfer and Ambassador from Patagonia, Argentina. When Alejandro first came across Couchsurfing, he discovered an entirely different world of travel. He realized how open, kind, and trust-worthy people in the CS community were. Because of all the kindness he received from this community during his own travels, he makes an effort to pay that same kindness and helpfulness forward as a CS host. In the interview below, he shares about his Couchsurfing journey and experiences, as well as tips and advice he has for people that want to get more involved with hosting. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Tezza-5756.jpg "Tezza-5756 - Couchsurfing Blog")#### **How long have you been a Couchsurfing member? How did your journey as a Couchsurfer begin?** **\[ENG\]** I’ve been Couchsurfing since May 2014, thanks to my Argentinian friend, Sergio, who’s a great traveler that now lives in Ireland. He was using Couchsurfing and explained to me how it worked. I was amazed at how successful a platform like this was. My CS journey began in Brazil. It was a great experience to discover what Couchsurfing was since it’s a totally different world of travel. People are more open, trustworthy, and locals help you with a lot of information and make you feel at home. **\[SPA\]** Estoy en couchsurfing desde mayo del 2014, gracias a mi amigo Argentino, Sergio, que es un gran viajero el vive en Irlanda y estaba usando couchsurfing me explicó como funciona y yo quede asombrado de exitas una plataforma así. Mi viaje comenzó en Brasil en el mundial. Fue una gran experiencia descubrir lo que es couchsurfing ya que es un mundo totalmente distinto para viajar las personas son más abiertas y confiables, los locales te ayudan con mucha información y te sientes como en casa. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/alejandro5.jpg "alejandro5 - Couchsurfing Blog")#### **Why do you choose to be a host in the CS community?** **\[ENG\]** The truth is that I saw that it was an opportunity to help change the world by helping travelers from all over the world. Even if they traveled in their motorhome, I understood that they may already have everything. But it is always nice to find locals who can give information, help wash their clothes, share a cup of coffee, and obviously give back what Couchsurfing gave to me during my travels. I was treated very well. I am very happy to be a part of Couchsurfing and be a representative as a [CS ambassador](https://about.couchsurfing.com/about/ambassadors/). **\[SPA\]** La verdad es que vi que era una oportunidad para ayudar a cambiar el mundo ayudando a los viajeros de todo el mundo. Así viajen en su motorhome entendí que ellos pueden tener todo, pero siempre es bueno encontrar locales para darles información, ayudar a lavar su ropa, compartir una taza de café, y obviamente devolver lo que couchsurfing me dio mediante mis viajes. Fui tratado muy bien. Estoy muy contento de ser parte de Couchsurfing y ser un Representante como Embajador en Couchsurfing. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/alejandro4.jpg "alejandro4 - Couchsurfing Blog")#### **Do you have any tips for people that want to start hosting?** **\[ENG\]** My advice is to keep in mind that all experiences are different, since no one is the same as anyone else. If by chance you happen to be new to Couchsurfing, don’t think that all travelers are the same. Another recommendation is to make the rules of your house very clear. Ensure that your guests have read your profile in detail (maybe include a keyword that proves they’ve read everything) so that there are no misunderstandings in the future. It is also very important in references to say share the details of what you experienced hosting, even whether it is positive or negative, because that will help future travelers and yourself. **\[SPA\]** Mi consejo es que todas las experiencias son distintas ya que nadie es igual a nadie, y si por casualidad les toca vivir una experiencia siendo nuevos en couchsurfing, les digo que por culpa de una persona viajere. No crean que todos los viajeros sean iguales. Otra recomendación es dejar bien en claro las normas de tu casa, siendo muy claros pidiendo que lean detallado el perfil con una palabra clave así no se genera malos entendidos en el futuro. Siempre en las referencias es muy importante decir cada detalle de lo vivido, así sea algo positivo o negativo ya que eso ayudará a futuros viajeros y te ayudará a ti mismo. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/alejandro6.jpg "alejandro6 - Couchsurfing Blog")#### **Is there one specific hosting experience that stands out the most to you?** **\[ENG\]** The vast majority of my CS experience have been positive. I’ll share two that stand out the most though. In 2016, I didn’t have money. My credit card didn’t work, I was very hungry and tired, and I obviously felt very bad. I sent many requests but no one answered. At 1:00am, a guy named Rodrigo from Brazil wrote to me that he saw a last-minute request for a stay. I was about 5km from his house and he went to look for me on a very cold night. He gave me food, a place to sleep, and the next day, I bought a ticket to reach my destination. Once my card began working normally again, I asked him for his account number to pay him back but he refused the money. He told me that he had experienced something similar when he went to Paris but he never received help. Obviously, I will always consider that a positive experience in my life. We have to do things like this, even for strangers, so the world can be a better place. The other experience was when I received a couple of Brazilian guests, Nivalda and Grebori. They were very nice people with pure hearts, educated, clean, and emanated a lot of confidence and had good energy. We talked a lot. They were new to Couchsurfing and I explained to them that we have to help travelers in this community. It was exciting to receive a message from them just yesterday telling me that when they were going to Ushuaia. On their way, they saw a backpacker walking alone in the opposite direction that they were heading, yet they turned around and offered help, water, and food to this backpacker. Grebori told me they were very happy to help and they appreciated my advice. **\[SPA\]** La gran mayoría de experiencia fueron positivas pero voy a decir 2. Estaba sin dinero en el año 2016 y mi tarjeta de crédito no funcionaba. Estaba con mucho hambre, cansado, obviamente me sentía muy mal. Envié muchas solicitudes pero nadie respondió. Siendo las 1 de la madrugada un chico de nombre Rodrigo de Brasil me escribió que vio tarde mi solicitud de estadía. Yo estaba a unos 5km de su casa y el fue a buscarme en una noche muy fría me dio comida un espacio para dormir. Al otro día me compro un pasaje para llegar a mi destino, yo una vez que mi tarjeta funcionaba normal pedí su número de cuenta para devolver todo y el se negó a recibir mi dinero. El me dijo que el vivió algo similar al llegar a París, pero nunca recibió esa ayuda. Obviamente siempre tome eso como una experiencia positiva para mi vida y siempre les digo a las personas que aloje o ayudo en la calle, ustedes igualmente tienen que hacer algo así con una persona extraña así el mundo será mucho mejor. La otra fue recibir a una pareja de brasileños, Nivalda y Grebori. Personas muy agradables de corazón puro, educadas, limpias, que me trasmiten mucha confianza, y buena energía. Hablamos mucho. Ellos son nuevos en couchsurfing y le explique esto de que hay que ayudar a los viajeros. Me emocionó recibir un mensaje justo ayer me decían qué yendo para Ushuaia vieron a un mochilero caminando solo en dirección contraria a su destino Ushuaia. Ellos dieron la vuelta y brindaron ayuda con agua y comida a este mochilero. Entonces Grebori me dice que se sintieron muy felices de poder ayudar, y agradrcieron mi consejo. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Screen-Shot-2023-02-21-at-11.36.55.png "Screen-Shot-2023-02-21-at-11.36.55 - Couchsurfing Blog")#### **What recommendations do you have for people traveling to your city?** **\[ENG\]** For travelers coming to this area, I recommend visiting [Rada Tilly](https://radatilly.gob.ar/). There is a reserve called [Punta Marqués](https://chubutpatagonia.gob.ar/experiencia/area-natural-protegida-punta-marques/) where you can see a variety of whales, sea lions, foxes and much more. I usually go to the beaches to clean up a bit to help the planet. I usually find injured animals such as penguins, seagulls, sea lions, and elephant seals with some oil, hooks or nets on their bodies. Helping Earth is an activity that I like to do. If someone wants to join, it would be great. I also recommend going to places outside of the city. There is a long trek where you can see a cave, parrots from Patagonia, Argentina, and guanacos. **\[SPA\]** Para los futuros viajeros, les recomiendo visitar Rada Tilly. Hay una reserva de nombre Punta Marqués para ver variedad de ballenas lobos marinos zorros y muchas cosas más. Yo suelo ir a las playas a limpiar un poco para ayudar al planeta. Suelo encontrar animales heridos como pingüinos, gaviotas, lobos marinos, y elefantes marinos con algunos anzuelos petróleo o red en su cuerpo. Tierra es una actividad que me gusta hacer. Si alguien se quiere unir seria genial. Igualmente voy para lugares fuera de la ciudad se llamaría km20 es un trekking largo y se puede ver una cueva, loros de la Patagonia, Argentina, y guanacos. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Screen-Shot-2023-02-21-at-11.38.50.png "Screen-Shot-2023-02-21-at-11.38.50 - Couchsurfing Blog")**[Hosting on Couchsurfing](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/articles/203340734-How-do-I-host-on-Couchsurfing-) is an amazing way to make friends out of strangers, share your life and experiences with fellow travelers, and learn about new cultures while also teaching others about your own.** **Ready to [become a host](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/articles/203340734-How-do-I-host-on-Couchsurfing-) and join an incredible global community of caring and like-minded travelers? [Sign up here now!](https://www.couchsurfing.com) Once you join, you’ll not only be able to host travelers from all around the world, but you’ll also stay with locals and attend Couchsurfing events across the globe.** ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/super-couchsurfer-alejandro-pays-help-and-kindness-forward-as-a-cs-host/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/super-couchsurfer-alejandro-pays-help-and-kindness-forward-as-a-cs-host/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Community, Stories --- ### [For Super Couchsurfer Martin, Hosting on CS is Like Traveling Without Leaving Home](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/for-martin-hosting-on-cs-is-like-traveling-without-leaving-home/) **Published:** February 18, 2023 **Author:** Mike Joy **Content:** ##### Welcome to the Super Couchsurfer Spotlight: where we feature some of the most active members in the Couchsurfing community. Every month we highlight two Couchsurfers who play a huge part in hosting, surfing, and/or event organization. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/@couchsurfing_vienna5.jpg "@couchsurfing_vienna5 - Couchsurfing Blog")This month, we’re introducing you to Martin ([@couchsurfing\_vienna](https://www.instagram.com/couchsurfing_vienna/)), a Couchsurfer and Ambassador from Vienna, Austria. Martin has been part of the CS community for ten years now and knows CS inside and out! He’s an active leader in his community as a host and organizer for events. In the interview below, he shares about his CS journey, his Couchsurfing experiences, and any tips and advice he has for people that want to get more involved with hosting. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/@couchsurfing_vienna1.jpg "@couchsurfing_vienna1 - Couchsurfing Blog")![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/@couchsurfing_vienna6.jpg "@couchsurfing_vienna6 - Couchsurfing Blog")#### **How long have you been a Couchsurfing member? How did your journey as a Couchsurfer begin?** I started Couchsurfing about ten years ago and I used it mainly for hosting people back then. After a few years, I started visiting the people that I hosted in their home countries and I explored the world of couchSURFING more. Just before the first COVID lockdown, I became an ambassador. During the two years of COVID restrictions, I had a lot of time to think about my role as an ambassador and I concluded that I wanted to start creating events to support the local CS community in Vienna. Before that, I was pretty much on my own being a host, but I really wanted to reach out to other like-minded people and as it turns out, some of my best friends in Vienna now are people that I met through Couchsurfing. At that point, I thought I had explored all the ways of using Couchsurfing and I knew all the ins and outs of it all. But then I discovered CouchCrashes (multi-day events that people from all over the world travel to) and it felt like my real journey with Couchsurfing actually started that day. My first CouchCrash felt like getting a letter to Hogwarts. I got to meet so many special, like-minded and adventurous people with the magical gift of being kind to each other. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/@couchsurfing_vienna9.jpg "@couchsurfing_vienna9 - Couchsurfing Blog")#### **Why do you choose to host in the CS community?** Through Couchsurfing, I have met and continue to meet other versions of myself from other countries. I continue to be surprised by how many similarities I discover with people that I host or meet through Couchsurfing. Hosting for me is like travelling without having to go anywhere. My guests usually take me on a journey to their country, through stories, souvenirs or cooking their local food. One of my favorite things about hosting is forming a deeper connection with my guests. Even though I am not able to stay in touch with all of them, I know that I will have a friend in their home country to visit when they go back. And for me, it is a lot of fun to show foreigners around my city. Most of the sites around Vienna I ended up visiting because I showed them to my Couchsurfers. So I also get to explore my own city as well. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/@couchsurfing_vienna2.jpg "@couchsurfing_vienna2 - Couchsurfing Blog")#### **Do you have any tips for people that want to start hosting?** For hosting as well as any other activities on Couchsurfing, I can recommend the following things: - Read requests, offers, references and profiles carefully - Set clear expectations and have clear communication about sleeping arrangements/arrival time/house rules - Exchange references - Start a Couchsurfing book — when I started Couchsurfing, I created a guest book for CSers to leave messages. I now also use it for travelling. I am now on book 5! If you have any more questions about hosting or how to use Couchsurfing, go to a weekly meeting or CS event in your city or contact an ambassador in your country! ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/@couchsurfing_vienna8.jpg "@couchsurfing_vienna8 - Couchsurfing Blog")#### **Is there one specific hosting experience that stands out the most to you?** It’s really hard to pick one hosting experience that stands out the most. Because I have had so many great experiences and met so many great people, that feels like having to pick a favorite among my children. I can say, however, that any time I cook local food with my couchsurfers and I learn new recipes, that feels really special to me. #### **What recommendations do you have for people traveling to your city?** Go to local CS events! We do hikes, city walks, Austrian food events, etc. You can meet with me at these events or reach out at [@vienna\_couchsurfing](https://www.instagram.com/couchsurfing_vienna/) for more recommendations, too. I’d also suggest taking a look at this [Vienna Guide](https://tinyurl.com/martinsguidetovienna) I created for my guests! It has information about places around Vienna, activities, foods, and public transportation. We’re currently in the process of creating a website, which will eventually feature unique spots and hidden gems around Vienna (and later on, all of Austria). Though it’s still under construction, you can find that here: [www.csembassyaustria.com](http://www.csembassyaustria.com/). ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/@couchsurfing_vienna7.jpg "@couchsurfing_vienna7 - Couchsurfing Blog")Lastly, I’d suggest trying to come to our [ViennaCalling CouchCrash](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/viennacalling-couchcrash-2023) in June (22nd to 25th)! . Some of the events already on the itinerary include a picnic, Austrian food event, Friday night clubbing, afternoon city walk, new member welcome, and karaoke. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/@couchsurfing_vienna3.jpg "@couchsurfing_vienna3 - Couchsurfing Blog")##### **[Hosting on Couchsurfing](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/articles/203340734-How-do-I-host-on-Couchsurfing-) is an amazing way to make friends out of strangers, share your life and experiences with fellow travelers, and learn about new cultures while also teaching others about your own.** ##### **Ready to become a host and join an incredible global community of caring and like-minded travelers? [Sign up here now](https://www.couchsurfing.com)! Once you join, you’ll not only be able to host travelers from all around the world, but you’ll also stay with locals and attend [Couchsurfing events](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/calendar/) across the globe.** ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/for-martin-hosting-on-cs-is-like-traveling-without-leaving-home/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/for-martin-hosting-on-cs-is-like-traveling-without-leaving-home/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Community, Stories --- ### [Super Couchsurfer Espe has been traveling solo for years, but thanks to CS, has never felt lonely](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/super-couchsurfer-espe-has-been-traveling-solo-for-years-but-thanks-to-cs-has-never-felt-lonely/) **Published:** January 21, 2023 **Author:** Mike Joy **Content:** ##### Welcome to the Super Couchsurfer Spotlight: where we highlight and get to know some of the most active members of the Couchsurfing community. Each month, we feature two community members that play a huge part in hosting, surfing, or event organization. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/@espefernandez74.jpg "@espefernandez74 - Couchsurfing Blog")This month, we’re introducing you to Espe ([@espefernandez7](https://www.instagram.com/espefernandez7/)), a Couchsurfer from Ibiza, Spain. Espe has been traveling solo for years now, but thanks to the Couchsurfing community, she’s never felt lonely. Espe has made friends and travel-mates from Peru to Hungary, spent months traveling by van with another Couchsurfer, celebrated Christmas with a family in Guatemala, and attended a camping trip event in Sequoia National Park. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/@espefernandez713.jpg "@espefernandez713 - Couchsurfing Blog")In the interview below, we ask Espe about her CS journey, her experiences and advice on surfing, and any tips she has for people that want to start traveling through Couchsurfing. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/@espefernandez79.jpg "@espefernandez79 - Couchsurfing Blog")#### **How long have you been a CS member and how did your journey as a Couchsurfer begin?** I joined the app in 2016 because a friend of mine found it. We were planning a trip around Europe and in some blog, he discovered the app. I made my profile but in the end we didn’t use it. When I finished university in 2018, I chose to start traveling. I started volunteering at a hospital in Peru and it was then that I remember the app. I joined a few groups for hangouts, where we were meeting for different activities (visiting the city, eating dinner, going to the beach, etc) and every weekend we were going hiking and camping together all around Peru. It was an amazing experience. Then a few months later, I surfed for the first time in Budapest. I was travelling with a friend and Balazs host us. I loved the experience and from there I never stopped. I used CS in Hungry, Australia, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, USA, Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia, Spain, Portugal, Bulgaria, Serbia, Croatia, Montenegro, Bosnia, Albania, Greece, Italy, India and Nepal. Every experience is different and you can learn a lot about the culture, lifestyle, history, and food. Also, I’ve been traveling solo for 2 years, but have never felt lonely because you feel like at home in your host’s house. I met a lot of travelers in the hosts’ houses. For example, I met Stella from China in Oaxaca, Mexico and we travelled together in the South of Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua and Costa Rica. Without CS, I wouldn’t have gotten the chance to meet my travel-mate. Or in the States, through an event for a trip to Sequoia National Park I met David. We spent two days with his friends camping, along with two of my friends. We enjoyed it a lot and we made an amazing crew. When my friends and I finished our trip, I felt that I should go back and spend more time with that crew. So my friends went back to Spain and although I had a flight from NY to Guatemala, I decided to go back to Los Angeles instead and it was the best decision ever, David hosted me for almost three months in his lovely van and it was great. I learned a lot about the culture, we hung out with his friends and we also traveled and volunteered around different states. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/@espefernandez72.jpg "@espefernandez72 - Couchsurfing Blog")![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/@espefernandez76.jpg "@espefernandez76 - Couchsurfing Blog")#### **What advice would you give someone that wants to start traveling through Couchsurfing?** Don’t worry and don’t listen to people that have never used the app. Before starting, a lot of people were warning me about safety and things that could go wrong. I don’t want to say that you don’t have to be careful but I’m sure that there are much more good people around the globe than bad people. The ones that are inside their houses will be always scared for people going outside of their comfort zone. But if you really want to go out of your home and start travelling, CS is an amazing way of doing it. Just read the profile and the references and you will get a good idea about who you are going to meet. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/@espefernandez717.jpg "@espefernandez717 - Couchsurfing Blog")#### **Do you have any tips for sending requests to hosts?** Don’t copy paste! Don’t do it! If you really don’t have anything unique to say to your host, I think that maybe you should read their profile again or chose another host. I feel that when you are sending the request you should look interested in meeting them. It’s important to show them why: Why you want to meet them, why you’ve chosen them, and why you think it could be a nice experience. I’m not saying that you have to write a long letter but at least a personal one. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/@espefernandez720.jpg "@espefernandez720 - Couchsurfing Blog")#### **Is there one Couchsurfing memory that stands out to you the most?** There are few that are really special memories for me, but I’ll choose one. When I was in Guatemala, Christmas was approaching and of course I was sometimes missing home and wanted to be with my family on Christmas Eve. So one day before, I thought that I could find a family to spend Christmas Eve with. I started reading profiles and I found Nisdem. He was not hosting for a while but I saw in the references that everyone talked about his lovely family. I sent him a message explaining how I was feeling and how much I would love to spend that evening with his family. He replied to me so quick and accepted me! When I go to his family’s house I knew that I had chosen the perfect place and the perfect people. I experienced Christmas Eve in Guatemala as a local! There were more than 30 people in his house and every five minutes neighbors and relatives passed by. I think that we ate dinner more than 10 times that night hahah. We talked, played, learned and enjoyed everything as a family! It was an amazing night and I will always remember that Christmas Eve thanks to CS. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/@espefernandez718.jpg "@espefernandez718 - Couchsurfing Blog")#### **What recommendations do you have for people traveling to your city?** I am from Ibiza. I’m pretty sure that most people know it as a party island and of course there are a lot of parties with really good DJs in some of the biggest discos around the world, but that’s not all Ibiza is! [Ibiza](https://www.spain.info/en/region/ibiza-island/) is an amazing island! We have beautiful white villages, nice sunsets and sunrises, cute little hills, old town surrounded by the sea, and awesome beaches. I promise you that there’s nothing to envy about Caribbean Sea beaches while you’re here. Also just one hour away by boat, we have [Formentera](https://www.formentera.es/), a paradise island. It has three tiny villages, two light houses, and sand with turquoise water all around. I don’t recommend visiting the island in July and August though because it’s much too crowded and there are too many cars and people everywhere. But if you come in May, June, September or October, you will have good weather and you’ll enjoy it more! I will always recommend visiting the island with locals because you will see secret spots that you can’t find on the Internet. Hope to see you in the Magic Island! ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/@espefernandez78.jpg "@espefernandez78 - Couchsurfing Blog")**Traveling through [Couchsurfing](https://www.couchsurfing.com) is an amazing way to make friends out of strangers, stay with a local, share your life and experiences with fellow travelers, and learn about new cultures while also teaching others about your own.** **Ready to become a Couchsurfer and join an incredible global community of caring and like-minded travelers? [Sign up here now](https://www.couchsurfing.com)! Once you join, you’ll be able to stay with local hosts around the world, host travelers yourself, and attend attend [Couchsurfing events](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/calendar/) across the globe!** ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/super-couchsurfer-espe-has-been-traveling-solo-for-years-but-thanks-to-cs-has-never-felt-lonely/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/super-couchsurfer-espe-has-been-traveling-solo-for-years-but-thanks-to-cs-has-never-felt-lonely/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Community, Stories --- ### [Nikita, Super Couchsurfer from Belarus, shares his best tips for traveling through Couchsurfing](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/nikita-super-couchsurfer-from-belarus-shares-his-best-tips-for-traveling-through-couchsurfing/) **Published:** January 13, 2023 **Author:** Mike Joy **Content:** ##### Welcome to the Super Couchsurfer Spotlight: a space for us to highlight and get to know some of the most active members of the Couchsurfing community. Each month, we feature two members that play a huge part in hosting, surfing, or event organization. This month, we’re introducing you to Nikita ([@thereal\_big\_nik](https://www.instagram.com/thereal_big_nik/)), a Couchsurfer from Minsk, Belarus. Although Nikita is relatively new to the CS community, he has played an incredibly active part as a surfer, host, and event organizer. In the interview below, we ask him about his CS journey, his experiences and advice on surfing, and any tips he has for people that want to start traveling through Couchsurfing. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/@thereal_big_nik7.jpeg "@thereal_big_nik7 - Couchsurfing Blog")#### **How long have you been a CS member and how did your journey as a Couchsurfer begin?** Despite the fact that I already have 180+ references on my page, I am a new member of the CS community and new user of the application. I downloaded Couchsurfing in February 2022 and my first reference I received was from some cool guys in Istanbul, Turkey. My experience was awesome! They were “exemplary” hosts and I was excited to continue traveling like this. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/@thereal_big_nik4.jpeg "@thereal_big_nik4 - Couchsurfing Blog")#### **What advice would you give someone that wants to start traveling through Couchsurfing?** Just don’t be shy or afraid! I do recommend making a travel plan, including which cities and places you want to visit, what to do, and to post a public trip. If you find a host you want to stay with, just send a request in advance, because many of the cool guys are busy and have guests already. If you send “last-minute” requests, what I have done many times, you should politely explain why you’re in such situation. I believe someone will accept it. And spontaneity is also good! ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/@thereal_big_nik3-1.jpeg "@thereal_big_nik3-1 - Couchsurfing Blog")#### **Do you have any tips for sending requests to hosts?** Oh yeah! I love languages and before sending a request, I sometimes say hello in the native language of host. That’s pleasant to read. You for sure have to read the profile information in detail, because some hosts leave keywords on their profiles. An important thing to be aware of is the “about home” section on their profiles because there could be rules or special things to know so that there are no misunderstandings. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/@thereal_big_nik6.jpeg "@thereal_big_nik6 - Couchsurfing Blog")#### **Is there one Couchsurfing memory that stands out to you the most?** This is difficult to answer because I’ve never had a bad experience with any Couchsurfers. I love everyone I’ve met and would like to meet with them again. I used to travel by hitchhiking and one day my friend and I found a car with a driver who also used Couchsurfing. He was a really welcoming man. He picked us up not only in the city center where we shared food, but also in the next city over which wasn’t even in his plans. That was really touching and wonderful. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/@thereal_big_nik3.jpeg "@thereal_big_nik3 - Couchsurfing Blog")#### **What recommendations do you have for people traveling to your city?** I’ve hosted many people in my hometown of [Minsk, Belarus](https://www.belarus.by/en/about-belarus/geography/minskcity). Since I’ve lived in the city all my life and traveled a lot all over my country, I know everything about it and I’m always ready to share my tips and advice for things to see and do. If I’m around, I always try to walk with guests around the city and show it to them myself. Not only with my guests, but my hangouts are always open and I sometimes organize free guided tours. There was one time that I even hitchhiked to another city with my guest and we became friends. I do recommend seeing not only Minsk in Belarus, but other cute cities like [Grodno](https://belarus-travel.com/grodno/), [Brest](https://belarus-travel.com/brest/), [Mogilev](https://www.belarus.by/en/about-belarus/geography/mogilev-region), etc., and the amazing nature of course! You’re always welcome in Belarus if even I’m not there. Unfortunately, I am soon implementing some of my big travel plans for 2023, but I’ll try to host people in different places on my way, where I’ll stay more. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/@thereal_big_nik2.jpeg "@thereal_big_nik2 - Couchsurfing Blog")**Traveling through [Couchsurfing](https://www.couchsurfing.com) is an amazing way to make friends out of strangers, stay with a local, share your life and experiences with fellow travelers, and learn about new cultures while also teaching others about your own.** **Ready to become a Couchsurfer and join an incredible global community of caring and like-minded travelers? [Sign up here now](https://www.couchsurfing.com)! Once you join, you’ll be able to stay with local hosts around the world, host travelers yourself, and attend attend [Couchsurfing events](https://www.google.com/search?client=safari&rls=en&q=couchsurfing+events+calendar&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8) across the globe!** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/@thereal_big_nik1.jpeg "@thereal_big_nik1 - Couchsurfing Blog")### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/nikita-super-couchsurfer-from-belarus-shares-his-best-tips-for-traveling-through-couchsurfing/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/nikita-super-couchsurfer-from-belarus-shares-his-best-tips-for-traveling-through-couchsurfing/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Community, Stories --- ### [Ask Couchsurfing: How Have You Changed?](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/ask-couchsurfing-how-have-you-changed/) **Published:** December 22, 2022 **Author:** Mike Joy **Content:** **Ask Couchsurfing: Where we answer your questions about CS and traveling. Check out our [Instagram](http://www.instagram.com/couchsurfing) and [TikTok](http://www.tiktok.com/@couchsurfing) weekly to watch Mike from Couchsurfing HQ answer the question, or read the responses here!** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/q.png "q - Couchsurfing Blog") How have you changed since joining Couchsurfing? ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/magdalena.jpeg "magdalena - Couchsurfing Blog") **Magdalena from Gdansk** Deciding to pack up and leave is so much easier now. Having had such a positive experience with Couchsurfing, I not only look forward to meeting my hosts, but also feel more relaxed when traveling. I just have this peace in my mind – that everything is gonna be sooo fine 🙂 ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/pandelis.jpeg "pandelis - Couchsurfing Blog") **Pandelis from Nicosia** I feel much more comfortable in multicultural and multiracial environments than before. I feel much more comfortable speaking to new people and ‘breaking the ice’ than before. I decide faster which people deserve the effort and which do not. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Liana-1.jpeg "Liana-1 - Couchsurfing Blog") **Liana from Bend** I see the ability to offer hospitality as more of a gift now, and one I love to give. Not everyone has hosting ability, due to (for example) space limitations, but that is why the community works well. Sometimes people are in the position to host, sometimes they only surf. Both are equally valuable. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/mike.jpeg "mike - Couchsurfing Blog") **Mike from Couchsurfing** As I’ve aged both on Couchsurfing and in life I have really started to value the people I meet along the way. One of the mantras I live by is ‘memories are better shared’ and on Couchsurfing I have met so many amazing people who I have been able to share amazing times with. There are so many beautiful souls out there and my favorite part of travel has really become meeting as many of them as possible – and Couchsurfing has been a big impetus for that change. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/ask-couchsurfing-how-have-you-changed/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/ask-couchsurfing-how-have-you-changed/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Advice --- ### [By quitting his corporate job to travel the world, Super Couchsurfer Franz discovered CS](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/by-quitting-his-corporate-job-to-travel-the-world-super-couchsurfer-franz-discovered-cs/) **Published:** December 30, 2022 **Author:** Mike Joy **Content:** ##### Welcome to the CS Superuser Spotlight, where we highlight the most active ambassadors and members in the Couchsurfing community. Every month, we’re featuring two of the most active hosts, surfers, or event organizers. This month, we’re introducing you to Franz ([@franzexplorer](https://www.instagram.com/franzexplorer/)), a CS Ambassador from Rio De Janeiro, Brazil. Tired of working long hours in a corporate job, he decided to take a sabbatical and travel to Europe. This is when he first joined Couchsurfing and discovered he could create a lifestyle that balanced work and travel. As a CS host, he’s been opening his home to other travelers for years now. In the interview below, we ask Franz about his Couchsurfing journey, his experiences and advice on hosting, and some recommendations he has for travelers going to Rio De Janeiro. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/@franzexplorer2.jpeg "@franzexplorer2 - Couchsurfing Blog")#### **How long have you been a CS member and how did your journey as a Couchsurfer begin?** I have been a CS member since June 2014, when I quit my corporate job to begin my long travel journey. I was working in a corporate job for 20 hours a day and only sleeping 1 hour. I decided to take a sabbatical and ended up discovering that I could work overseas so I created a lifestyle where I work half the year and travel half the year. The first time I heard about Couchsurfing was when I was backpacking in Central America in May 2013. I met a long term traveler in a hostel in Guatemala who told me about Couchsurfing. I didn’t try it back then, but when I arrived to Europe in June 2014, I created a profile and had my first Couchsurfing experience. I was a guest in Rome and stayed at the house of an Italian dancer named Valentina. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/@franzexplorer5.jpg "@franzexplorer5 - Couchsurfing Blog")#### **Can you tell us about your first time hosting?** Since I was always on the road it was hard to start hosting, but the first time I hosted, I used the apartment of my German cousin in Munich. The second time I hosted a few travelers in a bungalow in Zanzibar, Tanzania when I worked as a hotel manager. I started hosting more people when I flew back home to Rio de Janeiro after 3 years on the road. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/@franzexplorer15.jpg "@franzexplorer15 - Couchsurfing Blog")#### **Why do you choose to be a host in the Couchsurfing community?** I choose to host because I want to give back all the amazing kindness I received from my hosts, the time they spent with me, and the local knowledge they shared. When I host is more of a donation act. I show my guests around and I show them the night life in a bohemian bar in Lapa, Rio. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/@franzexplorer8.jpg "@franzexplorer8 - Couchsurfing Blog")#### **Do you have any tips for people that want to start hosting?** If you want to start hosting, don’t expect much from guests. Do it as an act of kindness and clearly define house rules. Preferably host people with at least 10 positive references. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/@franzexplorer1-1.jpeg "@franzexplorer1-1 - Couchsurfing Blog")#### **Is there one specific hosting experience that stands out the most to you?** The most interesting guest I have hosted was Bo ([@baktan](https://www.instagram.com/baktan/)). He has been to nearly every country in the world and can fluently speak over 10 languages including Chinese, English, Estonian, Finnish, French, Hungarian, Italian, Romanian, Turkish, and Portuguese. He has 490 references on Couchsurfing! #### **What recommendations do you have for people traveling to your city? Are there any unique spots around town to visit, fun experiences to have, interesting things to do, or amazing places you’d recommend to eat or drink?** Rio de Janeiro is a great city for hiking, partying, sightseeing, and just chilling by the beach. One of my favourite spots is [Real Gabinete Portugues de Leitura](https://www.realgabinete.com.br/) — it’s amongst the most beautiful libraries in the world. For partying, a traditional street carnival happens every Monday on [Pedra do Sal](https://www.instagram.com/pedradosaloficial/?hl=en). My favorite hike is [Morro Dois Irmãos](https://www.tripadvisor.com.br/Attraction_Review-g303506-d2352264-Reviews-Morro_Dois_Irmaos-Rio_de_Janeiro_State_of_Rio_de_Janeiro.html) — here you get to see stunning views and experience going up a hill inside a favela on a moto taxi. If you just want to relax, you have plenty of beach options in town. I always recommend people to walk from Leme Beach to the end of Leblon beach. You get to see Leme, Copacabana, Arpoador, Ipanema and Leblon, the most lively beach districts in Rio. You must try the Feijoada, traditional Brazilian food. A good restaurant to go is [Ximeninho](https://osximenes.com.br/) in the Lapa district. I’d also recommend trying coxinha, pão de queijo, doce de leite, açai, and tapioca — some things you only find in Brazil. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/@franzexplorer3.jpeg "@franzexplorer3 - Couchsurfing Blog")**[Hosting on Couchsurfing](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/articles/203340734-How-do-I-host-on-Couchsurfing-#:~:text=To%20do%20so%2C%20click%20to,results%2C%20or%20from%20their%20profile.) is an amazing way to make friends out of strangers, share your life and experiences with fellow travelers, and learn about new cultures while also teaching others about your own.** **Ready to become a host and join an incredible global community of caring and like-minded travelers? [Sign up here now!](https://www.couchsurfing.com) Once you join, you’ll not only be able to host travelers from all around the world, but you’ll also be able to stay with locals and attend Couchsurfing events across the globe.** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/@franzexplorer6-1.jpg "@franzexplorer6-1 - Couchsurfing Blog")### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/by-quitting-his-corporate-job-to-travel-the-world-super-couchsurfer-franz-discovered-cs/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/by-quitting-his-corporate-job-to-travel-the-world-super-couchsurfer-franz-discovered-cs/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Community, Stories --- ### [Ask Couchsurfing: What Can't You Travel Without?](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/ask-couchsurfing-what-cant-you-travel-without/) **Published:** December 16, 2022 **Author:** Mike Joy **Content:** **Ask Couchsurfing: Where we answer your questions about CS and traveling. Check out our [Instagram](http://www.instagram.com/couchsurfing) and [TikTok](http://www.tiktok.com/@couchsurfing) weekly to watch Mike from Couchsurfing HQ answer the question, or read the responses here!** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/q.png "q - Couchsurfing Blog") What is something you can’t travel without? ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Annarita-3.jpeg "Annarita-3 - Couchsurfing Blog") **Annarita from Saint-Brieuc** I always travel with my phone, a power bank and 2 sarongs; but one thing I never forget is a little electrical resistance I can use whenever I need hot water to make instant coffee. I bought it in India 9 years ago and it is still working. I used it 3 weeks ago in Morocco as I was in a hotel where there wasn’t kitchen or kettle. I need a coffee before opening my eyes! ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/2bbaf557-67da-41b8-aa6f-166cd70493c9.jpeg "2bbaf557-67da-41b8-aa6f-166cd70493c9 - Couchsurfing Blog") **Sydney from A Coruña** I would say at least one passport (I have 2), a pair of earplugs, a change of clothes, a crappy camera and my old but still fairly faithful MacBook Air. I actually have two MacBooks of the same model , but the one I travel with is over a decade old, so if I lose it, it gets stolen, or simply refuses to work anymore, I’ll just leave it there (wherever there happens to be!) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Anu.jpeg "Anu - Couchsurfing Blog") **Anu from Chandigarh** I cannot travel anywhere without my travel bag which contains my power bank, gimble, goggles, extra memory cards for my phone camera, comb and sunblock! Ya, you can call it a manpurse… ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/mike.jpeg "mike - Couchsurfing Blog") **Mike from Couchsurfing** I completely agree with a power bank because you never know when your going to be stuck on a bus for an extra 4 hours without a plug. A universal adapter is a necessity if you’re going to be in countries with various plugs. But my three luxury items for travel are: 1\. A comfy sweatshirt. No matter where I am going, I always make sure I have a soft comfortable sweatshirt for those times you just want to lounge around. 2\. An eye mask. I’m a super light sleeper and need complete darkness to stay asleep, so I always travel with a soft eye mask to put over my eyes when I’m asleep. 3\. Ear plugs. Again, I’m such a light sleeper that I need to block out all noise in order to sleep and you never know when you’re going to be in the middle of nowhere without a pharmacy that sells them! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/ask-couchsurfing-what-cant-you-travel-without/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/ask-couchsurfing-what-cant-you-travel-without/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Advice --- ### [Super Couchsurfer Dan shares his life, experiences, and home as a host in Las Vegas, NV](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/super-couchsurfer-dan-shares-his-life-experiences-and-home-as-a-host-in-las-vegas-nv/) **Published:** December 16, 2022 **Author:** Mike Joy **Content:** ##### Welcome to the CS Superuser Spotlight, where we highlight the most active ambassadors and members in the Couchsurfing community. Every month, we’re featuring two of the most active hosts, surfers, or event organizers. This month, we’re introducing you to Dan, a CS Member from Las Vegas, NV, USA. Though he originally joined Couchsurfing to help him save money on his road trip across South America, he quickly learned that Couchsurfing is about so much more than having a place to crash. He discovered that it’s the people we meet within this caring and generous community that make Couchsurfing what it is. In the interview below, we ask Dan about his Couchsurfing journey, his experiences and advice on hosting, and any tips he has for visiting Las Vegas. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/image0.jpeg "image0 - Couchsurfing Blog")#### **How long have you been a CS member and how did your journey as a Couchsurfer begin?** I joined Couchsurfing four years ago this month, December 2018. I had bought a car in Santiago, Chile and I was road tripping the entire continent of South America. I was told about Couchsurfing whilst at a hostel and kind of selfishly, joined to help sustain my ability to travel around South America on a budget. However, I learned very quickly the values of Couchsurfing and bought into them immediately. It’s not just a place to crash, it’s about the people we meet. I’m here to share my life, my experiences, my journey and my home with this loving and caring community. I enjoy connecting with and accepting the kindness of “strangers”, whom very quickly become friends. Together we strengthen our faith in humanity and grow into more compassionate human-beings. Through Couchsurfing I’ve built a tolerance, respect and appreciation to the worlds diverse cultures, religions and political beliefs. I appreciate and share a desire to learn about my hosts and guests, and discussing how we can grow as people and become better global citizens through travel. This is relevant to Couchsurfing and it’s beautiful community, but it applies to relationships, to the world, to my home and to your home. We’re here to make the world better, to enhance each others lives and to become stronger in that purpose by coming together. To each and everybody in this community, I love you, I care for you, I wish you well and I welcome you with a smile and open arms into my home. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/image7.jpeg "image7 - Couchsurfing Blog")#### **Why do you choose to be a host in the Couchsurfing community?** Because I want to help. I earnestly believe in the Couchsurfing mission and I want to give back to a community that has given me so much. I have friends on all continents of this planet that I connected with through Couchsurfing, whether that is through surfing, hosting, at events or just hanging out. It’s very important for me not to forget the Couchsurfing ethos. I will absolutely put more into Couchsurfing than I take out and will host every and anybody if I have the availability. Particularly in Las Vegas at the moment, I know hotel rates can run upwards of $100 per night, especially on weekends. I’ve backpacked myself and I know when travelling economically and on a tight budget, how grateful I was for a free, comfortable, warm and safe place to stay for the night. My doors and arms are open to you all and I expect nothing in return. I just want to help out my fellow Couchsurfing brothers and sisters like so many have done for me over the years. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/image3.jpeg "image3 - Couchsurfing Blog")#### **Do you have any tips for people that want to start hosting?** I strive to give my guests the best experience while staying with me and I do what it takes to make them feel as comfortable as possible. I write all this on my Couchsurfing profile, in the “My Home” section; - Please don’t hesitate to send me last-minute requests. - Your message doesn’t have to be long or personalised, you could just say something like “Hey, I need a place to sleep”. - You’re very welcome to stay with me, even if you don’t have references yet. - If you’re traveling on a low budget, please indicate that in your message and I’ll cover the expenses during your stay. - You’ll have your own key, you can come in and out anytime you’d like. If you would like to hang out, that’s totally cool; If you would prefer your own space, that’s also totally cool. - There’s no limit to the duration of your stay and feel free to use anything around my home. My place isn’t just some place to sleep, it is your home and I want you to feel that way. I guess the best tip I can give is to be very clear in your messages about what you can and can’t offer to your guests. By and large, Couchsurfers are chilled out, respectful and a grateful bunch. Just understand how guests feel when they arrive and be sensitive to their state of mind. It’s nice to hang out with guests and guests will appreciate your time, but they’ll equally appreciate there own space too, so don’t overwhelm them. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/image8.jpeg "image8 - Couchsurfing Blog")#### **Is there one specific hosting experience that stands out the most to you?** I don’t think I have a standout hosting experience, I truly love all my guests so deeply and the gratitude on their faces says it all. There’s no greater feeling than making somebody else’s day. A favourite pastime of mine is to read through my surfers reference, it makes me smile when I read their kind words and reminisce over our time spent together. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/image1.jpeg "image1 - Couchsurfing Blog")#### **What recommendations do you have for people traveling to your city? Are there any unique spots around town to visit, fun experiences to have, interesting things to do, or amazing places you’d recommend to eat or drink?** So in Las Vegas it’s difficult to give recommendations because it’s a city that attracts so many people for so many reasons. The main attractions for a typical Couchsurfer include: - [The Las Vegas Sign](https://www.visitlasvegas.com/listing/welcome-to-fabulous-las-vegas-sign/35219/) - [The Fremont Street Experience](https://vegasexperience.com/) - [The Bellagio Fountains](https://bellagio.mgmresorts.com/en/entertainment/fountains-of-bellagio.html) - [Walk Las Vegas Strip](https://www.lasvegashowto.com/las-vegas-strip-map) These are all budget friendly activities since they’re entirely free. Then, of course almost all of my first time guests like to take a trip to visit the Grand Canyon. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/image6.jpeg "image6 - Couchsurfing Blog")![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/image4.jpeg "image4 - Couchsurfing Blog")**[Hosting on Couchsurfing](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/articles/203340734-How-do-I-host-on-Couchsurfing-) is an amazing way to make friends out of strangers, share your life and experiences with fellow travelers, and learn about new cultures while also teaching others about your own.** **Ready to become a host and join an incredible global community of caring and like-minded travelers? [Sign up here now](https://www.couchsurfing.com)! Once you join, you’ll not only be able to host travelers from all around the world, but you’ll also be able to stay with locals and attend Couchsurfing events across the globe.** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/image9.jpeg "image9 - Couchsurfing Blog")### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/super-couchsurfer-dan-shares-his-life-experiences-and-home-as-a-host-in-las-vegas-nv/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/super-couchsurfer-dan-shares-his-life-experiences-and-home-as-a-host-in-las-vegas-nv/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Community, Stories --- ### [Ask Couchsurfing: The Most Beautiful Thing About CS](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/ask-couchsurfing-the-most-beautiful-thing-about-couchsurfing/) **Published:** December 8, 2022 **Author:** Mike Joy **Content:** **Ask Couchsurfing: Where we answer your questions about CS and traveling. Check out our [Instagram](http://www.instagram.com/couchsurfing) and [TikTok](http://www.tiktok.com/@couchsurfing) weekly to watch Mike from Couchsurfing HQ answer the question, or read the responses here!** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/q.png "q - Couchsurfing Blog") What is the most beautiful thing about Couchsurfing? ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Doro.jpeg "Doro - Couchsurfing Blog") **Doro from Tübingen** The most beautiful thing for me is that it doesn’t matter if Couchsurfing guests or event attendees are young or old, poor or rich, black or white, straight or gay, shy or extrovert… Everyone respects everyone, and everyone likes to spend quality time and fun with everyone… ☺ ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Jason-1.jpeg "Jason-1 - Couchsurfing Blog") **Jason from Connecticut** The most beautiful thing about Couchsurfing can’t actually be one thing but is many things…it brings the world closer, exposes fellow humans to the differences we all have and shows that those differences are wonderful and to be admired. Not only that but Couchsurfing allows you to leave behind what general society has as presumptions about each other and restores your faith in humanity when you experience the gift of hospitality from strangers you now call friends from all over the world! ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Anu.jpeg "Anu - Couchsurfing Blog") **Anu from Chandigarh** The most beautiful thing for me about hosting people from all over the world in Couchsurfing is that you get to see the world at the comfort of your own Couch. The most beautiful thing about CS community is the thread of travel and CS binding together a bunch of very diverse people from different backgrounds, culture and professions who otherwise would not have met. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/mike.jpeg "mike - Couchsurfing Blog") **Mike from Couchsurfing** For me, the most beautiful thing about Couchsurfing is the people you meet and the experiences you have with them. As a surfer, I’ve had the opportunity to have some of the most unexpected experiences on my travels. In Genoa, I surfed with 4 university students who had never hosted before. They cooked an amazing pasta dinner then we went out. I lost them at some point in the night, tripped on my walk home, cutting my eyebrow open, and then sat in front of their door until they arrived home to me, asleep on their doormat with blood caked to my face. We laughed about it as one of their girlfriends nursed my wound and he poured us more wine. In Yerevan, Armenia, my host took me to an underground rock bar where you just took beer from a fridge and left money in a jar. They had a live band and it was just about 20 people in this stone basement vibing. I’ve taken countless surfers to their first drag shows here in New York City, introducing them to my friend and the Queens that I am friends with. Before it closed, I would take my surfers to Bar 65 on the 65th floor of Rock Center at sunset for the most beautiful view of New York City (only 2 floors below the observation deck) and we’d have a glass of wine for half the price of the admission to the deck above. Everyone on Couchsurfing has dozens of these stories where you just connect with like-minded souls and for a moment lose yourself in their life, or integrate them into yours – and to me that is the most beautiful thing about Couchsurfing. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/ask-couchsurfing-the-most-beautiful-thing-about-couchsurfing/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/ask-couchsurfing-the-most-beautiful-thing-about-couchsurfing/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Advice, Community --- ### [Ask Couchsurfing: New Members](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/ask-couchsurfing-new-members/) **Published:** November 18, 2022 **Author:** Mike Joy **Content:** **Ask Couchsurfing: Where we answer your questions about CS and traveling. Check out our [Instagram](http://www.instagram.com/couchsurfing) and [TikTok](http://www.tiktok.com/@couchsurfing) weekly to watch Mike from Couchsurfing HQ answer the question, or read the responses here!** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/q.png "q - Couchsurfing Blog") How can I gain trust and get a profile with many references? Any tips for new members? ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Jason-1.jpeg "Jason-1 - Couchsurfing Blog") **Jason from Connecticut:** The best way to build your profile when you are new to couchsurfing is attend CS meetups and/or host one yourself. Don’t forget you can even organize a meetup when you are traveling, it’s a great way to meet other Couchsurfers in the city you are new to. Try surfing in your own city/area, explain you are new to CS and looking to learn about it locally. Last tip… PROFILE.. PROFILE… PROFILE… be sure to put as much info about you & your interests etc. The more you offer of yourself the more comfortable people will be to host or surf with you. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Carly-1.jpeg "Carly-1 - Couchsurfing Blog") **Carli from Memphis:** The easiest way to start out is to attend or host meet ups to gain references from active members. I would also recommend completely filling out your profile, have photos of yourself and your travels, and to personalize each message you send. We were all new at couchsurfing once, so active members are always willing to help new folks who are interested in the community gain references and experience. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Anu.jpeg "Anu - Couchsurfing Blog") **Anu from Chandigarh:** Have a well written profile. Include every details about yourself in the profile which you would want to know about others when you let them in your house. Attending events and writing references for those who you connected in the event is a great way to earn references yourself and make ur profile more credible. I started my CS journey by attending an event. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/mike.jpeg "mike - Couchsurfing Blog") **Couchsurfing Mike**: When I first joined Couchsurfing, I connected my Facebook and then texted my friends who I saw were on CS and asked them to write me personal references to prove that I was a real person and although I hadn’t Couchsurfed yet, I knew Couchsurfers and they were vouching for me. Many active Couchsurfers, don’t mind if you don’t have a ton of references (or even any!) as long as your profile is filled out and they can get an idea of who you are as a person from your ‘about me’ and photos. Just take some time to explain what you like, whey you’re on Couchsurfing, and how you plan on contributing to the community and you will be fine. Also, if you’re planning on surfing as your first activity, make sure you spend TIME on writing Couch Requests. Many new users write very short “Hey, I’m coming to New York. Can I stay with you?” Which is not really in the spirit of Couchsurfing. Some hosts don’t mind a short request, but many want to see that you have read their profile and have a reason why you want to stay at their place specifically. More than, ‘you live in a place I want to go’ they want to know why you think the two of you would get along and what common interests/experiences you share that they think will make you a good match. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/ask-couchsurfing-new-members/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/ask-couchsurfing-new-members/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Advice --- ### [With 1,300 Events and Counting, Meet Super Couchsurfer Jose Luis](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/with-1300-events-and-counting-meet-super-couchsurfer-jose-luis/) **Published:** November 15, 2022 **Author:** Mike Joy **Content:** ##### Welcome to Super Couchsurfer Spotlight, where we highlight the most active ambassadors and members in the Couchsurfing community. Each month, we’re featuring two of the most active hosts, surfers, or event planners. This month, we’re introducing Jose Luis, a CS Ambassador from Madrid, Spain. Since he joined the community four years ago, he’s not only hosted 874 Couchsurfers and met about 4,000 people through CS, but he has taken a leadership role as an events organizer in Madrid and has organized 1,339 events! ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/joseluis_3.jpg "joseluis_3 - Couchsurfing Blog")His first events started as city tours through Madrid because he loved showing visitors what makes his city so special. In the interview below, we ask Jose Luis about his Couchsurfing journey, his experiences with events, reflections on travel, and tips he has for Madrid. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/joseluis_4.jpg "joseluis_4 - Couchsurfing Blog")**How long have you been a CS member and how did your journey as a Couchsurfer begin?** The truth is that I have not been a member of this beautiful community for long, but I have lived it very intensely from the beginning! I’ve only been a member for 4 years (since 2018) but in this period of time I’ve met really wonderful people, I’ve hosted 874 Couchsurfers and I’ve met about 4,000 people thanks to CS. My house is an adventure day after day! It was a really beautiful and inspiring start. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/joseluis_5.jpg "joseluis_5 - Couchsurfing Blog")**What do you think is the best part about hosting events?** Being able to organize events is fascinating. I have organized 1,339 events with an attendance of 14,663 Couchsurfers (I am a geek about many things, but especially statistics), and it is difficult when someone asks you WHY because the answer is: WHY NOT? Having the opportunity to unite and create connections among thousands of people has been an indescribable experience. Constantly having references from people who have found themselves in South Africa, Tokyo or Siberia after having gone through an event or a stay at my house is fascinating! Can you imagine my joy when I see them together with a smile?! I feel like the glue of something wonderful. I started doing events through city tours. I love being able to show the city I live in to everyone who comes to visit. The same tour that I did 4 years ago is in its 184th edition and one of the Couchsurfers asked me “don’t you get tired of repeating the same thing every week?” That is the reason why my profile opens with: DO WHAT YOU DO, DO IT WITH PASSION. If there is no passion, for me, there is nothing left. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/joseluis_2.jpg "joseluis_2 - Couchsurfing Blog")**What tips or advice would you give to a Couchsurfer that wants to start planning successful CS events?** Well everything that I’ve been lucky enough to do hasn’t just happened from nothing. There has been work, effort, and a lot of motivation from many people, and this is the basis to building what you want. We always have to learn from those who know the most, like almost everything in life! I have had great references in Madrid; I will always be grateful to Jean Marc and María, ambassadors of Madrid who taught me everything I now know about CS and especially Ana, Spanish ambassador of CS (now in Barcelona) with whom I am lucky enough to organize different invasions around Spain with. I will never forget what she once told me after doing a lot of work to organize events in another city. She said “We are going to have fun. If we have a good time, it will be a success.” And there is no better advice than that: enjoy what you do and others will enjoy your work. **What is one major lesson that you have learned through traveling?** Traveling is living and feeling alive is everything. The biggest life lessons I have had have been from my parents and my trips. The trips have given me a lot of family, and many friends and from there, you only grow as a person by attempting to continue learning each day and improving our numerous clumsy flaws. I’d say that I have been lucky enough to experience travel within my own house by receiving so many people. The lessons I’ve gotten on respect and on integrity and tolerance from so many people have provided incalculable value and that’s something that I will never be able to show how thankful I am. I have a lot to give because I’ve been lucky enough to receive. I’ve also learned how to be true to myself and learn the process of detachment. **What recommendations do you have for people traveling to Madrid, Spain? Are there any unique spots around town to visit, fun experiences or things to do, or amazing places you’d recommend to eat or drink?** I am human and although I am constantly trying to improve, I do have many defects. The best of them is my egoism! So I will first tell you that there will be no better experience than living the adventure of my beautiful city with me. Madrid is a magical, incredible city, with many unknowns and many surprises, but experiencing the city with our community is another level. Here, we have daily events where you’ll not only be able to discover the best places, or learn about our culture and our way of relating, but you’ll see that we are also all super nice. Hahaha. Jokes aside, the first thing I suggest is that you walk: walk a lot in the center, do not use public transport (although it is very good). Madrid is an incredible city to walk around and get lost in. It’s a safe city where you can go alone in dark and narrow streets and still be safe, where every corner hides a thousand stories, and where any smile is returned by any passerby on the street. Us Spaniards are crazy (but very nice), and we want to invite you here so you can get to know us. We want to see why Madrid never sleeps, why you can go to a party on a Monday or Tuesday night, why we don’t have the sea nearby but our typical food is a calamari sandwich, or why we have an original Egyptian Temple in the middle of the city where you can see the best sunsets in the capital. Here we say: From Madrid to heaven, because after Madrid, there is nothing. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/joseluis_6.jpg "joseluis_6 - Couchsurfing Blog")**Couchsurfing events are a great way to meet new friends and connect with like-minded people whether you’re at home or exploring a new city! Have you thought about attending a weekly or monthly meeting, Global [Couchcrash](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/how-to-plan-a-couch-crash/), or [Couchsurfing Invasion](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/making-friends-through-couchsurfing-invasions/)?** **Check out the [Global Couchsurfing Event calendar](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/calendar/) or [sign up for Couchsurfing](https://www.couchsurfing.com/users/sign_up?join_source=header) now to discover events happening in your local area or future travel destination.** ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/with-1300-events-and-counting-meet-super-couchsurfer-jose-luis/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/with-1300-events-and-counting-meet-super-couchsurfer-jose-luis/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Community, Stories --- ### [Super Couchsurfer Mohak is Broadening People's Horizons through CS Events](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/super-couchsurfer-mohak-is-broadening-peoples-horizons-through-cs-events/) **Published:** November 30, 2022 **Author:** Mike Joy **Content:** ##### Welcome to *Super Couchsurfer Spotlight*, where we highlight the most active ambassadors and members in the Couchsurfing community. Each month, we’re featuring two of the most active hosts, surfers, or event planners. This month, we’re introducing Mohak, a CS Member from New Dehli, India. Mohak joined Couchsurfing back in 2009 after reading an article about how travel communities helped broaden people’s horizons. He’s now an active CS event organizer that loves the adrenaline rush and innate sense of achievement that comes from planning great events. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/mohak_3.jpg "Jpeg - Couchsurfing Blog")In the interview below, we ask Mohak about his Couchsurfing journey, his experiences with events, reflections on travel, and tips he has for New Dehli. **How long have you been a CS member and how did your journey as a Couchsurfer begin?** I’ve been a CS member since July 2009. I was throughly involved in community engagement projects around this time and I had the chance to read an article mentioning how travel communities helped people broaden their horizons. That was where I read about Couchsurfing. It didn’t take me much time to create an account and realize how useful CS was for travelers/explorers like me. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/mohak_4.jpg "mohak_4 - Couchsurfing Blog")**What do you think is the best part about hosting events?** The adrenaline rush: the continual rush of deadlines, bittersweet closures and an innate sense of achievement drives my quest for hosting, curating, and posting events. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/mohak_1.jpg "Jpeg - Couchsurfing Blog")**What tips or advice would you give to a Couchsurfer that wants to start planning successful CS events?** As a community, CS puts focus on travel but isn’t limited to that. Focusing on what you’re trying to achieve by curating or hosting an event matters more. Usually backpackers/surfers move around on shoe-string budget, and for them to shell out extra cash in order to attend an event becomes a luxury and a privilege. Keeping events low-cost or if possible free, is the greatest service one can do for the CS community. **What is one major lesson that you have learned through traveling?** Traveling has made me humble. Humble not only as it relates to power, privilege, and gentry or class, but humbling to the core. That somehow, travel is not just a solution to problems but the hinge which keeps the mundane in check and yet helps us to prepare and be ready for what’s next. Traveling is the quest of immersion where one becomes true and attached to him/herself and learn the process of detachment. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/mohak_5.jpg "mohak_5 - Couchsurfing Blog")**What recommendations do you have for people traveling to New Dehli, India? Are there any unique spots around town to visit, fun experiences or things to do, or amazing places you’d recommend to eat or drink?** I’ve lived in New Dehli, the capital of India for the majority of my life, and I’m glad that I’m still amazed at the all the choices this city has to offer. There’s just too much to do, so in no particular order, I’d suggest checking out the following: - All the historical monuments - [Connaught Place](https://www.tourmyindia.com/states/delhi/connaught-place-shopping-market.html) - [Lodhi Art District](https://artsandculture.google.com/story/lodhi-art-district-st-art-india/EAWh787tb1GHJA?hl=en) - [Museum walkthrough at NGMA](http://ngmaindia.gov.in/plan-your-visit.asp) - [Bikaner House](https://bikanerhouse.rajasthan.gov.in/) - [Triveni Kala Sangam](https://www.trivenikalasangam.org/) - [Old Delhi heritage walk through the Walled City, exploring the cuisines](https://www.delhiheritagewalks.com/Heritage-Food-Walk.html) - [International Doll Musuem](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g304551-d324105-Reviews-Shankar_s_International_Dolls_Museum-New_Delhi_National_Capital_Territory_of_Delhi.html) - [Hauz Khaz Village](https://theculturetrip.com/asia/india/articles/how-to-spend-a-day-exploring-hauz-khas-village/) - [Shahpur Jat](https://www.shahpurjat.xyz/) - [Mehrauli](https://www.delhiinformation.in/delhi/areas/mehrauli.html) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/mohak_2.jpg "Jpeg - Couchsurfing Blog")**Couchsurfing events are a great way to meet new friends and connect with like-minded people whether you’re at home or exploring a new city! Have you thought about attending a weekly or monthly meeting, Global [Couchcrash](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/how-to-plan-a-couch-crash/), or [Couchsurfing Invasion](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/making-friends-through-couchsurfing-invasions/)?** **Check out the [Global Couchsurfing Event calendar](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/calendar/) or [sign up for Couchsurfing](https://www.couchsurfing.com/users/sign_up?join_source=header) now to discover events happening in your local area or future travel destination.** ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/super-couchsurfer-mohak-is-broadening-peoples-horizons-through-cs-events/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/super-couchsurfer-mohak-is-broadening-peoples-horizons-through-cs-events/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Community, Stories --- ### [3 Couchsurfing experiences I will never forget](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/3-couchsurfing-experiences-i-will-never-forge/) **Published:** November 14, 2022 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** Why did I start my nomadic life with Couchsurfing? I signed up for Couchsurfing 10 years ago (2012) and Couchsurfing has provided me with one of the most valuable communities as well as friends for life. There are hundreds of stories I can tell from my Couchsurfing experiences. Couchsurfing is an online platform that enables travelers all over the world to connect and find a local to hang out with, or to stay in their houses. They operate through websites and mobile apps now. In 2018, I visited Kuala Lumpur and I found Ray – a Malaysian that let me stay in his apartment for 5 days. It’s totally free to meet up and hang out. And you can give them some gifts if you like, but no money is needed. If the host requires money, it’s not good and not under Couchsurfing’s guide. I started hanging out with travelers on Couchsurfing when they visited Hanoi (2012-2014). And my first hosting experience was with Yan Wu, an American -Chinese from Washington. After that, I’ve had different experiences with people from Couchsurfing and they all brought me awesome memories. In this article, I will tell the stories about three special people Couchsurfing brought me and how did they inspire me to travel more. 1\. Ali – A mysterious Couchsurfing staff made me think again about Couchsurfing experiences Ali and her boyfriend back then (Dave) requested to stay with me for a night in Phu Quoc island. It was my second time hosting a couple. We had a lot of fun together going around the town and the night market. It was not until the day we said goodbye, Ali told me that she was actually staff at Couchsurfing. At that time, Couchsurfing staff could choose a country to travel to, use Couchsurfing to find local hosts to stay with. In this way, they can have real experience with the website and the app so that they can improve the features more. That was the reason she waited until the last day and told me who she was. We laughed a lot about it. I was surprised to know that Couchsurfing only had 7 staff back then but it connected several million travelers all around the world. The platform has demonstrated the magic of technology and it inspired me a lot to travel the world more. Ali wrote about her Couchsurfing experiences in Vietnam and staying with me [here](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/adventures-in-vietnam-in-the-wild-with-alli/). I also got sweet news that Dave proposed to her recently and they are now happily engaged. 2\. Duong Pham – From a Saigonese tour guide to the owner of the most popular cocktail bar and hostel in Phu Quoc. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/blogpost1.jpg "blogpost1 - Couchsurfing Blog")Duong was actually my first host on Couchsurfing. I was nineteen and traveled to Southern Vietnam alone for the first time. Duong’s profile was outstanding as he had all of the good reviews from travelers even though his house was far from the city center. He said I could share a room with his mother and he could pick me up when I arrived in Saigon. That’s where it all started. When I met him, Duong was so open and shared with me his dream of opening a hostel in Phu Quoc. Back in 2014, it was quite crazy for a twenty-year-old guy to have this dream because Phu Quoc was a fancy island and most of the business there belongs to some rich ex-pats or big corp. The island only had electricity at night. I did not believe in his words at first, but something about him made me change my mind. When I stayed with his family, his father made me a really good breakfast as he was a chef. And I slept in the chanting sound of his mother. It was quite a Couchsurfing experience! ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/blogpost2-copy.jpg "blogpost2-copy - Couchsurfing Blog")One year later, in 2015, he sent me a message of his first hostel in Ong Lang beach Phu Quoc “Island life hostel”, which later always scored 9.7 or more on Booking.com. Now he is opening another one in Duong Dong Town, the Vibe House, which also receives many awesome reviews. Duong was the one who inspired me to move to Phu Quoc and experience true island life in 2016-2017. He also collaborated with a bartender to open the most popular cocktail bar in Phu Quoc right now – [The Bittersweet bar](https://www.facebook.com/BittersweetCocktailBar). ![](https://i2.wp.com/nhatanhkiara.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/bittersweet-hidden-1.jpeg?ssl=1) 3, Dada Ram Khati – A legend of India Couchsurfing There are too many special stories about Ram. I stayed with his family for one week in a very small town in Central India – Kekri. I would never hear of this town if Ram didn’t message me on Couchsurfing when I tried to find hosts for my solo trip in India. The first thing I noticed about Ram’s profile was 250 reviews of people from all over the world. His sharing was so captivated and detailed also. But the thing that caught my attention the most was his community activities. He organized mass marriage functions for 121 couples who can not bear their marriage expenditure which feasted 35000 people in total. It was something really huge and the person who organized it must be someone so kind-hearted and special. That was the reason I finally decided to come to Kekri and stay with dada Ram. Later, I also found out that Ram is one of the Couchsurfing Experience Ambassadors in Asia. His profile says it all: . ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/84080999_2087270764751542_4429686740604682240_n-1024x1024-1.jpeg "84080999_2087270764751542_4429686740604682240_n-1024x1024-1 - Couchsurfing Blog")I actually celebrated my traditional Vietnamese new year’s eve with Ram and his family. He was so kind to prepare a special meal for me as he knew it’s such an important day for a Vietnamese. I also had the chance to try Sari (a fancy one of Ram’s daughter-in-law), eat real Indian food with my hands, go to the local government office where Ram works, got my hands painted henna in one week staying with Ram. Looking for more Couchsurfing experiences! I feel so lucky to write about all of these experiences. Ali showed me how thoughtful Couchsurfing designed its features to build a positive community for travelers all around the world. Duong inspired me to keep committing to big dreams. Dada Ram grew my belief in the kindness of people on the road. The Covid pandemic doesn’t enable me and other travelers to continue exploring the world right now. But I’m sure once we find a way back to normal life, our journey will continue. And I definitely will use Couchsurfing to meet more awesome people! [![blogpost2-copy](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/blogpost2-copy.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/blogpost2-copy.jpg) [![blogpost2-1](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/blogpost2-1.tiff)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/blogpost2-1.tiff) [![84080999_2087270764751542_4429686740604682240_n-1024x1024-1](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/84080999_2087270764751542_4429686740604682240_n-1024x1024-1.jpeg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/84080999_2087270764751542_4429686740604682240_n-1024x1024-1.jpeg) [![blogpost2](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/blogpost2.tiff)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/blogpost2.tiff) [![blogpost1](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/blogpost1.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/blogpost1.jpg) [![84080999_2087270764751542_4429686740604682240_n-1024x1024](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/84080999_2087270764751542_4429686740604682240_n-1024x1024-1.jpeg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/84080999_2087270764751542_4429686740604682240_n-1024x1024-1.jpeg) ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/3-couchsurfing-experiences-i-will-never-forge/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/3-couchsurfing-experiences-i-will-never-forge/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Stories --- ### [A Couchsurfer’s Guide to Amsterdam](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-amsterdam/) **Published:** February 18, 2018 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Excerpt:** Discover the best of Amsterdam from a local's perspective! **Content:** ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/IMG_0189-225x300.jpg "IMG_0189 - Couchsurfing Blog")An Amsterdam summer sunsetAmsterdam is one of the most visited cities in Europe, and it is not hard to see why. This beautiful city has a little something for everyone and welcomes it’s visitors with open arms. While throngs of young party-goers flock there each year, there is so much more to this beautiful city than just a crazy night out. Amsterdam offers a unique landscape for those not native to The Netherlands. The plethora of canals along with the sheer volume of bicycles zipping around leave first-timers unable to put their cameras down. This international hot-spot is also known for being one of the easiest cities to get around with English alone as the Dutch are often touted as some of the best English speakers in the world. You will hear every language imaginable as you walk the streets or take the bus, and not just from tourists, but from those who have made Amsterdam their new home. With so many options and a little something for everyone, it all depends on what you are looking for. Museums, culture and attractions? You’ve got it. Shopping, dining and sightseeing? More options than you can imagine. And of course, plenty of bars, an active nightlife and those infamous coffeeshops that you’ve heard so much about. Don’t forget about the official CS meetup at [Bar Jones](http://www.barjones.nl/), every Saturday at 9:30! Amsterdam has truly got it all. We’ve gathered together some of our favorite places as well as some less known spots that maybe you wouldn’t have noticed otherwise, to give you the best experience possible, through the eyes of a Couchsurfer. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/IMG_0152-300x225.jpg "IMG_0152 - Couchsurfing Blog")The best way to see this city is undoubtedly by bicycle ### Getting around ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/IMG_3693-300x225.jpg "IMG_3693 - Couchsurfing Blog")Amsterdam is known for having more bikes than people**Bike:** Perhaps you have heard that there are more bicycles in Amsterdam than there are people? Well, it’s true. Thankfully all of those bikes aren’t riding around at once, as most locals own several and keep them locked up in key places around the city, like Centraal Station. How they find their bikes amidst thousands of others is beyond me. But needless to say, the Dutch love their bikes and use them as their main mode of transportation. You may see locals riding around and texting with one hand, looking ever so cool and calm. The bike lanes are protected and clearly marked, and the traffic signals are designed to give cyclists the right of way. It truly is a cyclist’s paradise. There are many options for you to get involved in the fun by renting your own bike. There are many bike rental shops as well as the city bike share, which are popping up in major cities all over the world. It may seem intimidating to jump into traffic on your bike for the first time, but a little common sense will get you far. And if all else fails, just observe the locals! Don’t forget your hand signals! Cycling outside of the city is also a very popular activity which allows you to experience some different landscapes. As the Netherlands is a very small and flat country, it is actually quite easy to cycle from one city to the next. [Peter Bisschop](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/peterbisschop), host and Meetup organizer in Amsterdam, suggests the following: > “Rent a bike and cycle all the way south along the Amstel River and go to the countryside. You can go to the village of Ouderkerk aan de Amstel (Old Church on the Amstel) and see the landscape around you change from the canals and old houses of the city centre, bars and new recreation areas, areas with house boats and after that typical Dutch countryside with old farms, dikes and windmills. Also you could cycle to the north of Amsterdam to see some typically old Dutch fishing and farming villages just outside of Amsterdam like Durgerdam, Ransdorp and Holysloot.” **Public transportation:** Amsterdam has a great public transportation system made up of buses, trams and trains. The train will take you from the airport to Amsterdam Centraal Station for only a little more than 5 euro. From Centraal Station you can also get local trains to pretty much anywhere in the Netherlands, as well as to other parts of Europe. Between the buses and trams you can get just about anywhere in the city. The only tricky part is that you cannot pay cash on the buses. *Some* of the trams will still accept cash, however they plan to phase out the use of bills and coins all together in the near future. Your best option is to get a pass at Centraal Station when you arrive. The buses will also accept debit or credit cards that have a chip. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/IMG_3471-300x225.jpg "IMG_3471 - Couchsurfing Blog")See Amsterdam by boat on a Canal Tour ### Tours and Attractions ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/IMG_3650-300x225.jpg "IMG_3650 - Couchsurfing Blog")Glass top Canal Tour boat cruising past the Rijksmuseum**Canal Tour:** What better way to see a city than by boat, especially in a city with so much water! The [canal tours](https://www.iamsterdam.com/en/see-and-do/things-to-do/canal-cruising) are a very popular way to get to know Amsterdam while learning about the culture and history. **Heineken Experience:** The [Heineken Experience](https://www.heineken.com/us/agegateway?returnurl=%2fHeineken-Experience) is a tour around what used to be the Heineken factory, which ends with a couple of beers on a lovely roof deck overlooking the city. It is very informative and interesting, giving you an insiders look into how the beer was made back in the day versus how things are done today. **Museums:** The [Van Gogh Museum](https://www.vangoghmuseum.nl/en) and the [Rijksmuseum](https://www.rijksmuseum.nl/en) are two of the most visited spots in the city, and for good reason. Vincent Van Gogh, arguably one of the Netherland’s most well-known citizens, is a man who needs no introduction. He is also a man who has his very own museum, one that attracts nearly 2 million visitors a year. The Rijksmuseum is the Dutch national museum which is dedicated to the arts and history of the Netherlands. When this famous museum underwent a major 10 year renovation which was completed in 2013, it seemed only fitting to include a passageway for cyclists to zip through, running right underneath the museum. > “There are so many things to see in Amsterdam, I would highly recommend one of the many walking tours. These people show some great places, with some amazing stories.” –[Daniel Banen](https://www.couchsurfing.com/users/1001799740) ### Food Amsterdam is a city with many many options for filling your belly, however not all food is created equal. In the areas where you will find a lot of bars and coffeeshops you will also find many restaurants, cafes and snackbars. As is often the case in big cities, the food in tourist areas can be hit or miss. That being said, good food is not hard to find, you just have to know where to look. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Screen-Shot-2018-01-02-at-3.15.11-PM-300x225.png "Screen Shot 2018-01-02 at 3.15.11 PM - Couchsurfing Blog")Grabbing a snack at FEBO**FEBO:** If you are looking for a quick and cheap meal, look no further. [FEBO](https://www.febo.nl/) is a Dutch spin on fast food, or a *snackbar*, as the locals call them, with high quality and fresh ingredients. They make a fresh batch of fries for each order. Here in Amsterdam the fast food is several steps up the ladder than what you may be used to in the United States. You can expect a very clean venue with friendly staff, fresh food that is delicious and of a certain standard. At FEBO they also have those little warming cupboard vending machines where you put in your coins and receive a warm, deep fried treat, many of which are classic Dutch snacks. Tourists enjoy this option for the novelty factor, but you can also buy the exact same items from the counter which will be slightly fresher but a longer wait. [Daniel Banen](https://www.couchsurfing.com/users/1001799740), one of the organizers of the weekly CS Meetup suggests trying kroket, bitterballen and frikandel. Fries are a staple here in the Netherlands and they sure know how to do them right– with plenty of sauce. So be sure to give this spot a chance. When most other late-night snackbars are offering day old pizza, you can count on a great meal at FEBO. **Frens Haringhandel:** You may notice many of these funny little blue and white [booths](http://www.frens-haring.nl/) sitting on the sidewalks around Amsterdam. These tiny little cafes offer another Dutch staple: herring. The Dutch love their herring and eat this small fish on its own, or on a sandwich, pickled or smoked. You will likely see some locals holding one by the tail and lowering it right into their mouths. When in Rome, right? **Moeders:** [Moeders](http://www.moeders.com/en/home) (Dutch for mother) offers up a friendly and warm environment with typical homemade Dutch cuisine. The walls are filled with framed pictures of mothers, paying homage to moms everywhere. This is a popular spot in Amsterdam so expect a wait during peak hours. In order to have a best experience possible, [Daniel Banen](https://www.couchsurfing.com/users/1001799740) also suggests trying the local cuisine. Here is a list of some of the typical Dutch foods that you can find at any supermarket. What better way to immerse yourself in the culture than by eating! - tompouce - jodenkoeken - bossche bol - fries suikerbrood - drop - hagelslag - beschuit met muisjes - speculaas - Wilhelmina or King pepermunt - mergpijpje ### Nightlife ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/IMG_0283-e1514937300754-300x300.jpg "IMG_0283 - Couchsurfing Blog")Red Light Bar in the infamous Red Light DistrictYou will not have any trouble finding a place to relax with a beverage in this lively town. It is much more likely that you will be completely overwhelmed with options, so here are a few favorites to get you started. **Red Light Bar:** This place is a pretty [typical bar](http://redlight-bar.com/) serving typical drinks, but what sets it apart are the multiple levels and various rooms for you to discover. They do not actually sell cannabis here, as the sign suggests, but you are permitted to smoke your goods inside. The different options for places to sit give this bar a cozy yet upbeat atmosphere where you are likely to find the perfect spot that feels just right for you. **Sky Lounge:** Located atop the Doubletree Hotel right next to Centraal Station, [Sky Lounge](http://www.skyloungeamsterdam.com/en/) combines great food, specialty drinks and an unforgettable view for that once-in-a-lifetime experience. If you are seeking an extraordinary place for a special occasion or for one final hurrah at the end of your trip, this is the place for you. Definitely not the cheapest drink in Amsterdam by any means, you’ll be paying for the view and the atmosphere. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Screen-Shot-2018-01-02-at-3.17.21-PM.png "Screen Shot 2018-01-02 at 3.17.21 PM - Couchsurfing Blog")A typical Saturday night at Melkweg**Melkweg:** One of Amsterdam’s bigger [nightclubs](https://www.melkweg.nl/nl/) offers a great clubbing experience pretty much every night of the week. From live music to DJs of all genres of music, you can surely find a night that tickles your fancy. It’s a large venue with multiple bars and levels plus a smoking room. The crowd of mostly locals is typically friendly and respectful as everyone is there for a fun, drama-free night. **Brouwerij (Brewery) De Prael:** This is a very cool spot which is popular with locals and those in the know. They have a beautifully decorated interior with loads of unique and antique pieces, a great selection of their own beers, plus some wine and food. Expect a raised eyebrow or two if you try to order a cocktail. They are a [brewery](http://deprael.nl/), after all. > “A few of my favorite places are The Tara, Club Sugar Factory, Tropenmuseum, TonTon Club (an arcade game hall)” [-Kevin Williams](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/k.r.line) ### Coffeeshops **Coffeeshop Central:** With so many coffeeshops to choose from in a city known for its easy access to marijuana, it can be difficult to choose where to go first. [Coffeeshop Central](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g188590-d3849682-Reviews-Coffeeshop_Central-Amsterdam_North_Holland_Province.html) is a great option, especially for those more *experienced* consumers. This is a no frills, no fuss kind of place, popular with the locals. With no pre-rolled options you’ll need to know your way around a rolling paper. They have a wide variety of greenery, and they’ll even provide papers and grinders if you ask nicely. There are tables inside for you to roll up your joint while sipping on your coffee, but all smoking must be done outside. Thankfully the little bench on the sidewalk provides some of the best people watching in Amsterdam, directly across from Centraal Station. **Coffeeshop Bluebird:** located in the Waterlooplein neighborhood, this [popular hang out](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g188590-d3708055-Reviews-Coffeeshop_Bluebird-Amsterdam_North_Holland_Province.html) offers great products plus a cozy and interesting atmosphere to take a much needed break after a day of sightseeing. The interior is full of little rooms and corners to call your own, plus the fascinating murals on the walls give this spot a unique flair. With such an intriguing environment, plus a full menu of coffee, tea, snacks and cannabis, be prepared to stay a while. > “Best coffeeshop in my opinion is [Kadinsky](https://www.kadinsky.nl) located in Centrum.” [-Kevin Williams](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/k.r.line) ### Additional Advice from Local Hosts *“My recommendation for finding a place to stay is to expand the search for a host to cities like Utrecht, Almere, Alkmaar, or Zaandam. So many people only search in Amsterdam, and don’t find a host, because those hosts are always busy. Searching hosts in cities around Amsterdam (half an hour by train, tops) increases the likelihood of finding a host.”* –[Daniel Banen](https://www.couchsurfing.com/users/1001799740) > “To all the first timers I’ll will say watch the road and look both ways before crossing the streets.” –[Kevin Williams](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/k.r.line) *“Westerpark is probably somewhere that a first timer wouldn’t normally go but I highly recommend it. Within the park is the Westergasfabriek area with some beautiful old gas factory buildings, which now functions as an entertainment area with bars, bakeries, restaurants, a cinema, a brewery & tastery, (very good beers!) a wine house, studio’s, etc. And many events organized the whole year! And if you want to sit and have a drink or a cheap pancake in a quiet garden for a while, walk all the way to the other side (northwest) of the park to the neighborhood farm Ons Genoegen. Yes, it is a real old farmhouse in the middle of the city with some leftover farm fields next to it.”* – [Peter Bisschop](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/peterbisschop) > “I recommend to meet locals through Couchsurfing 🙂 And to make sure to have accommodation arranged, because last minute sleeping arrangements in Amsterdam are very expensive.” –[Marco Meurs](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/marcomeurs) *“Obviously, I recommend people attending the Saturday evening Meetup, since this is a great opportunity to meet amazing people. This meeting is also attended by a lot of locals, who can give additional information and great suggestions of things to see.”* –[Daniel Banen](https://www.couchsurfing.com/users/1001799740) \* \* \* Amsterdam is a wonderful place filled with so many different things to do, see and eat! If you haven’t been already, we highly suggest adding it to your bucket list. Have you already been to Amsterdam? Tell us in the comments what you love about this city and why you can’t wait go back! When you visit, remember to check the Couchsurfing [Events Page](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/search?utf8=%E2%9C%93&search_type=event&placeid=ChIJVXealLU_xkcRja_At0z9AGY&search_query=Amsterdam%2C+Netherlands) for things happening while you’re there, including the Friday and Saturday weekly Meetups. Happy surfing, everyone! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-amsterdam/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-amsterdam/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Travel Tips --- ### [CS Ambassador Viktor receives Peace Prize from Chemnitz, Germany](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/cs-ambassador-viktor-receives-peace-prize-from-chemnitz-germany/) **Published:** September 7, 2022 **Author:** Mike Joy **Content:** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/Friedenspreisverleihung-1.jpg "Friedenspreisverleihung-1 - Couchsurfing Blog")Viktor and Sven Schulze Senior Mayor of Chemnitz photo courtesy of Harry Härtel This past week our Couchsurfing Ambassador in Chemnitz, Germany received his city’s peace prize for his life work, of which Couchsurfing is a major part. According to the official [press release](https://www.chemnitz.de/chemnitz/de/aktuell/presse/pressemitteilungen/2022/557.html), “The Chemnitz Peace Prize is a civil society prize from citizens for citizens. The prize is awarded to people, organisations, projects and initiatives from Chemnitz who stand up for basic values ​​such as tolerance and democracy, who regard the integration of different cultures as an essential part of our coexistence, who take a stand against any form of exclusion, xenophobia and racism, who do active peace work and promote and support non-violent coexistence.” According to the press release Viktor was awarded the prize largely due to his work on Couchsurfing. “His themes are mutual understanding, understanding and breaking down prejudices as the basis for peaceful coexistence. He brings these values ​​into society in a wide variety of ways and shines far beyond the borders of our city as a role model and humanist. Probably his biggest project is building a group of over 4000 open-minded, warm-hearted hosts in Chemnitz, a Couchsurfing network. He has traveled to countless countries, speaks many languages ​​and everywhere he works for peace, for the coexistence of people and cultures – and against violence.” [Viktor](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/hva) has been on Couchsurfing since 2009, and over the last 13 years has been an active host and event organizer, accruing nearly 400 positive references. He has been a Couchsurfing Ambassador since 2011 and is currently a mentor for new Ambassadors, helping guide and inspire them to grow and strengthen their communities in the same way he has in Chemnitz. Congrats Viktor! ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/IMG_20220901_194217.jpg "IMG_20220901_194217 - Couchsurfing Blog")Viktor accepting the Peace Prize award photo courtesy of Harry Härtel ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/cs-ambassador-viktor-receives-peace-prize-from-chemnitz-germany/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/cs-ambassador-viktor-receives-peace-prize-from-chemnitz-germany/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Meet an Ambassador, Stories --- ### [How to find a host in a big city](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/how-to-find-a-host-in-a-big-city/) **Published:** July 15, 2022 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** *By: Ana Mañas* ##### This is a community submitted post. It has been written by a member of the Couchsurfing Community and submitted to the blog directly. All opinions, experiences and advice are that of the author and the author alone. Its presence on the blog should not be construed as an endorsement or official position of Couchsurfing. If you’d like to submit your own post to the Couchsurfing Blog you may do so [here](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/community-stories/). ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/shutterstock_501164323.jpg "Sleeping,Man. - Couchsurfing Blog")It is said that finding Couchsurfing hosts in big cities could be hard, but there are some tricks to make this adventure a lot easier. Couchsurfers who travel to cities are commonly disappointed when they explain how they wasted their time and energy sending dozens of requests which were declined without explanation, or simply ignored without an answer. Instead, they had to book a room in a hostel, which made their experience less interesting and local-based. Now, you have the opportunity to have a different experience and to succeed at finding a host in a big city if you follow these pieces of advice: **1. Put yourself in the shoes of a host living in a big city** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/shutterstock_2117440415.jpg "Barcelona,,Spain.,July,2021.,Barceloneta,And,San,Sebastián,Beach,In - Couchsurfing Blog")Imagine how you’d feel if you received an average of **20-30 requests per day**, especially in the high season. That’s a reality for Couchsurfing hosts living in popular places when their profile status is set as “accepting guests”. You can see that might be overwhelming? Same as anyone, they have lives and need to work and rest. They often don’t have the time to give an answer to every single person. So they just skim in about two or three requests that really caught their eye and only respond to those. This is exactly where your work starts: try to **stand out from the other requests** and be the writer of the request that the host is going to pay attention to! More on this later… **2. Build your profile** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/shutterstock_623123291.jpg "Close,Up,Portrait,Of,Beautiful,Young,Black,Woman,Smiling,Outdoors - Couchsurfing Blog")Did you know that busy hosts **trust their instincts** more than anything else? That means that before reading your request, your profile picture is what will make a bigger impact on them. Some kinds of profile photos make potential good hosts immediately ignore your profile, so you should be aware of that. **The best photos are the ones where you are alone in the picture, smiling and with a nice or light background**. Avoid dark pictures, or the ones in which you appear posing too far from the camera. Also, avoid wearing sunglasses, looking too serious or looking like your photo should belong to your Tinder account. Remember that Couchsurfing is to make friends, so ask yourself how you’d pose if your photo was meant to be sent to **a good friend of yours**. It is also important that you fill all sections in your profile. Once hosts decide that you could be their next Couchsurfer, it’s highly likely they will go and check your profile. They certainly won’t be impressed if they see it’s empty. Many hosts look for travelers with whom they might **enjoy time together**, so they will check if you share any hobbies. Some other hosts would only let you do your own thing, but even if that is the case, they are not going to open their home to someone who seems suspicious. Don’t be shy to talk about you in your profile. Think about things you’d like to share with your host or something you are good at. In other words, show hosts you are worth meeting. Have [a great profile](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/articles/200640210-How-do-I-make-my-Couchsurfing-profile-great-)! **3**. **Search for hosts that have been active recently** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/shutterstock_559055305.jpg "Young,Asian,Traveling,Backpacker,In,Khaosan,Road,Outdoor,Market,In - Couchsurfing Blog")Some couchsurfers get disappointed because they send a lot of requests and they never get any answers, but are they sending their requests to **active hosts**? All of us on Couchsurfing are travelers, so that means we are not always at home, we are relocating somewhere else, or maybe busy with new jobs. Some share apartments with flatmates and need to ask if it’s OK to host a Couchsurfer. Priorities in life could change too, some people have newborn kids, or new responsibilities that might make them not available to host for a period of time. Always check on profiles if the host you want to write to is active. Choose hosts who have been active at least in **the last two weeks**. That information is always shown on top of profiles, under the main photo. **4. Make sure you will feel comfortable at their place** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/shutterstock_2075626783.jpg "Portrait,Of,Cheerful,Couple,Inviting,Guests,To,Enter,Home,,Happy - Couchsurfing Blog")Comfortable in this case has nothing to do with having great apartments, luxuries or private rooms. This means that you must **read references** just to make sure you feel like staying with them. Not every home suits all travelers, for example if they have cats and you are allergic, that would not work well. Also, check what people say about those hosts, what things they did together with their guests, and their overall experience. Some hosts require that you share a specific amount of time with them, that you arrive at a certain time in the evening or that you share a meal together. See whether you will have the time to stick to their expectations. Especially if you are not a very experienced member, read at least the last 10 references left to your potential host. If you click on references, you can also select “would not stay again”. Some couchsurfers leave a “would not stay again” reference because for a variety of reasons, which can go from hosts not respecting their boundaries to hosts who had house rules that guests didn’t manage to follow properly. Do not forget to read the “my home” section; this is where hosts explain how the sleeping arrangement is or if they have house rules. **5. Send a personalized couch request. Read their profiles** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/shutterstock_794138269.jpg "Hipster,Son,With,His,Senior,Father,Cooking,In,The,Kitchen. - Couchsurfing Blog")This is the last step: when you send your [couch request!](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/articles/200640010-How-do-I-write-a-good-couch-request-) To make an impression on your host, **read their profiles until the end**, looking for things you might have in common, for example, is your host a foody? You can offer to cook for them! Does your host have a hobby? You might offer to accompany them doing what they like. Show that you are interested in meeting them and not only looking for a place to crash. Some hosts may prefer that you come and go as you wish during your stay because they’d be busy, but even in that case, be cool and offer to have conversations in the evening or whenever they have time. Remember that there is no money exchange on Couchsurfing, but hosts expect at least to feel your appreciation and gratitude. Happy Couchsurfing! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/how-to-find-a-host-in-a-big-city/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/how-to-find-a-host-in-a-big-city/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Advice --- ### [Couchsurfing needs your help](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-needs-your-help/) **Published:** May 14, 2020 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** For over 14 years, the Couchsurfing community has been available to anyone who wants to meet new people, see new places and gain a greater perspective on their world. Our community – **your community** – unites people in real life to celebrate their shared human experience. Couchsurfing members spend time getting to know one another through the places they love and the lives they live, fully embracing their differences. True, global acceptance and understanding – especially of people unlike ourselves – cannot happen without the type of in-person encounters that come from participating in the Couchsurfing community. **Without your immediate help, all of this will be in jeopardy.** The COVID-19 global pandemic is severely impacting your beloved Couchsurfing community and we are facing a crisis unlike any other in our history. Due to the economic downturn and the direct impact on travel, the sources of funding for Couchsurfing have been depleted and we have no other option than to turn to you, the community, for support. [Login to Support Couchsurfing](https://www.couchsurfing.com/users/sign_in/?utm_source=blog&utm_campaign=contribution_drip_1&utm_content=control) We have reduced the size of our team, taken pay cuts, eliminated or renegotiated all contracts, eliminated our physical office space (we are now a 100% remote workforce), and applied for COVID-19 relief funds provided by the United States Government through the CARES Act. Unfortunately, this will not be enough and we will soon be unable to meet our financial obligations. [Login to Support Couchsurfing](https://www.couchsurfing.com/users/sign_in/?utm_source=blog&utm_campaign=contribution_drip_1&utm_content=control) As of May 14, 2020, we are asking for member contributions, either per month or per year, to keep Couchsurfing alive. This member contribution is required to access the Couchsurfing website and mobile applications. Your member contributions will be used to support Couchsurfing through the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond, and to continue keeping this community safe. This is a decision of last resort, and not one taken lightly. [Login to Support Couchsurfing](https://www.couchsurfing.com/users/sign_in/?utm_source=blog&utm_campaign=contribution_drip_1&utm_content=control) The reality is that over 96% of the community provides no financial support to Couchsurfing because we have not asked for it. Couchsurfing also generates only a few thousand dollars per month from advertising. Clearly this is unsustainable in the current environment. This decision to ask for member contributions was based on internal conversations among team members and advisors, conversations and input from Couchsurfing Ambassadors, and input provided by thousands of members. We are grateful for their perspectives and assurances that the Couchsurfing community will want to contribute in this way to keep Couchsurfing alive. We want to thank everyone who made the time to participate in the decision making process. There is good news: 1. ***Your contribution will enable those in “unbanked” and developing countries to maintain free access to the Couchsurfing community.*** *The diversity of the Couchsurfing community is what unites us. It is imperative, especially during crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic, that we demonstrate compassion and inclusion to those who may be economically unable to participate.* 2. ***We will remove all limits on messages and Couch requests.*** *We want the community to continue to thrive. Having access to the Couchsurfing community during this time is a way to stay connected and engaged. Please continue to participate in Couchsurfing.* 3. ***We will remove third-party advertising from the website and mobile applications.*** *Advertisements were implemented by Couchsurfing in 2014 out of necessity. We feel that this business is at odds with the Couchsurfing ethos. Couchsurfing has never sold member data to third parties which could have generated lucrative advertising revenue. In 2018 we extended large portions of European standards for privacy rights to our entire community. We can now proudly take this a step further and commit to no longer relying on corporate advertisers.* 4. ***We will reduce the price of Verification.*** *While the price of Verification is seemingly high, the services we provide as part of Verification also come with significant costs. Our goal is to significantly lower the price of Verification so that is more accessible for more of the community. Couchsurfing members who purchased Verification prior to these changes will not need to contribute for one year beginning May 14, 2020. No action is needed to receive this benefit.* 5. ***We will continue to evolve the Couchsurfing website and mobile applications.*** *This includes better messaging and notifications, a virtually bug-free experience, maps, showcasing the Couchsurfing community, and enabling Couchsurfing to support other organizations that share the same values and mission as Couchsurfing.* If you believe that the world is a better place with Couchsurfing, we are asking for your support. Every member of Couchsurfing believes in something greater than money, possessions, and status. It took over 14 years for the Couchsurfing community to come together. Without your immediate help, this community will be lost forever. [Login to Support Couchsurfing](https://www.couchsurfing.com/users/sign_in/?utm_source=blog&utm_campaign=contribution_drip_1&utm_content=control) If you know of anyone who wants to promote and uphold the Couchsurfing ideals, we ask that you speak with them about Couchsurfing and to encourage them to join Couchsurfing and participate in the Couchsurfing community. Should you have any questions or concerns, please contact Couchsurfing Support via Thank you for the opportunity to support you and the Couchsurfing community. The Couchsurfing Team ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-needs-your-help/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-needs-your-help/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** News --- ### [An Unexpected Couchsurfing Story](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/an-unexpected-couchsurfing-story/) **Published:** July 6, 2022 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/IMG-20211221-WA0005.jpg "IMG-20211221-WA0005.jpg - Couchsurfing Blog")I was finishing a couchsurfing trip to visit every state in the USA in one year. I had couchsurfed the entire way and made amazing friends and memories everywhere I went. I had just made it to Washington DC and was headed to Virginia, which was state #40 of 50. Just 10 more to go… It was during my Virginia trip where I stayed with a new couchsurfer. I was talking to my host about how difficult it is to maintain long term relationships as a full-time traveler. I realized I needed to meet someone who had the same sense of adventure as I do, and who was willing to travel with me into this big, beautiful world. It just so happened that she had a sister who was visiting from Germany and who was also a Couchsurfer. In fact, she told me her sister had been the one to introduce her to couchsurfing, which I thought was pretty cool. The day after I arrived I finally met Maria. We felt an instant connection and talked late into the night about so many topics. We both knew quickly that we had so much in common and felt a strong desire to stay connected. The problem was Maria and I were both leaving the next day. She was visiting Miami and Las Vegas before heading back to Germany, and I had 10 more states to complete my quest to visit all 50 states… It was Christmas time and I headed to Chicago to visit a friend. I just couldn’t stop thinking about Maria and we talked and shared messages every day (have you seen the musical West Side Story ad heard the song “Maria?”. That was basically me haha) Maria was leaving soon back to Germany soon and I wanted to see her again to confirm how I was feeling. So I booked a ticket and made a trip to see the woman who has become the love of my life. Best. Decision. Ever. I finished my 50 state tour and flew across the Atlantic ocean to spend 90 days in Germany with Maria. She cancelled her lease, sold her stuff and now we are traveling the world together. It’s been an adjustment for both of us. I was used to solo travel. She was used to a less nomadic existence. But we love each other and are making it work and figuring it all out. It has been a great experience to couchsurf together and inspire others to follow their dreams. We look forward to many more amazing years of travel together and making friends everywhere we go. We are thankful for and love to support couchsurfing.com and this great community. The most magical things can happen when you take a chance and open yourself up to the world! Much love and kindness, Jason and Maria [![IMG-20211221-WA0005.jpg](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/IMG-20211221-WA0005.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/IMG-20211221-WA0005.jpg) ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/an-unexpected-couchsurfing-story/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/an-unexpected-couchsurfing-story/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Stories --- ### [From Couchsurfing to Family](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/de-couchsurfing-a-familia/) **Published:** June 28, 2022 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** ##### This post was originally written in Spanish. It has been translated to English. The original Spanish text is included after the English text. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/IMG_7888.jpg "IMG_7888 - Couchsurfing Blog")It all started one summer night in Asuncion, at a time when I couldn’t travel and I really wanted to, so I found out about couchsurfing and said: if I can’t travel, I’ll bring travelers into my life. So it was then that I created an account, not knowing how beautiful what was to come into my life after that moment. I did some research and decided to host my first travelers: Gerard and Maria, they sounded interesting, a couple of Catalan travelers touring South America with many interests in common with Martin and I (my husband, then my boyfriend) We agreed on the date on which I could receive them, they had arrived in Asunción a day before, I had confidence from the first moment, but my family and Tincho told me that I was crazy to receive two perfect strangers. We went to look for them and I think that from the first minutes we clicked. They told us that they had not planned to visit Paraguay, but that a Paraguayan host in Sao Paulo, Brazil, had told them that they had to visit our country and they did so. The talk started and we realized that we shared more common interests than we had imagined. Although they were a few days together, we lived them intensely, we were able to show him a lot of Asunción and its surroundings, an express but complete tour, where typical foods, local beers, barbecues with friends and many anecdotes and traveling dreams were not lacking. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/d4f77ada-3890-4d30-9546-1035eb86dfdb.jpg "d4f77ada-3890-4d30-9546-1035eb86dfdb - Couchsurfing Blog")We had 4 beautiful days where we had a great time and we said goodbye with a “see you later” without knowing if it would come true. At that time it was in our plans to travel to do a Master’s degree, but we did not have very well defined where we would go or when, but destiny had planned for us a reunion with our first travelers and less than a year later we were sharing with them in their native Catalonia. This time it was no longer 4 days, like the first time, it was one meeting after another. Knowing not only their town, customs, magical places and delicious foods, but was meeting their friends, family and them making us feel at home, even though we were more than 10 thousand kilometers away. We spent many holidays together, we made our first road trip together with unforgettable memories, we shared birthdays, afternoons at the beach bar, family lunches and much more. We said goodbye leaving a little of our hearts in that place, knowing that we had built a solid friendship and affection that would last a lifetime. The goodbye was strong, but we left a new “See you soon” that was our planned wedding in Asunción for the following year. At all times, we did everything possible so that we could count on them on such an important date for us, but we knew that even because of the distance it could be quite complicated. The year of the wedding arrived and very soon Gerard and Maria announced that they had purchased the tickets for our wedding, beyond belief. Imagine! From almost not passing through Paraguay to repeating the destination! The flight was long with mishaps, and they almost couldn’t make it to the wedding, but in the end, all of that will remain as an anecdote in the book that we are going to write when we are old. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/31573425-e1ab-40af-8f32-4de02428398e.jpg "31573425-e1ab-40af-8f32-4de02428398e - Couchsurfing Blog")If the fact that they arrived at the wedding was not enough of a surprise, Gerard told us that on that trip that he planned to propose to Maria and we could not say anything until we saw the wonderful proposal on a beach paradise in Rio de Janeiro and it was as well as once again we dreamed of the next reunion. From that moment we set the goal for ourselves to save and save and save to get to Gerard and María’s wedding. As soon as we could we bought the tickets and very soon we were together again, they were days of sharing and enjoying 100% with them and with all the affections of whom we had said goodbye 2 years ago. More than a month in Europe being very very happy, this return also added a very special trip to Manchester to visit new traveling friends that we had received in Asunción, with whom we also formed an incredible friendship, but that story goes to another Blog. (Alvaro and Lara we love you!) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/IMG_7437.jpg "IMG_7437 - Couchsurfing Blog")We would definitely like to pause the time when we enjoy it so much with people as authentic and warm as our Catalan brothers, Gerard and Maria, with such a wonderful family, with parents and siblings who treat us like one of their own. They taught us so much, without realizing it, that in a short time, with sincere love and quality time, people can really become family. And, although the pandemic paused our recurring meetings, new meetings are being planned, because the adventures must continue and we must continue adding stories to tell our children. From strangers to friends, from friends to family! The magic of Couchsurfing that never ceases to amaze us. Hopefully everyone can break their fears and barriers, be encouraged to receive people with the same spirit as one and build stories for life. De Couchsurfing a Familia ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/IMG_7888.jpg "IMG_7888 - Couchsurfing Blog")Todo empezó una noche de verano asuncena, en un tiempo en donde no podía viajar y tenía muchas ganas de hacerlo, entonces me enteré de couchsurfing y dije: si no puedo viajar, traigo viajeros a mi vida. Así fue que me creé una cuenta, sin saber todo lo hermoso que venía a mi vida después de ese momento. Investigué un poco y decidí alojar a los primeros viajeros: Gerard y Maria, sonaban interesantes, una pareja de viajeros catalanes recorriendo Sudamérica con muchos intereses en común con Martín y yo (mi marido, en ese entonces mi novio) Acordamos la fecha en que podría recibirlos, ellos habían llegado a Asunción un día antes, yo desde el primer momento tuve confianza, pero mi familia y Tincho me decían que estaba loca por recibir a dos perfectos desconocidos. Fuimos a buscarlos y creo que desde los primeros minutos hicimos click. Nos contaron que no tenían planeado visitar Paraguay, pero que un host paraguayo en Sao Paulo, Brazil, les había dicho que tenían que visitar nuestro país y así lo hicieron. Empezó la charla y nos dimos cuenta de que compartíamos más intereses en común de los que nos habíamos imaginado. Aunque fueron pocos días juntos los vivimos intensamente, pudimos mostrarle mucho de Asunción y alrededores, un tour express pero completo, en donde no faltaron comidas típicas, cervezas locales, asados con amigos y muchas anécdotas y sueños viajeros. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/d4f77ada-3890-4d30-9546-1035eb86dfdb.jpg "d4f77ada-3890-4d30-9546-1035eb86dfdb - Couchsurfing Blog")Fueron 4 hermosos días en donde la pasamos genial y nos despedimos con un “hasta luego” que no sabíamos que si se iba a hacer realidad. En ese momento estaba en nuestros planes, viajar a realizar un Máster, pero no teníamos muy bien definido a donde iríamos ni cuando, pero el destino tenía planeado para nosotros un reencuentro con nuestros primeros travelers y menos de un año después estábamos compartiendo con ellos en su Cataluña natal. Esta vez ya no fueron 4 días, como la primera vez, fue un encuentro tras otro. Conocer no solo su pueblo, sus costumbres, sus lugares mágicos y sus deliciosas comidas, fue conocer a sus amigos, a su familia y hacerlos un poquito nuestros para sentirnos como en casa, aunque estábamos a más de 10mil kilómetros de ella. Pasamos juntos muchas fechas festivas, hicimos nuestro primer roadtrip juntos con recuerdos inolvidables, compartimos cumpleaños, tardes de chiringuito, almuerzos en familia y muchísimo más. Nos despedimos dejando un poco de nuestro corazón en ese lugar, sabiendo que habíamos construido una amistad sólida y afectos que serán para toda la vida. El adiós fue fuerte, pero dejamos un nuevo “Hasta pronto” que era nuestra boda prevista en Asunción para el siguiente año. En todo momento, hicimos todo lo posible para que podamos contar con ellos en esa fecha tan importante para nosotros, pero sabíamos que igual por la distancia podría ser bastante complicado. Llegó el año de la boda y muy pronto Gerard y Maria nos anunciaban que tenían los pasajes comprados para nuestra boda, de no creer. Imaginense! ¡De casi no pasar por Paraguay a repetir el destino! El vuelo estuvo duró y con percances, casi no pudieron llegar a la boda, pero al final, todo eso quedará como anécdota al libro que vamos a escribir cuando seamos viejitos. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/31573425-e1ab-40af-8f32-4de02428398e.jpg "31573425-e1ab-40af-8f32-4de02428398e - Couchsurfing Blog")Si que hayan llegado a la boda ya no fuera suficiente sorpresa, Gerard nos cuenta, que en ese viaje tenía planeado proponer matrimonio a María y nosotros no pudimos emitir comentario al respecto hasta ver la maravillosa propuesta en una playa paradisiaca de Rio de Janeiro y fue así como nuevamente volvimos a soñar con el siguiente reencuentro. Desde ese momento nos pusimos como meta con Martín, ahorrar, ahorrar y ahorrar para llegar a la boda de Gerard y María. Emocionados apenas pudimos, compramos los pasajes y muy pronto estábamos juntos nuevamente, fueron días de compartir y disfrutar al 100% con ellos y con todos los afectos de quiénes nos habíamos despedido 2 años atrás. Más de un mes en Europa siendo muy muy felices, esta vuelta también se sumaba un viaje a Manchester muy especial a visitar a nuevos amigos travelers que habíamos recibido en Asunción, con los que también formamos una amistad increíble, pero esa historia, va a otro blog. (Álvaro y Lara los amamos) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/IMG_7437.jpg "IMG_7437 - Couchsurfing Blog")Definitivamente quisiéramos pausar el tiempo cuando lo disfrutamos tanto con gente tan auténtica y tan cálida como lo son nuestros hermanos catalanes, Gerard y Maria, con una grandiosa familia tan maravillosa, con padres y hermanos que nos tratan como a unos más de ellos. Nos enseñaron tanto, sin enterarse, que en poco tiempo, con cariño sincero y tiempo de calidad, realmente la gente se puede convertir en familia. Y, aunque la pandemia pausó nuestros encuentros recurrentes, nuevos reencuentros están siendo planeados, porque las aventuras deben continuar y debemos seguir sumando historias para contar a nuestros hijos. ¡De extraños a amigos, de amigos a familia! La magia de couchsurfing que no nos deja de sorpender. Ojalá todos puedan romper sus miedos y barreras, animarse a recibir gente con el mismo espíritu que una y construir historias para toda la vida. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/de-couchsurfing-a-familia/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/de-couchsurfing-a-familia/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Stories --- ### [De paso entre Chile – Argentina y viceversa](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/de-paso-entre-chile-argentina-y-viceversa/) **Published:** June 1, 2022 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/ff-0.jpg "ff-0.jpg - Couchsurfing Blog")No me imaginé que desde Guayaquil – Ecuador, mi lugar para poder completar mi vida sería la provincia de Mendoza en Argentina, llegué cuando estaba por cumplir 30 años, y durante esos años en mi país, desconocía la existencia de este maravilloso lugar. Mendoza es una ciudad de la región de Cuyo en Argentina y es el corazón de la zona vitivinícola argentina, famosa por sus Malbecs y otros vinos tintos. Wikipedia. No fue por casualidad, me enamoré, forme una familia, tengo un hijo, quien hoy en día vive más tiempo conmigo que con su mama, ya que después de 9 años de pareja decidimos separarnos. Al estar solos en casa, retomamos la experiencia de recibir en nuestro pequeño hogar a viajeros que recorren Latinoamérica, esta experiencia nos ha ayudado a ampliar nuestros conocimientos culturales, practicar inglés, compartir comidas y culturas grandiosas. La ubicación de Mendoza, que es una provincia limítrofe con Chile, la principal con Argentina, tiene la característica de que muchos viajeros, complementan su viaje, llegando desde Chile como una puerta de entrada al país gaucho y así empezar su recorrido, otros viajeros llegan a Mendoza, porque es su último destino porque continúan su viaje y deben cruzar la frontera a Chile. Es increíble, ya que muchos que van a Chile, por ejemplo, buscan alojamiento una noche, al día siguiente y muy por la mañana, tienen que ir la terminal de buses para viajar a Chile. Fue algo interesante, cuando una Couchsurfing de Israel, había conocido todo Argentina, ella ya se regresaba a su país, pero debía tomar el avión en Santiago, su avión salía a la noche del día anterior. Tuvo que hospedarse en la noche con nosotros de última hora, porque escribió un mensaje, no lo había leído rápido, pero una hora después le dije que si, y llegó, había estado todo el día en la calle. En Mendoza tienes muchas actividades maravillosas, sobre todo porque en este lugar producen vino de calidad, muchos brasileños y franceses llegan por eso, además, llegan por el clima, es muy buen clima, la ciudad es relativamente segura, hay delincuencia y diferentes casos, pero, siempre estás seguro. Lastimosamente, en Argentina la situación con su moneda no es del todo agradable para los que vivimos aquí, por ello, muchos que cruzan la frontera de Chile y llegan a Argentina, leen previamente del porque pueden encontrar cambiar sus monedas de un precio menor a otros lugares a un precio mucho más alto. Lo más increíble cuando cruzas la frontera, es que lo haces por la cordillera de los Andes, y el viaje puede durar hasta 8 horas, en invierno (JUNIO – AGOSTO) el cruce es complejo porque en Alta Montaña por las fuertes nevadas en las que hay hasta 48 horas donde cierran la frontera. Las fechas más interesantes para que aproveches venir a Mendoza es entre ENERO y MARZO, es verano, pero también está llena de lindas actividades, aunque se las puede hacer todo el año, acá existe “la fiesta de la vendimia” la más grande en honor a la cosecha de la vid. Te recomiendo llegar o pasar la primera semana de marzo, es maravilloso. Es todo, pronto seguiré contando más de Mendoza y lo que descubrimos con la experiencia de viajeros del mundo Couchsurfing. [![ff-0.jpg](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/ff-0.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/ff-0.jpg) [![juk-1.jpg](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/juk-1.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/juk-1.jpg) ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/de-paso-entre-chile-argentina-y-viceversa/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/de-paso-entre-chile-argentina-y-viceversa/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Stories --- ### [10 Questions with Luca!](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-luca/) **Published:** June 14, 2022 **Author:** Mike Joy **Content:** ##### Meet [Luca](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/lucabianco) from Naples, Italy! He’s been on Couchsurfing for 9 years and a Couchsurfing Ambassador for over 5 years! ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/23893765_l_43230dc9305778d9ae41fff1738b8d19.jpg "23893765_l_43230dc9305778d9ae41fff1738b8d19 - Couchsurfing Blog")**How did you learn about Couchsurfing?** I talked about with 2 colleagues at work, when I told them what to do if I wanted to travel alone during work vacations, they suggested me to try to couchsurf **Why did you decide to get involved with CS and how do you mainly participate?** I joined the first CS meetings a few time after I subscribed to the website because I was curious to meet other people that used to travel in an unusual way (being hosted from strangers in the beginning seems bizarre). It was really nice and I asked to the friends that used to organise CS meetings if I could help them. I started joining the weekly meetings, than organising them and than volunteering and helping during a summer camp on Amalfi Coast, before coming the organiser of it. Before the pandemic I used to organise every week a meeting, I hope soon I will organise again at least 2/3 meetings every month. **What was your first CS experience?** The first time I hosted was at the beginning of 2014 before my first solo trip in Poland and by chance I had the opportunity to host 2 really funny and friendly girls from Poland, Agata and Iza. It was great, I hosted them for 4 days, than I travelled to Poland – Warsaw (2 days), Ireland – Dublin (4 days) and England – London (4 days). I really had great experiences but I’m really thankful to my hosts in Poland that showed me all the city and with one of them, Anna Maria, we’re still in touch, and my host in Dublin Mela, because only thanks to her I started folk dances and today I’m also part of an association that organise folk dances classes and events in my city. **Why did you get involved in the Ambassador program?** I read about thanks to a friend of mine that after meeting me during CS events in the city and checking how much I was active, his name is Giuseppe, he purposed me to join the ambassador program and referred me to the Couchsurfing team. He told me I should try to join the program because I’m always available to help couchsurfers also if they write me a message just for some informations. I try to be always available when I can and I just started again to organise the Amalfi Coast International Summer Camp, the last one was on 2019. Couchsurfing during the years became a philosophy of life I could say. **What was your most interesting hosting experience?** It’s really complicated to choose only one after hosting more than 500 people. I can say just some interesting experiences, I really enjoyed ones hosting at the same time a greek family with their baby and 2 girls and 1 guy from slovakia (if I remember well), we made an international dinner all together with greek tabulè and potato pancakes. But I hosted many couchsurfers that used to cook for me and made me experiencing recipes from all over the world. I also hosted a crudist chef, Irena, from France, that made a workshop at my place and it was really interesting. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/C240372F-8972-45E9-A9AB-57649E0D7F18-1.jpg "C240372F-8972-45E9-A9AB-57649E0D7F18-1 - Couchsurfing Blog")**What was your most interesting surfing experience?** For sure one of my first experiences with Mela, it was amazing because when I landed in Dublin I joined her at a folk dance workshop and other people also from there invited me to join them in the evening. It was the beginning of my passion for balfolk, that it’s a mix of folk dances from all over Europe. **What is the coolest gift you have received from a surfer?** Also here it’s hard to tell only one, great liqueurs from everywhere (From USA whiskey to Ukraine vodka), magnets and shot glasses for my collection from everywhere, spices to cook. Something really nice I will never forget it’s about a greek couchsurfer, Foteini, she bought me a bag I really liked in a shop, she left it under the bed and wrote me a message to find it. **If you could surf with any celebrity alive or dead, who would it be and why?** I think I would love to surf with Beatles just to live their age and be at one of their concerts or hear them live. I love their music! **What is one book that has inspired your travels and why?** The Little Prince, it’s my favourite book, I like dreaming a lot and I hope one day I’ll be able to leave all my daily life in Naples for a while and just travel around the world, maybe to find my “perfect place to stay” or just understand that there’s time to come back home. The Little Prince it’s a book that talks a lot about me and about being more “essential” and focused on emotions. **What is your favorite travel quote?** Travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/bdde2727-8915-4a01-8447-54c654b287be.jpg "bdde2727-8915-4a01-8447-54c654b287be - Couchsurfing Blog")**What is one thing in your city that you think every traveler should see and why?** Quartiere Sanità, with catacombs and historical buildings like Palazzo dello Spagnuolo and the street market in Via Vergini, it’s really authentic and local and it’s where I’m going to live soon because I love that area. **What is your dream vacation?** Turkey, from Istanbul to Bodrum. **What is your one piece of advice to a new member of Couchsurfing?** Read the references! And please try to personalise always a little bit the requests. At least read the profiles of the hosts to have an authentic experience. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-luca/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-luca/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Meet an Ambassador --- ### [International Couchsurfing Day 2022](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/international-couchsurfing-day-2022/) **Published:** May 12, 2022 **Author:** Mike Joy **Content:** June 12, 2022 is the 18th Anniversary of Couchsurfing, a day affectionately known as International Couchsurfing Day. Couchsurfer’s all over the world are organizing events to celebrate Couchsurfing and their local communities. Find one near you by searching [local events](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events) or plan a trip to one! Here are some going on across the globe: [Barcelona, Spain](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/cs-s-18th-anniversary) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/shutterstock_785442694.jpg "Aerial,Panorama,View,Of,Barcelona,City,Skyline,And,Sagrada,Familia - Couchsurfing Blog")[Bariloche, Argentina](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/dia-internacional-de-couchsurfing-san-carlos-de-bariloche) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/shutterstock_1371228326.jpg "Aerial,Panorama,Of,The,City,Of,Bariloche,,Argentina - Couchsurfing Blog")[Batam, Indonesia](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/6935155) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/shutterstock_2108575106.jpg "A,Mesmerizing,Scene,Of,The,Magic,Blue,Water,In,The - Couchsurfing Blog")[Belgrade, Serbia](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/couchsurfing-18th-anniversary) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/shutterstock_695817322.jpg "Beautiful,View,Of,The,Historic,Center,Of,Belgrade,On,The - Couchsurfing Blog")[Bucharest, Romania](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/international-couchsurfing-day-bucharest) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/shutterstock_306450689.jpg "Bucharest,At,Sunset.,Calea,Victoriei,,National,Library - Couchsurfing Blog")[Chisinau, Moldova](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/international-couchsurfing-day-chi-inau) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/shutterstock_733250710.jpg "Cathedral,,Chisinau,,Kishivev,,Moldova - Couchsurfing Blog")[Crete, Greece](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/international-couchsurfing-day-2022-heraklion) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/shutterstock_1887712906.jpg "View,To,Heraklion,In,The,Early,Morning,During,Sun,Rise, - Couchsurfing Blog")[Jakarta, Indonesia](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/monthly-gathering-couchsurfing-international-day) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/shutterstock_586835357.jpg "Jakarta,Officially,The,Special,Capital,Region,Of,Jakarta,,Is,The - Couchsurfing Blog")[Lahore, Pakistan](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/international-couchsurfing-day-2022) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/shutterstock_1951466905.jpg "Evening,View,Of,Badshahi,Mosque,Lahore,,Badshahi,Mosque,Is,One - Couchsurfing Blog")[Marseille, France](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/international-couchsurfing-birthday) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/shutterstock_1492901261.jpg "Saint,Jean,Castle,And,Cathedral,De,La,Major,And,The - Couchsurfing Blog")[Medellin, Colombia](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/cs-18th-anniversary-meeting) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/shutterstock_1772959712.jpg "Aerial,Panorama,Of,Medellin,,Colombia - Couchsurfing Blog")[Mexico City, Mexico](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/couchsurfing-day-potlock) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/shutterstock_245778217.jpg "Metropolitan,Cathedral,And,President's,Palace,In,Zocalo,,Center,Of,Mexico - Couchsurfing Blog")[Montreal, Canada](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/international-couchsurfing-day-bbq-montreal) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/shutterstock_1839500569.jpg "Montreal,City,In,Canada,Autumn,Season,Colourful,Threes - Couchsurfing Blog")[Querétaro, Mexico](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/celebracion-cs-day-2022-18-anos) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/shutterstock_2055022082.jpg "Panoramic,Photograph,Of,The,Arches,Of,Queretaro. - Couchsurfing Blog")[Quito, Ecuador](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/potluck-picnic-pambamesa) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/shutterstock_616421432.jpg "Quito,,Ecuador - Couchsurfing Blog")[Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina, USA](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/international-couchsurfing-day-monthly-meetup) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/shutterstock_1026485038.jpg "Raleigh,,North,Carolina,,Usa,Skyline. - Couchsurfing Blog")[Ribeirao Preto, Brazil](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/couchsurfing-international-day-ribeirao-preto) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/shutterstock_691891102.jpg "Aerial,View,Of,Ribeirao,Preto,City,In,Sao,Paulo,,Brazil - Couchsurfing Blog")[Saint-Brieuc, France](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/happy-birthday-couchsurfing-saint-brieuc) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/shutterstock_1880194789.jpg "Beautiful,City,Saint-brieuc,With,Ancient,Half-timbered,Houses,,Brittany,Region,,France - Couchsurfing Blog")[San Antonio, USA](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/couchsurfing-anniversary-pool-party) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/shutterstock_422217199.jpg "San,Antonio,,Texas,,Usa,Cityscape,At,The,River,Walk. - Couchsurfing Blog")[Tbilisi, Georgia](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/international-couchsurfing-day-lisi) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/shutterstock_1234016323.jpg "Panoramic,View,Of,Tbilisi,,Georgia. - Couchsurfing Blog")[Tehran, Iran](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/happy-couchsurfing-day) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/shutterstock_2068777652.jpg "Tehran,,Iran,-,April,2,,2018:,Afternoon,View,Of,Azadi - Couchsurfing Blog")[Udupi, India](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/couchsurfing-birthday-celebration) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/shutterstock_774703105.jpg "Udupi,Sri,Krishna,Matha,-,The,Popular,Place,Of,Hindu - Couchsurfing Blog")### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/international-couchsurfing-day-2022/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/international-couchsurfing-day-2022/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Community Updates, Featured --- ### [Making Friends Through Couchsurfing Invasions](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/making-friends-through-couchsurfing-invasions/) **Published:** May 23, 2022 **Author:** Mike Joy **Content:** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/shutterstock_1968318178.jpg "Aerial,View,Of,The,Alderdi-eder,Park,,The,City,Hall,And - Couchsurfing Blog")##### By: Ana Mañas What is a Couchsurfing Invasion? CouchCrashes and Invasions are multi-day events which aim to keep the Couchsurfing community alive. People from all around the world are invited to travel and meet at a specific location which might be a city, a town or a campsite. Everyone is hoping to make new friends, learn about the place and most importantly, have a great time together with like-minded individuals. You don’t need any special invite or to book a spot to start attending these events, all Couchsurfers are welcome to join and free to just show up! You can find a [regularly updated list here](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/calendar/). A thing that differentiates CouchCrashes from Invasions is that the first ones are organized by locals or people living in the same area. It’s obviously a lot easier to make others come to your own city, and because your knowledge about the place is a lot wider, knowing what to do there is generally not an issue. But what happens when you’d love to have a CouchCrash in a different city but no one seems to be in the mood to organize one there? Then YOU should step up and do it! THAT’S an Invasion! ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/ss1-1.jpeg "ss1 (1) - Couchsurfing Blog")San Sebastián Invasion! How did we do it? The Couchsurfing community in Spain is making a lot of effort to meet fellow Couchsurfers in different cities through Invasions. Since we started in 2019, when we went to Zaragoza, we haven’t stopped. After that, we ‘invaded’ Montpellier (2019), and Valencia (2021). In all those cities we made great friends and had an amazing time visiting and gathering together with the Couchsurfing community. Our last invasion took place in April 2022 in San Sebastián (Basque country), but how did we do it? **1. Choose location and dates** Ask yourself the following question: **where would I like to visit?** In our case, we agreed we’d enjoy a visit to San Sebastián. Everyone speaks highly of the culture, people and gastronomy of Basque Country, so why not visit? Also, **decide on dates**. Remember that you are the organizers, so choose the days that suit you best. The last step here is to [post your event](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events) at least a month in advance so people have time to see it and make their plans. Comment that the planning is under construction. Remember it’s not your city, so having some **locals helping out** would be the best possible scenario. Do not hesitate to ask directly for local help for your events. There are many Couchsurfers in cities who’d love to create events but they feel unsure. If they see they can help in some way, they will most likely offer. **2. Plan your event carefully and make it visible** Once your event is posted, start searching for the things you’d love to **see or do there**. Is there a famous park? You can propose a picnic. Are there historical buildings? Plan a visit there. Is there something typical to eat or do? Plan a meetup at the bar or restaurant! Write the schedule and what you’ll do. Now it’s when you truly start feeling excited about the trip! Even though your plan might be still under construction, think about **making your event visible** for other Couchsurfers. The more you do it, the more are to attend. You can write to Couchsurfing at and let them know about your event. If you had followed the advised steps, they will hopefully add the event to the [Global Event Calendar](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/calendar/). An Ambassador can also ‘Feature’ the event which moves it to the top of the event list for that city! **3. Wait for feedback** Now your event is posted! Maybe we’ve been lucky all these years, but we’ve always had **locals contacting** us to offer their help and support in our Invasions. Some offered to give a city tour, others to organize a game or to take us to a gastronomic tour. They’ve always been very helpful to know which places to go or where to visit. In the end, they ended up organizing the whole thing and we just enjoyed their events. When we posted that we were planning a Couchsurfing Invasion in San Sebastián, we got an offer to help from a local in just a few days. Adrián told us that he had always wanted to have events in his town but he didn’t really know how many people would join. As we had already created the event in his town, he was willing to give a hand. After our first online meeting with Adrián we could see he was really devoted to Couchsurfing and that he had many great ideas for the Invasion. A few days later, some other locals volunteered to help and joined Adrian’s team. One of them, Ainhoa, was really helpful and committed because not only did she help with the organization of the regular meetings, but she also created a ginkana around the city just for us! That was a highlight in our trip as we could learn about the city while playing. **4. Enjoy!** Throughout the [San Sebastián Invasion](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/san-sebastian-invasion) we made many new friends and we had a wonderful time visiting the city. Now we are planning our next Invasion! If you are not ready to plan your own Invasion or CouchCrash, don’t worry, you can attend others just by checking the [Global Event Calendar](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/calendar/) in Couchsurfing. If you need some inspiration, check our video memories from San Sebastián. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/ss3-1.jpeg "ss3 (1) - Couchsurfing Blog")### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/making-friends-through-couchsurfing-invasions/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/making-friends-through-couchsurfing-invasions/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Advice --- ### [Three Golden Rules of Surfing on Couchsurfing](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/three-golden-rules-of-surfing-on-couchsurfing/) **Published:** May 4, 2022 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** *By: Ana Mañas* ##### This is a community submitted post. It has been written by a member of the Couchsurfing Community and submitted to the blog directly. All opinions, experiences and advice are that of the author and the author alone. Its presence on the blog should not be construed as an endorsement or official position of Couchsurfing. If you’d like to submit your own post to the Couchsurfing Blog you may do so [here](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/community-stories/). ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/shutterstock_549526057.jpg "Concept,Booking,Travel,Insurance,On,Wooden,Background - Couchsurfing Blog")So, you are planning a trip and would like to try Couchsurfing? After reading so many great profiles in the city you are going to visit, you suddenly feel a connection with that one host who looks so nice and kind, and you decide to send a Couch Request. After a few hours, you get the best news, they accepted your request to stay at their home! But what should you expect from that experience? You might have started imagining what plans you will do together, or how cozy their house might be, or maybe you are starting to wonder whether they will find you interesting enough. Don’t worry, these are all typical feelings and concerns. Even though every host is different and has their own ideas about what hosting a Couchsurfer means, just follow these **three common sense rules**, and everything will go smoothly. 1\. Adapt to your host’s daily routines! ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/shutterstock_1605433018.jpg "Young,Woman,Pouring,Coffee,Into,Cup,While,Putting,On,Shoes - Couchsurfing Blog")You arrive at your host home with so many plans in mind, like visiting here and there, going out for typical food or maybe even partying. Well, that’s perfect, but remember that while you are on holiday, your hosts still have to continue with their lives and therefore, their daily routines. First advice: **never put your priorities over your host’s needs**. Your host might have a job with a schedule to follow or maybe they need to go to bed early and get up at sunrise. Maybe they must study or go to university or they have family appointments. You should adapt to all those little inconveniences. Ask your host what time it’s convenient for them to get home in the evening, or if you should leave the house at a specific time in the mornings. Also, ask when it’s ok for you to occupy their bathroom for your morning routine, or if it’s fine that you use their kitchen. You may be tired from traveling and need to stay for a bit longer in bed, or maybe take a nap in the afternoon. It’s understandable, but please, **don’t be a couch potato,** and most importantly, don’t lay around every day. Always ask your host if it’s ok if you plan to stay in the home all day. Some hosts need their privacy moments and will expect you to be out exploring the area instead of sitting around their home the whole day. Also, they might feel uneasy if they see that you clearly intend to stay in the apartment when they are leaving. **Never wait for them to ask you to leave** because you’ll make them feel uncomfortable. You should always offer to leave together with them and stay only if they offer you to stay in. Also, if you agreed you’d all be leaving at a time, **don’t make them wait for you**, they might end up late for work! The key here is communication and respect. 2\. Have zero expectations from your hosts! ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/shutterstock_318334130.jpg "Drunk,Young,Handsome,Man,Resting,On,Couch,In,The,Living - Couchsurfing Blog")Having zero expectations means that you are aware **your hosts only have the obligation to provide a safe place to spend the night**. That might also mean that you won’t be sleeping on a bed, but on a couch or on the floor with or without a mattress. If you have any kind of hotel or hostel expectations, you must read very carefully the section “my home” from every host profile to know exactly what they offer as accommodation. Moreover, keep in mind that it is not mandatory for your host to provide keys, so please, **do not ask for keys** and adapt to your host’s time of arrival. Some people do not feel safe giving strangers free access to their homes. Arrive home after them with a big smile on your face and willing to share your day experiences. Don’t be too late to arrive, maybe they want to go to bed and **you shouldn’t keep them awake waiting for you**. *Couchsurfing is to make connections with people, it’s not about what hosts can offer, but about what you both can share as humans*. That’s why some people who host simply offer what they have. You might find hosts with mansions or with tiny apartments. Sometimes you’ll sleep on beds with fresh linen, but some other times you might get just a piece of floor and you’ll need to unpack your sleeping bag. All these experiences are perfectly possible on Couchsurfing, and they are all just great when you share time, make new friendships and have memorable experiences together. Is it not already incredible that people offer you to stay at their home for free? Think about it! Also, your hosts have no obligation to show you around, so **have your own plans** in case they cannot accompany you the whole day. It’s OK if you make questions about how to get to places, but **don’t be a burden** to your hosts, they are not your personal guides. Try to be as independent as possible if you see they are busy. Nowadays it’s really easy to find your way with Google Maps! 3\. Greet your hosts! ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/shutterstock_1111384946.jpg "Multi-ethnic,Group,Of,Friends,Having,Fun,While,Sharing,A,Meal - Couchsurfing Blog")As stated above, hosts have their own lives and problems. Probably they are not rich but they like Couchsurfing and they are willing to host for many reasons. *Some hosts crave company, some others just want to help travelers, or maybe they just find it interesting to meet people from around the world.* Whichever their reasons are, always greet your hosts. **Try not to come empty handed**. Take into account that hosting couchsurfers always has a financial cost for hosts. They pay for the electricity, Internet, water or gas that you’ll use at their place. In some countries those bills are not cheap at all. That’s why, the first impression you make it’s crucial for you to **avoid looking like a freeloader**. There are many possibilities, for example, **bringing a small gift** or something typical from your country. If you’ve been traveling for quite a bit and do not come from your city, you can **buy food for them** at the nearest supermarket, and offer to cook and to have lunch or dinner together with them. Buying drinks is also very welcome as everybody has their favorites. If you are good at something that your hosts would be interested in learning, don’t hesitate to let them know and show them how to do it. **Offering your skills** is also a very cheap way of showing gratitude. B*eing on a tight budget does not mean you should live on the resources from others totally for free.* These were all very easy actions that will make a good impression on your hosts. But how to behave during your stay? Always be considerate and **clean after yourself.** Be careful with the unnecessary waste of their resources. **Switch off lights after you** and **don’t spend hours in the shower.** Those actions are also beneficial for the planet. Please, bear this advice in mind. Remember that many incredible hosts sometimes decide to stop their hosting because they feel Couchsurfers are not grateful to them. They feel they are being used by travelers who are proud to “travel with no money” and they start thinking they are there to financiate other people’s trips. It’s sad but it happens. Let’s keep the community alive! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/three-golden-rules-of-surfing-on-couchsurfing/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/three-golden-rules-of-surfing-on-couchsurfing/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Advice --- ### [A Walk Around The World](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-walk-around-the-world/) **Published:** April 20, 2022 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** How many shoes does it take to walk ten thousand kilometres? Around me and Ezio, the stroller where I carry everything I need, the Atacama desert spreads out silently, unaware of the question. But how did I get here, to the heart of the world’s driest desert? My name is Nico, and a year and a half ago I started to realise my dream: to travel around the world on foot. I left everything behind, said goodbye to family and friends and set off on this journey that will take me on a 35,000 km walk in four years. **AROUND THE WORLD ON FOOT** Why decide to walk around the world? The answer is slowness: when we travel we are looking for something that we cannot find normally, something that escapes the everyday líder becoming so precious when we find it. If I think of something that is missing in everyday life, it’s: slowness. It is the key to create a special contact with places and people and the quality that allows us to build stories and experiences that one day we will remember. Walking is the most natural way to move from one place to another, we move forward listening to the rhythm of the body, following that of the day: why not to start in this way to discover our world? **THE WALK** When I arrived in Chile, I had already crossed Italy, France, Spain and part of South America. Thanks to Ezio, the stroller with which I walk, I am able to carry enough food and water for the stretches where there are no inhabited centres, managing to cover even 200km without supplies. Following the path of the Pan-American Highway, I walked from Quito, the capital of Ecuador, to Santiago de Chile, where I crossed the 10,000 km mark on foot. In my legs, millions of steps; in my heart, hundreds of stories and encounters. Despite the pandemic, dozens of people opened their hearts to welcome me and made me feel at home for a few days. Even in the driest desert in the world, I found fertile ground to share my story through Couchsurfing. And now I want to tell you about it. **ARRIVING IN CILE – ARICA** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/image_6483441-1.jpg "image_6483441-1 - Couchsurfing Blog")First hosts in Arica Marcelo and PaulinaOn my first day in Chile, I arrived in Arica, where I immediately experienced the goodness of local hospitality: a family who had seen the walk on social networks invited me to their home, offering a quiet place to rest for a few days. Marcelo and Paulina are my first two Chilean hosts, a young and smiling couple full of energy. The evening I arrived, we all went together to the Morro de Arica, the hill overlooking the bay on which one of the battles of the War of the Pacific was fought – a conflict at the end of the 19th century for the possession of some mining areas. It’s early in the weekend and Marcelo manages to take a day off to show me his city. We take a long walk through the coastal caves of Anzac and then go to the museum of the Chinchorro mummies, which he tells me are the oldest in the world, even more than the Egyptian ones! But sharing isn’t just about going out: after shopping at Agro, the biggest market in the area, we set to the kitchen to share some meals of our traditions. Paulina delights us with rice with olives, while I cook baked pasta and lasagne like a proper Italian. After Arica I head south, starting to cross the long Atacama desert, 1500 km of skies and silence. This desert is the driest in the world because the cold Humboldt current from Antarctica rises and clashes with the warm currents from the equator, preventing clouds from forming. There are areas where no rain has been recorded for 50 years. The first, long stretch runs between Arica and Iquique, a nine-day walk. In order not to run out of supplies, I walk 40 km per day, almost ten hours on march, from seven in the morning to five in the afternoon. As I head south, I am surprised by the kindness of the people I meet. Many stop to give me a bottle of water or something to eat, replenishing the supplies that I carry in my stroller Ezio. **SOUTHWARDS: IQUIQUE AND ANTOFAGASTA** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/image_67195393.jpg "image_67195393 - Couchsurfing Blog")Iquique Maribel and Maria cookingIn Iquique another family welcomes me with a huge hug: this time it was Maribel who found me through the social networks. Once again, kindness is the sweetest reward after so much isolation and I can rest in a place where the wind doesn’t blow sand on my face. Do you know that feeling of familiarity and trust that you get with some people as soon as you meet them? That’s exactly what I felt as soon as I stepped onto the patio at home. We strike up a conversation while I’m stretching my muscles and I find out in a few moments that Maribel has been on Easter Island, exactly where I’d like to go when I get to Santiago! She talks with dreamy eyes about the holiday she spent with her family and just as she’s speaking, Maria and Cyrano, her mother and partner, appear. They introduce themselves with big smiles and we get on well with them too. We go for a walk and Cyrano explains to me the story of the *marinero desconocido*, a statue commemorating another battle of the Pacific War. Back home, Maria starts cooking – she is an extraordinary cook. She prepares *porotos con longaniza*, a local dish of beans & sausage, and *leche asada*, a dessert made of milk and caramel. You can imagine how I feel: I empty my plate, fill my belly and the next day I offer to cook lunch. Signed! At dinnertime a funny thing happens. Maribel asks if I want tea, but I don’t feel like drinking hot things. She repeats the question a couple of times but I still refuse. Then it’s my turn: when do we have dinner? She looks at me a bit surprised: I just asked you that! She bursts into laugh seeing my face. When someone in Chile asks you for a tea, it means that dinner is ready: usually you will eat bread with something, for example cheese and avocado, and drink a hot tea, which here is called mate. That’s why Maribel was inviting me to drink tea! I leave a few days later, after hugs and promises to meet again, and after four days of walking I arrive in Quillagua, a small pueblo that holds the record for the driest city in the world. I am travelling along Ruta 5, the Chilean stretch of the legendary Pan-American Highway that crosses the Americas from Canada to Chile. I go on through the desert as the desert advances within me. The widespread silence and lack of distractions lead me to withdraw into myself, but at a some point it’s as if memories would end and all what’s left starts to dissolve into the rhythm of the walk. The Andes are on the left but whenI look down I don’t see the road but an enormous mirror that reflects my image. There is nothing else to stare at, so I spend days and days observing the image that the desert shows me, noting details that I had never seen before. I stop in Antofagasta to buy some supplies but I immediately go back to the desert, I cannot sleep well in the city anymore, too much orange light that wants to look like dawn, too much noise. In the city I am welcomed by Nelson, who tells me that I am the first person he has hosted since the covid began. I am honoured and impressed at the same time. It is difficult to open your door to a stranger,’ and even more in these times. It takes not only courage but also a lot of trust: trust in the words of the people you are welcoming, their health and their behaviour before arriving, vaccinating and behaving carefully. I am grateful to them, just as I am grateful to all the people in Ecuador, Peru, Chile and Europe who have sheltered me during this difficult time. And they quite a lot! More than sixty families have given me a roof, a kitchen, ears that listen patiently and words that teach. Without these people the journey would have lost a fundamental and wonderful component that gives meaning to what I am doing: sharing. **LA SERENA AND SANTIAGO** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/image_6483441-2.jpg "image_6483441-2 - Couchsurfing Blog")The Atacama desertThe desert draws to an end near La Serena, a town at the gateway to the Elqui Valley, a tourist destination renowned throughout Chile for the cultivation of Pisco grapes and for the astronomical observatories open to the public. This time Couchsurfing takes me to Belen and her boyfriend Andrew. Here I allow myself more than a few days to rest because the atmosphere of home that I breathe soothes the bittersweet taste left by the desert. Belen has a well-stocked kitchen, so I decide to prepare some recipes that my grandmother taught me, like peperonata and lasagne, my must-do when I am hosted. The guys go crazy, they are delighted and we spend a whole weekend with our legs under the table, exchanging anecdotes about our lives. An Italian in the kitchen is always a great story, remember that. In the evening, Belen and I have endless chats about the desert and the meaning of beauty and I see in her a stimulus to keep researching that makes me want to go on even more and look for the questions that intrigue me. I am fascinated by her gentleness and her concern for the environment. She makes her own soap and has even found a way to recycle plastic bags by compacting them, ironing and making sma wallets out of them. Before leaving, she gives me a small prism of dew moulded with her own hands. This time it is more difficult to leave. I set off again and reached Santiago two weeks later, on 30 March 2022, after walking ten thousand kilometres. More than a year has passed since I arrived in South America; I have worn out six pairs of shoes and Ezio, the stroller in which I carry everything I need, has had seven punctures. We have been hosted by wonderful people, collecting their stories and telling ours, a slow journey around the world to discover beauty through diversity. But Chile has not yet finished showing its kindness. In the capital, I am greeted by Becky, a sparkling lady with a lively intelligence, who does her best to contact newspapers and radio stations to spread the voice about this walk around the world. Her tenacity is admirable and in a few days she manages to get me interviewed by two local radio stations. Becky loves to cook (much to my delight) and has another quality you don’t usually find in hosts: she knows how to respect her temporary housemate’s time and space. We align our schedules, she gives me the keys of the house and I am free. I really don’t know how to give back all that I am receiving. The walk keeps going on, I am barely a third of what I dreamt: Australia is the next destination of my pilgrimage. Come and discover the world with me and Ezio, walking with us on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/pieroad____/). ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-walk-around-the-world/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-walk-around-the-world/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Stories --- ### [How to start a weekly (or monthly) Couchsurfing Meeting!](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/how-to-start-a-weekly-or-monthly-couchsurfing-meeting/) **Published:** April 8, 2022 **Author:** Mike Joy **Content:** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/Coyocan-Pic.jpg "Coyocan-Pic - Couchsurfing Blog")Step 1: Find a restaurant, bar or public space that: (a) Has no cover (is free to enter) (b) Charges no ‘drink minimum’ (people are not required to pay for a certain number of drinks) (c) Has the space for a group of Couchsurfers to hangout! Step 2: Create the event on Couchsurfing ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/Eventcreation-1.png "Eventcreation-1 - Couchsurfing Blog")Step 3: Add the event details. Event Name: you can call it a meeting, a meet-up or more specific to the activity (hiking, Italian dinner, etc.) Where: Choose the location of the event. If the location doesn’t show up, you can just write the city and then include a google map link in the description. When: Choose the start time and end time. Make sure you arrive by the start time! Some Couchsurfers are punctual! Event Recurrence: You can make the event recur every week, every two weeks (bi-weekly), or every month. Or just make it a one time event and leave the box unchecked! Limit Attendees: If the space has a limited number of places, make sure you mark this. It will keep more than the allowed number of people from joining the event. Description: Describe the event! Let people know what they’re in for! After you click ‘Create Event’ you can add a photo. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/Screen-Shot-2022-04-08-at-9.07.16-AM.png "Screen-Shot-2022-04-08-at-9.07.16-AM - Couchsurfing Blog")Step 4: Now that the event is created, you can invite friends, edit details, and add comments to provide attendees more details or alert them to changes! ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/Screen-Shot-2022-04-08-at-9.08.18-AM.png "Screen-Shot-2022-04-08-at-9.08.18-AM - Couchsurfing Blog")Step 5: Order an Organizer Tee or Couchsurfing Flag from our [store](https://store.couchsurfing.com/collections/events) to make sure your guests can find you! ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/IMG_4573-Copy.jpeg "IMG_4573-Copy - Couchsurfing Blog")\*\*If you are regular organizer of Events on Couchsurfing you qualify for a free Organizer Tee and Flag! Email [ambassadors@couchsurfing.com](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/requests/new) and if you have regularly organized events, we will send you a code for a free tee and flag!\*\* ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/how-to-start-a-weekly-or-monthly-couchsurfing-meeting/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/how-to-start-a-weekly-or-monthly-couchsurfing-meeting/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Community Updates --- ### [How We Accidentally Met on Couchsurfing](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/how-we-accidentally-met-on-couchsurfing/) **Published:** March 25, 2022 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/how-we-accidentally-met-on-couchsurfing/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/how-we-accidentally-met-on-couchsurfing/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Stories, Uncategorized --- ### [Site Maintenance](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/site-maintenance/) **Published:** December 1, 2019 **Author:** Mike Joy **Content:** **Why am I seeing an error message or ‘Site Maintenance’ page?** We are always making updates and upgrades to the Couchsurfing website and Mobile App to keep it running stably for all Couchsurfers. During certain upgrades it is possible that you may experience short periods in which the platform is unavailable or you may experience some errors while we complete the maintenance. This is nothing to worry about and generally lasts less than 15 minutes. If you get an error message when trying to access your profile or complete an action, refresh the page. If the error remains, wait about 15 minutes (as most updates are completed within this time frame) and try again. If the issue persists, feel free to reach out to support at support@couchsurfing.com so they can look into the issue further. We try to provide a window of time in UTC (Coordinated Universal Time) so that you can plan accordingly. To see what time UTC is right now, checkout [this page](https://time.is/UTC) and if you want help converting UTC to your time zone, [click here](https://savvytime.com/converter/utc). Thanks! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/site-maintenance/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/site-maintenance/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** News --- ### [Uncle Tahar's Hidden Travel Agency - short documentary about a couchsurfing legend](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/uncle-tahars-hidden-travel-agency-short-documentary-about-a-couchsurfing-legend/) **Published:** March 23, 2022 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** In 2013 I surfed Tahar’s couch in the capital of Tunisia. I’ve used the platform often and this was just one of my most memorable hosts.. a few years later the opportunity arose to make a short documentary about his Couchsurfing endeavors. The hospitable senior Tahar opens his apartment in the north of Tunis for Couchsurfers from all over the world. He offers them a place to sleep, free of charge, and aims to show them the true Tunisia. Backpacker Ali from the Maldives is one of them. Eighty-year-old Tahar lives by one golden rule: take only what you need and share the rest with others. This perfectly fits the ideals of the hospitality platform, but more importantly: he really enjoys the company. The film can be viewed here. [![chris-f-met-oom-tahar-37.jpg](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/chris-f-met-oom-tahar-37.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/chris-f-met-oom-tahar-37.jpg) ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/uncle-tahars-hidden-travel-agency-short-documentary-about-a-couchsurfing-legend/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/uncle-tahars-hidden-travel-agency-short-documentary-about-a-couchsurfing-legend/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Stories --- ### [Couchsurfing for Seniors](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-for-seniors/) **Published:** February 9, 2022 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** When we told our senior friends we were going Couchsurfing in [Provence](http://www.beyond.fr/), many of them had never even heard of Couchsurfing. Most of the rest expressed strong reservations about crashing on someone’s uncomfortable couch. By the time we headed for the airport, we were confident we’d find more comfortable sleeping arrangements. [Couchsurfing.org](https://www.couchsurfing.org/) is one of the more popular “hospitality exchanges”. These sites and organizations offer travelers around the world short-stay accommodation with local hosts, with no expectation other than the pleasure of each other’s company… and maybe some help with dinner. The fundamental premise is that the cultural exchange is a two-way street, and the hosts should enjoy the experience as much as the travelers. There are a number of hospitality exchanges, and some might be more suitable for the older traveler. If you “surf” with a 20-something host, there’s a good chance you *will* be sleeping on a couch. The average age of a Couchsurfer is 28, and only about 3% of users are over 50. Still with about 5 million members, that’s 150,000 “golden age” surfers and hosts. [![The view from our balcony in Provence](https://nopensionwilltravel.files.wordpress.com/2013/08/viewfromroom.jpg?w=300&h=225 "- Couchsurfing Blog")](https://nopensionwilltravel.files.wordpress.com/2013/08/viewfromroom.jpg) The view from our balcony in Provence We decided to search hosts who were couples over 50, something fairly easy to do on the site. We also restricted our searches to “verified” profiles with pictures, and read all the references carefully. The listings generally indicated that their offer of accommodation was at least a private bedroom. Still, to be on the safe side, we decided to try it out nearby before heading to France. (We’d done the same thing with AirBnB.) Our first Couchsurfing experience was in the seaside town of [Sequim, Washington](http://www.visitsunnysequim.com/). Our host, Teresa, was both interesting and gracious, and the accommodation offered us by our new friend was as good as any an old friend might provide. After one more local test run, we were ready to try Europe. Our chosen hosts in [Avignon](http://wikitravel.org/en/Avignon) included facility with English on their profile, so we figured we could revert to our native tongue if our fractured French was found wanting. In our message exchange before our arrival, we were careful always to include a [Google Translate](http://translate.google.com/#en/fr/) French translation of every message we sent. It turned out to be unnecessary as our hosts were fluent in English. [![Roussillon, the "Colorado of Provence", was one of the many local sites we visited with our hosts in Avignon](https://nopensionwilltravel.files.wordpress.com/2013/08/roussillon.jpg?w=625&h=315 "- Couchsurfing Blog")](https://nopensionwilltravel.files.wordpress.com/2013/08/roussillon.jpg) Roussillon, the “Colorado of Provence”, was one of the many local sites we visited with our hosts in Avignon We were pleasantly surprised with the responses we got from our query. Another host who couldn’t accommodate us went out of her way to recommend nearby B&Bs and restaurants: “Tell them Pauline sent you.” We received an unsolicited offer of accommodation from a retired judge who’d spent six months in our hometown years earlier. By then we were already “booked” with the couple we’d selected. Our hosts, Monique and Jean-Paul, had offered to meet us at the boat docks – later switched to the train station due to [flooding on the Rhône](https://nopensionwilltravel.wordpress.com/2013/07/05/trip-technology-meltdown/ "Trip Technology Meltdown"). We easily spotted each other, and much to our delight, they proceeded to drive us – with a few sightseeing stops en route – to a 400-year old Provençal six-bedroom farmhouse, hidden away on a quiet country lane, and surrounded by vinyards and fruit trees. Our “couch” turned out to be a very comfortable bed in a second-story bedroom with ensuite, balcony overlooking the gardens, and kitchen facilities. The kitchen was hardly needed as our hosts fed us delicious healthy home-cooked French cuisine three meals a day for our entire stay. In addition, they drove us to many area attractions – including some we’d never heard of, and certainly would never have visited but for their hospitality. What’s more, given their patience with our halting efforts, our French improved dramatically over just two days – although it never got anywhere near as good as their English. Our visit to Avignon was a perfect example of the objectives of hospitality exchanges. We talked about many subjects over our two days, comparing French ways of doing things to those back home – not to mention all the other countries that each of us had visited. Like many Couchsurfers, our hosts were globetrotters, so we had the chance to live their adventures vicariously – as did they with ours.. And pick up some tips for the road. It was the most memorable two days of our entire trip. Couchsurfing will be high on our list for our next trip. We’d recommend it for yours. *This story about our first real Couchsurfing visit was taken from a longer post at our personal blog:* https://blog.nopensionwilltravel.com/2013/08/16/couchsurfing-on-a-feather-duvet/ [![GuestPostBlog](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/GuestPostBlog.jpeg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/GuestPostBlog.jpeg) ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-for-seniors/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-for-seniors/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Stories --- ### [Must-See Sites in Iran](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/must-see-sites-in-iran/) **Published:** February 9, 2022 **Author:** Mike Joy **Content:** Azadi Tower ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/shutterstock_165646295.jpg "Tehran,-,October,18:,Azadi,Tower,On,October,18,,2013 - Couchsurfing Blog")[suronin](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/suronin)The tower, originally built in 1971 to commemorate the 2,500th anniversary of Persian monarchy, became a symbol of freedom during and after the 1979 revolution which toppled the reigning Pahlavi dynasty. Its name changed from Shahyad Tower, or Kings Memorial, to Azadi or Freedom. – [Reuters](https://www.reuters.com/article/us-iran-azadi-factbox-idUSBRE91J0R220130220) Esfahan ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/shutterstock_1405579160.jpg "Shah,(imam),Mosque,(jameh,Abbasi,Mosque),,Imam,Mosque,In,Naghsh-i - Couchsurfing Blog")[muratart](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/muratart)Esfahan is Iran’s top tourist destination for good reason. Its profusion of tree-lined boulevards, Persian gardens and important Islamic buildings gives it a visual appeal unmatched by any other Iranian city, and the many artisans working here underpin its reputation as a living museum of traditional culture. Walking through the historic bazaar, over the picturesque bridges and across the Unesco-listed central square are sure to be highlights of a holiday. – [Lonely Planet](https://www.lonelyplanet.com/iran/central-iran/esfahan) Hormuz Island ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/shutterstock_1043103934.jpg "Hormuz,Island,Coast,In,Iran - Couchsurfing Blog")[Yury Birukov](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Yury+Birukov)Hormuz Island, also spelled Hormoz Island, is a 16 square mile island off the southern coast of Iran, in the Strait of Hormuz. It is nicknamed ‘Rainbow Island’ due to the colorful waters that surround the island. Mesr Desert ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/shutterstock_612356192.jpg "Sand,Dunes,And,Sunset,In,The,Iranian,Desert,At,Mesr, - Couchsurfing Blog")[Pier Giorgio Carloni](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Pier+Giorgio+Carloni)This large desert is located in Isfahan province. Mount Sabalan ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/shutterstock_1079286860.jpg "Mount,Savalan,(sabalan),In,Iran.,Savalan,Is,The,Third,Highest - Couchsurfing Blog")[Prometheus72](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/cenkertekin72)Located in Northwest Iran, this is Iran’s 3rd highest peak. Noosh Abad ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/shutterstock_529062271.jpg "Passageway,Of,Nooshabad,(nushabad),Underground,City,Called,Ouee,In,Iran - Couchsurfing Blog")[Fotokon](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/fotokon)Noosh Abad underground city known as “Ouei” and the largest underground city of the world, with human made architecture constructed on three floors with the military and defense applications. –[VisitIran.Ir](https://www.visitiran.ir/attraction/noosh-abad-underground-city) Rainbow Mountains, Mahneshan, Zanjan ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/shutterstock_553814440.jpg "A,Colorful,Mountains,Near,Tabriz,,Iran - Couchsurfing Blog")[naytoong](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/naytoong)Aladaglar is the Azari Turkish name of the rainbow-like mountains and hills in the East-Azerbaijan province. This rainbow mountain and hills are tucked into the northwest of Iran. These phenomenal mountains are a spectacular and delightful place for those who are nature photography enthusiasts. – [Hipersia.com](https://hipersia.com/en/news.cfm?id=447) Shiraz ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/shutterstock_1298384731.jpg "Persepolis,(old,Persian:,P?rsa),Was,The,Ceremonial,Capital,Of,The - Couchsurfing Blog")[MORTEZA YOUSEFI](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/morteza-yousefi)The ancient city of Shiraz is the city of Love and Literature and the origin of first samples of Persian gardens is the unique example of hospitality and warmness of its people and bears many historical and ancient attractions and old cities of Persian Empire showing the glory of a nation such as Persepolis and Necropolis and Pasargadae. –[IranTravelingCenter](https://www.irantravelingcenter.com/shiraz-city-iran/) Tabas ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/shutterstock_1006994674.jpg "Ancient,Historical,Village,Near,Tabas,,Eastern,Iran - Couchsurfing Blog")[KonstantinKaltygin](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/fioletoviy69)Tabas, a city located in the heart of Iran’s central desert and part of South Khorasan province is famously known for its striking canyons, rice fields, and picturesque oasis popping up out of nowhere. –[TravelStyle.com](https://www.travestyle.com/2019/02/24/tabas-iran/) Takht-e Soleyman ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/shutterstock_1754120513.jpg "Historical,Archaeological,Site,Takht-e,Soleyman,(throne,Of,Solomon),Fortress,In - Couchsurfing Blog")[Ekaterina Khudina](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Ekaterina+Khudina)The archaeological site of Takht-e Soleyman, in north-western Iran, is situated in a valley set in a volcanic mountain region. The site includes the principal Zoroastrian sanctuary partly rebuilt in the Ilkhanid (Mongol) period (13th century) as well as a temple of the Sasanian period (6th and 7th centuries) dedicated to Anahita. The site has important symbolic significance. The designs of the fire temple, the palace and the general layout have strongly influenced the development of Islamic architecture. –[whc.unesco.org](https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/1077/) Qeshm Island ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/shutterstock_1340670755.jpg "Valley,Of,Stars,,Also,Known,As,Stars,Valley,,Is,A - Couchsurfing Blog")[MORTEZA YOUSEFI](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/morteza-yousefi)Qeshm Island UNESCO Global Geopark is an island of the Islamic Republic of Iran, which has the shape of a dolphin. It is the largest island of the Persian Gulf region and stands parallel to the south coasts of the Hormuz Strait. –[unesco.org](https://en.unesco.org/global-geoparks/qeshm-island) Yazd ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/shutterstock_618878984.jpg "Sunset,Over,Ancient,City,Of,Yazd,,Iran - Couchsurfing Blog")[javarman](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/javarman)The City of Yazd is located in the middle of the Iranian plateau, 270 km southeast of Isfahan, close to the Spice and Silk Roads. It bears living testimony to the use of limited resources for survival in the desert. Water is supplied to the city through a qanat system developed to draw underground water. The earthen architecture of Yazd has escaped the modernization that destroyed many traditional earthen towns, retaining its traditional districts, the qanat system, traditional houses, bazars, hammams, mosques, synagogues, Zoroastrian temples and the historic garden of Dolat-abad. –[Unesco.org](https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/1544/) ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/must-see-sites-in-iran/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/must-see-sites-in-iran/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Advice --- ### [Being Financially Smart When Traveling in 2022](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/being-financially-smart-when-traveling-in-2022/) **Published:** February 9, 2022 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** The world is finally starting to reopen and travelers are ready to get back out there. After 2 years of delaying travel, people are finally taking vacations and exploring the world again. While [the pandemic has impacted travel](https://www.usa.gov/covid-passports-and-travel) from a health perspective, there are also financial aspects to consider before embarking on any adventures this year. With COVID, there’s been a [significant financial impact](https://www.pewresearch.org/social-trends/2021/03/05/a-year-into-the-pandemic-long-term-financial-impact-weighs-heavily-on-many-americans/) on personal finances. As more people crave the ability to once again travel, there are some financial tips to keep in mind. Here are some ways you can be financially smart when traveling in 2022: Look beyond hotels for accommodations Hotels are the go-to for lodging while traveling. However, they aren’t your only option. It’s important to look at every possible accommodation to find the one that best fits both your needs and budget. Especially in the age of COVID, with the hospitality industry rebounding, hotel prices are beginning to rise. So, now is a great time for alternate options, which can often offer you a more authentic experience than a hotel can. Airbnb and Vrbo are two popular companies that offer accommodations worldwide that range from rooms in a home to entire condos, or even bed and breakfasts. They can be cheaper than a hotel and offer a more intimate experience. You can also look for a [Couchsurfing host](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/category/all/community/meet-a-host/) and stay with a local and fellow traveler. This unique experience offers authenticity and local insight often with no cost. Just be sure to follow some tips for being [a wonderful Couchsurfing guest.](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/13-things-that-could-make-you-a-wonderful-couchsurfing-guest/) Develop (and stick to) a budget Part of being financially smart when traveling is knowing how much money you have to travel. This is where budgeting becomes essential, especially with so many people experiencing changes to their income and savings due to the pandemic. There are a couple of ways you can use a budget to your advantage when traveling this year. The first is to add a [fun money line](https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/blog/why-you-need-fun-money/) to your everyday budget. This is meant to be guilt-free spending money that you can use for whatever brings you joy. Saving some of this up to utilize for a trip later in the year can provide you with worry-free money for your travels. Another way to travel with a budget is by calculating how much money you have for your trip and budgeting how much you can spend on accommodations, transportation, food, souvenirs and extras. Staying within this budget will prevent you from overspending and needing to reallocate funds from your necessities. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/shutterstock_567877570.jpg "Budget,Planing,Concept.,Top,View,Of,Notepad,With,Word,Budget, - Couchsurfing Blog")[DedMityay](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/DedMityay)Use credit wisely Many people rely on credit cards when embarking on vacation. This gives them the feeling of temporary relief because they don’t need to worry about the cost of their trip until a later date. The danger here is being too reliant on your card and overspending, which can then lead to damaging your credit score and hurting your finances later on. For example, you need a [good credit score](https://www.rocketmortgage.com/learn/what-credit-score-is-needed-to-buy-a-house) to buy a house and if this is a goal of yours, you should closely monitor your credit card spending and payments. To control how you’re using your credit, limit what you allow yourself to use it for. Instead of putting everything for your trip on a credit card, consider only using your card for one aspect of it. If you only use credit for your food or souvenirs, then you won’t come home to an impossible bill. Stay close to home If you find yourself low on funds but still have a desire to travel this year, consider a closer to home destination. This can mean a lot of different things: including staying domestic instead of traveling internationally, or opting for something within driving distance of home. If you want to try something new this year to help save money, the best thing you can do is be prepared. For example, a common low cost trip is camping. However, if this is your first time, there are some things you should prepare in advance to [plan a safe camping trip](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/planning-a-safe-camping-trip-prepare-for-the-elements-and-know-what-to-avoid/). Another option is to look for local deals within driving distance from your home. This can be something like a brewery tour, museums or even time at the beach or lake. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/shutterstock_1135004924.jpg "Group,Of,Friends,Camping.they,Are,Sitting,Around,Fire,Camp. - Couchsurfing Blog")[Day Of Victory Studio](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Nutthaseth_Archer)Monitor prices for transportation To help keep costs as low as possible when planning your 2022 trips, it’s important for you to look into all possible options for transportation. With so many modes of transportation available to you, pricing out each one can help save you money that could instead be put towards a new experience. One of the most common debates is the [cost of a road trip vs. air travel](https://www.firestonecompleteautocare.com/blog/driving/fly-vs-drive-travel-costs/). However, those aren’t your only options. In addition to driving your own car or flying, you should also compare the price of traveling by bus or train, and renting a car. Depending on your destination, one of these other options might be significantly less money than your tried and true mode of transportation. Pack everything you need Last but not least, you can save significant amounts of money by bringing everything you think you’ll need with you when traveling versus buying everything at your destination. Of course, if you’re flying you’ll face weight restrictions with your luggage. So be sure to price out the cost of what you’d need to buy at your destination with the cost of your airline’s extra luggage or overweight baggage fees. Bringing things like toiletries, extra clothing, shoes and undergarments can save you from spending more on them later. Also, if you’re going on a longer trip, consider comforts you will want to bring with you. If you’re into fitness, consider how you can [stay fit on the road](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/6-tips-to-stay-fit-while-on-the-road/) by bringing running shoes and small, portable equipment with you instead of having to pay for a short-term gym membership. Traveling in 2022 is sure to have it’s struggles, especially as the fight against the pandemic continues. Don’t let finances be one of those struggles. By being financially smart you can do some planning and research in advance of your trip, allowing you to travel with peace of mind and without coming home to a large bill. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/shutterstock_1916149378.jpg "Running,Man.,Male,Runner,Jogging,At,The,Park.,Guy,Training - Couchsurfing Blog")[Anton Watman](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/AntonWatman)### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/being-financially-smart-when-traveling-in-2022/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/being-financially-smart-when-traveling-in-2022/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Advice --- ### [The Most Stunning Man-Made Sites in the World](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-most-stunning-man-made-sites-in-the-world/) **Published:** February 3, 2022 **Author:** Mike Joy **Content:** ##### We asked the Couchsurfing Community what the most beautiful man-made sites around the world are. Here are there answers: Alhambra, Granada, Spain ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/shutterstock_489323533.jpg "Beautiful,Sunset,View,Of,Spain's,Main,Tourist,Attraction,,Ancient,Arabic - Couchsurfing Blog")[Romas Photo](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Romas_Photo)shutterstockLocated in Granada, Andalusia, Spain, this palace and fortress is one of the best examples of Islamic architecture in Spain. Situated on a hill above the city, it is quite a hike to reach, but once you do it is absolutely stunning inside. Burj Khalifa, Dubai, UAE ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/shutterstock_1196821240.jpg "Wow,View,Of,Dubai,Skyline,At,Night.,City,Lights,Popping. - Couchsurfing Blog")[Mo Azizi](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Alphaspotting)shutterstockThe Burj Khalifa, located in the heart of Dubai, continues to rise above the competition as the tallest building in the world at 2717 feet. There’s an observation deck on the 124th floor, but it’s equally as impressive from the fountains that surround it at street level. Celsus Library, Ephesus, Turkey ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/shutterstock_1062782693.jpg "Ancient,Celsius,Library,In,The,Old,Ephesus,City,,Turkey - Couchsurfing Blog")[Vladimir Zhoga](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Vladimir+Zhoga)shutterstockBuilt in 117AD, this monumental piece of Roman archeticture was built as a tomb for Gaius Julius Celsus Polemaeanus who was the governor of the province of Asia The archaeological site of Ephesus is located about an hour south of Izmir, or 20 minutes from the beautiful beach town of Kuşadası. Dougga Archaeological Site, Tunisia ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/shutterstock_787860319.jpg "The,Roman,Capitol,At,Dougga.,A,Unesco,Heritage,Site,In - Couchsurfing Blog")[Leonid Andronov](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/andronovl)shutterstockBuilt in the early 100s AD, Dougga was a small Roman city located on a hill with a sweeping view of the surrounding countryside. What remains are some of the best preserved ruins of Roman architecture from the period, including a theater that could hold 3,500 people. The archaeological site of Dougga is located about 2 hours southwest of Tunis and is reachable by private tour or local bus (and then a short taxi). Eiffel Tower, Paris, France ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/shutterstock_112137761.jpg "Eiffel,Tower,,Paris.,France. - Couchsurfing Blog")[beboy](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/juliengrondin)shutterstockThe most recognizable monument in the world located in, arguably, the most beautiful city in the world. Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco, USA ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/shutterstock_623536091.jpg "Classic,Panoramic,View,Of,Famous,Golden,Gate,Bridge,Seen,From - Couchsurfing Blog")[canadastock](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/jlrphoto)shutterstockWhen it was built in 1937, the Golden Gate Bridge was the longest suspension bridge in the world. It connected the two sides of the San Francisco Bay and has been one of the most famous landmarks of the United States ever since. This photo is taken from Marshall Beach, which you can easily hike down to from the Presidio. Fun fact, the paint is not a shade of gold, but orange. Machu Picchu, Peru ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/shutterstock_282046022.jpg "Llama,At,Historic,Lost,City,Of,Machu,Picchu,-,Peru - Couchsurfing Blog")[Marnix Foeken](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Marnix+Foeken)shutterstockThe famous Inca city high in the Andes Mountains that has captivated millions over the years. Best reached by a multi-day hike on the Inca Trail or Salkantay Trek, this is a must-see for all adventurers! Petra, Jordan ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/shutterstock_1289351245.jpg "Spectacular,View,Of,Two,Beautiful,Camels,In,Front,Of,Al - Couchsurfing Blog")[travelwild](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/travel_wild)shutterstockNicknamed the ‘Rose City’ this archaeological site located in southwestern Jordan was once the capital of the Nabatean kingdom. It’s most recognizable landmark is the “Khazneh” which is Arabic for “Treasury” although it is now understood to have been an incredibly two story tomb. Sydney Opera House, Australia ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/shutterstock_383965549.jpg "Sydney,,Australia,-,November,10,,2015:,The,Sydney,Opera,House - Couchsurfing Blog")[myphotobankcomau](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/amophoto)shutterstockLocated on the Sydney Harbor, this incredible Opera House is a must-see for any architecture lover. The Opera House hosts many different types of performances, about 1,500 a year and is visited by about 1.2 million people. Széchenyi Thermal Bath, Budapest, Hungary ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/shutterstock_1396505105.jpg "Budapest,,Hungary,-,August,,2018:,Szechenyi,Baths,In,Budapest,,Hungary. - Couchsurfing Blog")[Melinda Nagy](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/melis)shutterstockBuilt in 1913, the Széchenyi Thermal Bath is the most visited and maybe most grand thermal bath in Budapest. The architecture is stunning, and the complex features 18 pools, 10 saunas/steam rooms, and options to book massages, facials, and more. Taj Mahal, Agra, India ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/shutterstock_4000689911.jpg "The,Taj,Mahal,Is,An,Ivory-white,Marble,Mausoleum,On,The - Couchsurfing Blog")[YURY TARANIK](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/YURY+TARANIK)shutterstockLocated in Agra, just a few hours outside New Delhi, this incredibly white-Ivory tomb was completed in 1643 as a mausoleum to Mumtaz Mahal, the favorite wife of the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. It is visited by nearly 6 million people every year and is considered by many to be the most beautiful site in India. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-most-stunning-man-made-sites-in-the-world/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-most-stunning-man-made-sites-in-the-world/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Advice --- ### [Must-See Sites in India](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/must-see-sites-in-india/) **Published:** January 24, 2022 **Author:** Mike Joy **Content:** We asked the Couchsurfing Community to tell us what the “do-not-miss” sites in India. These were the most common answers: Akshardham Temple, Delhi ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/shutterstock_1377655688.jpg "Akshardham,,Guinnes,Records,Hindu,Temple - Couchsurfing Blog")[David Pineda Svenske](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/DavidPinedaSvenske)Amber Fort, Jaipur ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/shutterstock_233174128.jpg "Amber,Fort,Illuminated,By,Warm,Light,Of,The,Rising,Sun - Couchsurfing Blog")[J Palys](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Joanna+Palys)Beaches, Goa ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/shutterstock_248021569.jpg "Beautiful,Goa,Province,Beach,In,India,With,Fishing,Boats,And - Couchsurfing Blog")[Lena Serditova](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Serditova)\*although not technically a “site” as it is a state on the western coast of India, it was one of the most popular responses so it was included. Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park, Gujarat ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/shutterstock_14501738871.jpg "Heritage,Jami,Masjid,Also,Known,As,Jama,Mosque,In,Champaner, - Couchsurfing Blog")[Vyas Abhishek](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Vyas+Abhishek)Chittorgarh Fort, Chittorgarh ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/shutterstock_1227338428.jpg "A,Landscape,View,Of,Chittorgarh,Fort,,A,Unesco,World,Heritage - Couchsurfing Blog")[chtn](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/chtn)Dawki River (Wah Umngot), Meghalaya ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/shutterstock_152492846.jpg "Canyon,Verdon - Couchsurfing Blog")[RossHelen](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/RossHelen)Ganges River, Varanasi ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/shutterstock_1402206599.jpg "Ancient,Varanasi,City,Architecture,At,Sunset,With,View,Of,Sadhu - Couchsurfing Blog")[Roop Dey](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/roopdey)Gateway of India, Mumbai ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/shutterstock_1246224580.jpg "The,Gateway,Of,India,At,Sunrise,With,Beautiful,Reflections,In - Couchsurfing Blog")[Gilberto Souza](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/gibafs)Golden City, Jaisalmer ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/shutterstock_1507326692.jpg "View,Of,Jaisalmer,City,And,Fort.,Rajasthan.,India - Couchsurfing Blog")[Elena Odareeva](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/odareeeva)Golden Temple (Sri Harmandir Sahib), Amritsar ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/shutterstock_604512275.jpg "Cleaning,Sarovar,At,Golden,Temple,,Amritsar,,Punjab,,India - Couchsurfing Blog")[tscreationz](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/tscreationz)Hawa Mahal, Jaipur ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Jaipur.jpg "Jaipur - Couchsurfing Blog")[Mike Joy](https://www.instagram.com/mikejoyboy/)Jal Mahal, Jaipur ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/shutterstock_334776524.jpg "Panorama,Of,Rajasthan,Landmark,-,Jal,Mahal,(water,Palace),On - Couchsurfing Blog")[Dmitry Rukhlenko](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/f9photos)Khajuraho Monuments, Chhatarpur ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/shutterstock_1270900036.jpg "Western,Group,Of,Temple,Khajuraho,,Madhya,Pradesh,India - Couchsurfing Blog")[NG Shutterbug](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/NYPExposures)Monuments at Hampi ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/shutterstock_1509720656.jpg "The,Famous,Stone,Chariot,Monument,At,Hampi,India - Couchsurfing Blog")[Anubhav Raikar](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/AnubhavRaikar)Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/shutterstock_687075835.jpg "Key,Monastery,Or,Ki,Monastery,-,Very,Old,And,Famous - Couchsurfing Blog")[Prabhjit S Kalsi](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Prabhjit+S.+Kalsi)Taj Mahal, Agra ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/shutterstock_400068991.jpg "The,Taj,Mahal,Is,An,Ivory-white,Marble,Mausoleum,On,The - Couchsurfing Blog")[YURY TARANIK](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/YURY+TARANIK)Tea fields, Munnar ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/shutterstock_1918395866.jpg "Tea,Plantations,In,Munnar,,Kerala,,India - Couchsurfing Blog")[elhawwaa](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/elhawwaa)Thar Desert, Jaisalmer ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/shutterstock_782705764.jpg "Camel,Ride,On,The,Sand,Dunes,Of,Thar,Desert,Jaisalmer, - Couchsurfing Blog")[Roop Dey](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/roopdey)### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/must-see-sites-in-india/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/must-see-sites-in-india/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Advice --- ### [A Couchsurfing reunion at La Sagrada Familia](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfing-reunion-at-la-sagrada-familia/) **Published:** January 18, 2022 **Author:** Mike Joy **Content:** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/image13.jpeg "image13 - Couchsurfing Blog")We all take different paths in life, but no matter where we go, we take a little of each other everywhere. I met Slava in June 2018 in London, he was a stranger who graced our home and it has led to this wonderful friendship. Ours is unconventional yet true one. We may have gone our own paths but our friendship remained constant through the years. I always say that a “traveller is never intended to arrive.” He is indeed a child of the Universe who has experienced the world in its depths, from various cities and continents, and has so much to tell and now resides in Barcelona. Who would have thought at in this most unlikely place that we would be reunited again. En route to Andorra, I passed by his home in Spain to mainly see him and catch up with him and it was the best time. Years have have passed by, a lot has happened, but we are still the same people— grounded, high spirited and inspirational. Thank you Slava for believing in this friendship. It is one of best encounters I had whilst living in London. The moment I saw you way back three and half years ago, I knew you were there for a lifetime. Our friendship will last a lifetime. Thank you and best to really describe our reunion this time, we saw La Sagrada Familia together. It’s simple, heartwarming and life-changing. ✨ That’s the essence of surprises. Like how this friendship has came to life. A total surprise, hosting Slava in London back in 2018 through Couchsurfing and then we exchanged a part of our lives and we are forever connected. Distance has played a major part but it did pave the way for us to keep the memories we have made that are dear to us, looking forward to the time we would meet and see each other. Fast forward to three and half years later and it finally happened in Barcelona. It was a highlight of this new adventure. We made new ones but we didn’t forget the special people who in one way or another have touched us in the best way. And since we’ve managed to meet again, I know it won’t be the last time but a lot of other moments and encounters will come too. And thank you for allowing Dina to enter in this circle, what great souls these two have. Encounters like this one is one for the books. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfing-reunion-at-la-sagrada-familia/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfing-reunion-at-la-sagrada-familia/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Stories --- ### [Walking the Danube](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/walking-the-danube/) **Published:** January 6, 2022 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** ##### By: [Amy Aed](https://www.instagram.com/wandering_everywhere/) A couple of years ago, I read a book about a man who had walked the length of the Nile, becoming the first person to do so. I then read about another man who had walked the length of the Yangtze, again setting a World First. I’d spent my whole life wanting to become a real life explorer, traversing new lands and writing killer travel articles, but had been led to believe that quite simply, there was nothing else to explore. But then, if that was so, why were these guys on the front page of every news channel and Instagram advert? I began to research the world’s rivers, and in doing so, realized that actually, rivers are pretty sick. There were some super cool ones which would have been impossible to navigate as they were entirely un-walkable, or had a road running alongside them the whole way. But then there were other rivers that shone like pretty little golden nuggets, gagging to be walked. That’s when I read about the Danube. 1,771 miles long, winding through 10 countries (the most out of any river in the world), it seemed like a pretty miraculous river. And here’s the best bit: no one else had walked it before. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/b63b5b33-67a0-4a75-b3c5-1a70c8818922.jpg "b63b5b33-67a0-4a75-b3c5-1a70c8818922 - Couchsurfing Blog")**Amy Aed is the First Person to Walk the Danube** That’s what flashed in my head when I first realized that I could become the first person to do something. I imagined big, flashy articles, hoards of camera crews, and immediate book deals whenever someone heard a whisper of my name. Clearly, I had some issues to overcome. But the point was: the Danube could be walked! I found out that for the first third of the walk, there was a neat little cycle path that I could wander alongside. What came after that I could figure out along the way, using Google Maps to guide me (turns out that that was a BAD idea). It would be easy, would take less than three months, and would be a pretty novel-worthy trip. Right? ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/7C0CE056-B7C7-48E5-9FB0-BEC9CD677382.jpg "7C0CE056-B7C7-48E5-9FB0-BEC9CD677382 - Couchsurfing Blog")**The Beauty of the Danube** As it happens, I am *way* too full of myself. Walking all day every day is actually pretty difficult, not to mention almost impossible to maintain for three months. Plus, I had overestimated how quickly I could walk – the expedition is now looking like it will end in March, rather than… now. I also couldn’t do this trip alone. My girlfriend Emily decided to walk it alongside me, bringing her own secret weapon: Couchsurfing. I’d never used Couchsurfing before but was intrigued by the premise. On our first night, we stayed with this incredible Michelin star chef who shared all of this delicious Taiwanese tea with us, and we whittled the night away sharing stories and experiences. It was the first time I’d ever done anything like that before – and I loved it. It quickly turned out that whilst the Danube was a banging river and I loved walking alongside it with my wonderful girlfriend, it wasn’t going to be the highlight of the trip. Instead, my favorite bit would be exploring all of the beautiful places alongside the river, trying as many local dumplings as we could, and staying with new people each night. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/52df1ae8-e0f9-4b7b-a0fe-1f0dac751fcc.jpg "52df1ae8-e0f9-4b7b-a0fe-1f0dac751fcc - Couchsurfing Blog")**The Upcoming Expedition** Unfortunately, we had to fly home for Christmas, arriving only a couple of days ago. But we plan on resuming in early 2022, starting from where we left off and completing the rest of the river. As you can imagine, we’re both so excited to get back out there, see our favorite river, and meet plenty of new people on Couchsurfing! To follow the journey, check out my Instagram and travel blog, where I talk almost constantly about the Danube. ##### Read more by Amy at [her blog](). For more photos check out [her Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/wandering_everywhere/)! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/walking-the-danube/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/walking-the-danube/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Stories --- ### [Europe, A Dream Come True](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/europe-a-dream-come-true/) **Published:** December 6, 2021 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/5A6B824A-50BD-4A66-ACE4-A9145DBF178E.jpg "5A6B824A-50BD-4A66-ACE4-A9145DBF178E - Couchsurfing Blog")Since I can remember, I’ve always wanted to travel. Coming from a middle class family from Uruguay, a little country in South America, that wasn’t something my parents could afford, so when I became 18 I started working to save money and started traveling to Brazil, Argentina and Chile… A few more trips came after to EEUU and Mexico, but Europe was always my dream. Being a Med Student and working was hard but hey! No pain no gain, right? So on 2018 I became a Doctor, started working that same year and 6 months later after a lot of work I saved enough money to do it so I packed my bags and left for a 72 days trip to my dreamed place, and let me tell you, it was more than I expected! ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/EFD80201-95DF-44AA-B686-CC8652B39A4D.jpg "EFD80201-95DF-44AA-B686-CC8652B39A4D - Couchsurfing Blog")I went to more than 30 cities mainly in Spain and Italy, but also Portugal, Czech Republic, Holland, England, Belgium and Austria; I ate delicious food, met amazing people, danced, cried, laughed, had some intense relations from emotional to physical, missed home but never wanted to come back. It really was a life changing experience. And I owe a lot of that to Couchsurfing. I was lucky to stay with different hosts for almost 50 days of my trip, mostly gay man, and had a great time with each one of them! Not only I could learn about their culture and language but also we shared some nice walks around the city, went to clubs, restaurants, places that tourists don’t know so much but these people showed me and that was my favorite thing, I don’t like going only to the landmarks, I like to see how people live, the feeling of the city… ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/73E53B6E-7177-4378-B884-11BEE7D93ABE.jpg "73E53B6E-7177-4378-B884-11BEE7D93ABE - Couchsurfing Blog")This community shows that it doesn’t matter your skin color, language, sexuality, religion or beliefs, we are all sharing this planet and should all care for each other, help each other. I’m so grateful for the experiences that I lived, they really gave me a different perspective about people, cause I’m not gonna lie, I was scared of traveling alone for so long, but it’s definitely something I would do over and over again and recommend to everyone I know. Thank you Couchsurfing community! Let’s keep traveling! 🙂 ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/c0dfdf2a-c640-47b7-9e6c-82ceb107aacd.jpg "c0dfdf2a-c640-47b7-9e6c-82ceb107aacd - Couchsurfing Blog")[![73E53B6E-7177-4378-B884-11BEE7D93ABE](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/73E53B6E-7177-4378-B884-11BEE7D93ABE.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/73E53B6E-7177-4378-B884-11BEE7D93ABE.jpg) [![EFD80201-95DF-44AA-B686-CC8652B39A4D](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/EFD80201-95DF-44AA-B686-CC8652B39A4D.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/EFD80201-95DF-44AA-B686-CC8652B39A4D.jpg) [![c0dfdf2a-c640-47b7-9e6c-82ceb107aacd](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/c0dfdf2a-c640-47b7-9e6c-82ceb107aacd.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/c0dfdf2a-c640-47b7-9e6c-82ceb107aacd.jpg) [![5A6B824A-50BD-4A66-ACE4-A9145DBF178E](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/5A6B824A-50BD-4A66-ACE4-A9145DBF178E.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/5A6B824A-50BD-4A66-ACE4-A9145DBF178E.jpg) ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/europe-a-dream-come-true/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/europe-a-dream-come-true/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Stories --- ### [The calling to higher awareness.](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-calling-to-higher-awareness/) **Published:** December 14, 2021 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** In 2010 when I joined Couchsurfing with thanks to a dear friend called Sean, I was still in college and only just beginning to dream about freestyle exploring – travelling the horizons. When I went to university in the proceeding days I decided to have a browse in the local area of the registered Couchsurfing members one afternoon and found a sincerely warmhearted looking fellow who had come to Loughborough to complete a sports Masters, from India – by name; Aman. And he happened to be a local number one table tennis champion in his region (& I have always been great at table tennis – or so I thought) – so I sent him a friendly request for a game with no fear! After an impressive thrashing (from his side) and some engaging conversations, I was really happy to make my first Couchsurfing friend. Aman really gave me my first insights and outlooks about how to make the most of the community! We even took an adventure of our own to explore a city further north of our Uni, having found an eccentric warm welcomer to look after us during our short stay – immediately I was inspired. I truly believe one’s philosophy for world freedom, unity consciousness, peace and cultural diversity is empowered with cohesion through the art of travel. Travel in the name of Human connection and individual & community enrichment. A year and a half later, Aman invited me to his wedding back home in India. Naturally, I’m thrilled. Exhilarated at the idea. So I go. It’s early 2012 and my life is in a deep transmutation of ideals and observations as a whole. So surely at this time this would be just the trip I need! The light I see at the end of my tunnel is emanating great mystery and I remain in optimism and positively encouraged – fortune favours the brave! It was as if there were unreckonable potentials for my personal destiny to be defined ~ lurking around the corner of each mundane choice and each day of my awakened awareness (and so it still remains). When I get to Delhi airport – it’s a small hour in the morning. I catch a taxi to the address where I’m staying. The next day, my dear friend Aman picks me up on his motorbike – and we breeze through bustles of madness and otherworldly road conduct to a favourite of his places to eat a chick-pea curry with some fried bread. Today is day one of the most amazing snacks I’ve ever had! It was a knockout punch of delight and belly power which stayed with me. Over the course of time running up to my friend’s wedding I just about got attuned to the style of things and I found all of Aman’s friends to be fun, kind and caring. A few days into this adventure, I found myself in the mesmerising phenomena of an Indian wedding! A thrill for all the senses – with out of this world colours, smells, tastes and scenes of ceremony. It was a heartwarming manifestation of divine communion. This was as much an awakening call to me as to what time space I’ve truly found myself to be in -What otherworldly glory! Considering that about a year before taking this adventure my mind began to be opened to spirituality et cetera, I had heard about the holy side of this land and it’s highly advanced Masters – the Sadhus – who maintain a sacred way of conscious life. This, along with a yearning for nature peace and calm (away from the buzzing chaos in the cities) led me to ask my friends how to navigate for such experiential orientation: where do I go? Of course the hand they all appointed immediately was towards the north – Himalayan foothills. The particular region to which they suggested I first go to was where the Tibetan monk order dwells, in exile with the Dalai Lama, in McLeodganj.. Now this was something different – fresh air lush greenery magnificent scenery mysterious looking people and wild animals. The monkeys were a mischievous might amongst the unwitting tourists. I was breathtaken, letting myself dissolve for Worlds Apart it felt like I was home. And just as I was enjoying a rest at a bench with some Chai, an elderly fellow with a white beard and curiously sparkling eyes made his friendly approach towards me after we had a distant moment of recognition… “Have you just arrived?” He asked me. And I nodded, returning his smile. A woman appeared beside us and introduced herself as Susan – and the man named as Sudan.. at least this won’t be easy to forget! Chuckling to myself, I offered them both a hand. The next day I found myself at their apartment a little walk away exploring the world and learning a whole new essence of truth in art. Sudan turned out to be a renowned spiritual artist using a particularly fascinating technique to create pinpoint coagulations of colours into incredibly detailed images – which he does so in a deep state of meditation. “I don’t even know what the image is going to be until it appears throughout the transmission…” He tells me, as I flick through his collection. I was in sheer disbelief at the thought of his gift – just to sit holding a pen tapping, in a transverse state, and allowing each dot to have its placement on the page by its random appearance, making up a finally detailed landscape of nature or portrait or even a building – is beyond anything I could’ve dreamed being possible. We played music and sang, enjoyed delicious food – it was a warm welcome… Something of an offering to have trust, to be positive and enjoy the moment. Being here & now is a skill, in-definitive. What I learned observing the locals in this vast land as a whole (but particularly around the marvelous mountains in the north) is that there is a depth in the sense that collectively, what happens happens through an inner prevalent grounding of human being … it’s something that can never truly be verbally explained – and once fathomed from within the direct experience is an essential upheaving in principle. Further on in this trip, Couchsurfing became a worthy parallel to my own instinct as a means by which new opportunities of cultural submergence became accessible! This was best proved once I reached the ‘pink city’ Jaipur and was greeted by Kabir Khan my hosts on his motorbike. I stayed with his wonderful family in a backstreet part of town that some would call ‘the ghetto’ – a rundown network of alleyways where holy cows roam free and craftsman of all kinds practice the trade in the open. Other Couchsurfers had arrived a couple of days before and invited me to join them to the Elephant festival the following morning. It seems like a coincidence of an unmissable opportunity, of course I joined with delight – and on and on with the Holi festival of colours a couple days also after… it was an absolute miracle of an experience. Opening my eyes to worlds that I’d been chasing. Worlds of human compassion, animal reverence, natural beauty and artistic elevation. Worlds of pure kindness, deep and soulful wisdom, absolute essence in the most sacred of meaning. It is a very long story indeed. But I have promised myself to go back, back to the mother India for reconciliation once again. She gave me a ride to see the world with in a new light. She broke my misconceptions in many ways about the values of life. She tested my courage in the most delicate ways with wholesome integrity being the outcome. And thanks to the fellow travellers and hosts on Couchsurfing many magical moments were opened up on the path! Om Shanti Namaste *Photo courtesy of: https://www.shutterstock.com/g/kristinruhs* [![Holi,Celebration,In,Nepal,Or,India](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/shutterstock_5407906872.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/shutterstock_5407906872.jpg) [![91636A3A-4790-4210-9941-71A126F5BA84.jpeg](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/91636A3A-4790-4210-9941-71A126F5BA84.jpeg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/91636A3A-4790-4210-9941-71A126F5BA84.jpeg) ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-calling-to-higher-awareness/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-calling-to-higher-awareness/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Stories --- ### [I Found Happiness Through Sharing](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/i-found-happiness-through-sharing/) **Published:** December 12, 2021 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** *\*\*Original Spanish version below\*\** Eva, my partner, and I started Couchsurfing by “chance”, as so many good things that have happened in my life. While trying to exchange a house with a family from Belgium, they showed us Couchsurfing and thus we ended up spending more than 20 days with them at their house. By sharing a house with local people, they introduced us to the authentic life of that country and showed us the less touristy and more authentic places. So then we had to try to host ourselves. More than a hundred couchsurfers from all over the world have passed through our house. Families, couples in love, lonely travelers … who have shown us part of their culture, have become friends and with whom we have shared moments … and that is what matters when you review what you have done in your life. It goes without saying that we have to take advantage of this philosophy of life that unites all authentic Couchsurfers and that has offered us the possibility of knowing many countries, but most importantly, knowing the intimacies of its inhabitants. We could share so many anecdotes from Iran, Belgium, Germany, Portugal, Ecuador, and in all of them there is a common feeling: sharing. Preparing a potato omelette for our hosts, listening to their songs live, laughing while we eat a special meal, accompanying them to local shows, having a few glasses of wine contemplating beautiful landscapes; a multitude of moments that have filled us with experiences and that are true jewels treasured during our existence. Thank you Couchsurfing, Thank you global community of human beings who have lost their fear of strangers and opened their doors to share. Encontré La Felicidad Compartiendo Eva, mi pareja, y yo, empezamos en Couchsurfing por “casualidad”, como suceden tantos buenos eventos en la vida. Intentando intercambiar casa con una familia de Bélgica, nos descubrieron CS y así acabamos pasando con ellos más de 20 días en su casa. Descubrimos que al compartir casa con gente local, nos daban a conocer la auténtica vida de ese país y nos mostraban los lugares menos turísticos y más auténticos. Así que luego nos toco probar alojar a nosotros. Más de un centenar de couchsurfers de todo el mundo han pasado por nuestra casa. Familias, parejas de enamorados, viajeros solitarios…que nos han mostrado parte de su cultura, se han convertido en amigos y con quienes hemos compartido momentos… de esos que importan cuando revisas qué has hecho en tu vida. Ni que decir tiene que aprovechar esta filosofía de vida que une a todos los auténticos CS,s nos ha ofrecido la posibilidad de conocer muchos países, pero lo más importante, conocer las intimidades de sus habitantes. Podríamos contar tantas anécdotas de Irán, de Bélgica, Alemania, Portugal, Ecuador…y en todas existe un sentimiento común: El compartir. Preparar una tortilla de patatas para nuestros anfitriones, escuchar sus canciones en vivo, reírnos mientras comemos una comida especial, acompañarles a espectáculos locales, tomar unas copas de vino contemplando paisajes bellísimos; una multitud de momentos que nos han llenado de experiencias y que son verdaderas joyas atesoradas durante nuestra existencia. Gracias Couchsurfing, Gracias comunidad global de seres humanos que han perdido el miedo a los extraños y abren sus puertas para compartir. [![11737816_898507903576312_5952613244782297878_n-0.jpg](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/11737816_898507903576312_5952613244782297878_n-0.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/11737816_898507903576312_5952613244782297878_n-0.jpg) [![IMG_20150822_213650-1.jpg](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/IMG_20150822_213650-1.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/IMG_20150822_213650-1.jpg) ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/i-found-happiness-through-sharing/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/i-found-happiness-through-sharing/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Stories --- ### [Walking around the world](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/walking-around-the-world/) **Published:** November 25, 2021 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** *“It’s freezing here, especially at night.”* *“Geez… But… Cold, how cold? What temperature?”* *“It’s cold dude, at night it goes down to 15 degrees!”* *“…”* Ecuador is a strange land. It’s a rich country with poor people having fun dancing sad music. The country sits astride the ecuatorian line but even here there is a right to be cold, so it’s OK for its inhabitants to bang jugs at ten degrees. Ah, another thing: nobody likes walking. When I ask how long it takes to get to the market, they tell me it’s far, very far, you have to take a mototaxi. But far, how far? Uuuh walking there is like five, even ten minutes! I smile, what else should I do? I confirm that I’m going to walk and I laugh seeing their amazed faces when I explain why I don’t take transport: I’m walking around the world. Yes, on foot. **WALKING AROUND THE WORLD** My name is [Nico](https://www.instagram.com/pieroad____/) and a year ago I set off to fulfil my dream. Why on foot? When we travel, we are looking for something that we don’t normally manage to grasp, something that escapes our everyday lives and that becomes so precious when we find it. Slowness, if I think of something that is missing in everyday life it is: slowness. It is the key to accessing a special contact with places and people, it is the quality that allows us to build stories and experiences that one day will be called memories. Walking is the most natural way to move from one place to another, one moves forward listening to the rhythm of the body, following the rhythm of the day: why not set off in this way to discover our planet? **FIRST STEPS IN EUROPE** On 9 August 2020 I closed the door of my house behind me and started walking: during the first hot and sunny days I crossed Italy westwards until the French border, passing Cinque Terre and continuing along the Camargue reserve and the Canal du Midi, a magnificent river channel that cuts through France, connecting Mediterranean and Atlantic Ocean. Next came the Pyrenees, the toughest 30km in all of Europe, having to face a snowstorm in the middle of the mountains. Arriving in Spain, I walked the Camino de Santiago and the Via de la Plata to Palos de la Frontera, the city from where I embarked for the Canary Islands in search of a boat ride to the Americas. After a month of searching, I managed to find a 12-metre catamaran and crossed the Atlantic in a very long month of alienating detachment from the human world. The crew disbanded on arrival, I proceeded alone to Panama, where I connected Atlantic and Pacific Oceans by walking along the isthmus. In this way, I felt the path interrupted in Spain has started again, without interruption, on the other side of the world. In Panama I met with Humberto on Couchsurfing; during the walk in Europe, I had some couch experiences in France, but because of the 2nd wave of covid hitting hard it was becoming more difficult to find a host. Humberto welcomes me at his place with a big smile and we spend almost a week together, walking (yes, again) around the city and chilling at his place when it was too hot to sneak out. **SECOND CHAPTER: ECUADOR** Next stage starts in Quito, capital of Ecuador, in the middle of the Andes. Here I get some of the best vibes I have ever had con CS. The first night is actually in Tumbaco, some 20 km away from the airport – the plane landed in the afternoon and by walking there’s not enough time to get to the capital. David is my host in Tumbaco but when I get there, there’s noone. I call him, wandering where he is and what should I do. “Hey man, just go into the house, I left it open for you, have a shower and some rest, unfortunately I’m working and I won’t come back home. See you in a few days in Quito!” I’m halfway between blazed and moved. This guy just left his house open for me, a stranger, without doubting a second of my intentions. I get into the place, it’s warm and cosy and somehow I feel at ease, safe, that kind of feeling that is beautiful to find when travelling cause it makes you really feel at home. That night, I slept as a baby Next day I leave for Quito, where Alejandra waits for me. When we connected through the app, we agreed to a 5 days stays, but guess what – it comes to ten. She and her sisters Meli (who is on CS too) and Karo give me the best set of information to approach Latin America. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/IMG_0879.jpg "IMG_0879 - Couchsurfing Blog")This is my first time here, so they tell me about Ecuador slang and Quichwa culture – different from Peruvian Quechua, another thing I didn’t know – history, politics (elections are running those days), food of course and any other thing that come to their minds. I try to absorb everything and when my brain is over we have a stroll at the cathedral – did you know that inside the bell tower there is a whole restaurant?! These days we manage to meet David as well (the host from Tumbaco) and after a couple of beers together he invites everybody for a barbecue at his place next week. That’s possibly the best way I could start to know a new continent and its people and I bless couchsurfing to give us all this chance From Quito I keep going south, descending from 2800 meters of the capital to the ocean. I walk along the Ruta del Spondylus. This road takes its name from the shell of the same name, which in pre-Columbian America had a sacred significance. When the climate changed and the rainy season approached, this shell arrived at the coast, marking the beginning of the fertility season – hence, new life. Once again, I am amazed by Ecuatorian hospitality: there are no big cities to rely on along the way, so I ask if I can pitch my tent near a house and the affirmative answer comes on the first, maximum second attempt. Manabi – this region’s name- is also famous for its cuisine. Fish is prepared in all kinds of ways, but my favourite is encebollado, a soup of onions, fish and… peanuts! After the initial perplexity, the combination gets me. After a couple of weeks, I turn east towards Guayaquil, the country’s second largest city. Here I pass by an old friend, Juan Pablo, whom I met in Australia while working in Melbourne. His family welcomes me like a son and his father, Pablo, hands me a list of national dishes that I must try absolutely. I scroll through the list with him, ticking off the foods I have already tried. With a bit of pride, I reckon I am more than halfway through it, so Pablo offers to help me by letting me try other specialities while at their place. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/IMG_0880.jpg "IMG_0880 - Couchsurfing Blog")**THE BEAUTY LIES IN SLOWNESS** I set off again towards Peru through the province of El Oro, a gigantic banana plantation as far as eyes can see – Ecuador is the world’s leading exporter of this fruit. From here, I head down to the border of Lalamor, where I arrive in mid-July. In the meantime, Ecuadorian visa has expired and its renewal has made me reflect on the leitmotif of this trip: slowness. I thought I would stay in Ecuador for a month, just long enough to cross it along a 1000km walk. Now that I am leaving, I look back and see four months and dozens of stories that have enriched a journey far more intense than I could have imagined. Slowness was the key to discovering the people who made this journey great, making it an experience full of lessons and memories rather than a tourist guide to the most beautiful places in the country. I approach Peru grateful for the weeks I spent here, a wonderful time that led me to fall in love with these lands. **WALKING IN PERU** In July, I entered Peru. The change from Ecuador is impressive. The desert landscape exacerbates the difference, colouring the land and the walls of the scattered houses with ocher. Once again, the beginning hit its best: after three days of walk I reach Piura and Gian, the CS national embassador of Peru! It’s a huge pleasure and an honour to meet him, I feel like he’s quiet some important guy I met. He texted me several days before, giving me fundamental suggestions on how to cross the border. From the first time we chatted and during the whole stay (which, again, doubles up because of his kindness and the good vibs of his place) I ask him thousands of questions about everything, especially those stunning trekkings he speaks about. I ended up adding some 3-4 extra weeks on the planned route to Lima, persuaded by Gian and the pictures he shows me on the paths along Cordillera Blanca, an Andean section protected by UNESCO within the Huascaran National Park. I meet his charming, big family, and as Italian I offer to cook some pasta and pizza for everybody – guess what’s the answer. Gian smiles, he says Italians often offer to cook something or arrive with food at his place. I reckon it must be our trait, and laugh. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/IMG_0881.jpg "IMG_0881 - Couchsurfing Blog")Even if I feel good, it’s time to hit the road again. Goodbye to Gian and Van, a girl arrived meanwhile, and straight into Sechura desert, the first real one I walk across. It’s 180 km of nothingness, only the Pan-American highway “itos” to mark the distance: numbers, not words. Crossing the desert it’s intense: all the stages I have walked so far began and ended somewhere with a name, and always, always, passed through towns, perhaps small, perhaps made up of a few scattered houses, but always centres of social and human life. This time it’s different: the day ends at km912 on the PE1N, the next day at km870 and so on. Numbers, not names. It has a certain effect when you pitch your tent near a number and not near something. It’s intense because it’s as if it never lets up: at the end of the journey you arrive nowhere and you know that tomorrow you will arrive nowhere and tomorrow again, the same nothingness. It’s intense Chiclayo stands at the end of this nothingness. It’s nickname is “City of Friendship” and Alsyss, my new host, is the living proof of it. He welcomes me with King Kongs, a local food made of biscuits, jam and dulce de leche, a bomb of calories that helps me recover from the long walk. He’s one of the sweetest guys I have ever met, he gets I’m pretty tired and offers me good rest, movies and warm meals, all I was dreaming about the past days. Heading south again, I get to Trujillo and Ray, where I finally admit that without couchsurfing I’m simply lost in a new city. I’m not in the hostel mood anymore, the majority of them is for pub crawl and party mood, a part of being sadly empty because of the pandemic. There has been a time I enjoyed that, but my priorities changed and a cool, chill place to call home for a while, with a friend rather than just a traveler, it’s everything I look for. I still chat with some cs met ages ago in Australia or El Salvador, and I reckon I wasn’t able to do the same with many other travelers. The connection you make while at someone’s place is quiet intimate and the fact you can give something too, like cooking a meal or share a memory, can easily turn out in good friendship. Anyway, after a month along the desert coast, I returned to the Andes, arriving at Caraz, base for several treks on the Cordillera Blanca, one of the most striking Andean sections. Over the next few weeks, I discovered the incredible blues of Laguna Paron, the perfect shape of Alpamayo and even the glacier featured in the Paramount Pictures theme song, Pirámide de Garcilaso! In the meantime, I raise the bar on my physical limits, walking and camping between 4200 and 4750 metres above sea level. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/IMG_0882.jpg "IMG_0882 - Couchsurfing Blog")When clouds begin to appear more frequently, I decide to continue, returning to the coast and heading towards Lima. Here I take a little rest. I have been on the road for more than a year and have covered 6200 km on foot between Europe and America, passing from the sultry summer of the Po Valley to the greyness of the desert and the cold of the Andes. I met Gian again, with great joy. Three months have passed and I can share with him all the beautiful memories and pictures I took in the places he suggested me to go. I think that’s one of the most beautiful rewards a person can give: priceless, straight gratitude. In the last six months of my life, I walked 3000 kilometres from Quito capital to Lima capital, gathering hundreds of stories collected slowly. I arrived in Lima on October 3rd and that’s just one day in fourteen months of journey; in a while, as I stand back to look at the dream I am building, this brick will be unrecognisable, confused among all the others. But today I can see it up close, I can taste the sense of achievement; and there is a scent of satisfaction, patience and obstinacy in the knowledge that I have added just that one more day. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/IMG_0883.jpg "IMG_0883 - Couchsurfing Blog")My gaze is turned south towards Chile, whose land border is still closed… How will I cross it? If you want to find out, have a look to my [PIEROAD](https://www.instagram.com/pieroad____/) Instagram page and start walking with me around the world! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/walking-around-the-world/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/walking-around-the-world/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Stories --- ### [Multicultural Experience and an Empty Room](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/multicultural-experience-and-an-empty-room/) **Published:** November 4, 2021 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** My journey with Couchsurfing started back in November of 2021. I had recently been told about the website and its nature. I thought (and still thinking) that it was a great way to get to know the world I am part of through a multicultural experience. And oh, boy! it has not disappointed me a bit. The first people I hosted were Bryan and his childhood friend, Margaret. They are both from New York state. I opened the account on a sunny and quiet late afternoon. Two hours later, I receive my first request. Bryan and Margaret were in such a desperate situation. Their flight got canceled and the airline was charging them about $500 to change the time of departure for the same day. Both had no more than $200 altogether. They just needed a place where to spend the night before catching their new flight the next day. I had nothing prepared for their arrival. No couch. No mattress. Nothing. Just food and a second empty room. I had to do something about this. At least offering them food would alleviate the situation of having to sleep at the airport. I told them to come over to my place so they could have dinner and have a good night of sleep. I felt sorry for them but then I thought that I also did not have a comfortable mattress for them to sleep on. What was I going to do about it?!!! After having told them that the only space I had was an empty room, Bryan and Margaret did not hesitate in accepting my offer. So, I thought, these people are willing to sleep on the floor in exchange for some company. The least I could do was to offer them my bed, and I did. I finished dinner and received them with a big smile and hugs! They looked so tired! Incredible drained. I help them with their backpacks and other belongings. Immediately, I told them to sit and have some food so I could explain to them what to expect from their visit. While we were having dinner, I told them that it was best if they took the bed and I’d sleep in the other room. Almost immediately, Bryan’s face goes down. In a slow, and almost whisper voice he said, ” thank you. Thank you, William. You have no idea how hard this trip has been for both of us. And here you are offering us your own bed. Thank you.” That’s what Couchsurfing is to me. Besides learning and connecting with other cultures, It is about helping others reach their destinations safely and sound (and rested), while leaving them with a print about your culture, about yourself. Ever since that day I have opened up my home for both people in need of a place to stay or just passers. I am happy with all the connections I have made to this day. And even happier that now I have a home in at least fifteen different countries. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/multicultural-experience-and-an-empty-room/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/multicultural-experience-and-an-empty-room/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Stories --- ### [Like Halloween? You will love these festivals!](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/like-halloween-you-may-love-these/) **Published:** October 28, 2021 **Author:** Mike Joy **Content:** Do you hang spiderwebs from your windows and carve pumpkins with spooky faces? Do you love to dress up head to toe and proudly walk into work? Do you hide in bushes and scare your friends when they come over? Then you may certifiably love Halloween. Halloween is celebrated [around the world](https://www.history.com/topics/halloween/halloween-around-the-world), but many other festivals occur world-wide and may need to be added to your ‘To Visit’ list. Check out a few of our favorites: Día de Los Muertos ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/shutterstock_743773396.jpg "Day,Of,The,Dead,Parade,In,Mexico,City,October,28, - Couchsurfing Blog")[Dina Julayeva](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/dinajulayeva)shutterstock[D´´´´´ía de los Muertos](https://www.history.com/topics/halloween/day-of-the-dead) is a three-day festival celebrated in Mexico and throughout Latin America. It is celebrated between October 31st and November 2nd as the days when souls of the dead awaken and return to the living world. Although it shares some traditions with Halloween (such as dressing up and parades) it is a completely distinct holiday and in fact takes on a solemn tone in many places. [Oaxaca](https://theculturetrip.com/north-america/mexico/articles/how-locals-celebrate-day-of-the-dead-in-oaxaca/) is particularly famous for their Día de los Muertos festivities. The festival is so famous, in fact, that Disney made a [movie](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zNCz4mQzfEI) about it. Samhain ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/shutterstock_641424877.jpg "Celtic,Cross,On,A,Tomb,In,A,Cemetery,In,Limerick, - Couchsurfing Blog")[Pav Pro Photography Ltd](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/PavProPhotographyLtd)shutterstockDid you know that Halloween actually traces its origins back to the Celtic festival of [Samhain](https://www.history.com/topics/holidays/samhain)? In fact, there is no mention of Halloween in the United States until after the large influx of Irish immigrants in the 19th century. Marking the end of summer and beginning of winter, Samhain (pronounced ‘sah-win’) was a pagan holiday where it was believed that the walls between the spirit world and human world broke down. Celebrated in Ireland and Scotland, today the celebrations [resemble American Halloween](https://www.discoveringireland.com/newsletter-halloween-09/), but check out the carnival in [Derry](https://www.irelandbeforeyoudie.com/top-10-best-halloween-events-in-ireland/) or the fireworks in Belfast for some truly special experiences. The Hungry Ghost Festival ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/shutterstock_1708320007.jpg "Bukit,Mertajam,,Penang/malaysia,-,Aug,17,2019:,Chinese,Devotees,Burn - Couchsurfing Blog")[Cloud Yew](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Cloud+Yew)shutterstock[The Hungry Ghost Festival](https://www.chinahighlights.com/festivals/hungry-ghost-festival.htm), also known as Zhongyuan Festival (中元節) or Yulan Festival (盂蘭節), is a traditionally Buddhist celebration that is not to be missed. The seventh month of the lunar calendar (August-September) is when spirits return from the other side and mix with the living. On the 15th day (celebrated on the 14th in some places) all realms open and dead ancestors return to their living descendants. Full of its own traditions (and adopting some of the commercialized western celebrations) this traditional celebration involves carnivals, street festivals, and a lot of food. Guy Fawkes Day ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/shutterstock_1580810767.jpg "Hong,Kong,-,Oct,31,,2019:,Three,Business,People,Don - Couchsurfing Blog")[katherinekycheng](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/katherinekycheng)shutterstockCelebrated on November 5th, this fascinating [piece of history](https://www.history.com/news/guy-fawkes-day-a-brief-history) comes from the early 1600s in England under the rule of James I. A group of Catholics planned to blow up Parliament and install a pro-Catholic monarch. The plot was found out, all involved were executed or died in resistance, and in 1606 the day was designated a day for thanksgiving. Today it is celebrated with bonfires, fireworks and celebration. Officially a day to celebrate that King James I had survived the attempted assassination, Guy Fawkes is now seen as somewhat of a revolutionary thanks to [V for Vendetta](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lSA7mAHolAw) (a 1980s graphic novel and 2000s film). Kawasaki Halloween Parade ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/shutterstock_160329851.jpg "Kawasaki,japan,-,October,27:,The,Spectacular,Costumed,Attendees,In,The - Couchsurfing Blog")[Aduldej](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Aduldej)shutterstockHeld the last Sunday in October, this rowdy parade has huge floats, amazing costumes and a DJ who spins a free party at the end of the route. The parade begins near the Kawasaki train station and runs for 1.5km near the La Citadella shopping center. The winner of ‘best costume’ walks away with with ¥500,000! The parade has been canceled the last two years due to COVID, but keep an eye out for future parades! The Village Halloween Parade ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/shutterstock_160965296.jpg "New,York,City,-,October,31,,2013:,The,Fortieth,Annual - Couchsurfing Blog")[a katz](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/akatz)shutterstockWe must mention the iconic [New York City’s Village Halloween Parade](https://www.timeout.com/newyork/events-festivals/village-halloween-parade-nyc-guide). Every year over 50,000 people dress up and march through downtown New York City on Halloween night. Beginning on Spring Street the parade heads up 6th Avenue and ends on 16th Street. The entire route is lined with revelers in full costumes enjoying the sights and sounds of this iconic New York tradition. Did we miss any festivals? Tell us in the comments! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/like-halloween-you-may-love-these/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/like-halloween-you-may-love-these/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Guides --- ### [The Top 10 Experiences in the USA!](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-top-10-experiences-in-the-usa/) **Published:** October 20, 2021 **Author:** Mike Joy **Content:** With international travel to the USA reopening to 33 countries in November, there has never been a better time to start planning your next adventure. Book a flight to your dream city or check out our list of the top experiences every traveler needs to have in the United States! Ski in the Rockies ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/shutterstock_1650404440.jpg "Vail,,Colorado,,Usa,Drone,Village,Skyline,Aerial. - Couchsurfing Blog")Vail Colorado [Kevin Ruck](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/KevinRuck)shutterstockAlthough there is incredible skiing across the United States, from [Lake Tahoe, California](https://www.skilaketahoe.com/) to [Stowe, Vermont](https://gostowe.com/), there is nothing quite like skiing in the Rocky Mountains. Denver, Colorado is the perfect jumping-off point for many of the best resorts like Vail and Breckenridge. If you don’t mind a little drive, Telluride, Colorado, and Jackson Hole, Wyoming are also worth a visit. If Salt Lake City is your destination, you are an easy drive to Alta, Snowbird, and Park City Mountain Resort! If you’re a skier on a budget, check out [this list ](https://www.skiresort.info/ski-resorts/rocky-mountains/sorted/day-ticket-price/)of the most affordable lift passes in the area! Catch a Broadway Show ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/shutterstock_1489245737.jpg "New,York,,United,States,-,December,11,,2010:,Nighttime,In - Couchsurfing Blog")Broadway [Sociopath987](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Sociopath987)shutterstockBroadway is back and better than ever! The most famous shows in the world are back in production and there has never been a better time to see them. Get discounted tickets at the red [TKTS booth](https://www.tdf.org/nyc/8/locations-hours) in Times Square or check out [TodayTix](https://www.todaytix.com/nyc/category/all-shows?gclid=Cj0KCQjw8eOLBhC1ARIsAOzx5cGllPOrssc8apTLgqYAglTElYSDusxRiqLWwhoXr-nPsLUJs4OCLcMaAidAEALw_wcB) for online deals! Some theaters close for public holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas, but you should check each show’s schedule directly on their website! Broadway is located in the Theater District of Midtown, Manhattan, and easily accessible by the New York City Subway! Hike in Yosemite ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/shutterstock_1996771694.jpg "Winterised,Yosemite,Tunnel,View,Scenery. - Couchsurfing Blog")Tunnel View in Winter [elvinloew](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/ELVIN+LOEW)shutterstockYosemite is open 365 days a year and is an incredible experience in any season. You will need to wear warm clothing and check which [entrances and hiking trails](https://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/winter.htm) are open, but with stunning scenery and far fewer tourists, Yosemite is a great destination this winter! If you can wait until Spring, you will get the waterfalls at their strongest as the snow begins to melt and days get a little warmer. Island Hop in Puget Sound ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/shutterstock_1044753403.jpg "Whales,Puget,Sound - Couchsurfing Blog")Whales in the Puget Sount [JSim2018](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/JSim2018)shutterstockThe Puget Sound in the Pacific Northwest is an incredibly beautiful area full of wildlife, stunning vistas, and nature to explore. The San Juan Islands are a collection of 450 isles that span from Washington into Canada and many have ferry services between them. You can whale watch, hike, ride bikes, or do any number of other outdoor activities. Start the trip by flying into Seattle, which is worth a visit on its own, then take the incredible Washington State Ferries from there. Visit an Iconic Theme Park ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/shutterstock_437392909.jpg "Vallejo,,California,,Usa,June,14th,,2016:,Roller,Coaster,Medusa,Is - Couchsurfing Blog")Six Flags Roller coaster [Cassiohabib](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Cassiohabib)shutterstockThe United States is full of theme parks and many have special events throughout the Christmas season. The classic parks like [Disneyland](https://disneyland.disney.go.com/) and [Disney World](https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/vacation-planning/) are both open year-round, no matter the weather, and have special Christmas events throughout December. Six Flags has 27 parks around the United States, so it’s easy to add a ride on a thrilling roller coaster to your next trip! Hours and months of operation vary by park, so check out each individual park’s schedule. If a more unique experience is your thing, don’t miss Graceland (Elvis’ home) or Dollywood (a Dolly Parton-themed park) for truly special experiences! Beach Trip in Miami ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/shutterstock_490898872.jpg "Miami,Beach,,Wonderful,Aerial,View,Of,Buildings,,River,And,Vegetation. - Couchsurfing Blog")Miami Beach [pisaphotography](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/cybergian)shutterstockWith temperatures in the 70s°F/20s°C from December through April, Miami is your spot if you’re looking for tropical weather in the winter. Besides having gorgeous beaches, Miami is a large cosmopolitan city known for its cuisine, art scene, and excellent nightlife. It’s also easy to get from Miami to some of Florida’s other must-sees like the [Everglades](https://www.nps.gov/ever/index.htm) and the [Florida Keys](https://fla-keys.com/). Check Out a Festival! ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/shutterstock_1366645286.jpg "Miami,,Florida,/,United,States,-,March,30,,2019:,Ultra - Couchsurfing Blog")Ultra Miami [Hunter Crenian](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Hunter+Crenian)shutterstockMany of the most famous American festivals are gearing up for 2022 and there’s never been a better time to grab tickets. Whether you’re into electronic music or country-bluegrass, there is a festival for your taste. Check out a complete list [here](https://www.musicfestivalwizard.com/all-festivals/page/3/?festival_guide=us-festivals&month&festivalgenre&festivaltype&festival_length&festival_size&camping&artist&company&sdate=Dec%201%2C%202021&edate=Jun%202%2C%202022#038;month&festivalgenre&festivaltype&festival_length&festival_size&camping&artist&company&sdate=Dec+1%2C+2021&edate=Jun+2%2C+2022) for dates. Some of our favorites that are back in 2022 are: [New Orleans Jazz Festival](https://www.nojazzfest.com/) in New Orleans, Louisiana [Coachella](https://www.coachella.com/) and [Stagecoach](https://www.stagecoachfestival.com/) in Indio, California [South by Southwest](https://www.sxsw.com/) in Austin, Texas [Ultra](https://ultramusicfestival.com/) in Miami, Florida Wine Tasting in Napa Valley ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/shutterstock_410249041.jpg "Beautiful,Sunset,Sky,In,Napa,Valley,Wine,Country,On,Spring - Couchsurfing Blog")Napa Valley [Michael Warwick](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/naturalv)shutterstockThe most famous wine region of the United States is open year-round and winter is a great time to visit and avoid the crowds. Northern California has moderate winters, with highs in the 50s°F/10-15°C, and mostly sunny skies. A short drive from San Francisco, Napa Valley (and the less-known but equally beautiful Sonoma Valley) are exceptional choices year-round! Explore the Hawaiian Islands ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/shutterstock_1053409016.jpg "Na,Pali,Coast,,Kauai - Couchsurfing Blog")Kauai [Shane Myers Photography](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Shane+Myers+Photography)shutterstockHawaii is the perfect place to visit year-round and winter is no exception! With daily highs in the 70s°F/20s°C, you will be able to layout, hike, or partake in any number of water activities even when your home is covered in snow. There are 6 major islands to visit in Hawaii and many smaller islands, reefs, and atolls to explore. Whether you want to snorkel with incredible sea life, explore an active volcano, or simply enjoy the sunny beaches of the South Pacific, Hawaii will not disappoint. Learn to Two-Step in Austin ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/shutterstock_793300660.jpg "Austin,,Texas,-,June,13,,2014:,People,Dancing,Country,Music - Couchsurfing Blog")Broken Spoke Austin [TLF Images](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Tiago+Lopes+Fernandez)shutterstockHave you ever been to a Honky Tonk bar playing Country Music with a dance floor full of locals all doing the same dance? If not, then you need to head to Austin, Texas, and learn to Two-Step! Our local insider tells us [Broken Spoke](https://www.brokenspokeaustintx.net/) and [The White Horse](https://www.thewhitehorseaustin.com/) are both great options for you to check out. After you’ve worn in your cowboy boots, head over to the oldest dance hall in Texas, [Gruene Hall](https://www.gruenehall.com/). ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-top-10-experiences-in-the-usa/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-top-10-experiences-in-the-usa/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Advice, Featured --- ### [Riding and Eating](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/riding-and-eating/) **Published:** October 1, 2021 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/43880034_250647685627191_8920589104618405888_n.jpg "43880034_250647685627191_8920589104618405888_n - Couchsurfing Blog")I had plans to join a group for a 6 month cycling tour and it was canceled! I had already quit my job and rented out my house, so I decided to try couchsurfing and just do the trip on my own… best time I ever had! I stayed with over 30 hosts, people and families of all different types and backgrounds… it was just a blast! I called the tour Riding and Eating… put thousands of miles on my bike and fed my hosts wonderful meals in exchange for letting me stay and use their showers… win-win!! I’d wait until about a week before I was to arrive somewhere before sending out requests. It seems I’d have to put out 5 requests in order to get 1 message back. This was before covid, and I assume that number would be even greater now. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/46156412_259906648034628_6981535915936055296_n.jpg "46156412_259906648034628_6981535915936055296_n - Couchsurfing Blog")I had 3 hard rules when looking for hosts: they’d have to be verified, they’d have to have a non-smoking environment, and they’d have to have references. From there, if there were more than 15 to choose from, I’d use filters to narrow the results even more. Then I’d have a template set up introducing myself, stating why I was expecting to be in their area and what I was looking for, and then saying what I’d provide in return. Boy, did I meet some great people, and have some wonderful dinner conversations! ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/45035678_255696458455647_7876701735731855360_n.jpg "45035678_255696458455647_7876701735731855360_n - Couchsurfing Blog")Someday I will live in my house again and open it up to be a host. I have over 30 people to invite! Check out more photos on the [Facebook page](https://www.facebook.com/RidingEating/) [![43880034_250647685627191_8920589104618405888_n](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/43880034_250647685627191_8920589104618405888_n.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/43880034_250647685627191_8920589104618405888_n.jpg) [![46156412_259906648034628_6981535915936055296_n](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/46156412_259906648034628_6981535915936055296_n.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/46156412_259906648034628_6981535915936055296_n.jpg) [![45035678_255696458455647_7876701735731855360_n-1](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/45035678_255696458455647_7876701735731855360_n-1.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/45035678_255696458455647_7876701735731855360_n-1.jpg) [![45396864_257285428296750_116308113807638528_n](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/45396864_257285428296750_116308113807638528_n.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/45396864_257285428296750_116308113807638528_n.jpg) [![45035678_255696458455647_7876701735731855360_n](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/45035678_255696458455647_7876701735731855360_n.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/45035678_255696458455647_7876701735731855360_n.jpg) ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/riding-and-eating/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/riding-and-eating/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Stories --- ### [From Kerala to Kashmir](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/from-kerala-to-kashmir/) **Published:** September 30, 2021 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/IMG_20210823_094803.jpg "IMG_20210823_094803 - Couchsurfing Blog")vdontravelA few months back I decided to take a tour of India on my cycle. I started in Kerala and travelled all the way to Kashmir. Over the course of my journey I explored almost all the Indian villages and their cultures and along with that I got an opportunity to interact with a lot of different people from different backgrounds. After the journey I experienced a slight change in my personality and my behaviour as I got to know other perspectives and ideas. This journey changed my perceptions and if any stereotypes or prejudices were present, they were now gone. With the help of Couchsurfing I was able to meet a lot of people who share the same vibe as mine. Couchsurfing offered me a lot of help on my way and helped me complete my journey. The experiences and the different kind of stories that I encountered cannot be described through words it’s more than just an experience it’s a feeling it’s something big. There are a whole lot of things behind this picture that I took from Haridwar, a lot of beautiful memories and the quality time I spent with my friends. Many people say that I am lucky but in my perspective we need that strong will to do something that we want to do. Whenever I talk to my friends about my journey they would listen so carefully and think that what I did was something impossible but to see the truth all you need to do is just take out your cycle or your vehicle, just leave your house and explore the places around you. It will have a very big effect on you and even though during this Covid 19 situation it’s not feasible to go out but by taking the necessary precautions you should go on a walk or even small trip with your friends or solo trips because that is something that we need especially during this pandemic. We all suffer in silence. Many of us won’t be able to speak up and we wouldn’t like to share our problems but let me tell you the truth, giving yourself to nature is the best therapy that you can ever get and that too without any price to pay. You just need to have a presence of mind for being there and giving yourself into nature. You might say that I am lucky but I say that I am wilful and I don’t just dream but I convert my wishes into action. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/from-kerala-to-kashmir/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/from-kerala-to-kashmir/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Stories --- ### [Chasing Dark Skies in Pakistan with Couchsurfing](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/chasing-dark-skies-in-pakistan-with-couchsurfing/) **Published:** September 25, 2021 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** Filmmaker [Luke Korns](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcDzewAE13qJXHbCmTPAT6A) headed to Karachi, Pakistan and ended up accompanying his Couchsurfing host [Rayan](https://www.instagram.com/darkskiesambassador/) to the north of Pakistan in search of Dark Skies, an area that has no light pollution. Check out Luke’s incredible video of their adventure and learn a little bit about the importance and benefits of [dark skies!](https://www.darksky.org/) ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/chasing-dark-skies-in-pakistan-with-couchsurfing/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/chasing-dark-skies-in-pakistan-with-couchsurfing/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Featured, Stories --- ### [The Couchsurfing Wedding](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-couchsurfing-wedding/) **Published:** September 15, 2021 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Dalius-Jen-and-Maggie-at-party.jpg "Dalius-Jen-and-Maggie-at-party - Couchsurfing Blog")Dalius Jennifer and MaggieMy son was marrying a girl from Nüremburg! He was stationed in Baumholder, Germany but had met up with me and his sister for a friend’s ‘Wedding in a Meadow’ and that was where he met his fiance’. We were so pleased that we could say we met her before he did, but once they got together they knew they wanted it to last forever. So what to do? We had already visited him in Germany that year and now we needed to find a place to stay in Nüremburg for the wedding. Enter Couchsurfing. We had already had guests and been hosted through Couchsurfing and I hoped we would be able to find a couch to stay on during the wedding visit. After a few inquiries, young Dalius, a Lithuanian living in Nüremburg invited me and my daughter to stay. What a wonderful time we had! I paid for Dalius to attend the all day wedding and he ended up hanging out with us the rest of the days we were there, going out to dinner, walking and playing games. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/matt-Lisa-wedding-photo.jpg "matt-Lisa-wedding-photo - Couchsurfing Blog")Matt Lisa Meeting and staying with Dalius was the highlight of our trip. Not only were we able to afford to attend the wedding because of his generosity but we gained a new friend. We love Couchsurfing! [![matt-Lisa-wedding-photo](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/matt-Lisa-wedding-photo.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/matt-Lisa-wedding-photo.jpg) [![Dalius-Jen-and-Maggie-at-party](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Dalius-Jen-and-Maggie-at-party.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Dalius-Jen-and-Maggie-at-party.jpg) [![nuremberg-bridge-0.jpg](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/nuremberg-bridge-0.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/nuremberg-bridge-0.jpg) [![Matt-and-Lisa-with-balloons-color-1.jpg](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/Matt-and-Lisa-with-balloons-color-1.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/Matt-and-Lisa-with-balloons-color-1.jpg) [![matt-maggie-and-lisa-at-wedding-2.jpg](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/matt-maggie-and-lisa-at-wedding-2.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/matt-maggie-and-lisa-at-wedding-2.jpg) [![Dalius-Jen-and-Maggie-at-party-3.jpg](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/Dalius-Jen-and-Maggie-at-party-3.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/Dalius-Jen-and-Maggie-at-party-3.jpg) ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-couchsurfing-wedding/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-couchsurfing-wedding/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Stories --- ### [The Mental Health Benefits of Taking a Self-Care Vacation and How to Plan One](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-mental-health-benefits-of-taking-a-self-care-vacation-and-how-to-plan-one/) **Published:** August 6, 2021 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** by: Ethan Clark ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/shutterstock_160978433.jpg "Young,Woman,Is,Practicing,Yoga,At,Mountain,Lake - Couchsurfing Blog")[My Good Images](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/kapu)shutterstockWhether you’re planning a short weekend getaway or a week-long vacation that allows you to disconnect from work and home for a few extra days, vacations boost your mental and emotional health in a variety of ways. According to Psychology Today, a few of these [mental health benefits](https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/fulfillment-any-age/201006/the-importance-vacations-our-physical-and-mental-health) include relief from chronic stress, depression, and anxiety, improved memory, and a better night’s rest. Plus, these mental health benefits can also lead to improved relationships with others and a stronger immune system that’s better able to fight off infections. Are you ready to find out more about why you need to take a vacation? Check out the following tips from Couchsurfing. Should You Stay or Go? Will you go abroad, tour another part of the US, or stick close to home? Even though a [staycation](https://www.wellandgood.com/good-home/how-to-throw-a-self-care-staycation/) can be just as effective at boosting your mental and emotional health, a getaway may be in order to give your mind and body a break from the responsibilities of everyday life. Either way, it’s a chance to de-stress, calm your mind, and recharge your body from the inside out. Wherever you go, consider saving money by using [Couchsurfing](https://couchsurfing.com/) to find a room (or couch!) in the home of a dedicated Couchsurfing host. You’ll have a chance to stay with a local, make new friendships and enjoy a new kind of adventure! Get Away From the Daily Grind They say it’s lonely at the top, and if you’re in a leadership role in your workplace, you know this is all too true whenever it comes time to take time off. Those in management positions are notorious for taking work home with them, and that doesn’t stop when they are supposed to be on vacation. Surveys among those in management roles show that [taking vacation days](https://www.zenbusiness.com/blog/the-stress-of-being-a-manager/) can be the most effective method for keeping stress at bay, but the key is to really set aside your work and savor your time away. Short on PTO? Get Away for the Weekend A [short weekend getaway](https://riverhouseflorence.com/weekend-getaway/) can also boost your mental and emotional health—a major bonus if you don’t have a whole lot of extra time or money on your hands. Weekend getaways, for instance, offer many of the same benefits as longer vacations—except they’re easier to plan, result in less stress and worry while you’re away, and they’ve been shown to boost creativity in the brain. Plus, you’ll be more likely to disconnect from work over the weekend—whereas you may find yourself checking emails or worrying about your job when you’re away for a week or longer. Pack for Convenience and Less Stress Whether you’ll be spending much of your weekend lounging on the beach, hiking through the forest, or soaking in a whirlpool tub, it’s important to pack for convenience, or you could end up stressing yourself out and wasting time on styling your hair, deciding what to wear, and applying makeup. After all, the purpose of a self-care getaway is to alleviate stress and anxiety, rejuvenate the mind and body, and boost your mental and emotional well-being. As you pack for your self-care getaway, focus on multi-functional tools, appliances, and clothing pieces that allow you to pack lightly and get ready in less time. Several multi-functional tools for stress-free weekend getaways include the following: - [Convertible clothing](https://shareably.net/45-convertible-clothing-travel/) pieces - Facial mists that set your makeup and hydrate your skin - Lip colors that can also be used as an eye shadow or blush - Multi-use tool sets that include a facial scissors, nail file, and [nail clipper](https://www.byrdie.com/best-nail-clippers-4801848) - Beauty oils that moisturize your face, body, and hair The mental and emotional benefits of taking a self-care getaway are extensive, but it’s important to plan the right type of vacation for your needs. Whether you’re looking to disconnect in nature, get lost in a good book, or finally learn to surf, the right type of getaway will leave you feeling happier, more relaxed, and physically, mentally, and emotionally invigorated. *Check out* [*Couchsurfing*](https://www.couchsurfing.com/) *to find a place to stay at your next travel destination. You get to stay with locals, meet other travelers and enjoy an enhanced travel experience!* ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-mental-health-benefits-of-taking-a-self-care-vacation-and-how-to-plan-one/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-mental-health-benefits-of-taking-a-self-care-vacation-and-how-to-plan-one/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Stories --- ### [7 Tips For Couchsurfing On A Motorcycle](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/7-tips-for-couchsurfing-on-a-motorcycle/) **Published:** August 9, 2021 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** ##### Josh Koerpel is a digital nomad living on a sailboat in Key West, Florida. Previously a ship captain and Alaskan wilderness guide, Josh worked for years as a mechanical engineering designer for clients like Disney, Cirque du Soleil, and Metallica. He then began building his own software products full time from the road while riding across the country on a vintage BMW motorcycle. You can follow his adventures at [*www.joshkoerpel.com*](http://www.joshkoerpel.com)*.* ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/1.png "1 - Couchsurfing Blog")Traveling is great. And I think the best way to travel is by motorcycle. Yes, motorcycles can be dangerous. True, it’s not for everyone. But if you’re willing to take the chance…in my opinion it is the absolute best way to see the world. **And combine that with Couchsurfing?** **What a dynamic duo.** I spent 4 months exploring the Eastern USA and couchsurfing the entire way. It was an unforgettable experience. I learned an incredible amount about myself and others. ## First…Why A Motorcycle, Josh? Great question. Because it throws you into a real and raw environment. The heat, the rain, the sounds, the smells, and best of all…the people. Even if you’re riding solo, you’re never alone. **Being on a motorcycle injects you into people’s lives, and their lives into yours.** There is no barrier between you and them. On the back of a bike, you are basically guaranteed a set of unique, unpredictable, once-in-a-lifetime experiences that would have been missed had you taken a bus, a train, or rented a car. So as I rode my way south on my old 1971 BMW motorcycle named “Genghis” and stayed with a bunch of loving, generous, and kind Couchsurfing hosts, I learned a lot about local rides, timing your trips, working with the weather, parking, packing, etc. ## Couchsurfing + Motorcycle Travel: The Best Of Both Worlds. Anyone who has traveled off the beaten path can appreciate the DNA of a good trip. It comes down to one ingredient — **the people you meet along the way.** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/5.png "5 - Couchsurfing Blog")*You get to know a lot of great Couchsurfing hosts on the road Each one of them has a memorable story and you take a bit of it with you each time*Particularly when you have your own transportation (ie. a motorcycle) you get to meet people that you wouldn’t otherwise. You get to expand your reach and capitalize on that flexibility. And because you’re not just sleeping at a stranger’s house — but instead developing a tangible relationship with new and interesting people — it becomes a mix of give and take. Read a few [tips for being a great guest AND a great host](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/community-post-how-to-be-a-good-couchsurfing-guest-and-host/), and you’ll see it becomes a chance to give back to those who graciously open their doors to you. So ready to strap on that helmet and go explore? Here are my 7 best tips for couchsurfing on a motorcycle. ## My 7 Best Tips For Couchsurfing On A Motorcycle ### 1. Try To Pack As Light As Possible. It’ll Pay Off. Most times, you’ll be shifting your stuff in and out of places. On the bike, off the bike…up narrow staircases and onto sailboats, in and out of living rooms, garages, and RV’s. It’s impossible to predict, so my first piece of advice is this: Pack light. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/2019-09-13-10.30.03-4.jpg "2019-09-13-10.30.03-4 - Couchsurfing Blog")I broke my gear into sections so I knew exactly what I could keep on the bike overnight and what I should probably take insideThe less stuff you have, the more nimble you are. The more nimble you are, the happier and more adaptable you will become. Oh, and I can tell you that showing up to a host’s front door buried in a mountain of gear isn’t quite the first impression you’re looking for. ### 2. Watch The Weather. Definitely Watch The Weather. Motorcycle travel can be amazing in great weather. Wake up early, cruise through a misty mountain pass with no one on the road, it’s almost as if you have the entire world to yourself. But for every beautiful moment, there can be a rough moment waiting around the corner. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/2.png "2 - Couchsurfing Blog")Heres me NOT watching the weather 5 hours soaking wet in the freezing coldmy hand was so numb I was barely able to take this photoI would plan my travel times a few days in advance, keeping a close eye on any major weather changes that might affect my trip. This worked 90% of the time. Every once and awhile, however, you get caught in a storm. Once I showed up to a Couchsurfing host’s place in Ohio after riding hours in 40 degree weather. I could barely get the bags off the bike! But luckily I had a warm shower and some Vietnamese coffee waiting for me…what a lifesaver! **That’s the power of Couchsurfing.** ### 3. Give Back At Every Possible Opportunity Couchsurfing hosts are incredibly generous. It’s only natural that you’ll feel the need to give back. For example, one host I stayed with in North Carolina was proudly showing me his crowdfunding campaign set to launch in a month. The only problem? He didn’t have a video explaining his goals to future donors. **So I pulled out the video equipment, we set up a backdrop, mic’d him up and shot a number of takes explaining his vision to the world.** Then, I used dropbox to send him all the raw footage to be edited into a killer crowdfunding video. He couldn’t have been more appreciative! ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/7.png "7 - Couchsurfing Blog")I pulled the video equipment off the bike set up the camera put on a microphone and watched as my host explained his crowdfunding vision to future donorsThe overall lesson I learned was to help in any way I could. And there are so many ways to do this. As the world becomes digital, the same skills necessary to work from the road with [today’s digital nomad jobs](https://joshkoerpel.com/best-ideas-for-digital-nomad-jobs) are **also** typically skills your host could potentially use. If you’re a good writer, offer some services free of charge. Or maybe you shoot great photos, or know a lot about social media…**whatever your skill set I promise it will be valuable to some of the gracious people that host you.** Be creative, give back, and you’ll be amazed at the opportunities that come your way. ### 4. Yes, Everyone Will Want A Photo On The Bike. Just Go With It. One of the great things about the motorcycle is that it’s a unique and romantic method of travel. Most people simply dream of breaking away and riding into the sunset. And here you are actually doing it. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/131.png "131 - Couchsurfing Blog")From NYC and all the way down the coast people loved Genghis the motorcycle and wanted their photo behind the handlebars Great conversation starterSo because of that, a lot of the cool people you meet will want to immortalize themselves with a photo on the bike. It’s a great way to strengthen the relationship, start a conversation, or justify swapping contact information. ### 5. Keep The Rides Short And Spend More Time With People (If You Can) I personally found a rhythm while riding, and it fit both my Couchsurfing goals and my work goals. I would ride for about 200 miles at a time, leaving early in the morning, and arrive at my host’s place early afternoon. This was beneficial because it gave us both a chance to do something together during the day before crashing for a night or two. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/6.png "6 - Couchsurfing Blog")One of the coolest welcomes I experienced was in Kentucky where a Couchsurfing host treated me to a very traditional tea ceremonySometimes, however, the host was at work when I got there. If this was the case, I would find where they lived, mark it in my phone’s GPS, and look for a coffee shop to crack open the laptop and get some work done. A few hours later, the host and I would meet up, have dinner and get to know each other. **It ended up being a pretty good system.** I wasn’t rushing around frantically trying to find their place, and they felt secure knowing I had arrived and could hold my own until the end of the work day. ### 6. Expect The Unexpected, And Enjoy Every Second I found that many Couchsurfing hosts were avid travelers in their younger days, so they understood the lifestyle and were absolutely full of interesting stories and life experiences.So part of perfecting the art of Couchsurfing is to understand an unavoidable fact: **You’re going to make friends and be put into interesting situations.** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/12.png "12 - Couchsurfing Blog")You never know who youre going to meet like this lead singer of a band in Savannah GA Thats the fun of itFor me, that’s what makes traveling so interesting. It fills my energy back up, and helps me to focus on the good in the world. It restores my faith in humanity, just like [Christine’s Couchsurfing experience](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/people-are-good/) did for her. Like I said earlier, it’s all about the people. And people are good. ### 7. Make Sure You Write It All Down Sure, in the moment you’ll think to yourself *“Man, I’m NEVER going to forget this!”* But I can tell you from extensive experience that yes — yes you will. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/11.png "11 - Couchsurfing Blog")Write down your adventures however you can Type them in a google doc record yourself voice notes or use good old fashioned pen and paper**Write down your adventures when they’re fresh and bubbling in your mind.** When they flow free. I can promise you many an entertaining hour as you re-read your adventures from years ago. And who knows, maybe one day you’ll write a book…so all these written tales will become your most valuable asset. ## Here’s My Final Thought At the end of the day, it will be **the journey you remember**…not the destination. It will be those late-night laughs over shared drinks, or those early morning conversations clutching a fresh cup of coffee. The folks you meet exploring the world one host at a time will have a profound impact on you and how you view the world. **They will become the bedrock for lessons you learn about life.** It will help you solidify your own ideas of what’s important, like [it did for me](https://joshkoerpel.com/5-essential-life-lessons-to-learn-early). So however you Couchsurf, whether it’s via motorcycle, plane, train, car, bicycle, unicycle or on foot…make sure you stop every now, take a deep breath and smile. You’re out there truly living, and that’s something you’ll always be proud of. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/7-tips-for-couchsurfing-on-a-motorcycle/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/7-tips-for-couchsurfing-on-a-motorcycle/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Advice --- ### [Journey to my self, from Germany to Costa Rica](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/journey-to-my-self-from-germany-to-costa-rica/) **Published:** July 2, 2021 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/shutterstock_445370506.jpg "Wild,Caribbean,Beach,Of,Manzanillo,At,Puerto,Viejo,,Costa,Rica - Couchsurfing Blog")Beautiful good morning and hola Rita of the small article of Frank hoovers Germany for two months Costa Rica and back it’s only a short look at what happens 🙂 Most of my colleagues, acquaintances and true friends asked me “Why Costa Rica?! The Reason is really simple: Costa invests a lot of money in forests, plants and animal conservation and by the way there’s no army and the money official will be invested in education and schools. And a friend of mine, Alex from France, have been there for 6 months and was really excited and sent a lot of beautiful nature images. By the way it was for me as a German with one of the most easy countries in this time to travel in. Anyway, 2 months in Costa Rica it’s too less not to get a lot of experience and inputs inspiration and also build-up friendships between nature, country and humans but it’s too short to really deeply to change my life for the future, maybe. For me to speak truly it was more than vacation and holiday it was more a journey to myself to think about what the meaning of my life, what is my task today beside job and flat. I hosted a lot of couchsurfer in the last two years and I had a lot of beautiful conversations about what is the reason to live what is the reason to be a couchsurfer inclusive what is the reason to travel around the world by airplanes and take a lot of resources for this privilege lifestyle and met beautiful people maybe you will never see again. In this article I only want to touch slightly to express myself why I was travelling through Costa Rica. After one year in education I realised that my head based on endless felt online- courses was like smashed inclusive the much restriction. So it was a “run away” too for me to travel abroad. I am also looking for a new alternative life way and lifestyle because as a freelancer it’s a pressure of economic and financial circumstances in present times. So I decided me to travel to Costa Rica to enjoy the nature, the culture and the more free sunny atmosphere but especially to get a imagination how I could get a community, maybe a family of like-minded humans together be in a way of balance and harmony and a mixture of creativity, spirituality and also work together like built small wooden houses, plant trees and flowers and make permaculture and sustainable projects. A start from San José, I could mention, this town has a lot of potential for the future, traveled to the North West closed Santa Cruz to work there in a frame of a workawayer with horses and plants. The people there and the nature and the atmosphere was magnifica but in the end I was the only one working there so after 2 weeks I felt really lonely. So I decided to move over to a couchsurfer and stayed there 3 days to get experience with a big area of plants in a sustainable and ecological way and also to have feelings of “flights” because I stayed in a tent and outside in the evening and night was storm and very windy it was amazing experience like “I can fly”:) I moved to a very haunted house in the mountains in a positive sense with an old woman and a lot of animals. They were like a family and spoke with each other in a more or less other dimensional way. Later I traveled to the beach on Limoné and Puerto Viejo to get experience with the atmosphere and the culture of real surfer ocean- style and entertainment from people very young from everywhere especially in North America and Europe. In this time I met a lot of beautiful humans and had beautiful conversations, especially about what is the sense of life, what is our task to do, besides to be professional and get money. I really had a feeling something is changing and the younger generation came up because there are lots of young people to make a lot of thoughts about the protection of nature and environmental topics and also how it should go further with our economy and Society in a better way. Then I moved to a jungle valley close by Dominica and got a lot of beautiful experiences with a bamboo course and beautiful people to try to change the world to use bamboo to make the world better with this regenerating stuff and don’t destroy a lot of trees. The last part of my journey I stayed in Montezuma met there people they inspired me and I am inspired by them. The last week in Costa Rica is used to write some really small books about human challenges like forgiveness, living in the present, not entering too much into the future and the past and also the universal energy of laughing and love. In the end I would say a lot of dialogues short and long, only small talks and very deeply conversation, beautiful emotional soul and great experiences with very old threes and mystical places including the encounter with monkeys, beaches, endless views over the ocean on lonely coasts, free and endless horizon, that make you melt inside for “new views” of your life. I will tell maybe in the coming blogs more and special about the conversation I had but in this short article I only can recommend to use the time outside of our countryside, outside of our hometown and outside of routine and permanent same people around us to get an idea of what is the meaning of to live onto this “spaceship” called mother Earth and a lot of our and “inside- planets” of wishes, feelings end emotions and inspired by different cultures and climate- and plant- zones. I’m sure all these inputs and inspiration and conversation and experiences I will never forget changed my point of view over my own life, over my life in the Society and especially about my goals and aims for the future. I will do my best to travel back in the middle of this year to travel in Latein- America maybe Panama, Paraguay, Peru or Costa Rica because I like the feeling and the freedom and also the possibility to do a lot so you want. I wish you and me all the best a lot of good ideas in our travels outside and insides of time and let me know so you like, what do you think about what is the task in this time of journeys and traveling or you plan too to travel this year about July to Latin America! Greetings [Frank Uwe](https://www.instagram.com/your_life_navigator/?hl=de) ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/journey-to-my-self-from-germany-to-costa-rica/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/journey-to-my-self-from-germany-to-costa-rica/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Stories --- ### [Couchsurfing it's like climbing a mountain](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-its-like-climbing-a-mountain/) **Published:** July 15, 2021 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** For me, couchsurfing it’s like climbing a big mountain, I’ve started in the comunity some years ago, I’ve heard amazing things about a community of travelers, was kind a utopian comunity, you travel the world and you are hosted for free? It was like a mistery for me, that I’ve needed to discover by my self. I’ve join into the community in 2015, kind of skeptical about being hosted by a stranger or host one, in 2016 I’ve join as a volunteer at the “Paralympics Rio 2016”, by then I had not any contact with anyone in that city…. so I though “Ohh what about to start using that utopian community?” so I’ve started creating some conections with local people for hang outs on the city. My first experience was at 21 years old, and to be honest I was afraid to meet someone on the internet, but once I’ve heard “there are two riskes in life risking too much, and risking too little, but if you found something to be passionate about, that’s the place to risk”, I was passionate about traveling so I did it and since then I’ve met, hang out, surfed and hosted more than hundred of people. Sometimes to travel as a backpacker it’s like having a long hike to a mountain, you find incredible things on the way, from beautful landscapes, you meet people, but that’s just the surface. When you start hosting people or being hosted, you create higher level of trust, you start to know deeper a person, it’s like sleeping on a tent with someone, it’s an exchange, you share food, travel stories, even it’s possible to join to more social circles with their friends or family, and that’s the real local experience. In the way to the peak of the mountain, you’ve start noticing new roads on the way, new archetypes through people life’s, you started learning new things, as the same you start to being more flexible and patient, you adapt to new grounds, new weathers, sometimes it’s very different than you expect, sometimes you get surprises, sometimes it’s not that easy as it seems, but that’s fun and part of the adventure, you realize it’s no more a physical test, it becomes a mental development. When you get to the top of the mountain, there’s moments of reflection, you realized how much you have grow from those experiences, you become to feel lucky to be where you are, to be with those people around you, also you get a new level of philosophical thinking, and in those moments that I felt on the top, I think I’ve understood the philosophy of couchsurfing, and I’ve realized is something very simple, for me “[couchsurfing it’s not free hosting but a cultural exchange](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/memowebber)“. Here some of my great experiences I had with couchsurfing: Thanks for reading Cheers! [@MemoWebber](https://www.instagram.com/memowebber/) [![Memo-Webber-Escalando-Rio-de-Janeiro-Pedra-do-Telégrafo-110116-0.jpg](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/Memo-Webber-Escalando-Rio-de-Janeiro-Pedra-do-Telégrafo-110116-0.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/Memo-Webber-Escalando-Rio-de-Janeiro-Pedra-do-Telégrafo-110116-0.jpg) [![Memo-Webber-Abi-Barcelona-Barceloneta-2018-1.jpg](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/Memo-Webber-Abi-Barcelona-Barceloneta-2018-1.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/Memo-Webber-Abi-Barcelona-Barceloneta-2018-1.jpg) ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-its-like-climbing-a-mountain/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-its-like-climbing-a-mountain/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Uncategorized --- ### [Planning A Safe Camping Trip: Prepare For The Elements And Know What To Avoid](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/planning-a-safe-camping-trip-prepare-for-the-elements-and-know-what-to-avoid/) **Published:** June 28, 2021 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** ##### By Ethan Clark. ##### Ethan Clark aims to help others achieve a healthy lifestyle. He believes that understanding differences between people is important when finding a fitness routine that is effective. Staying safe while camping takes preparation and knowledge. You put plenty of work into planning your trip and picking your campsite, but you also need to make sure you have the proper equipment along for your adventure (Pro Tip: You can save on a lot of your camping prep shopping by using online discounts for stores like [Target](https://www.rakuten.com/target.com)). Packing a few basic necessities before heading out will have a big impact on ensuring that your trip goes smoothly. Here are some tips: Be prepared for all types of weather ##### By: Ethan Clark ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/shutterstock_730906768.jpg "shutterstock_730906768 - Couchsurfing Blog")[pixfly](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/pixfly)shutterstockFamilies often fail to account for potential weather changes while camping. Look ahead at the [forecast](https://weather.com) for your campsite and be prepared for inclement weather and temperature changes. Wind and rain can leave you feeling chilled and overnights can get cool. Bring some warm clothes, a waterproof jacket, and some backup shoes so you have options if needed. Heat and intense sun can wreak havoc on a camping trip. Use sunscreen consistently and bring along hats that can provide additional protection. Avoid getting [too much sun](http://bestmedicinenews.org/lifestyle/tips-to-avoid-8-common-camping-health-hazards/) to reduce the risk of getting heat exhaustion, dehydration, or heat stroke. Drink plenty of fluids, find shade when it’s hot, and take breaks during the late morning and early afternoon when the sun is strongest. Be sure to prep your tech, too, in case bad weather causes you to need to call for help or to use your phone’s GPS to get to a safer area. Keep your phone [charged](https://www.verizon.com/products/wireless-chargers/) by packing chargers and battery backups. You might also want to bring along a GPS separate from your phone in case it dies or you have no signal where you’re camping. Use caution around water ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/shutterstock_87818746.jpg "shutterstock_87818746 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Timothy Epp](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/eppicphotos)shutterstockWater safety is essential while camping. Whether you and your family plan on swimming, boating, or hiking along creeks or rivers, you need to do it cautiously. Don’t dive into bodies of water you’re unfamiliar with, as you don’t know the depth and could get injured. Wear life jackets when boating and keep a close eye on children near the water. The CDC notes that you should not [swallow any water](https://www.cdc.gov/family/camping/) you’re swimming in and you should shower before and after swimming in a lake or river. Prepare ahead to ensure that you have clean drinking water throughout your trip and do not drink water out of creeks and streams without purifying it. Avoid dangerous plants and insects ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/shutterstock_1081091330.jpg "shutterstock_1081091330 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Elizaveta Galitckaia](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/galitskaya)shutterstockInsects and plants can also present safety hazards while camping. Learn what sumac, poison oak, and poison ivy look like and try not to touch unknown plants. Immediately wash areas that do come in contact with poisonous plants and make sure you have hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion handy to reduce any itching. Ticks, mosquitos, bees, and wasps can cause chaos during a camping trip. Use insect repellent and citronella candles for protection from mosquitoes. Prevention explains that mosquitoes can carry the [West Nile virus](http://www.prevention.com/health/illnesses-you-can-get-mosquito-bite) and ticks can transmit Lyme disease. Bee and wasp stings can be painful, but they are quite dangerous for people who are allergic to them. Always keep an Epi-pen with you if you are allergic, and keep sugary drinks and food covered to keep insects at bay. Embrace what national parks have to offer ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/shutterstock_513244762.jpg "shutterstock_513244762 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Andrew Opila](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/andrewopila)shutterstockThere is no shortage of family-friendly trails and national parks throughout the country. National Geographic suggests [checking out](http://www.nationalgeographic.com/adventure/lists/hiking-backpacking/family-friendly-hikes/) the Great Sand Dunes National Park in Preserve, Colorado, or travel to the Maryland-Virginia border to see the Assateague Island National Seashore. Maine is home to the Acadia National Park and the Badlands National Park in South Dakota is a favorite destination for many families, too. Whatever destination you choose for your vacation, you need to plan ahead and take precautions to ensure that everybody stays safe. Bring clothing that will keep you warm and dry and be careful in the sun to avoid sunburn and heat stroke. Be smart about the water you encounter and avoid contact with poisonous plants or pesky insects. There is plenty of fun to be had on a family camping trip, but staying safe should be a top priority. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/planning-a-safe-camping-trip-prepare-for-the-elements-and-know-what-to-avoid/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/planning-a-safe-camping-trip-prepare-for-the-elements-and-know-what-to-avoid/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Advice --- ### [17th International Couchsurfing Day: Sierra Leone](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/17th-international-couchsurfing-day-sierra-leone/) **Published:** June 15, 2021 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/IMG-20210610-WA0014.jpg "IMG-20210610-WA0014 - Couchsurfing Blog")\*Happy 17th anniversary to all Couchsurfers wherever you’re in the world!!!\* This day marks the 17th anniversary of Couchsurfing. It’s the day we decided to open our doors to many, sharing our culture and our homes. It’s the day we decided to create a unique travel platform that gives travelers the unlimited opportunities of travelling any where in the world without thinking about where to stay, who can host you or show you around. It’s the day we decided to open the borders of everlasting friendship, meeting amazing cool people for the very first time from all over the world. Starting from the USA to South Africa. It’s the day we decided that the travel industry has to change. It’s not about money anymore. It’s about the bond, friendship, laughter, fun, and our CS events. It’s the day we decided that all humans are the same, black or white, brown or yellow. Whatever race, color, nationality, religion, political view or anything. As along as you’re couchsurfer we’re one family. Today is a beautiful Day and we’re honoured. Thanks to you all for being with us throughout this years. We might have changed policies that you don’t like but because of the love of the CS community you’re still here with us. Couchsurfing has been an amazing platform for us all. This is where you meet a total stranger and embrace them for who they truly are. We’re couchsurfers and we’ll forever be… spread all across the world. Sharing our lives every beautiful day ? \#CSforlife#Couchsurfing#ShareYourLife ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/17th-international-couchsurfing-day-sierra-leone/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/17th-international-couchsurfing-day-sierra-leone/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Stories --- ### [International Couchsurfing Day 2021 Events!](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/international-couchsurfing-day-2021-events/) **Published:** May 13, 2021 **Author:** Mike Joy **Content:** The 17th anniversary of Couchsurfing will be held on June 12th, 2021. This is a day for Couchsurfers from all over the world to come together and celebrate 17 years of forming life changing experiences with lifelong friends. If you have an event for International Couchsurfing Day, share it with us at social@couchsurfing.com and we will add it here! Happy Couchsurfing! Alexandria, Egypt [Picnic, sports and chat at the beach](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/6429456?wizard=true) [17th International CouchSurfing day 2021](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/17th-international-couchsurfing-day-2021) Augsburg, Germany [Couchsurfing 17th birthday!](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/couchsurfing-17th-birthday) Barcelona, Spain [Happy 17th Birthday Couchsurfing](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/happy-17th-birthday-couchsurfing) Bhopal, India [S2M – 17th CS B’Day Bash – Last one in P34](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/s2m-17th-cs-b-day-bash-last-one-in-p34) [Sunrise Ride #1 #CS Anniversary](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/sunrise-ride-1-cs-anniversary) Bratislava, Slovakia [Bratislava celebrates Couchsurfing Day 2021](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/bratislava-celebrates-couchsurfing-day-2021) Cairo, Egypt [Happy 17th Birthday Couchsurfing](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/6429453?wizard=true) Chicago, USA [Picnic at the beach!](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/picnic-the-beach) Guayaquil, Ecuador [Reunion de Aniversario CouchSurfing ~12/06/2021](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/reunion-de-aniversario-couchsurfing-12-06-2021) Inverness, Scotland [CS Meet n Walk](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/6429524?wizard=true) Kabul, Afghanistan [International Couchsurfing Day](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/international-couchsurfing-day-kabul?utm_source=couchsurfing-ios&utm_campaign=event_social_share) Kotor, Montenegro [CS International Day – Kotor](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/cs-international-day-kotor-municipality) Melbourne, Australia [International CouchSurfing Day 2021](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/international-couchsurfing-day-2021) Mexico City [¡17 Años! Soy su… Aniversario Couchsurfing](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/17-anos-soy-su-aniversario-couchsurfing) Mombasa, Kenya [INTERNATIONAL COUCHSURFING DAY – MOMBASA](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/international-couchsurfing-day-mombasa) New Haven, Connecticut, USA [CT Meetup #67 – International CS Day!](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/ct-meetup-67-international-cs-day) Sunnyvale, California [International couchsurfing day picnic and hangout](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/international-couchsurfing-day-picnic-and-hangout) Tampa, Florida [CS INTERNATIONAL DAY-Ted Peters Famous Fish](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/cs-international-day-ted-peters-famous-fish) Oslo, Norway [International CS Day 2021 – BBQ @ Frogner Park](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/international-cs-day-2021-bbq-frogner-park?fbclid=IwAR0tlA0NZ-Am1eBHJ0uM-2cP3lgnPlofiZi4C6iYTQF0MPuJX5r-6V2kb0Q) Piura, Peru [Campsurfing – International CS Day 2021](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/campsurfing-international-cs-day-2021) Queretaro, Mexico [Celebrando el “Día Internacional De Couchsurfing”](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/celebrando-el-dia-internacional-de-couchsurfing?utm_source=couchsurfing-ios&utm_campaign=event_social_share) Reykjavik, Iceland [International Couchsurfing Day – Reykjavik](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/international-couchsurfing-day-reykjavik) Tehran, Iran [Couchsurfing Day Iran](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/couchsurfing-day-tehran) ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/international-couchsurfing-day-2021-events/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/international-couchsurfing-day-2021-events/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Community, Featured, News --- ### [International Couchsurfing Day: Virtual Events](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/international-couchsurfing-day-virtual-events/) **Published:** June 1, 2020 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** June 12th, 2020 is the 16th anniversary of the launch of the Couchsurfing website, known as International Couchsurfing Day. This year we are celebrating by offering 20% off all items in the CS store and by virtual events hosted all over the world. Here is a running list of the events happening on June 12th. They are open to all, so if you want to connect with Couchsurfers in your community or around the globe, join the event and we will see you on June 12th! We have included events that are occurring in person in countries that allow for social gatherings. [International CS Marathon](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/international-cs-surfing-marathon?utm_source=couchsurfing-android&utm_medium=android-app&utm_campaign=event_social_share) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Screen-Shot-2020-06-08-at-8.54.20-AM.png "Screen-Shot-2020-06-08-at-8.54.20-AM - Couchsurfing Blog")](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/international-cs-surfing-marathon?utm_source=couchsurfing-android&utm_medium=android-app&utm_campaign=event_social_share)[Brazil](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/international-cs-bday-skipping-valentine-s) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Screen-Shot-2020-06-09-at-2.30.28-PM.png "Screen-Shot-2020-06-09-at-2.30.28-PM - Couchsurfing Blog")](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/international-cs-bday-skipping-valentine-s)China [Hangzhou](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/cs-hangzhou-meetup-international-couchsurfing-day) ***\*Hangzhou in-person event*** [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Screen-Shot-2020-06-08-at-8.52.08-AM.png "Screen-Shot-2020-06-08-at-8.52.08-AM - Couchsurfing Blog")](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/cs-hangzhou-meetup-international-couchsurfing-day)[Czech Republic](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/international-couchsurfing-day-2020-prague) ***\*Prague in-person event*** [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Screen-Shot-2020-06-05-at-10.07.23-AM.png "Screen-Shot-2020-06-05-at-10.07.23-AM - Couchsurfing Blog")](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/international-couchsurfing-day-2020-prague)India [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Screen-Shot-2020-06-02-at-12.13.36-PM.png "Screen-Shot-2020-06-02-at-12.13.36-PM - Couchsurfing Blog")](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/india-international-couchsurfing-day-2020)[Hyderabad](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/intenational-cs-day-2020-virtual-meetup) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Screen-Shot-2020-06-09-at-2.08.59-PM.png "Screen-Shot-2020-06-09-at-2.08.59-PM - Couchsurfing Blog")[Kochi](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/international-cs-day-2020-virtual-meetup) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Screen-Shot-2020-06-02-at-9.30.48-AM-1.png "Screen-Shot-2020-06-02-at-9.30.48-AM-1 - Couchsurfing Blog")](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/international-cs-day-2020-virtual-meetup)[Mumbai](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/cs-international-day-12th-june-20-virtual-meet) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Screen-Shot-2020-06-09-at-2.08.19-PM.png "Screen-Shot-2020-06-09-at-2.08.19-PM - Couchsurfing Blog")[Nagpur](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/international-cs-day-nagpur) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Screen-Shot-2020-06-08-at-8.50.29-AM.png "Screen-Shot-2020-06-08-at-8.50.29-AM - Couchsurfing Blog")[Tamil Nadu](https://couchsurfing.page.link/1nzqo57fT4W7xri59) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Screen-Shot-2020-06-08-at-7.30.52-AM.png "Screen-Shot-2020-06-08-at-7.30.52-AM - Couchsurfing Blog")](https://couchsurfing.page.link/1nzqo57fT4W7xri59)[Indonesia](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/international-couchsurfing-day-2020-2020-06-12) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Screen-Shot-2020-06-02-at-9.30.56-AM.png "Screen-Shot-2020-06-02-at-9.30.56-AM - Couchsurfing Blog")](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/international-couchsurfing-day-2020-2020-06-12)[K-Pop](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/international-cs-day-kpop-edition) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Screen-Shot-2020-06-08-at-8.55.30-AM.png "Screen-Shot-2020-06-08-at-8.55.30-AM - Couchsurfing Blog")](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/international-cs-day-kpop-edition)[Netherlands](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/happy-16th-couchsurfing) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Screen-Shot-2020-06-08-at-8.47.03-AM.png "Screen-Shot-2020-06-08-at-8.47.03-AM - Couchsurfing Blog")](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/happy-16th-couchsurfing)[South Korea](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/happy-birthday-couchsurfing-2020-06-12) ***\*Seoul in-person event*** [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Screen-Shot-2020-06-08-at-8.44.12-AM.png "Screen-Shot-2020-06-08-at-8.44.12-AM - Couchsurfing Blog")](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/happy-birthday-couchsurfing-2020-06-12)[Spain](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/happy-birthday-couchsurfing) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Screen-Shot-2020-06-02-at-9.31.04-AM.png "Screen-Shot-2020-06-02-at-9.31.04-AM - Couchsurfing Blog")](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/happy-birthday-couchsurfing)United States [Connecticut](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/ct-meetup-55-international-couchsurfing-day) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Screen-Shot-2020-06-08-at-8.49.30-AM.png "Screen-Shot-2020-06-08-at-8.49.30-AM - Couchsurfing Blog")](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/ct-meetup-55-international-couchsurfing-day)[Raleigh/Durham/Chappel Hill](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/couchsurfing-day-remote-casual-dinner-meet-up?utm_campaign=event_social_share&utm_source=couchsurfing-ios) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Screen-Shot-2020-06-03-at-12.57.24-PM.png "Screen-Shot-2020-06-03-at-12.57.24-PM - Couchsurfing Blog")](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/couchsurfing-day-remote-casual-dinner-meet-up?utm_campaign=event_social_share&utm_source=couchsurfing-ios)[New Orleans](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/international-cs-day-new-orleans) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Screen-Shot-2020-06-08-at-8.47.15-AM.png "Screen-Shot-2020-06-08-at-8.47.15-AM - Couchsurfing Blog")](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/international-cs-day-new-orleans)### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/international-couchsurfing-day-virtual-events/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/international-couchsurfing-day-virtual-events/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** News --- ### [International Couchsurfing Day Marathon!](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/international-couchsurfing-day-marathon/) **Published:** June 11, 2020 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Screen-Shot-2020-06-11-at-11.10.04-AM.png "Screen-Shot-2020-06-11-at-11.10.04-AM - Couchsurfing Blog")](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/international-cs-surfing-marathon?utm_source=couchsurfing-android&utm_medium=android-app&utm_campaign=event_social_share)Welcome to the first ever [CS SURFING MARATHON](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/international-cs-surfing-marathon?utm_source=couchsurfing-android&utm_medium=android-app&utm_campaign=event_social_share), where we will take you on a world tour! For 24 hours we will be hosting zoom sessions per country/ host and sharing with you travel info, food lists, culture lists, virtual tours, music, history, language tutorials, and much more! Make sure you check the times in your own locations as this listed in ***CEST (Central European Summer Time) which is UTC+2!*** Here’s your itinerary: 12-1AM Abbey Thangiah (Malaysia) CS Introduction, Malaysia Introduction and CS experiences 1-2AM Carlos Apple (Mexico) Uniting people (the ties created between users /travelers around the world thanks to CS) 2-3AM Sayuri/Marcio (Brasil): Cocktails + Carnivals around Brazil (forget the one Rio-destination trip, BE a Brazilian Carnival PRO!!) 3-4AM Thomas Biggs (Aotearoa/NZ): Auckland by bike 4-5AM Gabriela Velázquez (Mexico): A bit of everything? 5-6AM Orpheus Craigue (NYC, USA): Coffee Hour Around the World, and Stories 6-7AM Rhiane (Croatia): Mediterranean History! 7-8AM Sharan(India): Travel around India with a Quiz! 8-9AM Yue (China): Chinese, Beijing, tea and Couchsurfing 9-10AM Viktor Fährmann (CS: HVA, Germany): CS travel stories, Q&A about CS 10-11AM Jean Mark(Switzerland): Your BEST CS Experience Ever! 11-12AM Kelly(Greece): Hidden gems in Greece and Safety Tips for female surfers 12-13PM Julius (Manila, Philippines): Tourism, Food and Culture 13-14PM Daria (Prague, Czech Republic): Local community and events 14-15PM Ronita Vijay (India): Travel Road trips Culture Food India CS 15-16PM Bandder Alrefai (Saudi Arabia): Country introduction, sights, food 16-17PM Cyrina ( Tunisia): Tourism, food and culture 17-18PM Raj (London, UK): Improvisation, Q&A 18-19PM Ray & Silvia (Indonesia): Indonesian tourism, culture and food 19-20PM Matthias (Bamberg, Germany): About the world’s highest density of breweries, Germany’s biggest intact old town center and life in general 🙂 20-21PM Jesus (Logroño, Spain): Social relationships & Dating in Spain 21-22PM Paolo (Torino, Italy) :The 10 things you should see in Italy but you never heard about 22-23PM Youji (Halifax, Canada)Halifax: Nature, and Gardening 23-24PM Jo\_Paris (France) :Wine Tasting! ***Check out the CS event for the zoom link and to get any questions answered!*** ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/international-couchsurfing-day-marathon/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/international-couchsurfing-day-marathon/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Uncategorized --- ### [Couchsurfing Pride](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-pride/) **Published:** May 29, 2021 **Author:** Mike Joy **Content:** In honor of Pride month, Couchsurfing has launched a Pride line with 100% of proceeds being donated to the ILGA! Check out the line now and show your #CouchsurfingPride! Check it out [here](https://store.couchsurfing.com/collections/pride)! ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/shutterstock_653429179.jpg "Supporting,Hands,Make,Heart,Sign,And,Wave,In,Front,Of - Couchsurfing Blog")[lazyllama](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/lazyllama)shutterstockWhat is Pride? The purpose of [pride month](https://www.loc.gov/lgbt-pride-month/about/) is to pay tribute to the impact that lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender individuals have had on history locally, nationally, and internationally. It is celebrated in June to commemorate the [Stonewall Riots](https://www.history.com/topics/gay-rights/the-stonewall-riots), which was a tipping point in the Gay liberation movement in the USA. The Stonewall Inn was (and still is!) a gay bar in New York City, which was raided by the police on June 28th, 1969. This led to a series of protests that marked the turning point in the way the LGBTQ+ community advocated and fought for their right to not be discriminated against based on sexual orientation. Pride events are held around the globe, often with parades through large cities, and aim to bring awareness and celebration to the LGBTQ+ community. Check out these articles on the [Stonewall Riots](https://www.history.com/topics/gay-rights/the-stonewall-riots) and [Pride Month](https://www.loc.gov/lgbt-pride-month/about/)! ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/shutterstock_1285153105.jpg "New,York,,Usa,-,August,20,,2018:,The,Stonewall,Inn - Couchsurfing Blog")[Massimo Salesi](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Massimo+Salesi)shutterstockWhat is the [ILGA](https://ilga.org/)? > **ILGA World – the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association** – is a worldwide federation of more than 1,600 organisations from over 150 countries and territories campaigning for lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans and intersex human rights. > > We want a world where the human rights of all are respected and where everyone can live in equality and freedom: a world where global justice and equity are assured and established regardless of people’s sexual orientations, gender identities, gender expressions and sex characteristics (SOGIESC). > > Established in 1978, ILGA World has ECOSOC consultative status at the United Nations. > > Our members are based in our six regions: [Pan Africa ILGA](http://panafricailga.org/), [ILGA Asia](https://www.ilgaasia.org/), [ILGA-Europe](http://www.ilga-europe.org/), [ILGALAC](https://www.ilga-lac.org/) (Latin America and the Caribbean), [ILGA North America](https://www.facebook.com/groups/402661627035554/) and [ILGA Oceania](https://ilgaoceania.life/). > > Governed by an elected Board of 19 activists representing our global family, ILGA World is queer democracy in action! > > https://ilga.org/about-us If you would like to make a donation directly to the ILGA, you can do so [here](https://crm.ilga.org/civicrm/contribute/transact?reset=1&id=13). Why did Couchsurfing make a Pride line? Before I get into this question, I should introduce myself. My name is [Mike](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/iammikejoy) and I am the Community Manager here at Couchsurfing. I joined Couchsurfing as a member in 2012 and joined the staff in 2017. Couchsurfing has provided me with some of the best experiences and connections possible, and as a gay man, it has allowed me to connect with other members of the LGBT+ community around the world. This year, we decided to create a Pride line as a way to bring awareness to what Pride means, highlight the stories of our LGBT+ members, and raise money for the ILGA, which does incredible work advocating for the rights of marginalized communities all over the world. All proceeds from our Pride line will be donated to the ILGA. While living in Spain in 2012, I joined Couchsurfing hoping to meet some incredible people and save on accommodation on weekend trips around Europe. A year later, in 2013, I welcomed my first Couchsurfers to my small apartment on the island of Mallorca. As any Couchsurfer knows, some of my favorite memories are from these experiences. Couchsurfing truly does open the world and changes your life in some of the most incredible ways. One of the first Couchsurfing Groups I joined was the [Queer CouchSurfers](https://www.couchsurfing.com/groups/queer-couchsurfers) group, where Couchsurfers can connect with other LGBT+ members and ask questions, plan trips, or just chat. When traveling, especially outside of large metropolitan cities, it can be hard to find a community. Having access to a global forum where you can ask locals about local gay-friendly bars, or queer-friendly neighborhoods is invaluable. I host and surf regardless of sexuality, but I love being a connection for LGBT+ Couchsurfers who come to my city. I also enjoy being a resource for Couchsurfers who don’t have much experience being around homosexuality. I’ve been the first gay person that surfers have ever met, which has led to some of the most beautiful and memorable conversations I’ve ever had. Couchsurfing is about sharing your life, and for me being able to share the LGBT+ experience on a small scale and connect with others in the community is one of the things that has kept me on Couchsurfing for nearly a decade. [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Screen-Shot-2021-05-28-at-7.00.57-AM.png "Screen-Shot-2021-05-28-at-7.00.57-AM - Couchsurfing Blog")](https://store.couchsurfing.com/collections/pride)[httpsstorecouchsurfingcomcollectionspride](https://store.couchsurfing.com/collections/pride)If you would like to share any of your Couchsurfing stories with us, as an LGBTQ+ Couchsurfer or ally, please [click here](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/community-stories/) or email us at social@couchsurfing.com. Tag us in your favorite CS memories and use the hashtag #ShareYourLife so we can share your experiences with the community. Let’s continue doing the work to be the most inclusive community in the world that accepts, encourages and celebrates diversity! [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/IMG_0011.jpg "IMG_0011 - Couchsurfing Blog")](instagram.com/couchsurfing)### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-pride/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-pride/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** News --- ### [A Journey to Amboise, France](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-journey-to-amboise-france/) **Published:** May 24, 2021 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** • Amboise • France • October 2016 • ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/image08.jpeg "image08 - Couchsurfing Blog") After Paris the plan was to travel around the Loire Valley and its incredible castles, when we got to Tours we rented a motorcycle (it could have been a car but we wanted (Emilio wanted) more adventure). The weather did not help us and we had to improvise some raincoats with plastic bags because the drizzle on a motorcycle was something extreme rather than adventurous. So frozen driving on a motorcycle we traveled to the incredible castle of Chenonceaux and after visiting it we traveled to Amboise, a small French town, we met Angelina a beautiful Russian and our Couchsurfing host, she told us that she had organized a meeting with her friends in a Downtown bar and he wanted us to meet them, of course we went and had an excellent time, hence a meeting was set up at the home of other of his friends who heard that two Mexicans were visiting the town and wanted to share French wine and cheese. Well then! Of course we went, we met a girl from Indonesia who was learning to dance salsa and well, “this is my thing,” I said, and we all started dancing, two Mexicans, one Russian, one Indonesian, a Vietnamese and 5 French. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/image11.jpeg "image11 - Couchsurfing Blog")The talk was incredible at all time, a few more drinks and it was time to go to sleep, it was 2 am when we arrived at Angelina’s apartment, she warned us that we should get up and go at 7 am because she had to work and there wasn’t going to be someone else who could close her house, so that night we drank a lot and slept little. Thank you Angelina, it was an excellent night full of multicultural talks and dancing. Unveiled and raw, we began to travel on our rented scooter to Tours. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-journey-to-amboise-france/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-journey-to-amboise-france/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Stories --- ### [The Social Side of Couchsurfing](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-social-side-of-couchsurfing/) **Published:** April 27, 2021 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** Once upon a time there was a guy who got fired and found himself with a lot of time to spend at home to search for a job, but who also was searching for a better way to meet people. Yes, it was me. I was tired of taking time to go to language MeetUps in pubs where one couldn’t hear a word, of trying to meet someone over a pint… and of staring at the pint because we didn’t have anything in common. “What’s this thing called Couchsurfing?” “Uh, let’s have people come to my studio flat instead of having to go to them, now that I am at home. People from around the world” “Hosting complete strangers, are you mad?!?” would say my friends. “No, I just have faith in people… and nothing I posses is worth more than meeting many interesting (or boring!) people and their stories. Let’s see the world from different perspectives!” Likely the best decision in my life. I hosted people for two months, until I found a job. The just-married couple from Brasil, touring Europe on their backpacks, the two french girls with which I hung out, the ladies from northern Italy with stories from their valley and their local language, the two nice American guys… but also the middle-eastern guy with which we improvised some music, the guy from Hong Kong who lost the plane twice in a row from Amsterdam… all with food and stories from their nations. Some of them I hosted multiple times; I became friends with a Mexican lady and her daughter, which were travelling through Europe whichever way they could, nation by nation. A hard way to do it, but they managed it, for years. They were full of creativity. We recorded short videos, animations, we spent the Christmas together; it was family. Meeting different people is really enriching. Yes, some were boring, some normal, but some also very interesting. You do get to see the world from all perspectives. But that is not the best part. “Uh? What?” I saw an announcement, in the weekly email: “Can someone teach me to skate? I’ll offer Spanish in exchange” “Really? That’s a perfect match, and she looks nice and friendly!” We met on a weekend to skate and chat. “Let’s hope it doesn’t rain…” The ground was wet, but would I waste the chance? It wasn’t that wet, and on quad skates it was still feasible. We met. We liked it. We repeated. And we liked repeating it. Soon enough I was learning Spanish with a lovely person and spending a ton of quality time; it’s that her merit if that time has been lovely. It’s now three years… and it still is quality time. Couchsurfing makes people meet in a relaxed do-what-you-like way, and that’s why IT WORKS. Couchsurfing can really put together people with common interests, “on the field” and that’s why IT LASTS. She and I are still very good friends and I am spoiled every time I spend time with her. “You have been lucky!” Yes, but please, let your luck help you…. It’s now three years since I started meeting people on CS and our friendships last because we have those things in common, which we do thanks to the website: a desire for languages, for travel, for experiences and other things we found out later. [![eed16af2-b599-45b4-af9b-deedc1b4a89a](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/eed16af2-b599-45b4-af9b-deedc1b4a89a.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/eed16af2-b599-45b4-af9b-deedc1b4a89a.jpg) ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-social-side-of-couchsurfing/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-social-side-of-couchsurfing/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Stories --- ### [How Couchsurfers Helped During the Patagonian Wildfires](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/how-couchsurfers-helped-during-the-patagonian-wildfires/) **Published:** April 16, 2021 **Author:** Mike Joy **Content:** La Patagonia argentina tiene paisajes maravillosos y lugares hermosos, muchos viajeros hemos disfrutado de esos lugares en nuestros viajes: ![Imagen integrada](https://support.couchsurfing.org/attachments/token/E3QmMMEIdEOepy5UtcxqD2Yxq/?name=1616070707287blob.jpg)Hemos sido hospedados por Couchs Anfitriones en esos lugares turísticos: ![Imagen integrada](https://support.couchsurfing.org/attachments/token/2mrB5NZ11UJIyvPYewY1bbUz5/?name=1616070762503blob.jpg)Esos pueblos ahora sufrieron una tragedia, el fuego los ha consumido: ![Imagen integrada](https://support.couchsurfing.org/attachments/token/Y5l2pgHhQ4GFWnYn1sjzgDO4V/?name=1616070842589blob.jpg)Un desastre natural muy grave: ![Imagen integrada](https://support.couchsurfing.org/attachments/token/Jiyo99MxSRenJb2lxBrxkmI0B/?name=1616071007074blob.jpg)Los barrios en la montaña y las casas de nuestro amigos desaparecieron: ![Imagen integrada](https://support.couchsurfing.org/attachments/token/2G7kEQmCPp3j9fotoF1QpyLRu/?name=1616071077909blob.jpg)Desde Couchsurfing de Río Gallegos,provincia de Santa Cruz, en Argentina, pensamos que no podemos acordarnos de esos lugares solo cuando queremos disfrutar y olvidarnos ahora que ellos sufren.Por lo que decidimos juntar DONACIONES para enviárselos a ellos, se les ha quemado todo y deben empezar desde la nada: ![Imagen integrada](https://support.couchsurfing.org/attachments/token/hbrPb9uFEgnl0mDsiSGjTYpTd/?name=1616071563577blob.jpg)![Imagen integrada](https://support.couchsurfing.org/attachments/token/kcESrlS3AnTjvQIDtPoMH5Bw5/?name=1616071720415blob.jpg)La recaudación de ayuda fue un éxito, Cruz Roja Argentina nos ayudó: ![Imagen integrada](https://support.couchsurfing.org/attachments/token/bN53KxUjvQWqdXdsn0hKmbVFT/?name=1616071778536blob.jpg)Conseguimos transporte gratuito hasta el lugar donde necesitan ayuda. Les contamos esta historia porque nos parece muy linda para compartirla. Un abrazo para todos. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/how-couchsurfers-helped-during-the-patagonian-wildfires/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/how-couchsurfers-helped-during-the-patagonian-wildfires/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Stories --- ### [Journey across Chennai - A Couchsurfing Experience](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/journey-across-chennai-a-couchsurfing-experience/) **Published:** April 9, 2021 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/913BADFF-FE36-4476-8503-F77A515F771E.jpg "913BADFF-FE36-4476-8503-F77A515F771E - Couchsurfing Blog")**THE SEARCH FOR INSPIRATION** If someone were to ask me, what do I consider to be the beginning of everything that ‘Fahim’ is, I would say, it’s the moment I got hooked up on travelling. The Kanyakumari journey, literally opened up a new vast world of travel and its possibilities. Fascinated and in need of further motivation, I started exploring the internet for travelogue and movies related to travelling. The more I explored, the more I got fascinated about one thing, solo travelling!! People around me always used to have these horrid concepts about it. Tales of getting lost, kidnapped or even killed were said synonymously along with solo travelling. But from my little research, I gathered that solo travelling is not something just done by experienced travelers, as opposed to popular conception. There has surely got to be one or two tricks up the sleeve of these so called ‘experienced’ bunch of travelers that might help a beginner like me, I thought. My search for inspiration led me to Paulo Coelho’s ALCHEMIST. It was a book that frequently popped up among suggestions lists. “There is only one thing that makes a dream impossible to achiever, the fear of failure” “When you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you achieve it”. I was this kid who lost his reading habit, by the time he was 18, but this second quote struck me so hard, that I felt the urge to read the book somehow. I got hold of it from one of my friends and started enthusiastically reading it. It was the story of a young boy named Santiago and his journey to finding out a hidden treasure. The journey describes the conflict between the heart and mind. The shepherd boy succeeds, as he learns to listen to his heart more. As I was carried away by the miracles inside the book, I turned myself into Santiago the shepherd from Andalusia. I started firmly believing that we just have to dream, work for it and universe will help us achieve it. Sure enough, miracles started to happen. All these days I was searching for tools without any clarity in the search. This time I thought of listening to people who have experience in travelling solo and that lead me to the famous TED talks. **TO COUCHSURFING VIA TED TALK** I came across a TED talk presented by Tomislav Perko on the topic “How to travel the world with almost no money”. In this TED talk, I came across the term hitchhiking and his talk was so fascinating and his way of presentation so sharp, that I was completely won over. In this video he mentioned about his visit to a lot of countries. He also mentioned about a platform called Couchsurfing, and THIS was an interesting turn of events. Then and there, I got the tool I was searching for. As I finished watching his talk, I just rushed to Couchsurfing website. As a guy who follows his normal routine of pecking through Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp, it was a brand new platform for me. For all of those who don’t know about Couchsurfing, it is an internet website, that allows you to host travelers in your house and at the same time, also allows you to stay in other such willing people’s houses while you’re travelling on your own. And Yes! It’s also free. I registered myself into Couchsurfing. I’m not a verified member yet. For verification, we must pay a sum of 60 dollars as a onetime payment for a lifetime. A verified member gets hosts easily but as a non-verified member, I was not sure about my odds of getting a host. But anyways I completed my account and waited for it to come handy. The excitement quickly fades after months. One day while entering into the Couchsurfing website, I got a couch request. It was from a guy named Arvinth, who lived in Chennai. He was a software engineer and had been a Couchsurfer for a long time and also so much used to the platform. He was requesting to stay for a couple of days in Calicut since he had to attend his friend’s marriage. I declined his couch request since I was busy in college. He understood my situation and said its fine. We became good friends via couchsurfing that, once he told me to visit Chennai when I get time and said that he would host me. It really excited me, but as I was a little unsure about how this works, I didn’t reply anything back. One day the realization stuck. Chennai! It has forever been in my bucket list to explore this city. I have heard a lot about its fast moving crowd, the famous Marina beach and the mouth watering tales about street food, from my friends who studied there. I thought to myself, Why not? With all these pictures in my head, I decided to make it happen. **BOOK OF LIES** From the moment I started planning my Chennai journey, the main issue that has been boggling my mind had been my parents. Since I was on my vacation, back at home, I can’t simply vanish out of sight, as and when I like. Convincing my parents about my solo journey is a task that I was sure to fail. I didn’t even want to think about their reaction to my proposal. Total catastrophe it would be. So, I decided to lie to my parents regarding my travel plans. I told them I am going to visit Chennai with my friend (who accompanied me for the Kanyakumari trip). And also, that we’re heading to his cousin’s home in Chennai to make it sound more believable, when in reality I was heading to my Couchsurfing host Arvinth’s home. It was during the Eid time and I had received 700 rupees as Eid money from my family. As I usually travel cheap, 700 rupees was a big amount for me. The next day I tried convincing my parents that I’m going to Chennai with my friend. With a suspicious face, they agreed. Yes. So the first big step was a success. Next thing on the list was to check the Indian railway online portal and see which all trains were heading to Chennai via Calicut. There were 4 different trains heading to Chennai via Calicut with different timing and out of those, train number 12602, Chennai Mail was best suited for my journey. The reason why I chose Chennai Mail was because it departs from Calicut at evening 5pm and reaches Chennai Central by 6am in the morning. The train starts from Mangalore. I confirmed that this is the train I’ll be choosing for my trip and next day I went to take a general ticket to Chennai from Calicut (In case you are wondering about the 3 hr. rule for unreserved ticket, its only applicable for journeys up to 200 kms). Yes, a general ticket. You heard that right. It was part of my policy to travel cheap and I enjoyed the uncomfortable journey which fills with the comfortable conversations of the fellow travelers. The price of the general ticket from Calicut to Chennai was 220 rupees. The moment I paid for the ticket, I realized something. 220 rupees was already paid out of my 700. All I have is less than 500 rupees remaining of my savings. I have to take a ticket to return back and that would cost me same price 220-240 rupees, and that would leave me with 250 rupees for 2 days. Will I ever survive for 250 rupees? I kept on asking myself. I was really nervous. The question kept on circling around my head the whole night. But anyhow, I decided to stick to my venture. I took the ticket to Chennai after all, so there was no turning back. I’ve already informed Arvinth regarding my departure from Kozhikode so that he can adjust his plans for the weekend accordingly. On the day of departure, he messaged me his address, he said “GET DOWN AT CHENNAI CENTRAL – GO TO CHENNAI SUBURBAN – MOORE MARKET COMPLEX – ST THOMAS MOUNT – FROM THERE BUS TO KEELKATTALAI”. This was the message he sent me. And so, I was all set for my first solo adventure. **PACKED UP** Finally, the day arrived. I was so thrilled thinking of what I am about to do but tried to keep my cool so that my parents won’t suspect anything. I was controlling all my excitement to myself. The time was half past two in the afternoon, I ate my lunch and started packing my bag. I stuffed my small back-pack with two T-shirts, a jean and a pair of shorts. I didn’t pack any shoes, instead I had an additional flip-flop along with me. I took my phone charger and the extension cable and packing was complete. Since it was a hot summer, I had shaved my hair off three weeks back and my hair was just starting to grow a little. As I was about to get off from my home, my mom asked “Your friend would’ve arrived in railway station, right?”, to which I responded “Yes Ummah, he’s already there”. Another lie. One after another, there were these bundles of lies I had to thread, to escape my house and finally I reached the railway station and along with my “invisible friend” I was about to start my journey. **Waiting in the railway station** It was 4 pm and the train has not yet arrived. The announcement came that it was running late by 30 minutes. The time was ticking away slowly. My eyes were focused on the nearby shops, the cold drinks and the evening snacks. As a guy who was travelling close to a 0 budget, I controlled myself from purchasing anything. There was nothing interesting to stare at in the railway station. A bunch of rats popping their head from the rail tracks and poop all over the tracks. I purposefully closed my eyes from all these pictures and started talking to myself. I enquired about myself. I wished myself an all the very best for my first ever solo venture and I tried hard to take away the fear of travelling alone by reciting “All­ is well, All is well”. That was when I suddenly noticed the milestones placed in the railway tracks. It was written 664/4. What is this 664 and what is /4? I got really curious. I have seen this on Kollam junction as 155/3 and in Trivandrum central as 221/2. As I had nothing else to do and curiosity was driving me crazy, I googled it. The milestone was set for the loco pilot to get track of the distance and there will be a central station where the number emerges as 0/0. As I scrolled even further down, I saw that Chennai Central, Shoranur junction and Ernakulam junction has 0/0 and from there we can calculate the distance by looking at the milestones. The milestones are painted in white or yellow and placed every 100 meters apart. I stretched my head further to see if there’s a milestone across 100 meters and I could see a milestone where the readings were 664/5. I realized that by decoding the milestone, it is 664 kilometers from Calicut to Chennai and also realized that the time was quarter past five already. It was exciting to learn new things during a travel. It’s true, travelling teaches us many important things and this was my first lesson. **The weirdest madras mail** At half past 5, the lady announced that the train will arrive shortly on my platform. By that time, the platform was way too crowded. I could see the train coming from a distance, and I was preparing myself to stand in the forefront. To my dismay, many jumped onto the rail track and waited for the train on the other side of the track so that they can enter in easily. As the train approached the station, the crowd was immense, especially in the general unreserved compartment. My heart was pounding heavily. This was really a bad sight. As the train stopped, I stood still for a moment. I didn’t expect this much of a crowd. “This is suicide!” I thought to myself. I somehow got into the compartment. There was not a breathing space inside, everyone was so jam packed, there was hardly even space for one person to stand. The compartment was hot, humid and filled with the strong scent of sweat. It was very uneasy for me to even think about the fact that I’m going to travel the whole journey till Chennai in this compartment. As the engine blew its shrill whistle, I muttered to myself, “The journey has begun”. The train slowly started to move and my already tired eyes, started subconsciously searching for a seat somewhere. There were 6 to 7 people sitting so tightly in a berth. I decided to play the emotional approach. I started looking into the eyes of passengers sitting in the seat so as to make eye contact. A man, possibly in his 50’s, looked back at me and all of a sudden I muttered loudly, “To Chennai, ah, I’m going to Chennai”. Hearing this, he wiggled a little bit, asked the people sitting near him to move a little to the opposite and managed to make a little space for my big body. I was happy inside because of his kind gesture, and pushed myself through the crowd to claim my priceless possession – the tiny seat. I thanked the person and introduced myself and he told me his name. By that time, the train reached Tirur. Still a long journey ahead, and I felt totally useless inside the train. 13 hours more to reach Chennai. I have to pay a big price for this. I will lose my sleep, I felt uncomfortable. The train was travelling faster but the situation inside the compartment was getting worse. The atmosphere was still hot and humid. I sweat a lot and by this time my T-shirt was soaked with sweat. I could smell my own sweat and scent of other people’s sweat just made the situation even more unbearable. I lost my patience at times and was screaming inside. I was trapped between the destination and reality and there was no turning back. As the train reached Shoranur, a little of the crowd got down. But to my dismay, twice the amount of people bulged into the compartment. I was in a position where I cannot even move from the place I was sitting. It’s been 2 hours since the journey has started and my shoulders started to ache. My neck was hurting. The situation was slowly getting out of hand and I couldn’t do anything about it. I decided to suffer a bit more. The journey continued. From Shoranur, the train takes the Palakkad route towards Chennai and I usually take the Thrissur route to my college in Kollam. As the train reached Palakkad, the situation was still the same. Same crowd and the same mess. From Palakkad it was a 1 hour journey to Coimbatore and more than once the thought of aborting my ‘Solo travel to Chennai’ popped up in my head. My mind was really messed up. “If the crowd is still the same, I’ll end the journey in Coimbatore” I thought to myself. My grandmother lives in Coimbatore, so during this whole 1 hour journey, her welcoming face was the only thing in my mind. To my luck, a little of the crowd got down at Coimbatore and not many entered into the compartment. I felt a little bit of ease. The coach was crowded after all, but there was air circulation and I could rest my head backwards. The journey continued, the next destination was Erode. As the train was crossing the bridge, I could see Kaveri river beneath the train. It was a very beautiful sight after a full 5 hours of toil. The river was calm beneath and there was nearby paper producing company working in full swing in the Kaveri river bank named “Seshasayee Paper”. The journey continued and I reached Salem at 12 am. I saw the Salem coach factory there. There were compartments under maintenance and manufacturing of rail wagons were in full swing even during midnight. I felt so sleepy, but the space was so congested that I could barely move. When I would doze off peacefully, someone might end up giving me a nudge that I instantly wake up with a thud. The family next to me was getting off at Katpadi. They said that, they were visiting their cousin residing there. Katpadi junction was a big railway station, trains travelling to Andhra Pradesh deviate from there. It was half past 3 and I was completely sleepless. I came across Arakonam railway station at half past 4. It’s only half an hour to reach Chennai and I decided to stand near the door step to overcome this exhaustion. I got up from my seat, took my bag and stood near the doorstep. The wind was too cold that I covered my head with a towel which I had and decided to sit there on the door step till Chennai. As the journey continued, I crossed Tiruvallur and Perambur railway station and the train was gaining pace. It was now travelling with a mighty speed. Train crossed Chennai Egmore station and I finally reached Chennai Central. **CHENNAI PATTANAM** I always carried this doubt as to why Chennai has two railway stations, but I got my answer that day. It was over crowded even by the standards of a railway station. It was 6 am in the morning and the atmosphere was cold and chilly. As I got off the train, people were running to get to places. The station was busy even at that time. As I gathered from my little pre-train journey reading, I saw the 0/0 milestone at Chennai central. Half asleep I started walking along with the crowd to find the nearest exit. I reached the exit of the railway station and witnessed a beautiful artefact. The railway station was an architectural brilliance constructed in 1873 using red bricks. It has a gothic style of architecture. The railway station was named Chennai Central railway station during my journey and in 2019 it was renamed as Dr. MG Ramachandran Central railway station. I walked down the lane where lots of rickshawaalas were asking me where I was headed to. Even I didn’t know the exact destination! I walked further down and the scent of roasted coffee struck me. The aroma just pulled me to the shop and I purchased a plate of Vada and a hot cup of coffee to satisfy my hunger. I’ve been travelling with an empty stomach for 13 hours and this was the least I could do to satisfy my hunger. It cost me 30 rupees for 2 Vada and a cup of coffee. I felt refreshed and continued my journey further. With the little bit of energy that I got from my morning coffee, I started my search for Moore Suburban station. I took Google maps and it showed that Moore Suburban station is across the street, 1.5 kilometers walk. The concept of suburban train fascinated me. I have only witnessed suburban train in movies and haven’t climbed onto one yet. It was my first time. I reached Moore station. There was a ticket counter where the staff asked me where to go. I checked the message again and replied “St. Thomas Mount”. I was praying for the price of the ticket to be less and to my luck it was just 5 rupees. With joy I realised that suburban travel is cheap. The maximum price one has to pay is 15 rupees for the farthest station. Claiming my ticket, I waited for my first ever suburban train. Every 10 minutes a train passes to destination. Moore station had 4 platforms. I was astonished by the fact that a suburban station has equivalent number of platforms my hometown railway station has. I was really amazed by the fact that Chennai central railway station had 24 platforms in total. **Suburban frenzy** My train finally arrived and it was heavily crowded. Many people were getting off the train and many were entering into the train alongside me. I stood next to the doorstep to witness the breath taking views of Chennai city with this 5 rupee ticket. I crossed a station named Nungambakkam and I could witness river Adyar beneath the train. The river was completely polluted. It was pitch black with all waste and plastic particles. A fellow traveler was curious with my observation that he decided to be my guide during my whole suburban journey. He asked me at the first sight “Are you coming to Chennai for the first time?” I replied yes. He was a man in his 40s, well dressed, a typical Iyer family guy, with glasses and a briefcase. He started his narrative about the river. He said that it was once a clean, free flowing river through the Chennai city center and when commercialization happened, people started dumping waste into the Adyar waters and it has transformed into a curse for Chennai these days. I came across station named Kodambakkam and Mambalam. I had this doubt regarding why every station here had a “pakkam” at its end. He said that it’s a name given to a place under a certain region. For example, Nungambakkam is area encircled around the Nungam province and Kodambakkam is area under the Kodam province. He said there are lots of provinces like these here in Chennai. We crossed a station named T-Nagar. He said it is Thyagaraya Nagar famously known as T-Nagar. It is the market capital of Chennai. He added that merchants who start their business in any corner of T-Nagar become successful immediately at a fast rate. From flower sellers to home appliance shops, T-Nagar is best known for the availability of a variety of products, he added. After T-Nagar the next station was Saidapet and the place reminded me of Saidapet Giri, the character played by Manoj K Jayan in the movie Rock and Roll. Suddenly I heard a screeching noise. While trying to figure out what it was, I saw a huge aeroplane taking off, close to my head. The distance was so close that it was not an ordinary sight for me. He noticed my curiosity and said that there is an airport in the middle of the city and he pointed his hands towards the distance. The airport was located in Guindy. He added that there is a forest reserve in the middle of the city and an engineering college is situated inside the reserve. I realized that he was talking about the Indian Institute of Technology Madras. The next stop was St. Thomas Mount. I got off the train, thanked him for his guidance and continued further with my journey. **Bus to keelkattalai** From St. Thomas Mount, I was directed to catch a bus to Keelkatalai. I tried to find the nearest bus stand and walked 1 kilometer in search of it with the help of Google maps. Finally, I got into a bus which was heading to Keelkattalai. The bus was to start the trip from that place and so it was empty. I made myself comfortable choosing a window seat. By the time the bus was about to leave, it was filled with passengers. The conductor asked me “Enga Ponam?” and I said Keelkattalai. I told the conductor to inform me when the destination arrives in a feeble Tamil and he replied “Okay thambi”. My mom called me to enquire whether I’ve reached Chennai safely and I was responding back to her in Malayalam. I hung up the call afterwards and suddenly heard a female voice uttering “Malayali aano?” I looked back and saw a woman in her late 30s probably, dressed in sari, looking at me. I responded yes and asked her where she was from. She said that she’s from Thrissur and that she got married here and is now settled with her family in Chennai. She enquired about me and I mentioned my name, hometown and told her that I was travelling solo in Chennai. She was astonished. She asked me about my journey and about Kerala. She said that she misses Kerala so much and she’ll visit there soon. Her name was Reshmi and she talked about her family and about places to visit in Chennai and I made a note of these. She told me to visit her family next time I’m travelling to Chennai and to have lunch. I nodded yes and the talk continued on. I forgot to keep track of time. We had beautiful conversation and for the first time I experienced the joy of meeting a fellow Malayali in a far off place. I realized that solo travelers are in fact, not alone. At that moment, I embraced Paulo Coelho’s meaningful words, “When you dream something, the whole universe conspires you to achieve it”. I realized Reshmi was part of the universe too along with the other good human beings I met during my journey. Reshmi got off at Velachery and my journey continued. Keelkattalai was two stops ahead. The road was damaged and bus ride seemed to be like a roller coaster ride. I reached Keelkattalai at half past seven in the morning and the moment I reached, I called Arvinth. I assumed that he might be sleeping in, and did not want to disturb him until I reached keelkattalai as I was directed. He woke up the moment I called him and he told that he’ll come to pick me up within 20 minutes. I decided to wait at the bus stop till he reaches. The road was under construction and there was dust all over the place. After a while I could see Arvinth at a distance in his Honda Dio. He drove towards the bus stop and at the first he couldn’t recognize me with my almost bald head. He saw my couchsurfing profile and was expecting to see a guy with hair. After exchanging pleasantries, I jumped onto his scooter and he drove me to his house. **HOME, SWEET HOME!** Arvinth lived in an apartment with his brother. He introduced me to his brother and he greeted me and enquired about my hometown and my parents. Arvinth showed me around his place. It was a 2-BHK apartment with a kitchen and a hall. He usually hosts travelers and provides a separate room for them. He had a brilliant record of hosting a lot of travellers, including international one’s from across the globe. I’ve read the references provided by those travellers regarding Arvinth in Couchsurfing. The room which he provided had a bathroom attached to it and I freshened up. I was so tired after the journey that I dozed off in the bed instantly. I woke up at around 10.30 and Arvinth greeted me warmly. We communicated to each other in English. Arvinth enquired about the whole journey and I narrated my journey from scratch. He took me out for breakfast. We went to hotel Annapurna and he ordered a plate of puri and bhaji for me and masala dosa for himself. While eating we were exchanging our couchsurfing experience. As I was a beginner in couchsurfing, I didn’t have much experience, but Arvinth was a guy who had been using couchsurfing since 2015. He was highly experienced with this platform not just as a host. He has travelled to a lot of European countries as well. Out of all the fascinating experiences he shared, the one that caught my attention was the European couchsurfing experience. While he was on a European tour, he was travelling across 15 countries in European Union and to reduce the cost of accommodation, he was travelling with the help of couchsurfing. He was hosted by many people across different countries and he still has a wonderful friendship with them. He had travelled across Germany, Belgium, France, Netherlands, Switzerland, Italy, Czech Republic, Russia and other countries as well. The stories of European expedition using couchsurfing fascinated me. He paid for the breakfast and we returned back to his apartment. The time was already half past 11 in the morning. He told that we could explore Chennai when the temperature lowers a bit, since it was a hot afternoon. He began preparations for cooking lunch. Since I was highly inexperienced in that arena, I slowly slipped back in to the hall, took the phone and started giving replies to the messages I have received on social media. Wrong move! Arvinth was not pleased with my gesture and got a bit angry. I learned the next most important lesson of my journey. Hosting in couchsurfing is an act of kindness and compassion. It doesn’t mean one must take advantage of it and loose etiquette. I realized the immaturity in my action and accompanied my host to the kitchen. We had a pleasant conversation and I helped him prepare ‘Thairusaadham’ or curd rice. It tasted really good and it was a proud moment for me to think that I was part of the cooking process too. **Exploring Chennai** The journey across Chennai was really hectic and the traffic block creates havoc now and again. Life in Chennai city is really fast and air is highly polluted. We somehow managed to reach Phoenix mall. The interesting fact I noticed in Chennai was that there was no space to park any vehicles in public and to park a vehicle in a mall is too expensive. For 1 hour of 2 wheelers parking they charge 50 Rs on an hourly basis and 4 wheeler costs 100/hr. I wondered who is going to spend an hour at this rate in mall. Imagine the amount one has to pay for 3 to 4 hours. The phoenix mall was located just at the city center and it was enormous. As I entered the mall, I saw a miniature sculpture of the entrance of the Chennai central railway station and it was titled to a 45 degree angle. Walking around, I saw a lot of people roaming around just like us. We went to a supermarket and Arvinth bought some cold drinks. Sipping the drinks, we reached the top floor of the phoenix mall. There I saw a beautiful rectangular pond like thing, only, it was not filled with water, but coloured crystals were embedded at the bottom. It was near the entrance to the PVR cinemas and the dark setting made it stand out even more. From the balcony of the top floor, I could see the entire Chennai city. At a distance I saw Chidambaram stadium. When we left the phoenix mall, time was around 7 pm. He asked me where I wanted to go next. Without thinking too much I blurted out the first thing that came to my mind. Marina Beach! **FLAME AND SPICES OF MARINA** We headed to the Marina beach. Arvinth took me to the end of the shoreline. He said that this part is no longer called as Marina beach, it is called as Elliot’s beach. The time was around 8 pm. The Elliot’s beach was located in Besant Nagar, one of the posh areas in Chennai where all the movie stars and celebrities resided. We parked the scooter and walked down the lane. Arvinth pointed to a bungalow on the left side of the road and said it belonged to Chiyaan Vikram. It was a huge house with a big gate. We walked further down the pavement and there I saw the opening to the beach. We walked through the beach and as we were walking away from the main road, I witnessed flames across from the vendors who sold corn. Arvinth said that it was a traditional picture of Chennai beach at night. During night the corn vendors used this method to attract customers. They keep the corn on top of the coal burner and blow the flames with a blower and the wind carried those tiny sparks up to the sky. I stood still and captured the picture of the rising sparks from the corn vendor. It was a beautiful sight indeed. We walked further down and witnessed shops selling roasted fish, fresh one’s, caught and made to serve as per demand. There were all types of fishes. There were trout and other fishes ranging from big prawns to salted shark. Arvinth ordered a plate of two roasted fish and I tasted the fish, it was so delicious. It was fresh, juicy with the perfect blend of all the right spices and was served hot. I took a picture of this perfect plate of delicacy, to keep it as a souvenir in my Chennai dairy- the spicy fried fish of the Elliot’s beach, Chennai. We washed our hands and walked back to the pavement. We wanted to stay there and wanted to have conversations about travel experiences, but to our dismay, the rain started to pour. There was no shelter in the beach, so we decided to wait inside the Café Coffee Day till the rain stops. Finally, after 20 minutes, it stopped raining and we quickly got back in the scooter and returned back to Arvinth’s home. **The most awaited trek** The journey back to Arvinth’s house was tiring due to the long roadblocks. In the middle of the journey, it started to rain again and we were wet. Arvinth knew most of the pocket roads in Chennai and by crossing block after block, we finally reached home. Drenched in rain, I went to freshen up. After a quick shower I changed my clothes and went to eat some of the leftover curd rice. We talked about the day and Arvinth mentioned about the next day’s plans. It was going to be a Sunday and Arvinth had plans for a jungle trekking was curious by this plan, I didn’t know about any jungle in Chennai. Arvinth said that it was not in fact in Chennai, but in a place called Arai – Nagalapuram trek in Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh. I got really fascinated for many reasons. I haven’t ever stepped my foot in Andhra Pradesh, and a jungle trip sounded appealing and adventurous. Arvinth mentioned that it was nearly a 120 kilometer journey from Chennai and what excited me the most about this trekking was that there were 5 waterfalls to be seen during the whole jungle trek. He also said it was his first time visiting the place as well. He connected with two other friends of his and mentioned about the trip and both of them were ready to come. And so, it was all set! I will be heading to the unknown land of five waterfalls – Arai. I ate the last bit of curd rice, bid him goodnight and went to my room to sleep. I felt really sleepy as the day was really tiring. I closed my door and I sat with the phone for some time and was all excited about the Jungle trek. The land of 5 waterfalls, jungle trek, Andhra Pradesh- everything was making me so thrilled. “I’ve got a big day tomorrow”, I told myself before I dozed off peacefully. #### **TO BE CONTINUED…** ##### Mohamed keeps a blog with more of his travel stories. Check it out here: ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/9930B824-9612-4A90-900F-AA5EBC20AA95.jpg "9930B824-9612-4A90-900F-AA5EBC20AA95 - Couchsurfing Blog")[![9930B824-9612-4A90-900F-AA5EBC20AA95](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/9930B824-9612-4A90-900F-AA5EBC20AA95.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/9930B824-9612-4A90-900F-AA5EBC20AA95.jpg) [![913BADFF-FE36-4476-8503-F77A515F771E](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/913BADFF-FE36-4476-8503-F77A515F771E.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/913BADFF-FE36-4476-8503-F77A515F771E.jpg) [![WhatsApp-Image-2020-06-06-at-2.40.15-PM.jpeg](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/WhatsApp-Image-2020-06-06-at-2.40.15-PM.jpeg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/WhatsApp-Image-2020-06-06-at-2.40.15-PM.jpeg) ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/journey-across-chennai-a-couchsurfing-experience/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/journey-across-chennai-a-couchsurfing-experience/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Stories --- ### [Sleeping at a Stranger's](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/sleeping-at-a-strangers/) **Published:** April 2, 2021 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/pretzels-at-shantiniketan.jpg "pretzels-at-shantiniketan.jpg - Couchsurfing Blog") “The bathroom has no lock. Don’t fret if my daughter or the dog walks in” Ingo put in casually. I was panicky. So was Rohini, my wife. This was our first time staying with a stranger. In fact a bunch of them – Ingo, his partner Genny, two daughters from Genny’s previous marriage, a dog, a cat and a hamster! We nickname Ingo the ‘German Giant’. At around seven foot, he is tall even for a German. Ingo takes full advantage of his stature, and is often intimidating. We soon realise that he acts tough on the outside, but is soft from the inside. A walnut if you may. Genny has strong Andean features. An aquiline nose, flowing hair and a well toned body. Genny is the Manager. She manages the house. Manages Ingo, and the girls, and the pets, and now us. No wonder she was a successful Accountant with a Multinational. The girls keep to themselves. The cat doesn’t. She gets in our backpack, in our sleeping bags and keeps giving this eerie look to the hamster. The dog however, is very protective of the hamster. Rohini and i are backpacking Europe in the autumn of 2009 and summon our courage to try Couchsurfing at Barcelona. Couchsurfing is an online community for travelers – over 11 million of them. Locals offer their couch to like-minded travelers, with no strings attached. No exchange of money. In return, you are merely encouraged to offer yours. “Let’s all attend the weekly CS meet” proposed Genny. CS is our pet name for Couchsurfing. The four of us reach a huge factory shed turned into a pub. We meet and greet fellow Couchsurfers. We realise Ingo is the CS Ambassador for Barcelona. Ingo meanwhile is high on weeds and starts acting funny. “You know what” says Genny “I am taking Ingo back. You guys continue”. We are stuck with a group of strangers in the middle of the night and have no idea how to get back home. But we survive. Next day Ingo gives his Bicing card and we explore Barcelona on cycle. Bicing is a bicycle sharing system managed by the city council. Genny had hinted about this small bar by the harbour. A standing bar, buzzing with locals. We crammed in, and had our fill of cava and tapas – sparkling wine and small eats. Salud! Couchsurfing floods us with local knowledge – more than a Lonely Planet guide book. It is about creating real-world connection and cultural exchanges. “Let’s have an Indian dinner” said Rohini. We pick groceries from the local market and set cooking. “Make it spicy” Ingo chipped in “like the Indians do”. The food turned out decent; thanks to the small spice bag we had carried back from India. “I am convinced. We are coming to India next year” says Ingo. We spend time chalking out an 8-week India travel itinerary for them. We say we are moving to a hostel, since a friend from Bangalore is joining in. “Ask her to come stay with us” is Ingo’s response. We end up not only extending our stay but are also joined in by a friend from India. That evening Genny presents a spread of clamshell soup and raw-fish marinated in olive oil. “*Are we supposed to eat this for dinner?”.* Our Indian friend gives us a look of dismay. But somehow with the wine and the accompaniments the food tasted better than it looked! We survive another day. “I will leave a strong reference for you on CS. You won’t have issues finding your next host” assures Ingo when we bid adieus. *What if she is a drug peddler? What if she turns out to be a serial killer? What if they are terrorists?* Our friends ask, when we try to sell the concept of Couchsurfing. Well, CS has a safety net built in. Members are encouraged to write references for past guests and hosts. There have been a few instances of people looking for quick sex and the likes, but the percentage is miniscule. We go by our instinct. At Shantiniketan, next year, Ingo and Genny stay with us for a week. “We bake pretzels today” announces Ingo. Rohini and i scatter around. *What pretzels? In Shantiniketan? Where do we get an oven?* A small biscuit factory comes to our rescue. We convince the owner to lend us his trays and his oven to bake pretzels. They make faces when we offer them to taste our baked goods. We have a week of food orgy. Steckerlfisch – fish on a stick, a German affair. Ceviche – raw seafood soaked in lemon juice, from South America. And yes, loads of Indian preparations. “Let us hire bicycles” said i “and explore Visva-Bharati University”, the learning centre set up the Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore. Classes to date are held beneath trees in the serene campus. The red soil of Shantiniketan is vibrant with art and music and dance. Every other person stops Ingo to ask “Exactly how tall are you”. We giggle. News arrives that Ingo’s mother passed way. Ingo was hesitant to leave his sick mother to travel to India. “Don’t wait for me to die. Just go” his mother insisted. We have a group hug, and a moment of silence. Ingo is at peace. Ingo and Genny kept sending occasional updates after they left. We hear they have moved to Ecuador. “We acquired a farm with goats, donkeys, horses, geese, pigs and lamas. I need a hand fixing the goat shed. Come over” Ingo shows us the carrot. We are tempted. We cannot make it for the repair work, but travel to South America a year later. At Mindo, Ecuador, we land in the middle of a crisis. “One of the waiters hasn’t turned up. This lone guy is struggling to serve the waiting customers” Ingo says welcoming us. Instinctively, i pick up a tray and start serving drinks. It’s another story that with my beginner’s Spanish, i make a mess of the orders! The couple have given up their farm and currently run a hotel and an eatery. Genny’ daughters are teenagers now. Genny is from Ecuador. Ingo and Genny now have two more daughters between them. Introducing the new born, Ingo says “Last one, i promise”. Typical Ingo. Ingo calls up a birding guide and says “Two of my friends are here. Can you take them for a field trip tomorrow morning?” “And yes, they are my friends, so no money”. “It’s unfair” we protest. “She owes me for all the tourists i refer her”. Toucans and macaws and humming birds enthrall us. Mindo is a potpourri in bio-diversity. I spend the afternoon playing with Ingo’s 4-year old daughter Laia. She speaks fluent Spanish and German, but little English. We are thick friends. She takes me to her secret spot by the stream. We spend hours building a house with crude wooden blocks. Later that evening we plan to go for the ‘frog concert’. “If comfortable you can take Laia with you” says Genny. Laia and i smile. We play hide-n-seek while we wait for the event to start. The hostess takes us for a walk along the bushes to spot frogs. By the time we spot this tiny-winy glass frog, Laia is peacefully sleeping on my shoulders. “We go to the Santo Domingo market early tomorrow for our weekly supplies” said Ingo during dinner. It’s a huge wholesale market with miles and miles of fruits and vegetables and fish and meat. “Hold this and take it over to the cleaning lady” Ingo hands me this huge catfish. I struggle with my Spanish but people are friendly. “This is experiencing the world in a way money can’t buy” i quietly tell Rohini. The pick-up van is over-stuffed with supplies and sways on our way back. “We cook an India meal for all the staff tonight” said Rohini. “Chapattis for me” quips in Ingo. Four hours and way past dinner time we manage an Indian spread. A staff tastes the *baingan bharta* and declares “This is the best aubergine i ever had”. “Isn’t it amazing to have couchsurfed with you guys across three continents” Rohini says in realisation, “next we got to meet in Africa”. Connection makes us happier; we need more of it. The idea of sharing economy is old. Connecting with and accepting the kindness of strangers, strengthens our faith in humanity. It reiterates the fact that people are inherently good. We were the first CS guests for Sharon and Martin in London. They were skeptical, and had a CS friend with them when we turned up. We reached late, but they were waiting with a traditional English dinner to welcome us. Even though they were meeting us for the first time, they were incredible – trusting us with their house keys. Couchsurfers not only open their homes, but also their lives, their hearts. Tolerance, respect and appreciation for differences are the foundation of CS. A lone female traveler we met in South America, shocked us when she said “I believe i will get raped as soon as i come out of Delhi airport”. We spent time painting a true picture of India. Many others hold this firm picture of India from *Slumdog Millionaire* – children begging on the street. Nothing more. We act as the Ambassadors of India promoting our country wherever we travel. We have had amazing experiences staying with locals. Some of them life-changing. After the Europe trip we decided to do away with a maid, and do all house-work ourselves. People in Europe do not have house help. A couple in Buenos Aires were an inspiration for sustainable living. Another couple in Vladivostok inspired us to go minimalist. Yet another introduced us to vegan lifestyle in Santiago. In Moscow, we landed in this tiny apartment of our CS hosts. We wondered where to keep our backpacks. But within moments the family made us so comfortable and the space felt so ample. While people kept telling us the opposite “Russians are cold”. We spent hours talking in the narrow kitchen with an expansive view. Reflecting on his memories of the Soviet Union our host told “My home overlooked a Supermarket. Sister and i, every morning, used to make a serpentine queue with all our small toys replicating the one in front of the supermarket.” “*What a great representation of the collapse of the Soviet Union. The rationing of supplies and the Communist life*” I commented later in my notes. A 50-year ‘young’ woman in Rio de Janeiro welcomed us by saying “If you are not tired, let me show you around.” She was a bundle of energy. Five hours later my marathon legs went weak, but she continued “Let’s check this museum doing a special exhibition on Picasso”. We did not understand a word of Portuguese and she did not understand English. However, we kept talking late in to the night. Thanks to Google translate. “Offering to cook and exchanging small presents is the highlight of CS for me” she answered, when asked what inspires her to host so many people. “The cultural exchange keeps me busy”. A German guest told this captivating story. “My father was in the East German police before the reunification. His job was to shoot people who tried to cross the border to the West. One day, he decided enough was enough, and he himself crossed the border over to the other side”. If we can’t go to the world, the world comes to us. We have hosted travelers back home. A lone motorcyclist traveling across India – happened to be an Indian girl. A hitchhiker hiking his way from Holland to India. A cyclist riding from Thailand to Morocco. “I have no idea what i will do once back home” said the cyclist. We realised people across the planet have similar fears, similar insecurities, similar aspirations. It is satisfying to know that a stranger will open her home for me, the next city i travel to. [![8890767_l_ed5d3a72569dad51465135b5a1b5eab1](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/8890767_l_ed5d3a72569dad51465135b5a1b5eab1.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/8890767_l_ed5d3a72569dad51465135b5a1b5eab1.jpg) [![pretzels-at-shantiniketan.jpg](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/pretzels-at-shantiniketan.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/pretzels-at-shantiniketan.jpg) ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/sleeping-at-a-strangers/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/sleeping-at-a-strangers/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Stories --- ### [Morocco with arms wide open](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/morocco-with-arms-wide-open/) **Published:** April 19, 2021 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/shutterstock_401157610.jpg "River,Bou,Regreg,Seafront,And,Kasbah,In,Medina,Of,Rabat, - Couchsurfing Blog")By Mark Viales A seed of multiculturalism, where the sands of time empty endlessly into the Saharan basin, carrying with them memories of a distant past, therein lies Al Maghreb, the North African nation of Morocco. I was determined to experiment with an alternative form of travel, Couchsurfing, which provided an impracticable image but promised a key to unlock hidden wanderlust. However, the sticking point, I felt, was a lack of references on my newly created account. Without one, I was basically asking someone to take me in on the basis of limited information…my name, age and interests were about as much as I could muster. Despite this major disadvantage, after sending out roughly ten requests, I was accepted for one night by my first Couchsurfing host, Mohamed from Rabat. Although he quickly provided his personal number so I could reach him, I must admit I was still a little unsure, even at this point. What more, it didn’t help that the train was delayed for over three hours and the tangerine sky had begun to dim into a harsh dark purple. As I exited Rabat train station, I pressed my digit to my ear in an attempt to drown out the feverish calls of ‘Taxi! Taxi!’ bouncing in-between my temples, pulling out my phone to contact Mohamed. He instructed me to approach a taxi and pass the phone to the driver so that he could explain the directions to him in Arabic. Before I knew it, the cab had turned into a district devoid of street lights and filled with the shadows of hooded figures prowling the streets, “Safi – That’s it,” the driver said to me as a stray dog paused at the sharp sound of the man’s voice. “Hamza Dirham.” I knew that was five and it seemed about right. We had only crossed a few blocks. I jumped out of the cab and remembered I hadn’t checked with Mohamed the name of his street, nor had I confirmed it with the taxi driver. You can get distracted easily when on edge. I stalled as I brought out my iPhone but gripped my senses and attempted to relax. “Salaam Alaikum Mohamed,” I croaked. “Hello Mark,” he replied in perfect English. “Where are you?” “I’m not sure… I think I am outside your house, but everything is dark and there are no street names. What’s the name of your street?” “I’ll be right down,” he said, abruptly hanging up the phone. I feared the worst. I was stuck in a labyrinth of dusty roads with my backpack in pitch black and could be miles away from my destination. Out of the darkness, someone was approaching me at a steady pace. All I could see was the bobbing light of a phone illuminating the road. As he came into view, I could not tell if it was Mohamed. All I had was a blurry Couchsurfing profile picture to go by, “Hello Mark,” said the friendly familiar voice from the phone. “Are you ok?” I was fine. I had worked myself up into a worry for no reason. Mohamed was splitting his sides when I told him what I was thinking. “This is not a bad area,” he said. “The houses are quite expensive actually.” When he ushered me into his home, my jaw dropped at its elegance. Mohamed was an architect and his house was enormous, immaculately decorated with Arabic and Berber design, filled with ornaments. My senses were further stimulated when I followed my nose into the dining room, where he had prepared a Berber tagine. It was far too big for one person, surely we were expecting guests, but it was just for us. It was followed by the sweetest cakes and Berber tea imaginable. We went on to discuss his daily life, which was fascinating. I foolishly underestimated the progressiveness of life in Rabat, and he was also keen to know about Gibraltar, or Jebel Tarik as he referred to it. Gibraltar was of great interest to him as an important landmark in Muslim history and we were soon encapsulated in discussion on the mixed forms of architecture on the Rock that spans different dynasties. Mohamed had much more than a couch, he had a whole spare room for guests and he told me to make myself at home as he placed enough blankets alongside me to survive a second ice age. I felt completely at ease with someone who I had just met. I was in his home, eating his food and sharing some great stories. My kind host had to work the next day, but he told me all about the best places to visit, what time was best to avoid the crowds, cheap but authentic restaurants, hidden secrets and much more. I felt that I had given little, if anything, but he seemed happy to share his life with me, even if it was for just a couple of days. Before I left, I explained to him that I felt that I hadn’t fulfilled my side of the bargain, whatever that was, and asked him if he would accept some sort of payment. I didn’t feel right giving nothing back for what was an experience that far surpassed that of a hostel. Mohamed laughed in that same contagious way he did that first time we met and just said: “Well, the next time I’m in Gibraltar, you can show me the same hospitality.” I knew that I could never live up to it, but it gave me some measure on how I should behave when I would eventually become a host myself. I left a glorious reference and hope it somewhat reflected my gratitude to this wonderful man who opened up the world of Couchsurfing to me. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/4C2D1990-F1E4-4516-9E06-FC8C8939C94F.jpg "4C2D1990-F1E4-4516-9E06-FC8C8939C94F.jpg - Couchsurfing Blog") [![River,Bou,Regreg,Seafront,And,Kasbah,In,Medina,Of,Rabat,](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/shutterstock_401157610.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/shutterstock_401157610.jpg) [![4C2D1990-F1E4-4516-9E06-FC8C8939C94F.jpg](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/4C2D1990-F1E4-4516-9E06-FC8C8939C94F.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/4C2D1990-F1E4-4516-9E06-FC8C8939C94F.jpg) ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/morocco-with-arms-wide-open/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/morocco-with-arms-wide-open/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Stories --- ### [The Best Treks in the World According to Couchsurfers](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-best-treks-in-the-world-according-to-couchsurfers/) **Published:** March 26, 2021 **Author:** Mike Joy **Content:** ##### We asked the Couchsurfing community where the most beautiful, breathtaking, and life-changing treks in the world are. This is what they said. Lake Holon ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/shutterstock_1541667404.jpg "shutterstock_1541667404 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Tatay Dm](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/dmmaqui)shutterstock**Where**: South Cotabato, Philippines **How Long**: 4-5 hours (from T’boli) **Description**: This large lake was formed after an eruption in the 1600s and has been named Philippines cleanest inlet body of water multiple times. The hike has been described as ‘arduous’ but I found some evidence that a beginner-friendly trail had been cleared, so do a little research on the trails before you go! A guide is recommended and there is a camping area that seems be well maintained. The [TripAdvisor](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g2011485-d1994778-Reviews-or5-Lake_Holon-T_Boli_South_Cotabato_Province_Mindanao.html#REVIEWS) page has a ton of reviews attesting to the beauty and [ThePinaySoloBackpacker](https://www.thepinaysolobackpacker.com/lake-holon-mt-parker-climb/) detailed her experience on her blog as well. Mount Kilimanjaro ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/shutterstock_662889487.jpg "shutterstock_662889487 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Volodymyr Burdiak](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/byrdyak)shutterstock**Where**: Tanzania **How Long:** ~7 days (5 being the shortest and 9 being common) **Description**: I mean, if that photo above doesn’t sell you on Kilimanjaro, I don’t know what will! Kilimanjaro is the highest mountain in Africa (and the the highest ‘free-standing’ mountain in the world!) and about 75,000 people climb it annually. It is often considered one of the easiest of the ‘Seven Summits’ but altitude sickness is a common affliction for would-be summiteers and the trek is challenging even for experienced hikers. Mestia to Ushguli ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/shutterstock_161711468.jpg "shutterstock_161711468 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Yarygin](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/yarygin)shutterstock**Where**: Georgia **How Long**: 4 days **Description**: If a four day hike between two ancient towns nestled high in the Caucuses sounds like a dream vacation for you, then we have found your next destination. For a great backdown of the route and costs, check out [TheSandyFeet’s](https://thesandyfeet.com/mestia-ushguli-trek-svaneti-georgia/) or [ErikasTravelVentures](https://www.erikastravelventures.com/ultimate-guide-mestia-to-ushguli/) posts, each complete with breakdowns, costs and additional travel information. Kheerganga ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/shutterstock_783589780.jpg "shutterstock_783589780 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Amit kg](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Amit+kg)shutterstock**Where**: Himachal Pradesh, India **How Long**: 3-4 hours (from Barshaini) **Description**: A Himalayan trek that is accessible to beginners and families? Here it is! This serene trek through the Parvati Valley can be tackled in one day, but if you bring a tent and sleeping bag, you can wake up to some truly breathtaking views. Check out [TravelShoeBum](https://travelshoebum.com/2017/04/03/a-detailed-travel-guide-for-trekking-to-kheerganga/) and [TravelMelodies](https://travelmelodies.com/kheerganga-trek/) posts for some first-hand knowledge! Kalaw to Inle Lake ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/shutterstock_711319480.jpg "shutterstock_711319480 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Alex Darmon](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/AlexDarmon)shutterstock**Where**: Myanmar **How Long**: 2 days **Description**: Meet a traveler who has done this trek and they will most likely tell you it was their favorite part of their trip to Myanmar, which is saying a lot since Myanmar is chocked full of incredible experiences in a still relatively under-discovered part of Southeast Asia. The trek is not particularly strenuous and has become a quite common part of any trip to Myanmar. Check out [TwoWanderingSoles](https://www.twowanderingsoles.com/blog/myanmar-kalaw-to-inle-lake-trek-amazing-hiking-homestay-experience) or [TheWorldOnMyNecklace](https://theworldonmynecklace.com/trekking-kalaw-to-inle-lake/) for their experiences and tips. Camino de Santiago ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/shutterstock_630570752.jpg "shutterstock_630570752 - Couchsurfing Blog")[gregorioa](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/gregorioa)shutterstock**Where**: Spain (most common route begins in France) **How Long**: ~30 days **Description**: The ‘Way of St. James’ has multiple routes but all of them lead you to Santiago de Compostela, a gorgeous Cathedral city in Galicia, Spain. The *Camino Frances* is the most common route, a 500 mile path through northern Spain that begins in Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port. This path has been used for centuries as a pilgrimage for Catholics, but in the last few decades has attracted travelers from all over the world looking to experience a little bit of the Camino’s magic. A simple google search will give you dozens of blogs and videos of people’s experiences. And don’t worry, you don’t need to do the whole 500 miles! The Camino passes through many medium-sized cities that are easily reachable by plain, train or car! Landmannalaugar ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/shutterstock_676565506.jpg "shutterstock_676565506 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Oleg Senkov](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/neurobite)shut**Where**: Iceland **How Long**: Multiple Day Hikes, Laugavegur Trail is 4 days **Description**: Colorful mountains, hot springs, hiking trails for miles – there is more than enough for you to do in Landmannalaugar. A cool 4 hour trip from Reykjavik, it is best reached with your own car, however in the summer there are busses from the capital. For a far complete list of hikes and treks, as well as ways to get there from different parts of Iceland, check out [EarthTrekkers](https://www.earthtrekkers.com/landmannalaugar-best-hikes-for-first-time-visitors/). Salkantay Trek ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/shutterstock_1115560520.jpg "shutterstock_1115560520 - Couchsurfing Blog")[GaudiLab](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/GaudiLab)shutterstock**Where**: Peru **How Long**: ~5 days **Description**: Want to trek to Machu Picchu from Cusco but didn’t book the Inca Trail in advance? The Salkantay Trek is your answer. A less touristy route, but just as beautiful, this trek will take you from 5-7 days and drop you off at the famous ruins. There are numerous tour companies in Cusco that can set this trek up for you, and it is open year round (unlike the Inca Trail which closes in February). Kedarkantha ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/shutterstock_1610282374.jpg "shutterstock_1610282374 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Dilchaspiyaan](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Dilchaspiyaan)shutterstock**Where**: Uttarakhand, India **How Long**: 6 days **Description**: Billed as one of the first summit climbs for beginners, this 6 day trek will take you to the summit of Kedarkantha Mountain, a 12,500 foot peak in the Himalayas. Check out [India Hikes](https://indiahikes.com/kedarkantha-trek/#gref) for information and tours for this life-changing summit. Annapurna Circuit Trek ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/shutterstock_655126330.jpg "shutterstock_655126330 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Pisit Rapitpunt](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/devilkae)shutterstock**Where**: Nepal **How Long**: 16-20 days **Description**: When I was in Nepal and asked the numerous trekkers at various hostels if they were recommend Annapurna or Everest Base Camp, the vast majority said Annapurna. I didn’t have time to do it on my trip, but everyone I have ever met who did this trek has whole-heartedly recommend it. And that is including two guys who went in the middle of winter and nearly got frostbite. Check out [TheCommonWanderer](https://www.thecommonwanderer.com/blog/things-to-know-annapurna-circuit-trek)‘s tips on the Annapurna Circuit Trek and start planning today! Ciudad Perdida, Colombia ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/shutterstock_530129302.jpg "shutterstock_530129302 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Scott Biales DitchTheMap](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Scott+Biales)shutterstock**Where**: Colombia **How Long**: ~4 days **Description**: Built 600 years before Machu Picchu, Ciudad Perdida (Teyuna to the Tairona people who inhabit the region and to whom the city was never ‘lost’) is accessible by a 28 mile trek through the jungle and up ~1200 stone stairs. [Atlas Obscura](https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/ciudad-perdida) has a great write up on the city itself and [AdventureAlan](https://www.adventurealan.com/guide-colombias-la-ciudad-perdida-trek-lost-city/#:~:text=Distance%3A%20About%2044%20km%20(28,1%2C150%20meters%2C%20around%203%2C800%20feet.) has some great trek-related resources. Theth to Valbona ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/shutterstock_154266695.jpg "shutterstock_154266695 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Lenar Musin](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/jahmaica)shutterstock**Where**: Albania **How Long**: 1 day **Description**: It is hard to describe just how beautiful this day hike is. The most common route is to start in Theth, a village about 3 hours from Shkoder, stay one night then spend a day hiking to Valbona. You will cross the most gorgeous views of the Albanian Alps that you could imagine and end up in the equally quaint town of Valbona where you can stay an additional night before catching a bus back to Shkoder. There are multiple treks that you can do in the Albanian Alps, but if you’re constrained for time or want a one day trek to get your feet wet, this is the one to do! [Travelsofabookpacker](https://www.travelsofabookpacker.com/blog/hiking-theth-valbona) has some great tips about their trip. Fairy Meadows ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/shutterstock_697606678.jpg "shutterstock_697606678 - Couchsurfing Blog")[WitSiri](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/wittraveller)shutterstock**Where**: Pakistan **How Long**: Day Hikes **Description**: Fairy Meadows itself is a mountain pasture in the Himalayas that is, by [Atlas Obscura’s](https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/fairy-meadows) description, extremely difficult and dangerous to reach. Once there you have a wide number of day hikes available to you or you can try your hand at summiting Nanga Parbat, the ninth-highest mountain in the world. Check out [Bucketlistly](https://www.bucketlistly.blog/posts/fairy-meadows-hiking-nanga-parbat-base-camp-pakistan#when-to-go) for some really stellar information on how to get to Fairy Meadows and some hike options! Fira to Oia ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/shutterstock_1248719905.jpg "shutterstock_1248719905 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Funny Solution Studio](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/stones)shutterstock**Where**: Santorini, Greece **How Long**: 3-5 hours **Description**: If you find yourself on Santorini and need a break from the stunning beaches and white washed houses, this easy day hike may be just want you need. Although the hike can technically be done in either direction, the Fira toward Oia route is mostly downhill and will give you stunning views of Oia to look forward to. Check out [EarthTrekkers](https://www.earthtrekkers.com/hike-fira-to-oia-or-oia-to-fira-santorini/) post on this beautiful hike. Vale do Pati ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/shutterstock_1122912818.jpg "shutterstock_1122912818 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Larissa Chilanti](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Larissa+Chilanti)shutterstock**Where**: Bahia, Brazil **How Long**: 4-7 days **Description**: A huge area that has hikes from 1 to 7 days, this is a gorgeous area in the Brazilian state of Bahia that should not be missed. [TravelsAuro](https://www.travelsauro.com/hiking-vale-do-pati/) has some great tips for treks of various lengths, and the route he took that wove through the most stunning parts of the valley. ##### Did we miss any? Tell us your favorite trek and what made it so incredible in the comments! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-best-treks-in-the-world-according-to-couchsurfers/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-best-treks-in-the-world-according-to-couchsurfers/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Advice --- ### [VIDEO: New Year's Eve Crash in Acapulco](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/new-years-eve-crash-in-acapulco/) **Published:** March 14, 2021 **Author:** Mike Joy **Content:** Working with the local officials, the Couchsurfing community in Acapulco hosted a New Year’s Eve CouchCrash. Given the challenges of the pandemic, the local authorities recommended that the community host all activities in open, ventilated spaces and they provided alcohol gel and masks for use by attendees. Additionally, the organizers limited attendees and respected the 30% capacity limit of any place and sanitized the places throughout the event. After the event, attendees self monitored and there were no reports of COVID infection. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/new-years-eve-crash-in-acapulco/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/new-years-eve-crash-in-acapulco/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Community Updates --- ### [The Best Travel Advice Couchsurfers Have Received](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-best-travel-advice-couchsurfers-have-received/) **Published:** March 19, 2021 **Author:** Mike Joy **Excerpt:** We asked the Couchsurfing Community what the best piece of Travel Advice they have ever received is. These are their answers... **Content:** ##### We asked the Couchsurfing Community what the best piece of Travel Advice they have ever received is. These are their answers… Pack Light ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/shutterstock_719628037.jpg "shutterstock_719628037 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Pinkyone](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Pinkyone)shutterstockBy far the most commented piece of advice was *Pack Light!* And we agree, it is great advice. Nothing is worse than having a heavy pack that you have to lug around and not even wearing half the things you brought. One wise Couchsurfer said, “When you think you have packed ONLY the strict minimum, cut it by half!” When it comes to clothing, whatever you forget you can probably get for relatively cheap on the road and unless you are going camping/trekking most gear is probably ultimately unnecessary. Talk to Locals ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/shutterstock_719149435.jpg "shutterstock_719149435 - Couchsurfing Blog")[ALPA PROD](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/ALPA+PROD)shutterstockThe second most commented advice was, “talk to locals!” And we could not agree more. Many of the best memories you make will not be the things you see but the people you meet. *“Turn your maps off and ask strangers for directions, for you might end up chatting and walking together towards the same destination.”* A simple smile may lead to a great conversation and some incredible recommendations. Even if they end up being a traveler, you may have just found a friend to check-out a touristic site with or someone to grab lunch with. Eat Local ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/shutterstock_312120278.jpg "shutterstock_312120278 - Couchsurfing Blog")[anurakss](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/anurakss)shutterstockOne of my favorite pieces of travel advice is, when looking for restaurants, choose somewhere that is packed with locals – that’s where the good, affordable, food is. Is this 100% true? No. But it has led to some pretty incredible meals in places that I could not even tell you the name of! Carry Cash ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/shutterstock_633332732.jpg "shutterstock_633332732 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Ruslan Galiullin](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/RuslanGaliullin)shutterstockThis is one that I apply to my day-to-day life but is especially important when traveling. It cannot be expected that everywhere accepts credit cards, and once you get outside of heavily touristed areas, cash is often king. I always try to make sure I have enough cash to carry me through a couple days (ATMs may also be in short supply!) and then use my card whenever possible. Conversely, if you’re traveling through a country where credit cards are the norm (like the USA) you may need to check that places accept cash since more and more places only accept ‘non-cash’ payment. A Couchsurfer made the great point of, *“Never exchange currency at an airport!”* and it is true. They often have the worst exchange rates and if you can get into town without cash, you can probably find better rates. Learn a bit of the Language ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/shutterstock_1231695409.jpg "shutterstock_1231695409 - Couchsurfing Blog")[CRS PHOTO](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/crshelare)shutterstockNo one expects you to become fluent in Korean or Hungarian for your two-week trip, but the locals will appreciate you making an effort and it will be a great conversation starter as they correct your pronunciation or try to teach you new words and phrases. Hearing you try to speak their language may even put them at ease in speaking their second (or third, or fourth) language! Buy a Local SIM Card ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/shutterstock_1602891145.jpg "shutterstock_1602891145 - Couchsurfing Blog")[AnnGaysorn](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/AnnGaysorn)shutterstockAnother common suggestion was to buy a local SIM card so you have a phone (and data!) in whatever country you’re traveling in. If you’re crossing borders often, or just want to be off the grid, this may not be for you – but many phone companies offer short-term plans for travelers and this may eliminate some unnecessary headaches on the road! Maps ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/shutterstock_1627990762.jpg "shutterstock_1627990762 - Couchsurfing Blog")[america stock](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Ortynskyi+Nazarii)shutterstockIt is a good idea to download a map for a place before you go – especially if you won’t have data on your phone. Maps.me and maps.google.com are both great options with offline options and may be life-savers. Although if you somehow forget to do this, don’t forget the advice given above, “*ask strangers for directions, for you might end up chatting and walking together towards the same destination.*“ Be… ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/shutterstock_674738533.jpg "shutterstock_674738533 - Couchsurfing Blog")[pixelrain](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/pixelrain)shutterstock“Be brave so you can discover the world, and be kind; surprising things are waiting for you!” “Be curious but smart…” “Be flexible. Do not plan too much, stay open to opportunities.” “Be Spontaneous!” The Transderm-Scop Patch ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/shutterstock_1115624918.jpg "shutterstock_1115624918 - Couchsurfing Blog")[TaraPatta](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/TaraPatta)shutterstockThe most specific piece of advice we received was regarding nausea and motion sickness. A Couchsurfer advised, “*wear a Transderm-Scop patch on your cruise. $47 saved my entire vacation. I would have had 5 days worth of pukey motion sickness.*” This is great advice if you are prone to motion sickness or have a long boat ride ahead of you. Even the least-nausea-prone of us has been on ferry in choppy waters and felt our head spinning and wishing we had some remedy. According to [WebMD](https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-14036/transderm-scop-transdermal/details) the Transderm-Scop Patch is the real deal and may be worth having in your pack just in case! From the Community ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/shutterstock_1159090963.jpg "shutterstock_1159090963 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Andrei Porzhezhinskii](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Andrei+Porzhezhinskii)shutterstock*“Come with high expectations for your experiences and it will motivate and inspire you to make these experiences! Overcome your inhibitions and face your fears! Try to trust as much as possible!”* *“Do things that are outside of your comfort zone when traveling! Thats how some experiences can change you from the inside forever.”* *“It’s never too late in life to travel, you don’t have to be young!”* *“Don’t invest time too much in planning, just hit the road and go with the flow!”* And Lastly… ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/shutterstock_796524724.jpg "shutterstock_796524724 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Anirut Thailand](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/anirut)shutterstockWe received MANY comments simply stating, “travel alone!” which is great advice if it is something you are comfortable doing (and maybe even if it is something you are uncomfortable doing…) but [@prekoel](https://www.instagram.com/prekoel/) said, *“once in a lifetime, travel somewhere only with your mum :)”* and that made me smile. So with that, go forth and explore! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-best-travel-advice-couchsurfers-have-received/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-best-travel-advice-couchsurfers-have-received/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Advice --- ### [The Top 10 Films That Inspire Couchsurfers to Travel](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-top-10-films-that-inspired-couchsurfers-to-travel/) **Published:** March 5, 2021 **Author:** Mike Joy **Content:** ##### We asked the Couchsurfing Community what films have inspired them to travel. Here are their top 10 answers! Into the Wild ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/220px-Into_the_Wild_2007_film_poster.png "220px-Into_the_Wild_2007_film_poster - Couchsurfing Blog")Into the WildWikipedia Our most mentioned movie is *Into the Wild*, based off the book of the same name. “After graduating from Emory University, top student and athlete Christopher McCandless abandons his possessions, gives his entire $24,000 savings account to charity and hitchhikes to Alaska to live in the wilderness. Along the way, Christopher encounters a series of characters that shape his life” ([IMDB](https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0758758/)). Now, I have not seen this movie, but I have read the book, which while excellent did not necessarily leave me wanting to follow in his footsteps – but I can see why burning everything you own and hitchhiking into the unknown is thrilling. Although many of you probably know how this ends (the book starts with the ending…), his life and travels were thrilling to read about and I can only imagine that this film captures his adventurous spirit perfectly. Eat Pray Love ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Eat_pray_love_ver2.jpg "Eat_pray_love_ver2 - Couchsurfing Blog")Eat Pray LoveWikipedia Another classic travel film based off a book. Starring the iconic Julia Roberts, *Eat Pray Love* is the story of, “A married woman \[that\] realizes how unhappy her marriage really is, and that her life needs to go in a different direction. After a painful divorce, she takes off on a round-the-world journey to “find herself”” ([IMDB](https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0879870/)). Her adventure takes her to Italy (Eat), India (Pray), and Bali (Love) and if you have (or want to) travel to Rome, an ashram in India or the countryside of Bali – this is your film! The cinematography is simply stunning and I can fully see why this has inspired our community to travel. Also, Julia Roberts can do no wrong – there, I said it. Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Zindagi_Na_Milegi_Dobara.jpg "Zindagi_Na_Milegi_Dobara - Couchsurfing Blog")Zindagi Na milegi DobaraWikipedia The first non-English film on our list, *Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara* is a Hindi-language film whose title translates to, ‘Life Doesn’t Come Again.’ The description states, “Three friends decide to turn their fantasy vacation into reality after one of their friends gets engaged.” ([IMDB](https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1562872/)) I tried to find a [trailer](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FJrpcDgC3zU) with English subtitles, but failed (if you know a link, drop it in the comments!), but from what I saw it seems to be the story of three friends who travel to Spain and do a variety of activities like scuba diving, skydiving, attend *[La Tomatina](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/La_Tomatina)* festival, visit *[Ronda](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ronda)*, and sing and dance with the locals. I’m going to take a guess that it is a musical (as there was an extended dance/song moment in the trailer.) It appears to be streaming on Netflix, so give me a few days to check it out and I will report back to you! The Beach ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/The_Beach_film.jpg "The_Beach_film - Couchsurfing Blog")The BeachWikipedia Oh, The Beach. This movie was… impactful on my life and I am both pleased and a little worried to see it so high on this list. “Vicenarian Richard travels to Thailand and finds himself in possession of a strange map. Rumours state that it leads to a solitary beach paradise, a tropical bliss. Excited and intrigued, he sets out to find it” ([IMDB](https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0163978/)). Starring a very young and incredibly handsome Leonardo DiCaprio if you’ve ever dreamt of discovering a hidden paradise, this movie is for you. In fact, a strong case could be made that this movie is the reason that I, and thousands of other young travelers, chose Thailand as one of their first backpacking destinations. (Many of the beach scenes were filmed in Maya Bay Beach in the Phi Phi Islands.) The Secret Life of Walter Mitty ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/81WY2UrilL.jpg "81WY2UrilL - Couchsurfing Blog")The Secret Life of Walter MittyAmazon This is the first film on this list that I thought I had seen, then watched the [trailer](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QD6cy4PBQPI&ab_channel=MovieclipsTrailers), and realized I had not in fact seen. As a big fan of Kristen Wiig, and an even bigger fan of the Of Monsters and Men song playing in the background, this trailer had me hooked from the beginning. It’s a little hard to tell what the movie is actually about from the trailer, as he floats through the air, tackles a coworker OUT a skyscraper window, and falls off a roof and into a New York City apartment (which as someone who lives in New York, seems unlikely if not impossible.) I would guess the film is a mix of fantasy and reality. Maybe like Eat, Pray, Love and Inception had a baby. The description on IMDB states, “When both he and a colleague are about to lose their job, Walter takes action by embarking on an adventure more extraordinary than anything he could have ever imagined” ([IMDB](https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0359950/)) so I think I was close. Also, it seems to be a remake of a [1947 movie](https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0039808/) – so if you’ve seen the 2013 version, you still have something to watch! The Motorcycle Diaries ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/The_Motorcycle_Diaries.jpg "The_Motorcycle_Diaries - Couchsurfing Blog")The Motorcycle DiariesWikipedia I have been meaning to read Che Guevara’s memoir, The Motorcycle Diaries, ever since seeing this film when it was released way back in 2004. Che, as highlighted in the first moments of the [trailer](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RWBsQArUkQY&ab_channel=MovieclipsClassicTrailers), is a polarizing figure, but his journey across Latin America in the early 1950s has inspired countless to set out with just a backpack and a dream. The film is described as, “the dramatization of a motorcycle road trip Che Guevara went on in his youth that showed him his life’s calling” ([IMDB](https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0318462/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0)). If you’re looking for some truly incredible shots of gorgeous South American landscapes, like the Atacama desert or Machu Picchu, then The Motorcycle Diaries will not disappoint! Under the Tuscan Sun ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/MV5BOGY5ZjQ4M2ItMjQ0NC00NjY4LWIwYmEtMTIxNzFmNjA4YmJlXkEyXkFqcGdeQXVyNDk3NzU2MTQ@._V1_.jpg "MV5BOGY5ZjQ4M2ItMjQ0NC00NjY4LWIwYmEtMTIxNzFmNjA4YmJlXkEyXkFqcGdeQXVyNDk3NzU2MTQ@._V1_ - Couchsurfing Blog")Under the Tuscan SunIMDB I love that Under the Tuscan Sun is our #7 most mentioned movie because my mother LOVED this movie when I was growing up and watching the [trailer](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aURoPYu_29w&ab_channel=TrailerChan) again it is easy to see why. Diane Lane? Kate Walsh? Sandra Oh? TUSCANY! What is there not to like? The description for the film states, “a writer impulsively buys a villa in Tuscany in order to change her life” ([IMDB](https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0328589/)) and that is a feeling I think many, if not all, of us can relate to right about now. I definitely don’t remember enough about this movie (like that she somehow ended up on a gay tour?) but what I do know is that I am immediately renting this and dreaming about buying one of those [*€1* houses](https://www.cnn.com/travel/article/italy-one-euro-homes-auctions-website/index.html) for sale in Italy. Also, if the trailer is any indication, Sandra Oh has some amazing one-liners that I am ready to hear, learn, and quote at my leisure. Neelakasham Pachakadal Chuvanna Bhoomi ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/NPCB_poster.jpg "NPCB_poster - Couchsurfing Blog")Neelakasham Pachakadal Chuvanna BhoomiWikipedia Next up on our list is Neelakasham Pachakadal Chuvanna Bhoomi which translates to Blue Skies, Green Waters, Red Earth. It was released in 2013 and is an Indian film in [Malayalam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Malayalam). The film is described as, “Kasi and Suni go for the ride from Kerala to Nagaland in search of Kasi’s girlfriend. En route, they encounter different people who change their lives forever” ([IMDB](https://www.imdb.com/title/tt3061202/?ref_=vp_back)). The trailer definitely has a *The* *Motorcycle Diaries* vibe but with a love story (or in-search of a lost love story) intertwined. As I haven’t seen this yet, I can’t say too much but any film that centers on a road trip is bound to have some stunning cinematography and Kerala is known for being an absolutely stunning part of India, so I am sold! Charlie ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Charlie_2015-Malayalam_film_poster.jpg "Charlie_2015-Malayalam_film_poster - Couchsurfing Blog")CharlieWikipedia Charlie (ചാർലി) is the ninth most mentioned film and our second Malayalam-language movie on the list. It also coincidentally has the same lead actor as Neelakasham Pachakadal Chuvanna Bhoomi ([Dulquer Salmaan](https://www.imdb.com/name/nm4921260/?ref_=tt_cl_t1))! I again struggled to find a [trailer](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g_YWMTeHzUw&ab_channel=mayurbaiju) with English subtitles, so it was a little hard to tell what the film is about, but the description online states, “a young, nonconforming woman named Tessa gets entangled in a cat-and-mouse chase in the by-lanes of Kerala, hunting for a mysterious artist who previously lived in her apartment” ([IMDB](https://www.imdb.com/title/tt5082014/?ref_=vp_back)). If I were to guess, this would be a more dramatic film than many of the previously mentioned movies, as the trailer does not seem to highlight the comedy of any of the situations, but again, I am mostly guessing (feel free to correct me in the comments!). As with the previous film, there are sure to be beautiful shots of Kerala and I caught at least two scenes that seemed to be of festivals, which always make me want to pack up my bag and travel immediately! Queen ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/51LYma0fsbL.jpg "51LYma0fsbL - Couchsurfing Blog")QueenAmazon The last of the 10 most mentioned movies is Queen, a 2013 comedy/drama in which, “a Delhi girl from a traditional family sets out on a solo honeymoon after her marriage gets canceled” ([IMDB](https://www.imdb.com/title/tt3322420/?ref_=vp_back)). The first scene of the trailer is of a girl sitting on a table, crying, as her best friend encourages her to drink and I immediately knew this would be a film I enjoy. I then found that same trailer with [English subtitles](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kj9jAHUIH_8&ab_channel=SagarThackar) and learned that she got dumped (the reason is unclear) and decides to go on her European honeymoon alone. After feeling sorry for herself on a bridge she apparently goes full early-20s-backpacker and has the epic European party holiday that dreams are made of. I have not seen this but was immediately nostalgic for when I studied abroad at 19 and thought I just didn’t get hangovers. Ah. Youth. Honorable Mention: The following films were submitted multiple times, but fell just short of the top 10: [A Map For Saturday](https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1024964/) “On a trip around the world, every day feels like Saturday. A MAP FOR SATURDAY reveals a world of long-term, solo travel through the stories of trekkers on four continents. The documentary finds backpackers helping neglected Thai tsunami victims. It explains why Nepal’s guesthouses are empty and Brazil’s stoplights are ignored. But at its core, SATURDAY tracks the emotional arc of extreme long-term travelers; teenagers and senior citizens who wondered, “What would it be like to travel the world?” Then did it” (IMDB). [Before Sunrise](https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0112471/) / [Before Sunset](https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0381681/) / [Before Midnight](https://www.imdb.com/title/tt2209418/) “Who would have thought that a ’90s ‘slacker’ independent filmmaker would make such a strong romantic statement? Well, it’s not all romance in the old sense. In what must be a project of love, [Richard Linklater](https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0000500/) examines the ongoing love life of Jesse & Céline, in three movies spread across eighteen years. The conversations are as free- flowing as are the cameras roaming through European back streets. Thanks to the commitment of [Julie Delpy](https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0000365/) and [Ethan Hawke](https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0000160/), the in-depth relationship seems real.” Titanic: An incredible movie for sure, but has actually made me never want to take a cruise” (IMDB). [Wild](https://www.imdb.com/title/tt2305051/) “A chronicle of one woman’s one thousand one hundred mile solo hike undertaken as a way to recover from a recent personal tragedy” (IMDB). [Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani](https://www.imdb.com/title/tt2178470/) “Kabir and Naina bond during a trekking trip. Before Naina can express herself, Kabir leaves India to pursue his career. They meet again years later, but he still cherishes his dreams more than bonds” (IMDB). [Seven Years in Tibet](https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0120102/) “True story of Heinrich Harrer, an Austrian mountain climber who became friends with the Dalai Lama at the time of China’s takeover of Tibet” (IMDB). [Captain Fantastic](https://www.imdb.com/title/tt3553976/) “In the forests of the Pacific Northwest, a father devoted to raising his six kids with a rigorous physical and intellectual education is forced to leave his paradise and enter the world, challenging his idea of what it means to be a parent” (IMDB). [The Darjeeling Limited](https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0838221/) “A year after their father’s funeral, three brothers travel across India by train in an attempt to bond with each other” (IMDB). [EuroTrip](https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0356150/) “Dumped by his girlfriend, a high school grad decides to embark on an overseas adventure in Europe with his friends” (IMDB). [L’auberge espagnole](https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0283900/) “A strait-laced French student moves into an apartment in Barcelona with a cast of six other characters from all over Europe. Together, they speak the international language of love and friendship” (IMDB). [WEIT. Die Geschichte von einem Weg um die Welt](https://www.imdb.com/title/tt6802522/) “Two young Germans spend three and a half years traveling around the world just by hitchhiking, bus, train and ship. They travel almost 100,000 kilometers through Europe, Asia, North and Central America” (IMDB). ##### Follow us on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/couchsurfing/) and [Twitter](https://www.twitter.com/couchsurfing/) to submit your answers to our next Community Question! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-top-10-films-that-inspired-couchsurfers-to-travel/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-top-10-films-that-inspired-couchsurfers-to-travel/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Stories --- ### [The Most Beautiful Beaches in the World According to Couchsurfers](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-most-beautiful-beaches-in-the-world-according-to-couchsurfers/) **Published:** March 12, 2021 **Author:** Mike Joy **Content:** ##### We asked the Couchsurfing Community what the most beautiful beach they’ve ever visited is. Here are their answers (divided by country to make it easier for you to plan your next trip!) Argentina [San Clemente del Tuyu](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g312757-San_Clemente_del_Tuyu_Province_of_Buenos_Aires_Central_Argentina-Vacations.html) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/shutterstock_1323800408.jpg "San,Clemente,Del,Tuyãº,,Buenos,Aires,Province,,Argentina,-,February, - Couchsurfing Blog")[NRuArg](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/NRuArgik)shutterstockAruba [Baby Beach](https://www.aruba.com/us/explore/baby-beach) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/shutterstock_1766269103.jpg "Amazing,Baby,Beach,And,Coast,On,Aruba,,Caribbean - Couchsurfing Blog")[Anhilator](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Anhilator)shutterstockBangladesh [Cox Bazar Beach](https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/coxs-bazar-beach) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/shutterstock_1010439880.jpg "Cox's,Bazar,,Bangladesh-january,01,,2016:,Participants,,Mostly,Youths,,Flying,Kites - Couchsurfing Blog")[Sk Hasan Ali](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Sk+Hasan+Ali)shutterstockBrazil [Arraial do Cabo](https://theculturetrip.com/south-america/brazil/articles/top-10-things-to-do-in-arraial-do-cabo/) (Rio de Janeiro) [Baía do Sancho](https://www.google.com/search?q=ba%C3%ADa+do+sancho&oq=Ba%C3%ADa+do+Sancho&aqs=chrome.0.0i355j46j0i22i30l6.625j0j4&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8) (Fernando de Noronha Island) [Jericoacoara](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g303297-d2391312-Reviews-Jericoacoara_Beach-Jericoacoara_Jijoca_de_Jericoacoara_State_of_Ceara.html) (Ceará) [Maracajau](https://www.viator.com/tours/Natal/Maracajau-from-Natal/d820-2484MARNAT) (Rio Grande do Norte) [Praia dos Lençóis](https://www.tripadvisor.com/LocationPhotoDirectLink-g2349553-i171705970-Santa_Cruz_Cabralia_State_of_Bahia.html) (Bahia) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/shutterstock_1048221337.jpg "Fernando,De,Noronha,,Brazil - Couchsurfing Blog")Praia do Sancho [Marcelo Alex](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/MarceloAlex)shutterstockCambodia [Koh Rong Samloem](https://www.alongdustyroads.com/posts/koh-rong-samloem-guide) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/shutterstock_1075886735.jpg "Aerial,Panorama,Of,Koh,Rong,And,Samloem,From,Koh,Koun - Couchsurfing Blog")[Tony Calandruccio](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/TonyCalandruccio)shutterstockColombia [San Andres Island](https://www.alongdustyroads.com/posts/things-to-know-san-andres) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/shutterstock_355962848.jpg "Island,Surrounded,By,Crystal,Blue,Water,In,San,Andres,,Colombia - Couchsurfing Blog")[Marconi Couto](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/MarconiCouto)shutterstockCyprus [Nissi Beach](https://nissi-beach.com/) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/shutterstock_1166442301.jpg "Nissi,Beach,In,Ayia,Napa,,Clean,Aerial,Photo,Of,Famous - Couchsurfing Blog")[Fluieras Ana Cristina](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/fluierasAnaCristina)shutterstockGreece [Myrtos Beach](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g189457-d645368-Reviews-Myrtos_Beach-Cephalonia_Ionian_Islands.html) (Cyphalonia) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/shutterstock_721120369.jpg "Sunset,At,Famous,Myrtos,Beach,-,Kefalonia,-,Greece - Couchsurfing Blog")[Piotr Krzeslak](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/kwasny221)shutterstockIceland [Reynisfjara](https://guidetoiceland.is/travel-iceland/drive/reynisfjara) (Black Sand Beach) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/shutterstock_1137658721.jpg "Majestic,Place,Of,The,Stormy,Atlantic,Ocean.,Basalt,Rocks,"troll - Couchsurfing Blog")[Creative Travel Projects](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/leonidtit)shutterstockIndia [Ghogla Beach](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g297601-d2572912-Reviews-Ghogla_Beach-Diu_Diu_Island_Diu_District_Daman_and_Diu.html) (Diu) [Cavelossim Beach](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g775971-d1751661-Reviews-Cavelossim_Beach-Cavelossim_South_Goa_District_Goa.html) (Goa) [Cola Beach](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g306996-d1961535-Reviews-Cola_Beach-Canacona_South_Goa_District_Goa.html) (Goa) [Kudle Beach](https://www.thrillophilia.com/attractions/kudle-beach) (Gokarna) [Kuzhuppilly Beach](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g13451998-Kuzhuppilly_Vypin_Island_Kochi_Cochin_Ernakulam_District_Kerala-Vacations.html) (Kerala) [Nivati Beach](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g19845564-d3705744-Reviews-Nivati_Beach-Nivati_Sindhudurg_District_Maharashtra.html) (Nivati) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/shutterstock_230570212.jpg "Cola,Beach,,South,Goa,,India - Couchsurfing Blog")Cola Beach Goa [Dimos](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/rvc5pogod)shutterstockIndonesia [Nusa Penida](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g2538506-d447062-Reviews-Nusa_Penida_Island-Nusa_Penida_Bali.html) (Bali) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/shutterstock_518868568.jpg "Rock,Coastline.,Stone,Arch,Over,The,Sea.,Broken,Beach,,Nusa - Couchsurfing Blog")[Igor Tichonow](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Galjan)shutterstockIran [Lavan Island Beach](https://www.irandestination.com/lavan-island/) (Lavan) [Marjan Beach](https://travital.com/attraction/marjan-beach-of-kish-coral-beach-kish/) (Kish) [Red Beach](https://www.adventuresoflilnicki.com/hormuz-island-guide-iran/) (Hormuz) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/shutterstock_1730649037.jpg "Spectacular,Scenic,View,Of,Red,Beach,On,Iranian,Hormuz,Island - Couchsurfing Blog")Red Beach Hormuz Island [Andrea Lehotska](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Andrea+Lehotska)shutterstockIreland [Trá Gheal](https://www.irishtimes.com/life-and-style/travel/go-walk-inishbofin-1.2218283) (Inishbofin) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/shutterstock_1730260597.jpg "Small,Empty,Beach,With,Calm,Blue,Water,Between,Rocky,Hills - Couchsurfing Blog")[Foto Para Ti](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Foto+Para+Ti)shutterstockIsrael [Eilat City Beach](https://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/travel/instead-of-busy-tel-aviv-try-eilat-for-a-calmer-quieter-beach-vacation-in-israel/2019/09/05/92f60646-c5f6-11e9-9986-1fb3e4397be4_story.html) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/shutterstock_1019549344.jpg "Central,Public,Beach,And,Marina,In,Eilat,-,Famous,Resort - Couchsurfing Blog")[Sergei25](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/gorshkov13)shutterstockJapan [Okinawa](https://matcha-jp.com/en/3641) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/shutterstock_762676993.jpg "Miyakojima,Island,Landscape,okinawa,japan. - Couchsurfing Blog")Miyakojima island [yuri ss](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/yuri-s)shutterstockJordan [Aqaba Beach](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298101-d2366688-Reviews-South_Beach-Aqaba_Al_Aqabah_Governorate.html) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/shutterstock_1462439480.jpg "Aqaba,,Jordan,-,November,6,,2017:,People,Relaxing,On,The - Couchsurfing Blog")[byvalet](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/tretyakov)shutterstockMexico [Balandra](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g150771-d1067272-Reviews-Balandra_Beach-La_Paz_Baja_California.html) (Baja California Sur) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/shutterstock_1599749896.jpg "Amazing,Aerial,View,Of,The,Bay,Of,Balandra,In,Baja - Couchsurfing Blog")[FernandoAlcantara](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Fernando_Alcantara)shutterstockNorway [Bremanger](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g2421845-Activities-Bremanger_Municipality_Sogn_og_Fjordane_Western_Norway.html) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/shutterstock_1551491630.jpg "Hornelen,(highest,Sea,Cliff,In,Europe),Is,A,Mountain,In - Couchsurfing Blog")[A Aleksandravicius](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/nejaunet)shutterstockPhilippines [Boracay Beach](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g294260-Boracay_Malay_Aklan_Province_Panay_Island_Visayas-Vacations.html) (Boracay) [Nacpan](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g294256-d4227525-Reviews-Nacpan_Beach-El_Nido_Palawan_Island_Palawan_Province_Mimaropa.html) (El Nido) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/shutterstock_641355409.jpg "Aerial,View,Of,Boracay,Island,,Western,Visayas,,Philippines. - Couchsurfing Blog")[RM Nunes](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/RMNunes)shutterstockSpain [Can Picafort](https://www.seemallorca.com/beaches/can-picafort-beach-can-picafort-686047) (Mallorca) [Ibiza](https://www.planetware.com/spain/top-rated-beaches-in-ibiza-e-1-27.htm) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/shutterstock_200010305.jpg "Mallorca,,Can,Picafort,,Aerial,Shot,City,,Beach,And,Sea - Couchsurfing Blog")Can Picafort [luchschenF](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/luchschen)shutterstockThailand [Koh Larn](https://www.kohlarn.com/) [Koh Chang](https://iamkohchang.com/) [Silver Beach (Koh Samui) ](http://www.kosamui.com/beaches/silver-beach.htm) [Krabi](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g297927-Krabi_Town_Krabi_Province-Vacations.html) [Phang Nga Bay](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1152716-d317707-Reviews-Phang_Nga_Bay-Ao_Phang_Nga_National_Park_Phang_Nga_Province.html) [Phi Phi Islands](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1152716-d317707-Reviews-Phang_Nga_Bay-Ao_Phang_Nga_National_Park_Phang_Nga_Province.html) [Similan Islands](https://www.phuket101.net/similan-islands/) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/shutterstock_195245255.jpg "Silver,Beach,,Crystal,Beach,Beach,View,At,Koh,Samui,Island - Couchsurfing Blog")Silver Beach Koh Samui [Maxim Tupikov](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/13th)shutterstockTurkey [Ölüdeniz](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298031-d552746-Reviews-Oludeniz-Fethiye_Mugla_Province_Turkish_Aegean_Coast.html) (Fethiye) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/shutterstock_699964363.jpg "Amazing,Aerial,View,Of,Blue,Lagoon,In,Oludeniz,,Turkey.,Summer - Couchsurfing Blog")[Denis Belitsky](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Denis+Belitsky)shutterstockUAE [Dalma Island](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g294013-d12377401-Reviews-Dalma_Island-Abu_Dhabi_Emirate_of_Abu_Dhabi.html) (Abu Dhabi) [Jumeirah](https://www.jumeirah.com/en) (Dubai) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/shutterstock_694684642.jpg "An,Artificial,Jumeirah,Palm,Island,On,Sea,,Dubai,,United,Arab - Couchsurfing Blog")Jumeirah Island [Andrey Popov](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/apops)shutterstockUSA [Venice Beach](https://www.laparks.org/venice) (California) [Destin](https://www.visitflorida.com/en-us/cities/destin.html) (Florida) [Miami Beach](https://www.miamibeachfl.gov/) (Florida) [Ka’a’awa Beach](https://www.to-hawaii.com/oahu/beaches/kaaawabeachpark.php) (Hawaii) [Waikiki Beach](https://www.hawaii-guide.com/oahu/beaches/waikiki-beach) (Hawaii) [Virginia Beach](https://www.visitvirginiabeach.com/) (Virginia) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/shutterstock_581316511.jpg "Waikiki,Beach,And,Diamond,Head,,Honolulu,,Oahu,Island,,Hawaii - Couchsurfing Blog")Waikiki Beach [aines](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/aines32)shutterstock### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-most-beautiful-beaches-in-the-world-according-to-couchsurfers/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-most-beautiful-beaches-in-the-world-according-to-couchsurfers/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Advice, Stories --- ### [Meet Francesco!](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/meet-francesco/) **Published:** March 7, 2021 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** “I love travelling and I’m pretty curious. I really enjoy listening to the stories and journeys of other people, where they have been, how they have been, those they have met. I practice several sports, especially those related to the sea. I love the sea, it’s my habitat. It’s like a best friend, it gives me energy and relaxes me, always helps me when I feel sad or disappointed. When it’s angry it shows you all its power and raises your adrenaline. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/88ba3f41-760b-4706-84be-cd5a38f71ea6-Francesco-Mattiuzzi.jpg "88ba3f41-760b-4706-84be-cd5a38f71ea6-Francesco-Mattiuzzi - Couchsurfing Blog")Since I was born boredom was my worst enemy! A daily routine is poison to me and hosting people from all around the world or being hosted is the antidote! The world is so rich with interesting souls, so why shouldn’t I meet them? Meeting new exciting people, living new experiences and adventures, all of this feeds and excites me. My mantra is: Be curious, be hungry (to discover) and CARPE DIEM! ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/79bb1b8b-50f2-4e08-98de-0c876c0522c5-Francesco-Mattiuzzi.jpg "79bb1b8b-50f2-4e08-98de-0c876c0522c5-Francesco-Mattiuzzi - Couchsurfing Blog")My favorite memory on Couchsurfing was a dinner with my two best polish girl friends and my friends. It was a crazy night and I felt truly happy. Couchsurfing changed my life for the better. This community made me a better person and taught me many things about life and I’m fully grateful for that. In this community I found the type of people I was looking for for many years of my life: travellers, brave, open minde ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/9683145a-4431-4c02-a240-1346d106cfe0-Francesco-Mattiuzzi.jpg "9683145a-4431-4c02-a240-1346d106cfe0-Francesco-Mattiuzzi - Couchsurfing Blog")### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/meet-francesco/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/meet-francesco/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Meet a Host --- ### [Couchsurfing: A 2020 Story](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-a-2020-story/) **Published:** February 22, 2021 **Author:** Mike Joy **Content:** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/couchsurfingmadridpicnic.28-09-19-68-1.jpg "couchsurfingmadridpicnic.28-09-19-68-1 - Couchsurfing Blog")In spite of the challenges that 2020 brought, the Couchsurfing team was able to accomplish some pretty amazing things that we want to share with our community. The Couchsurfing team is a small, tight-knit group, with about 18 full-time and part-time employees and contractors ranging from engineers to support and safety team members. As a team, we worked on the following projects in 2020 with the goal of improving our website and app so that we could continue to connect the largest and most passionate group of travelers in the world! ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/C6062275-F0C6-49AF-88EE-162FE37C163E-1.jpeg "C6062275-F0C6-49AF-88EE-162FE37C163E-1 - Couchsurfing Blog")Product & Data On the Product and Data side, these were the areas we made some big changes: - Improved our email marketing system to better communicate with our community members about exciting changes and updates. - Developed analytics solutions to help make the platform a safer place for the entire community. - Began proactively surveying our community and hosting virtual discussions with members so that we can learn from you the things that are impacting your Couchsurfing experience directly. We look forward to providing our community with these exciting new features, and of course hearing from you about how we did. To start, if you have any direct feedback please feel free to email . ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/FB_IMG_1607048772855-1.jpg "FB_IMG_1607048772855-1 - Couchsurfing Blog")Engineering Our small (yet mighty!) engineering team here at Couchsurfing was able to put out 72 releases. That is a lot of releases! “What were these releases?” you may be asking yourself, here are a few of the most notable ones: - The most obvious, and important change was the introduction of Couchsurfing Contributions as a response to the COVID-19 pandemic. This was a large task that was necessary due the fact that our revenue was severely impacted due to the travel bans around the world. With less revenue coming in from members purchasing Verification, we needed to build a Contribution subscription that would stabilize the company and ensure that we would be able to finance our operations for the foreseeable future. - Modernized our email template structure. This makes it easier for us to update the emails we send out to you, including email notifications, and helps keep you all informed of things like when you receive a message or friend request. - Updated our Cookie Consent feature to ensure that we continued to be in compliance with GDPR guidelines. - Improved our Support Team interface to ensure that they were able to follow up on your issues and questions without too much back-and-forth. - Added Apple Sign-In to the iOS app. - Modernized our back-end notifications so when things go wrong, we know ASAP and can fix it with minimal disruption to you all. Many of these things may seem small or inconsequential but with a complex back-end and a large community of users, some of these little updates are extremely important to keep you all connecting with each other and sharing life-changing experiences. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/CSC_3054.jpg "CSC_3054 - Couchsurfing Blog")Safety & Support The Trust & Safety Team has been dedicated to ensuring that your safety is our priority, even when you aren’t traveling. You may not know it, but there is a lot going on in the background to make sure you feel comfortable using Couchsurfing. The support team is available 24/7 and in 2020 they interacted with over 100K requests sent in by members. It’s also important to us that we monitor the website for abuse, and cease violating activity before you see it. One of the tools that helps us accomplish this is our risk scoring database. This database uses machine learning to evaluate interactions and alert our team of suspicious behavior. This helps us protect your account and prevent scams from occurring. All members agree to abide by our Terms of Use and Community Guidelines when they join, which helps us ensure that all members are held to a high standard of conduct. In 2020, we saw a surge of virtual events and our team realized we needed to update some of our event guidelines. We worked hard to craft an interim policy that supported the new way our community was connecting. We are committed to evolving and changing as we adapt to shifts in the accessibility and safety of travel. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/IMG-20200209-WA0023_2.jpg "IMG-20200209-WA0023_2 - Couchsurfing Blog")Community We also added about 240 new Ambassadors to the Couchsurfing Ambassador program. If you don’t know about the Couchsurfing Ambassador program, you can read more about it [here](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-ambassadors/), but it is home to 750 of our most dedicated and enthusiastic Couchsurfers who work tirelessly to improve and grow their local communities. We are incredibly proud and thankful for our Ambassadors and are honored to have had them supporting us throughout 2020. Our Community and Social Team was hard at work highlighting the experiences (and oftentimes memories!) from Couchsurfers all over the world. Sure, there were many throwbacks (and not just on Thursdays!) but on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook we were able to share all of the incredible memories Couchsurfers have made with each other. 2020 has been a great time to reflect back on all the adventures and connections we’ve made through Couchsurfing and we were honored to share these on our social media channels. We are looking forward to 2021 and all of the adventures and connections it will bring! ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/image07.jpeg "DCIM0GOPRO\GOPR0823.JPG - Couchsurfing Blog")### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-a-2020-story/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-a-2020-story/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** News --- ### [Meet Henky!](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/meet-henky/) **Published:** February 28, 2021 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** My name is Henky, I am an Indonesian living a a town called Tasikmalaya with my better half and my blue eyed-boy and our Labrador called Winter. I found information on Couchsurfing from a newspaper, the moment I finished reading it I said to myself “this is it.” I liked the concept it had to offer, it didn’t take a long time for me to join. To many people couchsurfing seemed so risky but I was sure bad thing could happen whenever and wherever you’re. I always believe in good karma. The more people i meet the wider my horizon opens, before i joined couchsurfing I had always had bad image on people from certain area of the world, but Couchsurfing proved me wrong! I have become more open minded, each person i met has taught me lesson on life! Gracias! ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/cs1-IL-Padrino.jpg "cs1-IL-Padrino - Couchsurfing Blog")I work by teaching English. I’m married and we have a kid who’s already become a youth. My wife and I are kind of people who like languages and traveling, for us by opening our door to foreigners and let them stay with us is our own way of traveling, we bring the world into our house! What’s important to me is surely my family, and I’ve a thirst for meeting people from around the globe. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/cs2-IL-Padrino.jpg "cs2-IL-Padrino - Couchsurfing Blog")Couchsurfing really bridges me to meet the world, to get more knowledge from the first hand and to make me a better version of me. I’ve a lot of memories through couchsurfing. One of my favorite people I’ve met so far is a Catalan couple. I didn’t know anything about Catalan culture before this couple opened up my mind about their culture, it’s amazing to know their music, their culture, their food and their dynamism. Couchsurfing has made me have an open mind, that’s very important to me, I don’t judge people from their look. From couchsurfing I have learned to respect difference, and I have learned to judge something from different point of view. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/cs3-IL-Padrino.jpg "cs3-IL-Padrino - Couchsurfing Blog")### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/meet-henky/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/meet-henky/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Meet a Host --- ### [Conoce a Giancarlo!](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/conoce-a-giancarlo/) **Published:** February 21, 2021 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** Mi historia con Couchsurfing empieza en enero del 2017 cuando Matko, mi amigo croata, me cuenta sobre una comunidad que ofrece experiencias increíbles y únicas que se comparten entre viajeros de todo el mundo. Es así como Couchsurfing llegó a mi vida y desde ese momento en adelante no he dejado de vivir y disfrutar de estas estas experiencias. He conocido grandes amigos, hermanos de distintas culturas, he compartido viajes y he vivido cada instante como una experiencia que ha dejado siempre huella en mi corazón. Couchsurfing me abrió las puertas a otras realidades y a través de ellos no solo aprendí que el mundo es más grande de lo que parece y que allá afuera hay gente con alma y corazón únicos dispuestos a ayudar sino que también pude descubrir nuevas culturas y aprender nuevos idiomas y costumbres. Mi vida cambió totalmente y pude entender que Couchsurfing es “compartir y cuidar” ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/1-Giancarlo-Goicochea.jpg "1-Giancarlo-Goicochea - Couchsurfing Blog")Nací en Piura, una provincia fronteriza al norte del Peru en el límite con Ecuador, una ciudad cálida no solo con su clima conocido como el verano eterno (temperatura mínima en invierno es de 18°C y en verano 40°) sino por la alegría y hospitalidad de su gente, una ciudad llena de cultura y que fue la primera ciudad fundada por los españoles en el Pacífico Sur en 1532. Como toda típica familia latinoamericana mi casa es grande y vivimos todos juntos; papá, mamá, hermanos, tíos, primos y sobrinos formando un ambiente lleno siempre de alegría y bulla, de risas y siempre de mesas llenas en el almuerzo y la cena. Este ambiente me enseñó desde pequeño que una de las cosas más importantes de la vida es compartir, que no importa lo que suceda ni los problemas siempre y cuando tengas el soporte de la gente que te quiere: la familia y amigos. Mis padres nos enseñaron desde pequeños el respeto y los valores de familia. Yo soy ingeniero civil de profesión, tengo una maestría en Dirección de Proyectos de Construcción y me desempeño en el sector construcción como ingeniero residente y/o supervisor dependiendo del proyecto. Además de ello, junto a mi familia hace 2 años empezamos a desarrollar actividades de agricultura y tenemos dos proyectos de voluntariado: una granja ecológica a las afueras de la ciudad de Piura y una finca de café organico en la selva alta de Peru, en San Ignacio, Cajamarca. Estos dos proyectos nos han permitido compartir experiencias con chicos voluntarios de todo el mundo. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/2-Giancarlo-Goicochea.jpg "2-Giancarlo-Goicochea - Couchsurfing Blog")Cuando descubrí Couchsurfing y entendí el mensaje que trasmitía a través de su comunidad, quedé enamorado del significado y de todo lo que esto conlleva. Entendí que hay muchas maneras en la vida para trascender siendo esta una de ellas. A partir de ese momento mi vida cambió. Uno de los recuerdos más memorables, emocionantes y agradables que tengo con Couchsurfing es haber convivido con un grupo de 28 viajeros de distintas nacionalidades, todos varados en Yurimaguas, un pueblo en la selva inhóspita del Amazonas de Perú por un mes al inicio de la pandemia por Covid-19 en marzo del 2020. Vivir con ellos, entender sus costumbres, intercambiar cultura y aprender idiomas mientras esperábamos que la situación mejore y con muchas alegrías y juegos de por medio, y sí también muchas cervezas ha sido quizás la mejor experiencia que he tenido hasta ahora. Soy feliz cada vez que recuerdo esos días ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/4-Giancarlo-Goicochea.jpg "4-Giancarlo-Goicochea - Couchsurfing Blog")En mi vida existe un “antes de Couchsurfing” y un “después de Couchsurfing”. Es decir, Couchsurfing cambió mi vida para bien ya que a través de ellos he podido ver la vida desde otra perspectiva, un punto de vista más amplio en todo sentido, a través de ellos he sido capaz de entender y sobre todo comprender que cada uno de nosotros es un ser único e irrepetible y cada uno de nosotros tiene un mundo en el corazón y en la mente y que mientras más aprendamos de nosotros mismos y nuestras experiencias más sencillos y más humanos nos volvemos. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/conoce-a-giancarlo/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/conoce-a-giancarlo/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Meet a Host --- ### [“I was in Liberia for 15 years”](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/bill/) **Published:** February 25, 2021 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** ##### *Brandon Clifton spent two weeks driving up the east coast staying with Couchsurfing hosts. His goal: Interview, photograph and get to know them in order to tell their stories.* And then there was Bill… a kind-hearted war veteran, CEO of multiple companies, Vice President of United Healthcare and long time volunteer for the Red Cross. And when I say long time, I mean he once volunteered for a consecutive 13 months abroad during a major hurricane that completely wiped out an entire community. Being abroad is nothing new to Bill. He lived in Africa for 14 years. Originally from Baycity, Michigan, Bill found his way across the world eventually settling and making Charleston, South Carolina his home. If being in the military, running a few companies and volunteering for the Red Cross isn’t enough, he also spent years of his life hosting exchange students from all over the world, most of which he still stays in contact with today. ​While chatting over dinner, I noticed he had tons of flags lying around and asked him why he had so many flags in his home. His response was heartwarming. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/20210123-_G4A5587.jpg "20210123-_G4A5587 - Couchsurfing Blog")“When I had an exchange student from Barcelona, he used to get homesick, and on certain holidays I would fly a US flag, but then I got a second flag and started flying the Spanish flag to help him. Now he was from Barcelona, which means he’s Catalon, so he didn’t really like the Spanish flag as much as the Catalon flag, but it worked out. Now to make the future exchange students feel welcome, I started buying their country’s flag and now have over 45 flags. So whoever comes to visit, I will fly their national flag.” This led into conversations about his time hosting exchange students and what he loved most about it. He mentioned​, ​”I learned about the world through the exchange students.” Eventually deciding to stop living vicariously through his exchange students, he embarked on his own journey across the world. He was 45 when he first set out to find a job abroad. He eventually settled in Liberia working as the speech writer for the President of Liberia and then as the Lutheran Missionary for Phebe Hospital. “I was in Liberia for 15 years. 9 years as the Senior Adviser to the Minister of Health and then 5.5 years as the Lutheran Missionary at the Phebe Hospital. This was a country that when I arrived, it was in the 12th year of a 14 year civil war. During the 5.5 years I was at the hospital, we evacuated 3 times. The hospital was overrun. It was a 200 bed hospital. We averaged a census of about 250 people a night in the hospital, so people sort of stuck two in a bed, even under the beds. The pediatric ward had children in it and we had regular beds that we would lay 3 kids sideways in, but they were so malnourished. We never turned anyone away. We would always serve them, but it was tough. It was really tough. We had a malnutrition ward where we would take the kids. They were only skin over bones, there was no muscle, there was nothing. And so I think it was like January or February, we had an outbreak of measles that went through that ward and I think we lost about 10 or 11 kids a night. It was terrible. I had mass graves dug, so that we could bury people on a daily basis.” ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/20210123-_G4A5450-1.jpg "20210123-_G4A5450-1 - Couchsurfing Blog")The stories he shared of his time in Africa were heartbreaking, yet captivating and showed the strength of humanity. The conversation then turned from his time in Africa to his time volunteering for the American Red Cross. “The most rewarding event that I ever participated in with the Red Cross was the day I got a call and they wanted a Red Cross relocation officer, which was what I was doing, and they said, ‘we have a family photo album with wedding pictures and all this other stuff for this woman. We assume she left it on the bus when she was evacuated from New Orleans.’ But they didn’t know where she was. So the Red Cross has a family reunification unit. I worked with that and I found this woman, got a phone number and called her. I said who I was and said, ‘they have found a photo album that has your name in it, do you know about the photo album?’ The woman started crying and said that was the only thing she had left other than the clothes on her back when she evacuated New Orleans and somehow it got left on the bus.” We decided to take a stroll along the beach and while doing so, I learned of more stories from his travels abroad. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/20210124-_G4A5685.jpg "20210124-_G4A5685 - Couchsurfing Blog")“One of the most enjoyable meals I’ve ever had in my life was just north of Sicily, on the island of Vulcano. It was a small restaurant across from the place I was staying in. It probably had 8 or 9 tables and 6 of the tables were pushed together for a family that was eating. I was alone at a single table and before my food came, they waved me over to join them at their table. I spoke no Italian, they spoke no English. But it was one of the most enjoyable conversations I’ve ever had and what I found was, the reason for meals in Italy is for family and friends and good food is just expected. I probably laughed more during that meal than any other meal but it was great.” “I like to talk, but I have learned that you’ve got to listen. It is so important. Even if you want to influence a situation in which you assume you know what is best, you must listen first or else no one’s going to be influenced by you.” Staying with strangers may seem daunting at first, but after arriving at Bill’s home, I knew this was going to be an eye opening experience. There was a difference in age of about 50 years or so, but after a few minutes of conversation our age differences suddenly melted away as we exchanged stories about life. If there’s any lesson you should take away from Bill’s story, it’s this. It’s not too late to pursue your dreams and live the life you’ve always dreamed of. Bill was 45 when he first started traveling the world and to this day he’s still going strong. He loves planning trips and meeting new people, something I found out when he took me in with such kindness and treated me as a five star guest in his home. ​Keep in mind, these people don’t know me, but welcomed me with such hospitality, going out of their way to accommodate a total stranger. If that doesn’t reflect the couchsurfing community, I don’t know what does. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/bill/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/bill/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Stories --- ### [“I believe there are reasons we all come together”](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/i-believe-there-are-reasons-we-all-come-together/) **Published:** February 18, 2021 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** ##### *Brandon Clifton spent two weeks driving up the east coast staying with Couchsurfing hosts. His goal: Interview, photograph and get to know them in order to tell their stories.* I’m Brandon Clifton, an Atlanta based portrait photographer and I tried couchsurfing for the first time ever. After a stagnant 2020, I made the bold decision to try new things, be adventurous and push myself to shoot new projects that were meaningful to me. So, I planned an ambitious east coast road trip from Atlanta to DC where I would stay with total strangers in their homes, photograph them and tell their stories. Skeptical and a little nervous at first, I pushed on and discovered something new in myself during each stay. What I found along the way were beautiful people sharing stories of humanity, hope and perseverance in a time where positivity is needed now more than ever. Over the next five posts, I’ll be sharing my personal experience with each host, showcasing who they are and telling their story. That being said, first up was Kirsten and her daughter Sylvie. I remember pulling up to Kirsten’s house around dusk. There appeared to be no lights on in the house except for a second floor window to which I saw a girl staring out at me (it looked like something straight out of a horror movie). Instantly, I considered bailing and getting a hotel. I think back to that night with amusement because as soon as the girl from the window came out to meet me, all my fears dissipated and I quickly realized I was in the company of highly intellectual like minded people. The girl in the window was Kirsten’s daughter, Sylvie, a vibrant 23 year old grad student who studied anthropology while in Lebanon. Kirsten was on a bike ride, but arrived soon after my arrival. To my surprise she was just as vibrant, hilarious and thoughtful. After brief introductions, we began sharing stories about life and Couchsurfing. She often talked about how couchsurfers who stay with her are brought by fate. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/20210122-_G4A5328-Edit.jpg "20210122-_G4A5328-Edit - Couchsurfing Blog")“I believe there are reasons we all come together. My second couchsurfer, his name was Julian, he came here and just hung out and extended his stay for a couple of days because he liked it so much here. He was from Woodstock, New York where my ex husband grew up and it turned out that his grandmother was really good friends with my ex husband’s grandmother. And then a guy I met on a bike trail, Richard just moved here from Woodstock, and has a coffee shop in town, so I took Julian in and introduced them and it turns out Julian’s sister went to high school with Richard. It was just this unfolding, but Julian, he just enjoyed being here. He was doing some online classes so he just hung out and did his classes. It was so lovely to have him here. I can’t imagine not wanting to have people here. And I feel like the people that find you are the people that were supposed to find you and that’s what it’s all about. It’s a trusting of letting the universe map it out for you.” “Another guy I had here, he was here for work. He was a musician. It turns out that his father grew up one town away from my grandparent’s farm in Canton, Minnesota. His dad was from Harmony which is right next to Canton and we’re talking small. So that was a weird thing. The first person I hosted was from North Dakota which is where my parents are from. There are people that seek you out for no reason but you also accept them because there’s a story there and I truly love connecting people. I love bringing people together. I love opening up my home and embracing them.” ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/20210122-_G4A5357.jpg "20210122-_G4A5357 - Couchsurfing Blog")“I grew up ice skating and we took in what we called “boarders” so since I was six years old I’ve had people living in my house that weren’t family. I was the youngest of three kids but I’m nine years older than my next sibling, so I was almost like an only child, but I always had all these people living in my house. And some of those people were year round and some of them were just every summer so we could end up with like three to five skaters being in my house at any given time.” There was a moment while photographing Kirsten that I asked if being photographed was distracting or a weird experience for her. I think she was being nice and sparing my feelings by saying she didn’t mind it, but pointed out that the real moments in life are when it’s just two people engaging in conversation, sharing stories and there are no phones, no cameras and no distractions. I thought that was beautifully put and totally agree, however it didn’t stop me in trying to capture the essence of the person I was photographing. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/20210122-_G4A5266.jpg "20210122-_G4A5266 - Couchsurfing Blog")As the hours passed, any initial fears or hesitations quickly disappeared as I realized I was in the presence of amazing company. It’s a bizarre experience being thrown into someone’s life, getting to know them, their families all within a short period of time. In a sense you become part of their family for the short time you’re with them. I didn’t realize how much I needed to meet Kirsten and Sylvie until I did. It was cathartic being able to share our lives, goals and ambitions with one another. I thought to myself, “I must have gotten lucky with this first host” and was expecting it to go downhill from there. To my surprise, every stop along the way was equally as interesting and exciting as the last. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/i-believe-there-are-reasons-we-all-come-together/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/i-believe-there-are-reasons-we-all-come-together/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Stories --- ### [“Life growing up was pretty simple back in India”](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/life-growing-up-was-pretty-simple-back-in-india/) **Published:** March 4, 2021 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** ##### *Brandon Clifton spent two weeks driving up the east coast staying with Couchsurfing hosts. His goal: Interview, photograph and get to know them in order to tell their stories.* My next Couchsurfing host was a guy similar in age to me and goes by the name, “Krupa,” probably because everyone seems to botch his real name, Krupanidhi. I stayed with him and his girlfriend, Emma, in downtown Wilmington, North Carolina. Krupa and Emma were so laid back and easygoing. We literally stayed up late each night watching episode after episode of Catchfish. I felt so comfortable in their presence; I’d often joke about being the third roommate. Before long, we started taking photos and sharing stories. I asked him about his first experience on Couchsurfing. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/20210125-_G4A5803.jpg "20210125-_G4A5803 - Couchsurfing Blog")“My first experience as a couchsurfer would be back in India when I first discovered couchsurfing. I hadn’t couchsurfed anywhere, but used it as a way to show people around the city. For me, couchsurfing started as a way of meeting people, making new friends. Being an introvert, I haven’t been to a lot of places to meet people, but couchsurfing gave me the opportunity to meet many people. Even after I moved to the States it was hard to make friends outside of your classes. During that time, I met people through couchsurfing and made friends with them. When I first moved to Willmington, it was like, ‘I’m all alone, it’s a new city and everything and I don’t know anyone else,’ so I was hesitant to go and meet new people in this Wilmington couchsurfing event I had learned about. I was so hesitant and initially said ‘I may not come,’ but eventually said, ‘I’m going to give it a try,’ and that’s when I first went to the Wilmington couchsurfing event and met fellow couchsurfers and the rest was history. After that, I met so many people.” The conversation then shifted to family and home life back in India. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/20210126-_G4A6029.jpg "20210126-_G4A6029 - Couchsurfing Blog")“Life growing up was pretty simple back in India. Growing up in India was a completely different experience than the US.” “I’m an engineer. The thing is, coming from India there’s obviously the background difference and the expenses. Coming from India to the US is not cheap and is a really expensive thing to do, so when you come and your parents give you all their support and pay for some of the expenses, it’s important that I need to clear my part of the expense first. For me, it’s more of a responsibility because they spend their entire life on me and it’s my responsibility to take care of them. The thing is, in the US you can earn so much money and I can only send a tenth of it to India and they can still live happily because of the costs of living differences. I know they have pushed me towards something I may not like and stuff, but they had still supported me through what I did. So I have a responsibility and respect for them. I wish things were a little different but it’s okay.” ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/20210126-_G4A6051.jpg "20210126-_G4A6051 - Couchsurfing Blog")Krupa took me to some hidden gems in North Carolina that he oftens goes to when he wants to relax and take photos. He’s a fellow photographer, but prefers shooting landscapes over portraits. He even invited some fellow couchsurfing friends of his to dinner to meet me. My time with Krupa was spent relaxing, exploring and meeting new people. It still blows me away to think that these people didn’t know me, yet took the time out of their busy schedules to show me around town, give me a place to sleep and make sure I was as comfortable as possible during my stay. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/life-growing-up-was-pretty-simple-back-in-india/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/life-growing-up-was-pretty-simple-back-in-india/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Stories --- ### [“The best CS experience was a trip to South Dakota”](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-best-cs-experience-was-a-trip-to-south-dakota/) **Published:** March 11, 2021 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** ##### *Brandon Clifton spent two weeks driving up the east coast staying with Couchsurfing hosts. His goal: Interview, photograph and get to know them in order to tell their stories.* After leaving Wilmington, I headed north to Richmond, Virginia to meet Gage and his partner Rory. Both were exceptionally kind and made sure I had everything I could possibly need. I thought the world was supposed to be this dark place full of people out to get you, but when you actually get out in the world and meet people, you realize there’s a commonality to all humans that’s universal. From my own experiences, people are inherently good. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/20210127-_G4A6233.jpg "20210127-_G4A6233 - Couchsurfing Blog")“I’m actually about as much of an introvert as you can get, so probably not a lot of people close to my level of introversion would do this kind of thing, but I think it’s fun.” The following day, Gage wanted to take me to some of his favorite spots in the city knowing good and well I’d want to photograph everything along the way. I was thoroughly surprised at how much Richmond had to offer. And to think, I only came here because of this project. Couchsurfing can be used as a way to explore cities you never had any intention of traveling to, and in my experience, open your eyes to new places to explore. One of Gage’s favorite spots (and mine too) turned out to be a cemetery that overlooked the river and was filled with beautiful architecture. If you could get past being surrounded by death, it’d be a great place to get married. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/20210128-_G4A6487.jpg "20210128-_G4A6487 - Couchsurfing Blog")“The best couchsurfing experience was a trip to South Dakota. The person I was staying with actually was out of town because he was getting married, but he let me stay with him anyway. I stayed in his master bedroom of the house he had built himself. There was another guy staying there who was moving to South Dakota because he was buying an RV. He was going to start traveling the country and living out of his RV, and still does that to this day. So anyway, I had never gone camping before and was a little nervous about it. He went with me to the Badlands in South Dakota and, like, I hadn’t even set up a tent before. So we set up our own tents and explored the Badlands and it was just a lot of fun. So many things about it were unexpected and new, like the host I had just missed because he was going to pick up his soon-to-be wife to get married. I made a friend that I still talk to and I went camping my first time ever, which in itself was a crazy experience.” ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/20210127-_G4A6352.jpg "20210127-_G4A6352 - Couchsurfing Blog")“Couchsurfing has made me even more open to other experiences with people. It has given me a more positive view of people in general.” After I left Richmond, Gage left a review of me on the platform that said, “I really enjoyed Brandon’s visit! He’s friendly, a creative type, and appreciative of the time you (gladly) spend showing him cool things during his visit. He’s welcome back. The spirit of Couchsurfing lives!” And with that I say, let’s hope he means it, because I’ll definitely be back soon. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-best-cs-experience-was-a-trip-to-south-dakota/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-best-cs-experience-was-a-trip-to-south-dakota/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Stories --- ### [“At 34, I gave up everything to join the Navy”](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/at-34-i-gave-up-everything-to-join-the-navy/) **Published:** March 18, 2021 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** ##### *Brandon Clifton spent two weeks driving up the east coast staying with Couchsurfing hosts. His goal: Interview, photograph and get to know them in order to tell their stories.* My next host was a character to say the least. If you get the chance to stay with Ricky, you will not be disappointed. At age 34, Ricky was married, had a life and a decent job. Through an “act of God” as he described it, he ended up joining the navy and would later be deployed to various parts of the world serving in the military and meeting new people. He sacrificed a great deal to pursue a career in the navy. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/20210130-_G4A6657.jpg "20210130-_G4A6657 - Couchsurfing Blog")“At 34 I gave up everything to join the Navy. Everybody including myself made bets that I would not last past bootcamp. Before this, my extent of exercise was trying to find the remote when it was lost. So they were like, ‘bro he’s not going to make it. He’s not going to make it.’ The first big obstacle that I faced was the swim test. And you know me being black, black people don’t do water very well. They had you step off a 20 foot high diving board. I swear my entire life at that point flashed before my eyes when I jumped. They tell you to go to the edge, take a step and just drop. And I was like, ‘bro I can’t do that,’ and I saw a lot of people attempting to do it and they wouldn’t go. They go to the edge and get scared. And when you go to the edge and get scared they push you off. So when they push you off, you could do a belly flop or something and you’re gonna hit the water in a way you don’t want to hit the water, so I was like, fuck, might as well take a leap of faith and I jumped. So I did that part, survived it, and went to remedial swimming the entire time in bootcamp. In order to pass bootcamp they have a thing called battle stations which was a combination of everything pertaining to the navy. When we did that and survived it they would play that fucking song, I still hate it… “Proud to be an American,” and you know I just cried like a little bitch. You just cry because you did all that stuff and proved to yourself you could do it. And then you switch your cap. They have a cap called a recruit cap and then they give you a cap that says ‘Navy.’ So now you’re a fucking sailor.” I thought his time in the Navy was interesting, but as we progressed further in our conversation, I realized that he’s an exceptional human being because he will go above and beyond to help a person in need. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/20210130-_G4A6647.jpg "20210130-_G4A6647 - Couchsurfing Blog")“I met this dude at a train station. He was just talking and thought he was a thug and at some point I thought, ‘any minute now this dude is going to rob me.’ That was the thought in my head. I started speaking to him and while speaking to him he didn’t sound like a thug. He sounded like a wannabe thug, like somebody who wanted to be hard, but he’s not hard. But he has had a hard life, so I told him if he ever needed anything, here’s my number, just call me. So he called me and said straight up, ‘I dont have anyone to talk to and I’m hungry.’ He said ‘I’m in DC and I have no money,’ so I said, ‘bro no problem, here’s an uber, you can come to my house, I’ll order food and by the time you get here we’ll have some food and we can talk.’ And so he came, started talking and said how life was hard. The clothes he had on he had on for like three days and so while he was on his way, I filled a bath and was like, ‘hey you know, just go take a bath, relax your problems and get clean.’ I gave him some clothes and he said, ‘I don’t have anywhere to sleep tonight, do you mind if I spend the night?’ I said, ‘I know what’s going to happen here. Even if you spend the night you don’t have anywhere else to go, so you don’t need to spend the night. You need to spend many nights. You need to have a plan on what you’re going to do.’ So I’m like, ‘here, you can spend the rest of the week and you can just chill and figure out what to do.’ He stayed here for three days, then went to stay with his girlfriend (who was bad news) and was there for like 6 months before calling me again last night. He said, ‘I’m back in the DC area and I’ve got a job. Can you cash app me twenty dollars so I can get home?’ Then he texted me today and said, ‘I remember when you took me in; do you think I could stay at your house?’ He’s like, ‘I don’t have a lot of money, I could give you like $450 a month and as I get more I could give you more.’ I told him, ‘you can stay here as long as you need to get your shit together.’ So he’s going to move in in two weeks. I feel like when you can help, you never know what this person is going through at this time and what they’re going to go through afterwards. You could have saved a life…You never know.” On the last night of my stay with Ricky, we were in the car going to pick up some pizza for dinner. As we pulled in the parking lot, I asked him if he had any advice to give me based on his life experiences. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/20210130-_G4A6512.jpg "20210130-_G4A6512 - Couchsurfing Blog")“I have a very easy, carefree attitude about things. If it’s for you it will be for you. You can work hard to accomplish goals, but If you’re on the right path, things are going to happen. And again the goal of like, ‘I need a million dollars, I need a Mercedes-Benz to drive,’’ those are materialistic goals. And you could achieve them, anybody could, but is that what you really want? And I think for a lot of people, they don’t know what they want and they think that’s what they want and they’re not happy. I’ve seen a lot of people in marriages, myself was one of them, who thought that was the way to do things and then you realize it’s not. If you go home and you’re frustrated because you don’t talk to your spouse, you’re having issues with your kids or other things, then you’re not happy, so why be with it? I learned all of this from Spain. When I got to Spain, that’s when my life opened. That’s when I started living, when I got to Spain.” I never realized my life would be changed by meeting these individuals, but Kirsten, Bill, Krupa, Gage, and Ricky all taught me there’s more to life than meets the eye. With all the differences that make up humanity, race, gender, life preferences, etc, I realized that we share more similarities than we do differences. For example, food is a huge part of the Couchsurfing community. Everyone loves to share recipes and sit down to indulge in flavorful dishes that often open up the floor for sharing personal stories and one’s ambitions. Everyone seems to be accepting of others’ differences and everyone had their own struggles that they were facing. When you choose to get out and meet new people and travel to different cities, you begin to realize that there’s actually space for us to come together with peace and acceptance rather than hate and indifference. ​I interrupted the hosts’ daily lives and was welcomed with open hearts and open minds. Whatever the reason couchsurfing hosts take in strangers, one thing’s clear, the couchsurfing community is a resilient group of open-minded, good people. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/at-34-i-gave-up-everything-to-join-the-navy/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/at-34-i-gave-up-everything-to-join-the-navy/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Stories --- ### [Meet Antonio!](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/meet-antonio/) **Published:** February 7, 2021 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/CS-pic-Antonio-Cilindro.jpg "CS-pic-Antonio-Cilindro - Couchsurfing Blog")I define myself as an eclectic spirit with too many interests and the curiosity to learn as much as possible from experiences (with or without people). Couchsurfing has become critical to feed my curiosity, although I must admit that I started as many others just to be able to travel on budget. However, I immediately realized that it was much more than a platform that allowed broke people to travel. It was a social experiment where people replace money with other things, immaterial things like friendship, knowledge, experiences, etc. I’ve become addicted to the diversity of people I’ve hosted and to whatever they brought with them (stories, suggestions, memories, etc.) And I was so happy to be part of their stories. So many memories hosting and surfing. Many of them with my family, some without. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Hitchhiking-Antonio-Cilindro.jpg "Hitchhiking-Antonio-Cilindro - Couchsurfing Blog")I actually noticed how much CS has changed me, but even more my family. I think we were already an hospitable family, but letting friends in is different from letting strangers in. I convinced my parents to host and based on that experience we would decide whether to continue or halt. Guess what, they loved it and we’ve never stopped. My parents widened their view on the world and people. I don’t think they have ever been racist, but I definitely think that they had many stereotypes on foreigners and other cultures. And I had too. But with CS we together learnt so much that many biases went away. Looking at me now, after more than 7 years of CS, I see a person more open-minded, able to deal with different people, with an extended family spread all over the world and with a bigger knowledge on so many topics. I cannot say that I’ve changed the world, but at least I’m proud to have changed mine and my family view one couch at a time. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Screen-Shot-2021-02-02-at-12.19.42-PM.png "Screen-Shot-2021-02-02-at-12.19.42-PM - Couchsurfing Blog")### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/meet-antonio/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/meet-antonio/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Uncategorized --- ### [Meet Nabilla!](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/meet-nabilla/) **Published:** January 21, 2021 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/IMG_0258-Nabilla-Bennett-Lihawa.jpg "IMG_0258-Nabilla-Bennett-Lihawa - Couchsurfing Blog")“I am just an ordinary girl from Batam Island, Indonesia. Grew up pretty much normally and I’m the type of go with the flow. I got my first job as an English Teacher right after I graduated high school when I was 18 and I am still and English Teacher until the present time. I’m into music, movies and a little bit of art. I was 19 when I started to feel that I should explore more. So I did. I went to more places, visited museums, workshops, festivals and a lot more things. And it eventually led me to Couchsurfing when I was 21. Since I discovered myself more I know that I LOVE human connections. The firm handshake from a stranger, the spark in someone’s eyes when they become their own story teller and talks about little things that made them grateful or just a simple chilling session over coffee. And that’s what important to me; connection.” I was 21 when I discovered Couchsurfing. A friend of mine was suddenly busy with activities related to Couchsufing like meet ups, gatherings, trips etc. So I decided to give it a try. Little did I know that my decision to explore this new interest can richen me so much. “It was my FIRST OVERSEAS SOLO TRIP and it was a blast! One memory from Couchsurfing that makes me smile is Chiang Mai Superheroes! It’s a group we made when we were in Chiang Mai, Thailand. Everyone was visiting Thailand that November for this lantern festival. Someone posted a thread in Thailand CS web group about meet ups and long story from all the people that participated in the thread, I managed to meet with 9 of them (from Egypt, Indonesia, Guam, Australia, India and Germany) and we instantly became a family for 3 days straight in Chiang Mai. We rented motorbikes and just go everywhere together. We were basically strangers! But somehow we managed to set aside differences and just enjoyed the companions.” I can’t say this enough but I love this community. It’s a solid one! We are basically strangers but somehow we can end up being friends and family! It really helped me in improving my English and my confidence in socializing. It made me choose to grow outside of my comfort zone. The experiences of meeting different people (hosting, surfing or just meet ups) in Indonesia or outside of the country with different backgrounds and culture has really enrichen me in every aspect. I become more tolerant, more understanding, more listening and seeing the bigger picture. Not everyone can be your friend. But you can be a friend for anyone. I feel that everyone has amazing story to tell and we can always, like always learn something from someone. The old slogan was on point, “You have friends around the world. You just haven’t met them yet.” ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/meet-nabilla/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/meet-nabilla/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Meet a Host --- ### [Couchsurfing Donations Now Live!](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-donations-now-live/) **Published:** January 15, 2021 **Author:** Mike Joy **Content:** Many of you have asked for a way to contribute to Couchsurfing beyond Contributions and Verification, and now you can. We have just launched Couchsurfing Donations, which is a one-time, non-recurring payment made to Couchsurfing. Your donations will help keep Couchsurfing financially stable and help us build new features that will make your experiences traveling the world even better, easier and more fulfilling. We are so grateful for all of the support from our community and are committed ot ensuring that Couchsurfing continues to provide life-changing experiences for many years to come. How to Donate? Step 1: Either click the ‘Donate’ button from your dashboard page on the Coucshurfing.com website, or click [here](https://www.couchsurfing.com/help-couchsurfing?utm_source=blog&utm_campaign=donations_upsell_q1_21_v1_blog&utm_content=control)! ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Screen-Shot-2021-01-14-at-2.23.04-PM.png "Screen-Shot-2021-01-14-at-2.23.04-PM - Couchsurfing Blog")Step 2: Select the dollar amount you wish to donate, or enter your own amount. ***Please note all donations are in US Dollar and the minimum donation accepted is $1.*** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Screen-Shot-2021-01-14-at-2.23.39-PM.png "Screen-Shot-2021-01-14-at-2.23.39-PM - Couchsurfing Blog")Step 3: Enter your Credit Card information and click ‘Submit donation’! ***Please note that this is a one-time payment made to Couchsurfing International, Inc., a for-profit entity. These payments are non-refundable and non-recurring.*** If you have any questions regarding donations please check out this [FAQ](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/articles/1260801384430-Donate-to-Couchsurfing-Today-) or contact our support team [here](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/requests/new). Thank you again for supporting Couchsurfing! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-donations-now-live/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-donations-now-live/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** News --- ### [A CS guide to... Jeonju](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-cs-guide-to-jeonju/) **Published:** January 8, 2021 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** ##### By: [Yunrok](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/yunrok-lee) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/shutterstock_756589225.jpg "shutterstock_756589225 - Couchsurfing Blog")Jeonju Hanok Historic Village [TTLSC](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/stillwarm)shutterstockBest breakfast in town! Waengijib : You can enjoy delicious bean sprout and rice soup at a very cheap price. Best view in the city! Omokdae : You can look down Hanok Village on the way to Omokdae ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/shutterstock_724771015.jpg "shutterstock_724771015 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Yeongsik Im](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/bsuperman)shutterstockBest place to grab a drink! Cheonnyeon Nuribom : I am a regular here with foreign friends. Best day trip out of town (and the perfect picture!) Seonyu Island : 5 small islands are connected with bridges. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/shutterstock_1831257001.jpg "shutterstock_1831257001 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Stock for you](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Stock+for+you)shutterstockFamily fun! Jeonju Hanok Village Historic moment! Gyeonggijeon Shrine : It was erected in 1410 and holds the portrait of King Tae-jo, the founder of the Joseon dynasty. The King and his wife’s mortuary tablets are enshrined here at Jogyeong Shrine. The structure was partially destroyed during the Imjin War (1592-1598), and the existing structure was remodeled in 1614. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/shutterstock_1567601557.jpg "shutterstock_1567601557 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Keitma](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Keitma)shutterstock### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-cs-guide-to-jeonju/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-cs-guide-to-jeonju/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Guides --- ### [Friends for Life from Couchsurfing](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/friends-for-life-from-couchsurfing/) **Published:** January 2, 2021 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/1530722428130.jpg "1530722428130.jpg - Couchsurfing Blog")It was in May 2018 that I did my first international travel, leaving my home nation India for the first time ever. I was having a mixed feeling of excitement and nervousness as i embarked on that solo journey of 70 days spanning 5 countries with nothing but the flight tickets reserved.. My first country being Myanmar, i landed in the south burmese city Yangon and checked in some hostel in the city centre. Though i had a confirmed host in the city, there was some last minute cancellation of their plans and i had to look for alternatives. When i looked through the fellow travellers’ list in the same place at the same time, I found few matching profiles and messaged them and got reply from one of them- Dwi suyono, an indonesian girl travelling in Burma. It so happened that we were both staying in just adjacent hostels. One of her friends also was about the reach the next day at Yangon and then we three were travelling for the next days in Yangon, Bagan, Golden rock temple amongst other places. During that travel, we actually realised that our trip to Sri lanka also has matching dates and we got another chance to meet and travel in Sri lanka where we had an amazing time travelling in Sri lankan hill stations, Galle city and Unawatuna. Couchsurfing community has brought us together and among the countless wonderful experiences i had through Couchsurfing, this one stands very close and very deep down in my heart. [![1530722428130.jpg](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/1530722428130.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/1530722428130.jpg) ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/friends-for-life-from-couchsurfing/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/friends-for-life-from-couchsurfing/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Stories --- ### [Meet Trisha!](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/meet-trisha/) **Published:** January 6, 2021 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** [Trisha Wilson](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/raccoonlover), North Carolina ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/2.jpg "2 - Couchsurfing Blog")I was born in Santa Clara, California and live in San Jose until around 7 years old. I then moved to Raleigh, North Carolina. I’m a first generation American with my dad donning from England and my mom from Germany; and I’m also a first generation college graduate having attended North Carolina State University to major in Zoology and Psychology. I’ve worked at the same job since graduation, working as a manager and veterinary nurse for a locally owned veterinary hospital and earning my degree in veterinary technology. I love the environment I work in, the fact that we pay attention to the details involved to make the experience as wonderful as possible for both the humans and pets we see. And socially, I’m very active with Girl Scouts since I feel much of what I’ve become today is due to the opportunities that were provided to me by the amazing volunteer organization. I now live with my rescue dog, Holley, and stay close with my family that’s grown to include spouses and even a niece of 2 years old. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/IMG_8887.jpeg "IMG_8887 - Couchsurfing Blog")Someone told me about CouchSurfing when I was in college. I used it a couple times during an internship in Columbia, South Carolina for the “coffee or drink” feature (now “Wants to Meet Up”. Loved it, and so decided to get more into it back home after the internship, but the roommate situation wasn’t super conducive to that. Then the following summer I went to South Africa for an internship and solidified my love for the program. I worked at a small zoo in a town between Johannesburg and Pretoria, but didn’t have any transportation. But through connecting with locals, I managed to have a CSer come get me on EVERY day off I had in order to experience the country. We would go to a park, go to a casino, go to a restaurant, go to a potluck/party, or lots of city-centers to watch FIFA World Cup games :). I even went sailing in the Indian Ocean with a yacht race! I refused to give up on my CouchSurfing dream, and so when I returned home, started hosting once roommates were no longer a concern and have even surfed myself and become active in the local events at this point. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/IMG_7542.jpg "IMG_7542 - Couchsurfing Blog")My favorite CouchSurfing memory is attending the ConnectiCouch (Connecticut Couch Crash). 4 days of hanging out with the most awesome people in the world, doing both touristy and local things. Hiking, tours, potlucks, pool party – all the best things! And I attend it completely solo and left with friends that a I’ve managed to still stay in touch with. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/IMG_7543.jpg "IMG_7543 - Couchsurfing Blog")I cannot imagine myself where I am today without Couchsurfing. All of my current “best friends” are folks I’ve met through the program. If I got married tomorrow, they’d be my bridesmaids :). The community is full of awesome people from loads of different experiences, but united by a common thread of hospitality, openness, and a love of travel. That leaves the door open for way more differences and similarities to bond over or experience. It’s made me a more open-minded person and willing to see more points of view that what may have been an option to me without this program. I’ve learned that the world is full of nice and awesome people. This may seem like a “duh” realization to some, but when I talk about it at non-CouchSurfing events, people sometimes give me funny looks and think I’m going to be taken advantage of at some point. And maybe I will at some point (hopefully not!). But the people who take the time and energy to invest in this are so genuine, so passionate, and have a way of making the world a smaller place. It will never cease to amaze me 🙂 ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/meet-trisha/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/meet-trisha/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Meet a Host --- ### [10 Questions with a CS Ambassador: John & Lena](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-john-lena/) **Published:** December 8, 2020 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** Name:[ John & Lena Berry ](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/john_berry) City: Thetford, Vermont Years on CS: 12 ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/11460239_l_67c51fc730ca6e81a5d95d898f6951a3.jpg "11460239_l_67c51fc730ca6e81a5d95d898f6951a3 - Couchsurfing Blog")**How did you learn about Couchsurfing?** When we lived in Hawaii we met a guy named Gordon who was traveling using CS, WOOFing and helpx. We traveled around the island hiking and snorkelling with him and found the idea of sharing adventures with others captivating and more meaningful than simply checking boxes of sites to see. **Why did you decide to get involved with Couchsurfing?** We travel primarily as a family but find that most non-CS families are hesitant to begin surfing because they wonder about safety and if hosts will be accepting of the difficulties young children bring. Many years ago, along with City, Country, and Nomadic Ambassadors, there were Family Ambassadors. Since bring Couchsurfing into the lives of other families was already our mission, that role was a perfect fit for us. Eventually that role was removed but we continue on as Ambassadors because we still fully believe in the mission of the community. We are more active as hosts but we still use CS every time we visit a new place. Often, we plan our travels around whether or not we can link up with other CS members. The hangouts feature of the mobile app has been incredibly useful for meeting others without a ton of planning before hand. We have used it in several different countries, including our own. **What was your first CS experience?** Our first hosting experience was with Pete and Chandra while we were living in Louisiana. Their hosts canceled last minute so we agreed to host them and are we happy with that choice. They were excellent guests and with such a wonderful initial introduction they showed us just how enjoyable hosting can be. They set the bar very high. As for surfing, we stayed with Véro and Nic during our trip to Montreal. They showed us around and gave us a ton of advice for what to see and do while we were there. Perhaps the best part of that trip was spent around their table chatting about everything into the evening. We learned that forming those connections, even if only ephemeral, can be more important than seeing a few more pretty buildings. We ended up staying with them one or two more times in subsequent trips. **What was one of your most interesting hosting experiences?** The American holiday Thanksgiving is an important one in our house. Food, family, and friends around a table is our idea of paradise. In 2019 none of our family were able to visit due to a variety of circumstances. However, we did receive a couch request from a group of students from Taiwan most of whom had never surfed before nor experienced Thanksgiving. We welcomed them into our home and, despite not having family at home, we still had a warm and wonderful holiday. They stayed with us for three days and every night we stayed up discussing politics and culture. Lena even taught them how to make real cranberry sauce. **What about surfing?** Our favourites are always those that have been with other families. For example, while traveling through Scandinavia, the four of us surfed with a Danish woman named Rikke with her family and absolutely loved it. They welcomed us into their home like family and what was supposed to only be two days turned into three because we didn’t want to leave. Rikke taught us how to make bread and rugbrød. They were such a wonderful group of people and even though our kids didn’t share a language they had no trouble playing together. **What is the coolest gift you’ve ever received?** We hosted an entire family from Bretagne, France and the surfer’s older parents brought us foie gras. We are foodies to our core and this gift was incredibly yummy. **What is one book that has inspired your travels?** To narrow it down to a single book if truly difficult but there is an adventurer that I admire named Alastair Humphreys who biked around the world for four years and wrote several books about it along with a book called “Microadventures”. The idea behind it is that not everyone can plan huge, grand adventures and not everyone needs to. It is entirely possible to spend very little and have amazing adventures even over the course of a single weekend. We often have this idea that for something to be a “real” adventure we need to fly to some foreign land and engage in some epic quest when in reality, we can have adventures in our own hometown. This especially rings true for those with families and small children. Don’t let life get in the way of getting out there. **What is the craziest thing that has ever happened to you while traveling?** We were visiting Romania and decided to get together with some locals using the hangouts app. We met at a coffee/wine bar one evening and eventually were joined by a few people who offered to show all of us a great place to get some cheap beer. We assumed it was a normal bar but during our walk there we found out that it wasn’t necessarily a legitimate establishment. We were all led to an apartment with a staircase that led to the basement. Have I mentioned yet that we are trusting people? So we walk down the stairs and through a door into a wall of cigarette smoke. It turns out that this “bar” was run out of someone’s home and was packed with people. All around were groups of people joyfully talking and there was even a very cramped area where a few were dancing. Our fellow CSers grabbed me (John) a beer and Lena asked for some wine. The proprietor pulls out this large jug of homemade wine and pours her a glass which turns out to be really good. We only stayed about an hour since we don’t smoke and couldn’t really handle it anymore but we spent the entire time talking to others who lived there. Without a doubt we took a risk but in the end it was one of our favourite experiences of the entire visit. They were incredibly welcoming and hospitable and demonstrate how awesome this community can be. **What is your favorite local cuisine from your hometown?** Apple cider from Vermont is the nectar of the gods. Now take that and put it into donut form and you have the wonderful Apple cider donuts. **What is your dream vacation?** We have been wanting to do a trip where we can combine self-powered transport with good food. One option is to bike a route through France while stopping at various regions to sample local staples including cheeses and wines. Another would be to ski the Haute Route through the Alps though this one may be more difficult to include different food types. **What is one piece of advice you would give to new Couchsurfers?** The Couchsurfing community is what you make it. You will likely come across people who complain about various parts and will say that “Couchsurfing is dead” but that isn’t true. There are still many, many wonderful hosts and surfers out there and it is up to you to find them. Everyone that I have met have been exceptional people that I would gladly welcome into my home. Make sure that you fill out your profile. Of course it can’t convey all that is you but it does at least provide a small window into who you are for potential hosts and surfers. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/0305debd-38a1-4c25-89b5-7c81cf73ac38.jpg "0305debd-38a1-4c25-89b5-7c81cf73ac38 - Couchsurfing Blog")### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-john-lena/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-john-lena/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Meet an Ambassador --- ### [Meet Matt](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/meet-matt/) **Published:** December 13, 2020 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** I was born in central Canada in Ontario, and my family moved out west. I’ve always been between the two oil cities of Edmonton and Calgary, but at some point I’d like to return home to Toronto. My current job is in municipal transportation and has been for nearly 11 years at this time. Working for this division of the government allows me to provide CS’ers with the best possible information for knowing and traveling the city. It’s been a great job, and a great fit for what I can contribute to each and every surfer I host as well as every event that I organize as well. How I got into couchsurfing… Ireland (2013). While on computers N. America displays calendars different then in the UK, and EU… I ended up checking into a hostel in Dublin one day later than planned. Being my first international trip, and not making my booking… I was freaking out without a place to sleep. When I was having the hostel receptionist check on my reservation, I stated to her “If you don’t have a bed, I’m screwed” and as she was at her computer… some guy walked by down the hall and said “Why don’t you do couchsurfing?” to which I responded “What’s couchsurfing?” and the receptionist then found my reservation. After I returned to Canada, I investigated and did my research on what couchsurfing was because the term had stuck in my head. I never in my wildest dreams thought there was such a community out there. It has yielded me a lot of great friendships from so many countries that I’ve traveled and hosted from as well. For myself, hosting is also a privilege. I see it as an opportunity to make a positive contribution on a person’s journey, and the chance to instill with them unforgettable great memories while you’re in not only your home, but your local city. How CS has changed my life… besides the wonderful people and incredible friendships I’ve formed. I took my activity in CS to the next level in 2018 by becoming a City Ambassador. I was already organizing and hosting local events, and engaging with the community and after nearly two years… my events had a great following. In 2019, when Canada’s Country Ambassadors stepped down for their own reasons… I then inquired to the CS community leader and then assumed that position. Being the Country Ambassador for such a distinguished recognizable reputable Large Country like Canada in which has so much to offer was a great challenge and responsibility. But it also a great many rewards, as we are in a country that has SO much to offer travelers. I have had the privilege of inheriting some great city ambassadors that I was aware of when I got involved in the Ambassador program in 2018. However as the Country Ambassador, I took the approach of elevating local communities across Canada to a whole new level. I look to aspire and challenge myself to be a pillar for the CS community, and inspire others through my commitment, conviction, and by possessing the foundation and constitution of building from the ground up not only great local CS communities, but also a great global CS community as well. I cannot give enough praise and respect to the team that is currently assembled of City Ambassadors here in Canada. They are the fundamental backbones of their communities, and they deserve all the respect and credit that the position earns. Hands down, I feel humbled to be associated with each and every one of these incredible people for whom I look forward to continuing our involvements, engagements, and friendships in the future. I can’t say enough about all of them, and their own contributions for the CS community. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Matt-Ruth.jpg "Matt-Ruth - Couchsurfing Blog")### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/meet-matt/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/meet-matt/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Meet a Host --- ### [A CS guide to... Addis Ababa](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-cs-guide-to-addis-ababa/) **Published:** October 28, 2020 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Excerpt:** Check out our Ambassador's recommendations to getting the most out of Ethiopia's bustling capital city! **Content:** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/shutterstock_1570378834.jpg "shutterstock_1570378834 - Couchsurfing Blog")[canyalcin](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/canyalcin)shutterstock##### By: [Bezawit](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/bezawit-shewarega) Best Breakfast in town! I would recommend Qawa Traditional restaurant. First of all I think it is an easy dive into Ethiopian food second they have variety of delicious food of course vegan included. 3rd it’s affordable and found in the centre of the city where you definitely walk around. 1 Museum not to miss! Unity park – it is a set of museums and park. There is a lot to see there including 3 different palaces it’s pretty much little Ethiopia. You will get to see what to choose from to travel around Ethiopia. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/shutterstock_186487280.jpg "shutterstock_186487280 - Couchsurfing Blog")Holy Trinity Cathedral [milosk50](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/milosk50)shutterstockBest place to grab a drink! I would recommend effoy roof top around atlas since you will get sunset view and good Music. But if it is Thursday join our regular Thursday hangout you will make long lasting friends ? Where to dance! There is plenty to check out if you want something fancy go to obsession or luxx. If you want to check out proper traditional dance Go to habesha 2000 ( it’s not necessary a dance for you) but you will witness something unique while having our famous honey wine called tej A treat-yourself-meal! If it is an Ethiopian food I would recommend katega you will definitely love it. I also love to recommend wabi sheble hotel very old hotel but have a very interesting view of Addis. Where to sweat! Addis have a lot of places to hike , but entoto mountain park is really nice as it has the whole view of the city you can either bike or hike or run or just enjoy the view. For proper gym I recommend you yoly gym. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/shutterstock_754293676.jpg "shutterstock_754293676 - Couchsurfing Blog")Entoto Mountain [Lukas Bischoff Photograph](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/LuBiPhoto)shutterstockCute Cafe! Tomoca is a nice coffee place to check out. It’s across the city. Its really authentic coffee place. But check out garden if coffee to garden of coffee. It’s beautiful to spend the Day. Best View in the City! Best view is from Face of Addis restaurant. Best day-trip out of town! I would recommend Portuguese bridge around 3 hours drive. You can see different waterfalls, and cave also hike And come back in the evening. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/shutterstock_187516073.jpg "shutterstock_187516073 - Couchsurfing Blog")[milosk50](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/milosk50)shutterstockWhere to try the local delicacy! Anything Ethiopian! Definitely try out shiro and beyanetu ( if you are vegan) if not go for shekila tibis you will fail in love with it. Family Fun! Entoto park will be cool with family Historic Moment! Menelik square or piyassa you will see a monument of a king who defeated colonization. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/shutterstock_308107559.jpg "shutterstock_308107559 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Marek Poplawski](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/marekpoplawski)shutterstockThe perfect picture! I would say unity park with beautiful sign of Ethiopia One experience not to miss! I would highly recommend checking out fendika it is more of a jazz place but Ethiopian jazz is a dope scenario A tourist trap to avoid! Don’t use the blue taxis we have some sort of Uber called ride and feres download the app and use. Don’t enter in minibus if it’s only for you. If there is people and it’s on its normal route the maximum you should pay is 0.25 cents USD ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/shutterstock_1208270839.jpg "shutterstock_1208270839 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Erik Tanghe](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/eriktanghe)shutterstockAnything else to add…. You will definitely have to get out of Addis and explore Ethiopia. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-cs-guide-to-addis-ababa/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-cs-guide-to-addis-ababa/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Guides --- ### [Meet Christine](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/meet-christine/) **Published:** December 6, 2020 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** It was my first time really being on my own. I was 19 years old and fresh out of my first year of college. I had never lived outside of Illinois. I was moving 2000 miles away to California for my first internship, as a Bear Management Intern with a national forest. While I was getting ready to move there for the summer, I realized that there were no buses heading from the airport to my destination over the weekend. I was going to be stuck in Reno, Nevada for two nights. Being a poor student, I couldn’t afford a hotel room. Then I remembered someone had mentioned a website to help out travelers called CouchSurfing. I created a profile and started sending out requests to stay with local hosts in Reno. To my surprise, one lady accepted my request and invited me to stay with her and her family. They welcomed me into their home and gave me a place to stay. I was so humbled by their warmth and hospitality. As I prepared to set off to California, I clumsily tripped and broke one of my sandals. She offered me a pair of her sandals, basically gifting me the very sandals off her own feet. And that was the moment I knew that I would be a CouchSurfer for life. When she dropped me off at the bus station, she further solidified this thought by offering to come get me if anything went wrong during my internship. To think, this woman was a complete stranger only two days ago and she not only gave me a place to stay, but she welcomed me into her life and became a friend I could count on. - ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/IMG_2461_edit.jpg "IMG_2461_edit - Couchsurfing Blog") - ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/IMG_3403.jpeg "IMG_3403 - Couchsurfing Blog") - ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/IMG_4492.jpeg "IMG_4492 - Couchsurfing Blog") - ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/IMG_3222_corrected.jpg "IMG_3222_corrected - Couchsurfing Blog") @christinewildphotography ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/meet-christine/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/meet-christine/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Meet a Host --- ### [Couch Connections](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couch-connections/) **Published:** November 24, 2020 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/50230c26327e8f572381b3441575e0f31b1c806d.jpg "50230c26327e8f572381b3441575e0f31b1c806d - Couchsurfing Blog")I’m Christoph, a young filmmaker from Austria and I produced a film about Couchsurfing, called COUCH CONNECTIONS. I guess, most of you feel the same like me right now – missing to host someone on your couch or starting adventures on your own! Here in Austria we are already having our second lock-down and the number of COVID cases are going up again almost worldwide… Therefore we still have to wait a bit to go on a journey again!Meanwhile, I have a good opportunity for you to bring back some Couchsurfing vibes! I would love to introduce you to my documentary about Couchsurfing. I was traveling for nine months around the globe from couch to couch. It was an unbelievable journey and I just met wonderful people and showed me again, that the world actually isn’t a big bad place. But there are really wonderful people out there! And as we all know: In a world full of barriers, building bridges between cultures is often linked with fear, caution and sometimes even rejection. That’s why this film has been made: it shows that sometimes it only takes a few steps towards other people to establish wonderful friendships. Why not start by sharing something personal? Why not start by inviting them to your living room, to talk, to laugh, to exchange. All that sitting on a couch! Therefore, the main focus of the film is on the people which participate in Couchsurfing and their great diversity. My hosts couldn’t have been more different from one another: from a 21-year-old student in a student dorm, to a family in which three generations take part in Couchsurfing, to a nudist in Manhattan and a transgender in Bangkok. So I hope I can help you to get some travel memories back and to stay strong till we can travel again! I wish you a lot of fun during my 75 minutes documentary. It’s available to stream it on my website or on AMAZON PRIME. I´m sure we will meet up someday, somewhere!Stay strong, stay healthy and keep smiling! Link to the Trailer: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yiBrDaswCOk&feature=emb\_title](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yiBrDaswCOk&feature=emb_title) Website: [www.couch-connections.com](http://www.couch-connections.com) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/cf446cad01f0dada08ca9bfc5d077f9a011aac8e.jpg "cf446cad01f0dada08ca9bfc5d077f9a011aac8e - Couchsurfing Blog")### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couch-connections/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couch-connections/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Stories --- ### [Meet Jason](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/meet-jason/) **Published:** November 15, 2020 **Author:** Mike Joy **Content:** Born in Connecticut in the USA I was lucky to have parents who taught my 4 brothers and sister the joy of experiencing all you can in life. I learned to ski when I was 6 and I think that started my love with the outdoors. Spending time in the fresh, cold air with the expanse of mountain views around…what’s not to love! As I grew older my curiosity to explore more than the local area grew. I yearned to see and learn all about the world but not just the planet…. but it’s inhabitants. I LOVE people and love to surround myself with great friends and strangers who become friends. I’ve always been outgoing and never hesitate to strike up a conversation. I think this is why Couchsurfing means so much to me. It feeds my social addiction and curiosity of the world. My passion in life is attending World’s Fairs which occur in all over the world and I use it as a way to plan trips as I know it will always be somewhere different and each one has a theme and has country pavilions from all over the world and while I might not be able to travel to all of them (yet!) what a great way to learn about them and see what they contribute to our lives. While some of my trips were prior to Couchsurfing, as luck (or my outgoing personality) would have it many times I ended up surfing on couches from striking up conversations with people I met and cherish those friends still today. I learned about Couchsurfing in 2008 from and old boss asking me to host someone from Amsterdam that hosted her son. Little did I know that first experience would lead me to using CS on my World’s Fair trips and surfing all over the world. Even better it let me open my doors to surfers from around the globe to stay with me to share my corner of the earth. So many of my hosting and surfing experiences have given me lifelong memories that I’ll never forget. I’ve shared laughs, tears, food!, smiles and truly bonded with so many unbelievably generous and kind people. One of my deepest experiences was a Couchsurfing Hangout in Lecco, Italy in 2017 when I met Majd from Syria. At the time the USA and Syria were really not in a good place with each other and yet on that day Majd and I spent 4 hours together, hanging out on the lake, exploring hidden corners of the town and more importantly having some deep conversation about our lives in our countries. We bonded and we proved that people around the world like each other and want to learn about each other…it’s our governments keeping us apart. The author Mark Twain said it best — “Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness, and many of our people need it sorely on these accounts. Broad, wholesome, charitable views of men and things cannot be acquired by vegetating in one little corner of the earth all one’s lifetime.” I truly believe Couchsurfing helps to rid the world of the above as well. Even now while I am in the position to stay in hotels when I travel, I am committed to never staying in one again when Couchsurfing is available as the experience, the knowledge and the memories I gain with Couchsurfing can NEVER be achieved by staying in four walls of a rented room. There is nothing better than sharing your life with someone who wants to learn about you as much as you want to learn about them. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Boulder-Jason-Griffing.jpeg "Boulder-Jason-Griffing - Couchsurfing Blog")### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/meet-jason/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/meet-jason/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Meet a Host --- ### [Morning surprise](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/morning-surprise/) **Published:** October 26, 2020 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** My first hosting experience was, probably, also the best I can recall. At that time, I used to live in Melbourne in a lovely apartment with an extra bedroom and bathroom for guests. As I had great respect for those young world travellers ending up in Australia after months spent in other continents, engaging up to a whole year abroad in hostels. I thought they truly deserved to be pampered and well treated in my apartment so that they can recharge their batteries before engaging the next leg of their trip. As soon as I opened my account with Couchsurfing, Imke from Germany wrote me a nice message, requesting a few days at my place. You see, she was exactly that kind of traveller I wanted to support. She was 19 years old from Germany, already on the road alone for 8 months, coming from Central America and looking for a job in Australia for financing the Indonesian leg of her trip. We got together very well, she was kind and grateful for everything she was getting at my place. We spent hours talking about our trips, had few visits around the city and enjoyed cooking together. Especially this part contributed to cementing our friendship. I cooked some good Italian recipes, in return, she prepared tasty food she learned in Central America. She also knew how much I appreciate the simplicity of cooking as social bonding, the good feeling it transmits through the senses. One morning I woke up with a strong positive feeling. In fact, I woke up smelling something good, releasing old memories of Sunday lunches and grandma’s cooking. And my brain suddenly got it. I was smelling bread, freshly made bread. Excited, I walked to the kitchen and found a smiling Imke with flour everywhere, in her hairs, on their hand up to her shoulders, proudly showing me some bread leaves that she just took out of the hoven. That was her gift for the room I gave her. But in fact, she gave me far more than I expected. And now, more than 8 years after that trip, we are still good pen friends, sometimes remember the good time we had back in Melbourne. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/15745447_l_8ada461982d4334e7a067023588c9a07.jpg "15745447_l_8ada461982d4334e7a067023588c9a07 - Couchsurfing Blog")[![15745447_l_8ada461982d4334e7a067023588c9a07](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/15745447_l_8ada461982d4334e7a067023588c9a07.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/15745447_l_8ada461982d4334e7a067023588c9a07.jpg) ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/morning-surprise/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/morning-surprise/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Stories --- ### [Best of... Spain](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/best-of-spain/) **Published:** October 19, 2020 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** ##### By: [Ana](https://www.couchsurfing.com/users/1005722798) Time needed: About a month! Madrid The capital of Spain, of course, it’s worth a visit. Especially if you are looking for tasting amazing Spanish cuisine (tapas and churros) for a good price, you should not miss this one. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/shutterstock_378537616.jpg "shutterstock_378537616 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Sean Pavone](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/sepavo)shutterstockStay in a cave in Guadix (Andalusia) Many locals already live in real house-caves in Guadix! You can try it as well and see how comfortable it is (I’m not joking!). Don’t forget to pay a visit to Granada, the main city nearby, to see the amazing Alhambra and drink a delicious Muslim tea in the city center. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/shutterstock_1338549236.jpg "shutterstock_1338549236 - Couchsurfing Blog")[DELBO ANDREA](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/ANDREA+DELBO)shutterstockWalk part of the Camino And enjoy the beauty the North of Spain. It goes through charming cities like Logroño, Pamplona or Burgos, and of course Santiago de Compostela, where it ends. If you love it, try to walk all the 770 km of it! ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/shutterstock_630570752.jpg "shutterstock_630570752 - Couchsurfing Blog")[gregorioa](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/gregorioa)shutterstockEat a paella in Valencia Where the dish becomes a real tradition in Spain. The city, Valencia is also really interesting for a two-day visit. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/shutterstock_1605766168.jpg "shutterstock_1605766168 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Kolombo Castro](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/KolomboCastro)shutterstockSwim in Menorca And live the Mediterranean sea as if it was the Caribbean. Dive in its crystal clear waters in a quiet and cozy island full of charming little towns. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/shutterstock_1289668933.jpg "shutterstock_1289668933 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Kite rin](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Kite_rin)shutterstockVisit the Basque Country And enjoy its most important cities, like San Sebastian, Bilbao and Vitoria. Going to restaurants there is most recommended here if you are a foodie. Also, if you are a fan of surfing, the best Spanish waves are there for you! ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/shutterstock_238867600.jpg "shutterstock_238867600 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Iakov Filimonov](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/jackf)shutterstockNational Park of Ordesa y Monte Perdido In the Pyrenees in Huesca is a must see if you love nature and long hiking paths in steep mountains. The access through the town of Bielsa is recommended. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/shutterstock_1183055131.jpg "shutterstock_1183055131 - Couchsurfing Blog")[cineuno](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/cineuno)shutterstockSail in river Ebro The most important river in Spain and take a tour along the region of Catalonia and the river’s mouth. It’s impressive how people built entire towns there and how they grow the biggest rice harvests in the country. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/shutterstock_194064467.jpg "shutterstock_194064467 - Couchsurfing Blog")[nito](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/nito100)shutterstockCanary islands The place where summer lives! The islands might seem a bit out of the way, but they really deserve a visit to contemplate the volcanic landscape and the Teide, an old volcano located on the island of Tenerife. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/shutterstock_795610192.jpg "shutterstock_795610192 - Couchsurfing Blog")[leoks](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/leoks)shutterstockBarcelona It goes without saying that Barcelona is one of the most impressive cities in Spain because of its genuine architecture, history and cultural background. Remember to come with at least three spare days to fully enjoy its beauty. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/shutterstock_785442694.jpg "shutterstock_785442694 - Couchsurfing Blog")[basiczto](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/basiczto)shutterstock### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/best-of-spain/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/best-of-spain/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Guides --- ### [10 Questions with a CS Ambassador: Jorgia](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-jorgia/) **Published:** October 14, 2020 **Author:** Mike Joy **Excerpt:** Meet Jorgia, a Couchsurfing Ambassador in Buenos Aires, Argentina! **Content:** ##### Name: [Jorgia Machado](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/jorginha) City: Buenos Aires, Argentina Years on CS: 12 ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/21352576_l_26e920bd6b5423b8270ec87b81f5c9c7.jpg "21352576_l_26e920bd6b5423b8270ec87b81f5c9c7 - Couchsurfing Blog")How did you learn about Couchsurfing? While working in a museum, a visitor told me abot it after I gave him some tips about my hometown. Why did you decide to get involved with CS and how do you mainly participate? I decided to get involved after I realised I was very active at my city’s CS activities and I was hosting and organizing local events. I participate helping new members, organizing events, hosting and meeting travlers and giving them advice about my hometown and the city I live in. What was your first CS experience? I went to a CS event and my hometown, and that same night, I hosted two guys at home that did not know how to get back to their host’s place (They had an incomplete address, their host didn’t aswer the phone and it was 3am!) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/9429218_l_a4c4d5642694671fba85933fa5ba9959.jpg "9429218_l_a4c4d5642694671fba85933fa5ba9959 - Couchsurfing Blog")What was your most interesting hosting experience? Wow! So many! But I would highlight 3: The two first time I hosted because it were emergency situations, and when I hosted Tatsuya, a guy from Japan that gave my mom flowers and it was VERY sweet from him and made my mom definitely relax about me CS hosting (at this time when I started hosting I was living with my mom and younger brother) What about surfing? Definitely surfing in a two bedroom apartment with 10 other surfers from different places of the world in a unforgettable summer in Rio. What is the most meaningful gift you’ve received from a surfer? Flowers to my mom. Meant more than any gift to me. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/3519145_l_3a553be7f90fa45e92b7061b67c0a557.jpg "3519145_l_3a553be7f90fa45e92b7061b67c0a557 - Couchsurfing Blog")If you could host a celebrity, who would it be? Rihanna. She seems to be super fun! What is your favorite travel quote? “Traveling is the only thing that makes you richer.” What is one place in your city that you think everyone should visit? El Ateneo Grand Splendid Bookstore. It used to be a historic, palatial theater and is now one of the world’s most beautiful bookstores. Defnetely a Must see! And lastly, what is your one piece of advice to new Couchsurfers? Be respectful, clean, tidy, humble and generous ALWAYS! Kindness generates kindness! ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/653247bc-e05b-4485-8e6a-1acfafde6900.jpg "653247bc-e05b-4485-8e6a-1acfafde6900 - Couchsurfing Blog")### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-jorgia/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-jorgia/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Meet an Ambassador --- ### [10 Questions with a CS Ambassador: Ganesh](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-ganesh/) **Published:** October 7, 2020 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Excerpt:** Meet Ganesh! Our Ambassador in Udupi, India! **Content:** Name: [Ganesh](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/udupi) City: Udupi, India Years on CS: 6 ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/planning-a-trip-to-india.jpg "planning-a-trip-to-india - Couchsurfing Blog")How did you learn about Couchsurfing? In 2014, I was planning for a Sri Lankan trip. While I was reading on a travel forum, I read the term “couchsurfed around Sri Lanka. I was curious and found more about it. As I find more, joined instantly and such a small incident changed my life. Why did you decide to get involved with Couchsurfing? At first, I joined Couchsurfing to cut down the cost of traveling. Later after hosting and staying with some host, I find that couchsurfing is an easy way to connect with world travelers and learn more about their culture, daily life and even get into their personal life stories and experiences. Because of that I got addicted to couchsurfing and I participate in hosting and even surfing both overseas and locally. What was your first CS experience? My first CS experience was in Kandy, Sri Lanka, that’s in the year 2015. Hosted by a family of 3 members, all of them had a passion for travel and helping travelers. Even though the host and his wife had a busy schedule of teaching in school and at home, they somehow manage couchsurfers with lots of love and care. Which inspired me to keep on hosting. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/traveling-to-india-checklist.jpg "traveling-to-india-checklist - Couchsurfing Blog")Why did you decide to become an Ambassador? Couchsurfing is one of the best things that happened on the internet and I feel happy to get involved in this global community. I enjoyed as a couchsurfer, then become an ambassador to connect with other ambassadors who has the same interest as mine. It is one of the best learning experiences for me. What was your most interesting hosting experience? I have hosted more than 200 people from different parts of the world without discrimination. It was a life-changing experience not only for me, even for my family. My family especially opened up to the world and started accepting people as they are. We enjoyed hosting a couple from Russia who had the experience of traveling around the world. At home, they helped on the farm, played different games with my kid, showed us a live performance of musical instruments using a didgeridoo and Jew’s harp. More than that, they made a portrait of all of our family members using Pencil. It happened in 2015 and all of us still remember that experience. What about surfing? Me, my wife, and our 7 years old kid couchsurfing around India using the general class train. One of the unique experience we had was in Madhya Pradesh, in India. Where we have been hosted by a joint family of 40 members! They treated us like a god. We also visited their corn flakes factory which was a bit away from the house in a village, there we have been served a unique dinner. Another best experience was in Tamilnadu. Where we stayed with a host in a small zoo with many exotic animals for 18 months long. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/international-tourism.jpg "international-tourism - Couchsurfing Blog")What is the craziest thing that has happened to you while traveling? We have experienced many crazy things while traveling. Here is the story of the general class train of north India and our encounter with a Transgender. The train was filled with people more than it can handle. In between, a Transgender came begging for money. Someone who has refused to give money even after asking multiple times, Transgender showed the inner parts by lifting saree (dress). That was one of the craziest thing that has happened while traveling. What is one thing in your city that you think every Couchsurfer should experience? Udupi: Krishna Janmashtami celebrations. Nearly a million attend this yearly celebration and one can experience chariot, tiger dance, live music, food, and much more. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/russian-community-in-india.jpg "russian-community-in-india - Couchsurfing Blog")Have you ever met a celebrity? I Met Shiva Rajkumar in 2009, who is a south Indian film actor, producer, playback singer, and television presenter, best known for his work in Kannada cinema. I and my wife were at the Taj Mahal, and he was shooting some film there. Completely unknown to the locals as he is a famous south Indian star. We got very close to him like a normal people meet and we took some pictures. What is your one piece of advice for every new Couchsurfer? Couchsurfing is all about sharing experience, culture, learning new things. It’s not about taking advantage of the hospitality of some innocent couchsurfing host or abusing the couchsurfing concept just for free accommodation. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-ganesh/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-ganesh/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Meet an Ambassador --- ### [A Couchsurfer's guide to... Wellington](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-wellington/) **Published:** September 30, 2020 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Excerpt:** Tim, our Ambassador in Wellington gives us his recommendations to getting the most out of New Zealand's capital city! **Content:** ##### By: [Tim Edwards](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/tjed) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/shutterstock_682572673.jpg "shutterstock_682572673 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Robert CHG](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/RobertCHG)shutterstockBest breakfast in town! There are so many cafes and pubs that serve breakfast brunch. The majority would be on Courtnay Place or Cuba st, with well-known and popular ones including Enigma and Sweet Mother’s Kitchen. But there are also many along Lambton Quay as it is close to offices, and a few along the waterfront itself. Best view in the city! From Mt. Victoria lookout – there’s a bus and/or a series of walking track there, but also Tinakori Hill tracks, the Brooklyn Wind Turbine…almost any hill you see will have tracks on/over it. A walk round Oriental Bay, then round all the bays from there also gives good landscape and cityscape views. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/shutterstock_1497008558.jpg "shutterstock_1497008558 - Couchsurfing Blog")View of Wellington from Mount Victoria [Stefan Mokrzecki](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Stefan+Mokrzecki)shutterstock 1 museum not to miss! There are several, again, mostly with niche areas (Kate Sheppard, the Cable Car, etc), but the one I find most interesting is the Wellington City museum, with a lot of, well, history of Wellington nicely laid out and with some interactive parts. Most guide books will prioritise Te Papa, the national museum, and that is also great and very varied in the experiences it offers, but I still find I like history and so Wellington city museum is my preference. Best place to grab a drink! It depends what you like? Waterfront; Macs or Munchen. Craft? Rogue and Vagabond of Garage Project (or one of a dozen others). Cheap? The Establishment of one of the pubs on Cuba st.. Historic moment! National Memorial Park, next to the Basin – a recent park but with a lot of history explained. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/shutterstock_1697272612.jpg "shutterstock_1697272612 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Ben Wehrman](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Ben+Wehrman)shutterstockWhere to dance! The nightclub here do keep changing name and operator…they are mostly on Courtenay place. Danger Danger seems most consistent, nice dance floor, great pizza earlier in the evneing. A treat yourself meal! Ombra, fro tapas-type dishes and people watching. One experience not to miss! Walking one of the hill tracks, visiting a craft brewery, or if you have the money, a tour of Weta Workshop. Two to four hours on Matiu/Somes Island is also really interesting with history of quarantining people, animals and enemy aliens, as well as now being a nature reserve. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/shutterstock_1377550184.jpg "shutterstock_1377550184 - Couchsurfing Blog")[edierdel](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/mocagrande)shutterstockWhere to sweat! Most local parks and the waterfront have people jogging around and doing cardio most of the time. Les Mills is the biggest Gym. Best quick bite Capital Market food court for cheap variety. Friday night markets in the summer. Sunday morning food and veg markets next to Te Papa. Also Ekim Burger up the quiet end of Cuba St. Best day-trip out of town! Martinborough vineyards – you can walk between them but are stuck with the train schedule. Or Kapiti coast Beaches. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/shutterstock_703529179.jpg "shutterstock_703529179 - Couchsurfing Blog")[simonharrycollins](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/simonharrycollins)shutterstockCute cafe! Midnight Espresso or enigma, but there are whole blogs and websites of Wellington cafes. Where to try the local cuisine! New Zealand does not have authentic food, we are a mixture from all over he world and that’s what you’ll see walking around. But the best local fast food is Hell’s Pizza. Family fun! One of the beaches (Scorching Bay, Days Bay, etc…), or a nature place such as Staglands, Zealandia, or Nga Manu. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/shutterstock_307764056.jpg "shutterstock_307764056 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Yevgen Belich](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Yevgen+Belich)shutterstockA tourist trap to avoid! A hop-on-hop-off bus. You can walk to most places, drive or take the local buses much cheaper with a snapper card. Anything else to add… Typical guide books list things to do there that will take a day or two. But I’ve been here 15 years and I am still finding more things to do, mostly outdoors but also inside. There’s a haunted house (assuming not closed by COVID) numerous walkways, several cafes and beaches…lots. The Ferry to the South Island is a great way to arrive and leave, but do it in daylight. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/shutterstock_1050683855.jpg "shutterstock_1050683855 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Chingfoto](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/dekdoiz)shutterstock### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-wellington/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-wellington/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Guides --- ### [Finding Family History by Accident at the House of a Couchsurfing Host](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/finding-family-history-by-accident-at-the-house-of-a-couchsurfing-host/) **Published:** September 28, 2020 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Excerpt:** Read how one Couchsurfer's host unlocked a mystery to her past! **Content:** In 2016, I found myself in Germany. I had come to a disappointing but necessary realization whilst traveling in Southeast Asia: Apparently, it is in fact sometimes necessary to stop traveling and earn more money before continuing. So with a backpack I could barely lift and a cute new German boyfriend in hand, off I went to settle for a stint in Dresden, Germany. My Oma (‘Grandma’ in German) was born in Schlüchtern, a small village a few hours from Dresden. She spent her childhood there, but she rarely talked about it so I knew very little about this mysterious place or our history there. So I packed my bag and cute German guy and went to check it out. We messaged a few couchsurfers and received enthusiastic replies galore. Everyone, it seemed, was ready and excited to help a Jew discover their history in Germany. (How things have changed!) Finally we chose a guy about our age named David, who had been in Israel, so I made up a fantasy in my head and decided he must be a long-lost cousin. When we arrived at David’s house, I discovered that he was most definitely not a long-lost cousin. However, something almost as cool happened instead. I reiterated to him how Oma was from Schlüchtern and how we wanted to see the village where she had spent her early years. He translated our words for his Mom. She cocked her head to the side and asked for Oma’s family name. Wolf, I told her. Then she did something very curious: She got up, went to the bookshelf, and pulled out a large hardcover book. “Wolf”, it said on the cover. She opened the book and my eyes widened. It was a book chronicling the history of the Wolf family, filled with pictures and explanatory text in German. Stunned, I took the book in my hands and began scanning its photos until I saw a familiar name. There, in one of the old black-and-white family photos, was a girl sitting on the far right, with the name Else Wolf in the caption. My great-grandmother! I couldn’t believe it. I’d seen her photo before, but how strange it was to see it in the home of this unfamiliar family, a face so much like my own staring at me from the pages of a family history of which I know next to nothing. ![Image for post](https://miro.medium.com/max/640/1*S0GmDe_rTvedHA6fJvNfbw.jpeg) Then, through a series of rapid translations, David explained to us via his Mom that our family had become well-known in the town because back then we had owned quite a successful soap factory, called Dreiturm Werke GmbH (something I hadn’t known about before.) Apparently, when the political climate turned against us, the family was forced to sell the soap factory for an extraordinarily low price and leave town. The next day, David and his Mom drove us to a neighboring town to show us the new (relatively speaking) location of the old soap factory, which had grown so much in the intervening years that a change of location had been necessary. ![Image for post](https://miro.medium.com/max/960/1*0FPwim4DIYupneJPaNaj9g.jpeg) They even took us to the old spot, where the soap factory had been before (now a bakery). Stumbling upon a local who could provide an insight into my family’s past by coincidence, through couchsurfing, felt surreal and touching. [![Wolf-Family-0.jpeg](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Wolf-Family-0.jpeg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Wolf-Family-0.jpeg) [![Dreiturm-Werke-1.jpeg](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Dreiturm-Werke-1.jpeg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Dreiturm-Werke-1.jpeg) ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/finding-family-history-by-accident-at-the-house-of-a-couchsurfing-host/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/finding-family-history-by-accident-at-the-house-of-a-couchsurfing-host/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Stories --- ### [10 Questions with a CS Ambassador: Prunella & Family](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-prunella-family/) **Published:** September 24, 2020 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** ##### Name: [Prunella and family](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/newdawn2001) City: Perth, Western Australia Years on CS: 8 ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/21539586_l_9b7e62a104bd836cb37add0ef60a342f-1.jpg "21539586_l_9b7e62a104bd836cb37add0ef60a342f-1 - Couchsurfing Blog") **How did you learn about Couchsurfing?** We learnt about Couchsurfing directly from other travellers and from the online travelling community. We started informal couchsurfing in 2006, when we were involved in other hospitality communities. In preparation for our family gap year, we officially joined this amazing community in 2012. **Why did you decide to join CS and how do you mostly participate?** We subscribe to the true spirit of Couchsurfing. We are curious by nature and love the idea of learning about our world first hand from locals. We have a huge passion for travel and as a family; learning from travellers about their customs, culture and perspectives. We believe in the idea that we are true global citizens, who are more alike than different to those across the globe and have a desire to show genuine hospitality to “friends we have not yet met”. We believe in the power of hospitality and real friendship to create powerful connections, break down negative stereotype and foster positive diversity. We participate in Couchsurfing in so many ways. We host regularly, surf both overseas and locally, attend CS events, host CS events, meet up with members, chat to fellow ambassadors and members online, assist in CS forums, enjoy CS groups, meet up for meals and even host Couchsurfers for Christmas :)… **What was your first CS experience?** Our first CS experience was in Vientiane, Laos. Our kind CS host was a single man, who had a passion for travel and helping travellers. We were couchsurfing as a family of five and our youngest child was four years old. Our host accepted all those who requested to stay with him, which was a considerable number, so there were people always coming and going. Whilst staying in this home we co-surfed with many other travellers from across the globe. We enjoyed meeting locals in the surrounding neighbourhood, as this was in a local suburb away from tourist areas. It was the stuff of true adventure and the start of our love of all thing Couchsurfing. **Why did you decide to become an Ambassador?** I have a passion for couchsurfing and the real global community that it has created. I enjoyed CS as a member, then became a CS City Ambassador and have recently taken the opportunity to become a CS Country Ambassador for Australia. It has been a great opportunity to connect more deeply with other members, (especially those in Australia) and fellow CS Ambassadors globally who have a passion for cultural exchange and friendship. Through being a CS Ambassador I have chatted to others across the globe, not only learning about their lives but also about all the many events, local happenings and big gatherings within the global CS community. It is also wonderful to hear many of the deeply touching personal stories that have developed as a result of couchsurfing experiences and the ability of such positive experiences in forming life-long friendships. **What was your most memorable hosting experience?** We have hosted people from different religions, backgrounds, age ranges, genders, socio-economic backgrounds, etc. There have been so many interesting and wonderful Couchsurfers who have visited us and many have become life-long friends. Thanks to all of you who have enriched our lives. We really enjoyed hosting an amazing couple who had just recently explored the whole of South America for about two years, travelling down it’s entire length on a Vespa with only a tent and a backpack. We were inspired by their sense of adventure and real world experience. After they stayed with us, we followed their local work experiences, later we Couchsurfed with them on a dairy farm, then again followed their adventures as they travelled around Australia. Now they are staying in Tasmania and we hope to visit them soon. **What about surfing?** One of our standout CS surfing experiences was in a remote location in Romania. We met our hosts on a CS forum and after being invited to stay with them, decided to change our travels plans to make it happen. Getting to their home, involved a train, a few buses then walking a few kilometres up a dirt track. Once there, our family could not have asked for a more scenic or peaceful home. We hiked forest trails, drank fresh cows milk, helped plant tomatoes and played with kittens. It was an unforgettable experience so far from our suburban reality, filled with warm friendship and joy. **What is the coolest gift you’ve received from a surfer?** We are lucky enough to have received all kinds of unasked for gifts from our wonderful surfers – drinks, delicious foods, interesting trinkets, etc. By far the most precious gifts have been their kind service (be it cooking us a meal or helping us around the home), their skills (such as teaching us to play the accordion or how to use a scythe) and their genuine friendship that continues today 🙂 “ **What is the craziest thing that has happened to you on your travels?** So many crazy things have happened on our travels. Here is the story of The Great Varanasi Rickshaw Race We departed Varanasi in carnival style. Unwilling to pay the tourist price for an autorickshaw to the station, we held out as the time for our evening sleeper train approached. Eventually, a deal was secured with two pedal rickshaw drivers, and our bags and crew were loaded aboard. There followed a crazy 40 minute ride through busy streets and bumpy back roads to the station. Here the rickshaw is not a tourist vestige, but a cheap form of public transport used mostly by locals for short hops. The wiry riders, with calf-muscles that could make a Tour de France rider’s eyeballs pop, weave confidently along the street, in our case plunging through more motorised traffic with courage, skill and several hundred kilos of passengers and luggage. Three of the passengers spent most of the trip with huge grins – for this was the Great Varanasi Rickshaw Race!” **What is a place in Perth that has the same ideals as CS?** The Buy Nothing Project Facebook groups. A wholly volunteer run, network of gift economies that build true community connections. **Last question, what is one thing you never go on a trip without?** A sarong – you can wear it, use it as a towel, carry stuff in it, use it for shade, etc… ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/437a89d1-5cd6-4cf1-beb1-34caed804fb0.jpg "437a89d1-5cd6-4cf1-beb1-34caed804fb0 - Couchsurfing Blog")### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-prunella-family/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-prunella-family/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Meet an Ambassador --- ### [A Couchsurfer's guide to... Calgary](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-calgary/) **Published:** September 22, 2020 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Excerpt:** Let our Ambassador in Calgary guide you to getting the best out of Alberta's largest city! **Content:** ##### By: [Matthew Ruth](http://www.couchsurfing.com/people/matthew-ruth) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/shutterstock_631372679.jpg "shutterstock_631372679 - Couchsurfing Blog")[TRphotos](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/trwstockphotos)shutterstockBest breakfast in town! Reds Diner. Local to Calgary and with Four locations (One in the belt line, another in Kensington, One in the south on 58th Ave SE a 10 min walk from Chinook LRT Station, and the final one in the community of Ramsay). You’re sure to be with accessibility of a location. The food is outstanding, and it really is the place to go for breakfast! 1 Museum not to miss! The Glenbow Musem is one of Calgary’s gems! It’s multi-floor approach to some of the most intricate details of the provinces history from early settlers, and to the aboriginal communies. If you want to learn of Alberta’s history… this is place to go! The perfect picture! The Calgary Peace Bridge! A Modern, red pedestrian & bike bridge designed by Santiago Calatrava, a well-known Spanish architect. Located Northwest of the city center and west of Prince Island Park… this landmark connects the vibrant Sunny Side community to Eau Claire Park. A great view of the city walking in… definitely worth checking out! ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/shutterstock_1704258238.jpg "shutterstock_1704258238 - Couchsurfing Blog")[EB Adventure Photography](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/EdgarBullon)shutterstockWhere to dance! Habitat Living Sound: This is a lively entertainment nightspot featuring eclectic tunes from house music to disco on a DJ–spun dance floor. Music and Vibe quality is their priority. Habitat Living Sound is a DJ owned and operated boutique electronic music venue specializing in house and techno but hosting multiple forms of electronic music with local and international guest DJs every week. Despite its small development, it has big vibes and is home to many of Calgary’s best up and coming as well as seasoned DJ experts and international guests. The atmosphere of Habitat is profoundly curated and authentic. They also organize live music performances are here. DJ, House Music, Eclectic Tunes, Dance, Bottle Service, Private and Corporate Event, Disco, Special Drinks & Birthday Party A treat yourself meal! Chops Steakhouse & Bar: Definitely a place for a great meal! Pricey and absolute wonderful quality. Locations have very beautifully architecture. A great place to get a good steak for a good value. The Chinook location is within a 2 minute walk of a local Cineplex Odeon. So after a meal… catch a movie. Great way to spend am evening!” Best view in the city! Mt Pleasant View Point (Especially at night!). This location is public transportation friendly just north of the downtown for a quick 3 minute bus ride. Upon the upper hill, you can see one of if not THE best view of city skyline from this vantage point. Definitely a must! ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/shutterstock_517703239.jpg "shutterstock_517703239 - Couchsurfing Blog")View from Mount Pleasant [Alix Kreil](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Alix+Kreil)shutterstockWhere to sweat! Goodlife Fitness. With a name known all around the country and multiple locations in the city. No matter where you’re staying… Goodlife is the gym to go to. Best location is either in Dearfoot City or Sunridge area. Best quick bite! Seniors Pizza! This place is up in the far north side of the city. A 15 min walk from public transportation off Center Street… but SOOO worth it! With over 3,000 Google reviews as well as my years of personal experience (and many slice consumptions). This is the place to go! Highest recommendation is the Chicken Donair pizza! 2 HUGE slices for under $7… guaranteed you will be FULL after 2 pieces from here hit your mouth. The line (even before social distancing for COVID) at times can be down the street even! Definitely a go to! Best day trip out of town! Banff/Moraine Lake: For adventurers… hikers, nature lovers, and just outdoorsy people. This is the location for you! In the Summer months… a bus service called “”On-it”” will take you to and from between Calgary and Banff. A price is around $10 per way. With 3 pick up locations throughout the city (one in the far south, one in the city center, and one jn the far north)… where ever you’re staying, this bus is accessible. In off summer months… Poparide is a popular method of travel to get to and from Calgary and Banff. Moraine Lake will require a more personal touch of a vehicle. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/shutterstock_506012695.jpg "shutterstock_506012695 - Couchsurfing Blog")Moraine Lake in Banff National Park [Zhukova Valentyna](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/aiisha)shutterstockWhere to try the local cuisine! Peters Drive In! You come to Alberta… you have to try some Alberta Beef! This burger drive in has been around for nearly 60 years! It has built a reputation on its unique flavor, and a bonus is their 4,500 milkshake flavor combinations. If you’re looking for a good meal for around $10. This is your place! Also public transportation accessible. Family fun! 2 locations come to mind Calaway Park It is Western Canada’s largest outdoor family amusement park. The park is located in Springbank, Alberta, 4 kilometres west of the city limits of Calgary on the Trans-Canada Highway. This Family Setting has been around for nearly 40 years!! Drumheller – The Royal Tyrell Museum Established in 1985… The Royal Tyrrell Museum of Palaeontology is a palaeontology museum and research facility in Drumheller, Alberta, Canada. The museum is situated within a 12,500-square-metre-building designed by BCW Architects at Midland Provincial Park. It is located about 90 minutes from Calgary via car. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/shutterstock_397492933.jpg "shutterstock_397492933 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Chase Clausen](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/chaseclausen)shutterstockCute cafe! The Purple Perk! Located in the historic Mission district of Calgary, they are here to supply you with your Coffee Market needs. Drop by for a delicious coffee beverage (or hot chocolate!), chill out and relax in and out. Known to be a very popular place! One experience not to miss! The Calgary Zoo: One of the few Zoo’s to actually house Penguins! Make it a day event, and head out to check all the live animals that the Calgary Zoo has to offer! But the most recent addition and attraction…? Actual Penguins from Antarctica! Historic moment! Heritage Park: Step back in time at Canada’s largest living history museum. With more than 200 exhibits and attractions spread over 127 acres of lush parkland, Heritage Park Historical Village has a lot to offer both the history buff and the pleasure seeker. It’s the perfect balance between historical fact, adventure, discovery and fun that makes our take on the tale of Western Canadian settlement so unique. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/shutterstock_1259686708.jpg "shutterstock_1259686708 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Anastasiia Valitova](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Anastasiia+Valitova)shutterstockA tourist trap to avoid! Crossing Mills is an outlet mall that is just on the outskirts of the city. If you’re up for shopping… the hit it up. But without a car… you’re looking at 60-90 minute commute on the Airdrie Transit bus system which is more then the average fare for the local public transportation. Most of the stores there are available at shopping centers inside the city limts. Before going here… do your homework, and ask yourself if you really can’t go somewhere closer! Anything else to add… Prince Island Park is the last gem worth mentioning! Just directly north of Downtown… it’s a wonderful place to hangout in the summer months. In the Winter Months… head over to Olympic Plaza and you can rent ice skates and go skating there for free. Local hot chocolate is also there as well as a Tim Hortons near by for a truly Canadian experience!” ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/shutterstock_20648119.jpg "shutterstock_20648119 - Couchsurfing Blog") [Paul Lau](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/paullau)shutterstock### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-calgary/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-calgary/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Guides --- ### [The 7 Best Bars in Calgary](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-7-best-bars-in-calgary/) **Published:** September 9, 2020 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Excerpt:** Our Ambassador in Calgary, Alberta, Canada tells you his top 7 bars! **Content:** (In no particular order) ##### By: [Matthew Ruth](http://www.couchsurfing.com/people/matthew-ruth) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/shutterstock_1085956742-1.jpg "shutterstock_1085956742-1 - Couchsurfing Blog")[i viewfinder](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/john6863373)shutterstockFor the first 4 bars, they all have great food, great staff, and patio environments in the summer months: 1\. The Ship and Anchor 2\. The Rose and Crown 3\. 1410 4\. The Unicorn Superpub 5\. The Greta Bar: a classic retro arcade filled with modern and classic video games… amazing staff, and lots of space. This is one of the two locations I as an Ambassador have been holding one of two CS monthly events here for over two years! Very well known!! 6\. The Pin Bar: This is place to go if you want to rock old school pinball machines. The place is loaded with modern machines, and a great atmosphere. Definitely a fun environment! 7\. The Civic Tavern: I have saved the best for last! Originally known as the old Hop n Brew. This house pub has been around for a few decades. It’s a smaller but phenomenal venue and as such very welcoming for interested parties. It’s a two story location, and Friday’s does get packed! This is also historically the original location for monthly CS meetings. I have since continued this tradition since 2018 with the full blessing of ownership (pre-covid). All locations are currently open so if you’re coming to town (depending on where you’re staying)… definitely hit one (or all) of these up for a weekend. You’ll have a blast! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-7-best-bars-in-calgary/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-7-best-bars-in-calgary/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Guides --- ### [A Couchsurfer's guide to... Miami](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-miami/) **Published:** September 17, 2020 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** ##### By: [Andreita](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/andreitalacolombianita) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/shutterstock_469708088.jpg "shutterstock_469708088 - Couchsurfing Blog") [Mia2you](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Miami2you)shutterstockBest breakfast in town! [Versailles](https://www.versaillesrestaurant.com/) for breakfast is great if you are visiting Miami for the first time. You can get some pastries and cuban coffee (colaita). My favorite is the guava pastry. The price is super cheap, perfect for a backpacker 🙂 1 Museum not to miss! Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science. Why? This museum is a world class science museum dedicated to sharing the power of science, sparking wonder investigation and fueling innovation for the future. Historic moment! Calle 8 in Little Havana, walking from 22nd to 12th street is really nice and you can see Domino Park. It’s not the best but it’s the real Miami! ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/shutterstock_556035841.jpg "shutterstock_556035841 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Fotoluminate LLC](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/raulr)shutterstockBest place to grab a drink! Sugar is a great place because of the view but it is expensive. For cheap drinks and a great vibe I’d recommend Wynwood area bars like Wood Tavern. They have a great taco Tuesday and you can find more affordable drinks and nice places as well as some breweries. Where to dance! A club that I suggest to go to is Ball and Chain. There is never a cover, a live band on weekends, some days there is free salsa classes and the feeling is so latin! Alcohol is so expensive there so in general if you want to have a drink buy it in the liquor store first, then get there! Family fun! The Everglades! But please rent bikes! It is so fun and nice. Depending on the ages of the kids, Miami Seaquarium sometimes has great deals and would be a good thing for families to do. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/shutterstock_1091947205.jpg "shutterstock_1091947205 - Couchsurfing Blog")[GagliardiPhotography](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/gagliardig)shutterstockWhere to sweat! Miami Dade website offers some Zumba classes or boat camps for free you just need to check the Miami Dade web page. There is also Yoga in Bayfront Bark, but be careful because around downtown Miami parking is very expensive. A treat-yourself meal! It is not fancy but I recommend POC AMERICAN FUSION in Coral Gables. It is a great dinner buffet for $25 and you can get latin fusion, leg crabs , oyster and it is all unlimited. Best day-trip out of town! Wynwood has street art and is great. You can rent a bike and go around the same day. You can also do a tour from Bricell to Downtown, then little habana then Wynwood and if you still feel good, you can take the Venetian Causeway and go all the way to South Beach. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/shutterstock_1182056449.jpg "shutterstock_1182056449 - Couchsurfing Blog")[dennizn](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/dennizn)shutterstockBest quick bite! The best truck is on Wynwood but for authentic Miami food at a cheap price you can go to places like Yambo for $5. You get the menu of the day which is a box with a lot food like pork rice and beans. My favorite is for $9 and has carne asada and the best rice and beans and plantains. This box can be for two people! Cute cafe! The Joe Juice in Wynwood has coffee and great juice and coffees! A tourist trap to avoid! Restaurants and some bars in South Beach. I saw that a lot of CS hosts they just think that everyone just wants to go there, and yes it’s nice for one day to walk and visit the beach (like Muscle Beach) but after that it’s just expensive and touristy. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/shutterstock_449408050.jpg "shutterstock_449408050 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Sean Pavone](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/sepavo)shutterstock### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-miami/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-miami/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Guides --- ### [An 18-month long Couchsurfing stay!](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/an-18-month-long-couchsurfing-stay/) **Published:** September 14, 2020 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Excerpt:** Read how Ganeesh and his wife Coucshurfed for 18 months! **Content:** It started in 2018 when I was traveling and couchsurfing around south India. I was staying long for more than a week with each host. In Tiruchirappalli Tamilnadu, one of the Indian states, I got connected with a couchsurfing host very well. His name is Naveen Krishnan. When he hosted me for the first time, he was almost new on couchsurfing and still he hosted me for 15 days long. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/camel-at-naveen-garden-musiri-tamilnadu-india.jpg "camel-at-naveen-garden-musiri-tamilnadu-india - Couchsurfing Blog")He was into integrated farming, poultry farming, sheep rearing and he has a huge farm with Olympic size pool, treehouse, exotic animals. And a home for mentally challenged people was under construction. I was very inspired by his project and requested him if it’s possible to stay with him for a year-long with my wife and kid. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/forest-creation-project-at-naveen-garden-musiri-tamilnadu.jpg "forest-creation-project-at-naveen-garden-musiri-tamilnadu - Couchsurfing Blog")To my surprise, he instantly agreed and in 2019 February, me, my wife, and our 8 years old son shifted there. We ended up staying there for 18 months long (From Feb 2019 until Aug 2020). In this time, we learned some integrated farming, managing exotic animals, poultry, dogs, and other animal breeding, forest creation, hospitality, personality development, swimming, and much more. We also enjoyed walking around the garden, playing with dogs and other animals, swimming in the Olympic size pool, watching mesmerizing sunrise and sunset, visiting local village markets, festivals, cultural events, local food tasting, and many other activities. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/couchsurfing-in-trichy-tamilnadu.jpg "couchsurfing-in-trichy-tamilnadu - Couchsurfing Blog")It was an unforgettable couchsurfing experience for all of us. Couchsurfing changed my life. I started in 2014 and got addicted to it. Couchsurfing is one of the best things that happened on the internet and showing us that the world is one family! See the original blog post [here](https://hariom.bantakal.com/2020/09/14/couchsurfing-with-wife-and-kid-for-more-than-a-year/) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/seeding-treeplanting-at-naveen-garden-musiri-trichy-tamilnadu.jpg "seeding-treeplanting-at-naveen-garden-musiri-trichy-tamilnadu - Couchsurfing Blog")### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/an-18-month-long-couchsurfing-stay/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/an-18-month-long-couchsurfing-stay/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Stories --- ### [10 Questions with a CS Ambassador: David](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-david/) **Published:** September 3, 2020 **Author:** Mike Joy **Excerpt:** Meet David, our Ambassador in San Pedro Sula! **Content:** ##### Name: [David Diaz](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/hermanaso) City: San Pedro Sula Years on CS: 12 ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/1ac0c682-076a-4fcd-9ed9-9d9118cc0416.jpg "1ac0c682-076a-4fcd-9ed9-9d9118cc0416 - Couchsurfing Blog")Why did you decide to get involved with CS and how do you mainly participate? To get to know people, have always felt a stranger in my own land and knowing many people from different cultures just make me feel normal and embraced. A friend noticed how much I liked to meet new multicultural people and talked to me about CS, I immediately opened an account and hosted everyone I could. I invite travelers when possible as Honduras isn’t so touristic. What was your first CS experience? A Biologist couchsurfer, I had no idea how to host so I filled up the fridge and drove him absolutely everywhere in Panama City Why did you decide to become a CS Ambassador? Because I love the concept of Couchsurfing and I live it, am thankful that it changed my life in so many ways and I like to share from what I have received in life. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/206a9f90-5a49-4ca2-8ae2-5df3e27f841d.jpg "206a9f90-5a49-4ca2-8ae2-5df3e27f841d - Couchsurfing Blog")What has been your most interesting hosting experience? Meeting this 3% of amazing couchsurfers who have become my closest family also meeting this British couchsurfer who introduce me to photography, which is what I do now as a living for 10 years. And what about as a surfer? This super nice couchsurfer in Netherlands, he was so curious about photography and he has this incredibly nice personality, I enjoyed so much staying with him. What has been the coolest gift you’ve received from a surfer? I hosted this cool USA Couchsurfer and we played some card games, one was my favorite and he promised he would send it to me as a present, he did it. Was the first time a Couchsurfer gave me a present. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/31c02260-143e-44b4-ba53-7c025904d449.jpg "31c02260-143e-44b4-ba53-7c025904d449 - Couchsurfing Blog")What is a quote that inspires you and your travels? > If a voice inside is telling you that you can not paint, then above all paint, and that voice will be silenced. > > Vincent Van Gogh What is your favorite local cuisine from your city? Tapado, is dry salty meat pressure cooked with plaintains and green bananas with Yuca and chicken, shredded coconut on coconut milk, all this poured in white rice. What is one thing in your city that you think every traveler should see and why? Kayak in Lake Yojoa or River rafting at Rio Cangrejal, because its amazing and not much people go there ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/04f74479-5a7f-4c6b-a3f8-882063448cc0.jpg "04f74479-5a7f-4c6b-a3f8-882063448cc0 - Couchsurfing Blog")What is the one thing you never go on a trip without? Many would say a camera, but if you know me well you will know i never go on a trip without a pillow case, its always nice to have a fresh pillowcase 🙂 What is your dream vacation? A wooden cabin in front of a lake, in the cold north, with a dog and red wine and a good friend And lastly, what is your one piece of advice for new Couchsurfers? Never listen to other people’s experience, it will always be different and depend on your own way, the people you meet, the budget you stablished and the good you are at making new friends ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-david/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-david/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Meet an Ambassador --- ### [My Experience with Couchsurfing](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/my-experience-with-couchsurfing/) **Published:** September 1, 2020 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Excerpt:** A letter from Couchsurfing member Charlotte. **Content:** Hi Everyone, I’m really grateful that Couchsurfing exists as it gives so many people the opportunity to connect worldwide. It also provides a way to get to know cultures and people and gives us the opportunity to experience their lives by staying with them and having a free place to stay. I have hosted and been hosted many times and have only had amazing experiences. Even though in the beginning we might be strangers, this community gives us the opportunity to build trust, create new friendships and visit amazing places. I have many fun and interesting stories about my experiences. What I remember about all of them is KINDNESS!! When we are open to all possibilities magic always happens. A while back I was hosted by a lady with her son. She had a couch but offered me her bedroom even though she had back problems. I was so touched and promptly said I’d take the couch. On another occasion I hosted a beautiful woman, Mariana from Switzerland. At the time I was running an Inn and was getting ready to host a wedding. After she had just flown in and arrived in the US in the morning, she offered to help me with the wedding. This beautiful soul worked 14 hrs and wouldn’t let me pay her. We are now friends for life. We still connect with each other and I got to send her a gift for her twin baby boys. For me these kind of experience makes Couchsurfing the way to appreciate and experience each other…..all walks of life, all cultures, all traditions. We are all ONE. I’m happy to contribute to keep couchsurfing going!! If the contribution is too much for you think of another way to can give. There always has to be a giving and receiving to keep the flow of abundance going. Thank you, Charlotte 🙂 [![6138398A-24BC-4E84-8F8E-4B79C6C5B716](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/6138398A-24BC-4E84-8F8E-4B79C6C5B716.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/6138398A-24BC-4E84-8F8E-4B79C6C5B716.jpg) ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/my-experience-with-couchsurfing/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/my-experience-with-couchsurfing/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Stories --- ### [10 Questions with a CS Ambassador: Jose Luis](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-jose-luis/) **Published:** August 27, 2020 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Excerpt:** Meet Jose Luis! An Ambassador in Madrid and host to over 300 surfers in his 2 years on CS! **Content:** Name: [Jose Luis Priego](https://www.couchsurfing.com/users/2009066228) City: Madrid, España Years on CS: 2 ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/5f6f24dd-0122-48ee-b3a8-0cec0d7d7baa.jpg "5f6f24dd-0122-48ee-b3a8-0cec0d7d7baa - Couchsurfing Blog")How did you learn about Couchsurfing? I have always liked traveling, and I have always received many friends from around the world in my house, one day one of them told me about the community and now we have multiplied! What was your first CS experience? I guess everything has flowed because the first experience was great. I couldn’t start normally … my first guests were three Mexican friends! We had a great time a few days touring and enjoying all of Madrid and also on his return (since they started their tour of Europe in Madrid) and we still keep in touch through social networks and WhatsApp, they are three fantastic people! Why did you get involved in the Ambassador program? I am lucky that in Madrid we have the ambassador of Spain, who has a great experience of many years in CS and always treated me with luxury, told me about the project and liked my profile (that means he is crazier than me) And I couldn’t say no! We have shared many ideas and I admire him a lot … sometime I would like to be like something! I try that with my couchsurfers, beautiful values ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/2a5eddeb-a4a9-433e-b34b-e3f3697030b6.png "2a5eddeb-a4a9-433e-b34b-e3f3697030b6 - Couchsurfing Blog")What was your most interesting hosting experience? Due to circumstances, I have had my 300th Couchsurfer quarantined here! Imagine what I can tell you! From people who came by chance and stayed for months, travelers who stayed to live because they loved the city and my house, some who missed the stopover and tried their luck here or “I’m coming for two days” and end up staying a month! What was your most interesting surfing experience? I have little surfing experience (I am a very independent person) but they were all great, I fondly remember one in Jaén (southern Spain) that returned my stay months later, another in Valencia (I have a brother there!) That I am Looking forward to repeating and perhaps the most rewarding experience in Munich, what a madness to stay in a student residence for a week! I miss that crazy German … What is the coolest gift you have received from a surfer? I always clarify that I do not want gifts! because the best present is the memory… But I certainly have to choose a Picasso wool painting, made in Egypt! Can you imagine an Egyptian embroidering a painting by Picasso? I keep it with great affection because it is from a very special family If you could surf with any celebrity alive or dead, who would it be and why? It’s Difficult… Alive, I would host Meryl Streep, I am a huge fan and I admire her work, although I would not know when she was acting! And deceased, without a doubt, Nelson Mandela, would need many hours of talk to learn. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/593079c6-c16f-4c8f-83cb-0b3573b8e887.jpg "593079c6-c16f-4c8f-83cb-0b3573b8e887 - Couchsurfing Blog")What is the craziest thing that has ever happened to you while traveling? In Shanghai my flight was delayed two hours because in my suitcase “there was a bomb”, imagine what it is like to go out in winter snowing to check it out on the runway In Caracas they confused me with a famous actor from the country and treated us to everything one night! In Marrakech we got lost in the Sahara and some camels happened to meet us, sometimes luck smiles! Better not tell you about Athens … I invite you to my house to tell the anecdote! 😀 The magic of traveling! What is one thing in your city that you think every traveler should see and why? Madrid is more multifaceted than travelers think … but it is mandatory to go with friends to see a sunset in the Temple Debod and spend the night there in a big towel talking about life. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/a52bf6aa-0280-41e8-b0e1-c1c8a270307e.jpg "a52bf6aa-0280-41e8-b0e1-c1c8a270307e - Couchsurfing Blog")What is your one piece of advice to a new member of Couchsurfing? Be yourself and let it flow, do not think, feel, and let yourself go, in this way everything will be great and you will not forget the experience 😀 ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-jose-luis/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-jose-luis/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Meet an Ambassador --- ### [Best of... Turkey](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/best-of-turkey/) **Published:** August 25, 2020 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** By: [Umut Kılıç](https://www.couchsurfing.com/users/2000514058) and [Burak](https://couchsurfing.page.link/SjZHxUL4RYiC8Ha16) Time needed: About a month! Spend at least a week in Istanbul The only city to straddle two continents. Istanbul is one of the most historic cities in the world, where east meets west, and is a must-see and great starting off point for any trip to Turkey! ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/shutterstock_291252509.jpg "shutterstock_291252509 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Seqoya](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/seqoya)shutterstockWatch sunrise from Cappadocia It is an incredible and amazing place in Anatolia where you can watch hot air balloons rise over the rock formations at sunrise. For an extra special experience, you can take a hot air balloon and see the beautiful formations from the air! ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/shutterstock_730555306.jpg "shutterstock_730555306 - Couchsurfing Blog")[muratart](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/muratart)shutterstockOld stone houses in Mardin Located in southeaster turkey, this small town is famous for the architecture that climbs the hill. Old stone houses that are a must-see tourist destination. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/shutterstock_1155919684.jpg "shutterstock_1155919684 - Couchsurfing Blog")[epic images](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/isaozdere)shutterstockDiscover the Aegean Coast The Aegean Coast has some of the best beaches in the world. Antalya is a great starting point, as it is a large city that is well connected to islands and smaller villages. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/shutterstock_597156353.jpg "shutterstock_597156353 - Couchsurfing Blog")[muratart](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/muratart)shutterstockEphesus One of the best preserved ancient cities in Turkey. A must-see for any history lover on a trip to Turkey. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/shutterstock_1482255974.jpg "shutterstock_1482255974 - Couchsurfing Blog")[muratart](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/muratart)shutterstockPamukkale These natural pools, in southwestern turkey, are known for their mineral-rich water, white rocks and crystal clear blue water. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/shutterstock_1250272990.jpg "shutterstock_1250272990 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Kerim Koca](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Kerim%2BKoca)shutterstockRun in the jungle along the Black Sea The northern area of Turkey runs along the Black Sea and is known for dense forest. Plenty of outdoor activities like hiking and kayaking are available and from there it is easy to cross into Georgia. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/shutterstock_113021104.jpg "shutterstock_113021104 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Ozgur Coskun](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/ozgurcoskun)shutterstock### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/best-of-turkey/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/best-of-turkey/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Guides --- ### [Best of... Honduras](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/best-of-honduras/) **Published:** August 19, 2020 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Excerpt:** Check out our Ambassador's recommendations for getting the most out of Honduras. **Content:** ##### By: [Dave Diaz](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/hermanaso) Time needed: 1-2 weeks would fit most of it ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/shutterstock_1795844902.jpg "shutterstock_1795844902 - Couchsurfing Blog")Roatan [Paulo Miguel Costa](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Paulo%2BMiguel%2BCosta)shutterstockLake Yojoa (Lago de Yojoa) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/shutterstock_1614140233.jpg "shutterstock_1614140233 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Unai Huizi Photography](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Unai%2BHuizi)shutterstockRent a kayak for all afternoon for $4 and enjoy the beautiful lake, explore the Pulhapanzak waterfalls (specially the under caves). Have some crafted beers in the beautiful D&D brewery and try local food on the street comedors Rio Cangrejal in La Ceiba ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/shutterstock_1740835538.jpg "shutterstock_1740835538 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Manuel Chinchilla](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/manuelchinchilla)shutterstockIt’s a gorgeous big river, very close to the city center of La Ceiba, hitchhike or drive towards Jungle River Lodge (stay is around $10 per night or spend the day there for free, it’s a beautiful spot) or camp in one of the 3 villages surrounding the area, enjoy the river, explore waterfalls Utila ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/shutterstock_1717830088.jpg "shutterstock_1717830088 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Kieran Reeves Photography](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Kieran%2BReeves%2BPhotography)shutterstockA backpackers and divers island, with nice spots like Water Cay, Pumpkin Hill and Neptunes. This small island is worth staying some days, party happens every weekend Copan Ruins ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/shutterstock_1747373789.jpg "shutterstock_1747373789 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Odessa25](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Odessa25)shutterstockThe colonial town is beautiful and always nice to walk around, you can walk towards the actual Mayan Ruins and definitely join a guided tour group for the information regarding all the ruins (you can join once inside and tip the guide) or read a little bit and explore the soccer field, sacrifice stones, the famous Lempira sight Tela Beach ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/shutterstock_1795442335.jpg "shutterstock_1795442335 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Odessa25](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Odessa25)shutterstockThe long white sand beach is super nice to spend a whole day tanning up and enjoying the warm beach, stay in front of the Telamar hotel beach area (the beach is public and has the nicest swimming spots) San Pedro Sula and Tegucigalpa ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/shutterstock_1437462767.jpg "shutterstock_1437462767 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Nailotl](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Nailotl)shutterstockBoth cities have their nice things, are good areas for meeting lovely couchsurfers who are always eager to host you and show you around, nice pubs. Don’t be afraid of these cities, they are harmless for tourists, most likely you will fall in love with the local host’s vibe. San Pedro Sula is the center of most tourist spots and main airport. Notice the SAP Airport is 40-80 minutes drive away. Last piece of advice… Honduras is very unexplored and less tourists than other countries, hence the prices are lower and the people more eager to host you and become your friends, although street food is all fried, try to explore the local cuisine like Tapado, Sopa de Mariscos, Sopa de Mondongo, Fried fish with fried green Bananas or Baleadas with avocado. This country is worth not being skipped 🙂 ahh, and tips and taxes are always included in the prices. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/best-of-honduras/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/best-of-honduras/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Guides --- ### [It all started through YouTube](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/it-all-started-through-youtube/) **Published:** August 17, 2020 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Excerpt:** Check out a community story of how one youtuber discovered Couchsurfing! **Content:** I had no clue what Couchsurfing was all about, until one day accidentally I started following a Travel Youtuber. His videos of him globe trotting, hitchhiking, Couchsurfing etc. gave me this first insight into what Couchsurfing is all about. This motivated me to start my own YouTube channel here in New Zealand as a hobby showcasing my normal life in NZ and my travels to various cities around. Now that I had this channel up and running, an idea popped into my mind, “Hey why not invite some Couchsurfers” to my house here. I enrolled myself in and became a Couchsurfing member too. One day out of the blue I had got this request from a Japanese Traveler who was planning to visit NZ on a short trip and requested a stay with me for a day or two, looking to the fact that I had mentioned about my travels to Japan prior to joining Couchsurf site. I immediately accepted his request and voila Ryo San from Japan turned out to be my first ever guest whom I had hosted. This gave me a first hand experience of what Couchsurfing was all about. He came in as a guest and left the country as a good friend ! This is the spirit that I learnt. Since then have hosted so many lovely people from around the world, South Korea, Japan, China, Belgium, Canada, USA, Indonesia etc. and I have captured each one of their stays with me through my YouTube videos as a story of its own. Do check out my videos of each one of them, you will love it. Couchsurfing has taught me to respect cultures, and made me understand the fact that no matter where you come from, after all we all are “Humans”! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/it-all-started-through-youtube/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/it-all-started-through-youtube/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Stories --- ### [A Couchsurfer's guide to... Chennai](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-chennai/) **Published:** August 11, 2020 **Author:** Mike Joy **Excerpt:** Our Ambassador Ela gives us his tips to getting the most out of Chennai, India. **Content:** ##### By: [Elavarasan Rajan](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/Sailor_Elaa) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/shutterstock_683393986.jpg "shutterstock_683393986 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Jayakumar](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/jaimaa)shutterstockBest breakfast in town! Idlis / Dosa. With a bowl of Sambhar & A cup of Filter kaapi! Will make your whole day tastier. Almost all restaurants in Chennai city will have this menu.. you can choose the one which suits your wallet! This Chennai’s traditional breakfast is not just a gastronomical delight for many but also the most nutritious morning meal compared to those in other metros. ‘India Breakfast Habits Study’, a survey conducted by Times Of India in four metros, found that Chennai has the best breakfast ‘nutrient profile’ in the country. To add more , Masala Dosa has made it to the list of ’10 foods to try before you die’, compiled by the Huffington Post. One Museum not to miss! Dakshina Chitra Museum Probably the only Living History museum in the whole Indian Sub continent! Located in Chennai’s scenic East Coast Road , which is full of amazing tourist destinations, none come close to the cultural charm of Dakshinachitra when it comes to giving visitors a true taste of South India. The museum is crafted as a 10 acres complex in the form of a Heritage village. It has about 18 different houses which are brought to the village from various areas of South India and were reconstructed in a unique style by professional artisans. If you are interested in gaining knowledge about the past happenings and cultural variations of South India, then there is no better place than Dakshinachitra. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/shutterstock_1300201657.jpg "shutterstock_1300201657 - Couchsurfing Blog")[BK Baratth](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Baratthkumar)shutterstockWhere to see traditional dance! Chennai being The Cultural Capital of India, is known for its classical music shows. Every December, Chennai holds a five-week-long Music Season, which has been described as one of the world’s largest cultural events. The Music Season encompasses performances (kacheries) of traditional Carnatic music by hundreds of artists in and around the city. Places like Naradha Gana Sabha , Sri Krishna Gana sabha will be hosting the best shows of the season. This happens during the Tamil season of Margazhi and this period is a festive and joyous time in chennai. Chennai is also known for the classical Indian dance, the Bharatanatyam, which is also the official dance of Tamil Nadu. One’s Chennai visit is never complete without watching a Bharathanatya dance event in Kalakshetra foundation. Even in absence of an event , an early morning walk inside the campus to watch the students practicing their divine dance moves will be so serene! Where to sweat! How about a walk/Jog in the promenade of the world’s second longest urban natural beach. Yes. Marina beach in Chennai along the Bay of Bengal is India’s longest and world’s second longest beach. An early morning stroll along with the city’s fitness freaks, watching the sunrise and all the magnificient statues of tamil scholars lined up in the promenade. Or a Evening pony ride & some kite flying during sunset are not to be missed for sure. Strictly No swimming or Bathing in Marina beach, as its prohibited by local rules due to dangerously strong undercurrents in the area. No swimsuits or Bikinis either. Yea.. it’s time to enjoy a beach in some Indian style! ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/shutterstock_513961069.jpg "shutterstock_513961069 - Couchsurfing Blog")[jayk67](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Jay%2BRadhakrishnan)shutterstockA treat-yourself meal! D Cafe, T nagar. A quiet green hideaway is an anomaly in the city’s chaos. With quite a good variety in menu which includes Mexican, Italian, continental and even asian cuisine in a space suddenly cutting out the ambient noise with its own features, like a flowing stream, potted plants and shrubs all over and by the indoor restaurant shielding it from the road D cafe is the best treat for all senses a human has! Best view in the city! A view from the Only Indian place to be targeted & bombed during world war I. The Madras Light house! Yes, View of Marina beach and the neighbouring historical buildings from the top of this green light house (solar powered) is worth a shot! By the end of the 18th century, As capital of the Madras Presidency which encompassed much of south India and also Ceylon (SriLanka), The City of Madras served as the nerve centre of the sea trade controlled by the British East India Company. The old light house building being an important structure for the sea trade remained one of the primary reasons for attracting the attention of the German warship SMS Emden during World War I. The lighthouse was the main target of the attack in which the High Court campus was bombed on 1914. Standing as the only lighthouse in India being within the city limits , It is one of the few lighthouses in the world with an elevator. So for a visitor of any age its easy here to reach the top of a lighthouse and enjoy a serene view with some sea breeze from the beautiful Bay Of Bengal. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/shutterstock_1736867753.jpg "shutterstock_1736867753 - Couchsurfing Blog")[GEMINI PRO STUDIO](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/GEMINI%2BPRO%2BSTUDIO)shutterstockBest quick bite! Jannal Kadai in Mylapore is a small window shop where people line up to have their tasty Bhajjis. Bhajjis is a snack that is popular in many parts of India. In Chennai, this is served with different chutneys of local flavours. One can also find some excellent bhaji outlets on East Mada Road. Looking for some delicious Burmese dish? Then you should head right up to Atho anna near Burma bazar. Here you can find varieties of Burmese dishes especially, Atho which is popular street food in Chennai. This man with his small cart and not even a name board will surely feed your taste buds some betterness. Not only this there are many more Burmese dishes like Bejo, Mohinga, masala egg… To tingle your tongue . Best day trip out of town! Mahabalipuram! The Shore temple complex and collection of Royal monuments of the pallava dynasty.. is the Best day trip out of chennai. A 60km drive along the scenic EastCoastRoad from the main city of chennai leads us to Mahabalipuram, also known as Mamallapuram. The site has 40 ancient monuments and Hindu temples,including one of the largest open-air rock reliefs in the world: the Descent of the Ganges or Arjuna’s Penance. The group contains several categories of monuments: \* Ratha temples with monolithic processional chariots, \*Mandapa viharas (cave temples) with narratives from the Mahabharata, \*Shaivic, Shakti and Vaishna inscriptions in a number of Indian languages and scripts; \*Rock reliefs (particularly bas-reliefs), \*Stone-cut temples etc. Marco Polo and the European merchants who came to Asia after him called the site Seven Pagodas. One of these is believed to be the Shore Temple. The temple probably acted as a landmark for navigation of their ships. As it appears like a Pagoda, the name became familiar to the seafarers. A group pic with the shore temple at backdrop during twilight after sunset is gonna decorate your drawing room for sure! ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/shutterstock_1443433127.jpg "shutterstock_1443433127 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Jayakumar](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/jaimaa)shutterstockCute cafe! Ever heard of a cafe with an attached bookstore? Writers Café in Gopalapuram is a must visit for all the café and book lovers. The Higginbotham’s store in the café has a wide collection of books, some rare and some exclusive books as well. however, you get to glance through these books only after you buy them. Possibilities of meeting some famous writers, poets or lyricists is also high… As this place has been heared by lots as birth place of lots of interesting songs and stories. Historic moment! Talking about History, Chennai corporation being the first City corporation of India, is itself the 2nd oldest City corporation in the world after london. Thus Chennai holds a lot of the biggest, largest and firsts. Some of my favs are.. \*Spencer’s plaza is the First shopping mall of India (1850s) \*Higginbotham’s bookshop in MountRoad is the First and oldest existing book shop in India \*Vandaloor zoo is the first public zoo of India \*St. Mary’s church inside Fort St.George is the oldest Anglican Church and also the oldest british building in India \*Madras High Court complex is the 2nd largest Judicial complex in the world after London. \*WorldBank building in Chennai is the biggest outside its headquarters in Washington DC \*CMBT is the largest Busstand in Asia \*Anna Centenary library is the largest library in South Asia \*Koyambedu market is the largest vegetable market in South Asia \* Port of Chennai was the biggest artificial port and only functional port in East asia during WorldWar ll. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/shutterstock_1732954235.jpg "shutterstock_1732954235 - Couchsurfing Blog")Koyambedu [gnanistock](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/KarthikeyanGnanaprakasam)shutterstockTourist trap to avoid! Be smart enough when you choose your ride, prefer using online taxi services like uber , ola etc.. even the local bus service is more convienient and cheaper . Though the local AutoRickshaw and taxi drivers sound too fluent in most of the European languages, their fare meters may run differently for different people. Last piece of advice! Travelling is a lifestyle for us Tamil people since centuries, as A famous Tamil quote written 2500 years ago by Kanniyan Poongundran in Purananuru says “”யாதும் ஊரே!! யாவரும் கேளிர்!!”” Which literally translates to “To us all towns are one, all men our kin”. Let’s travel to cherish every culture, people and its traditions. Be smiling & Spread smiles! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-chennai/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-chennai/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Guides --- ### [Unexpected Couchsurfing](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/unexpected-couchsurfing/) **Published:** August 12, 2020 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** Hyman, a friend working in Dubai was supposed to help a coworker, Alina in Cebu, Philippines. However, my friend was not able to join her so, he tried asking me if I can guide Alina. Thanks for referring her. She told me about Couchsurfing. It turned out that Alina was indeed a traveler. She had visited Argentina, China, Malaysia, Mauritius, Thailand, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, and the Philippines! I learn a lot about her travels and her beloved country, Ukraine. I was surprised at how she easily goes around a new country. It turned out I hosting Travellers Can Be Fun. Thanks, CS. [![Screen Shot 2020-08-12 at 10.50.58 AM](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/Screen-Shot-2020-08-12-at-10.50.58-AM.png)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/Screen-Shot-2020-08-12-at-10.50.58-AM.png) [![Alina.jpg](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/Alina.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/Alina.jpg) ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/unexpected-couchsurfing/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/unexpected-couchsurfing/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Stories --- ### [10 Questions with a CS Ambassador: Henky](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-henky/) **Published:** August 3, 2020 **Author:** Mike Joy **Excerpt:** Meet Henky, our Ambassador in Tasikmalaya, Indonesia. **Content:** ##### Name: [Henky](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/gabrielhenky) City: Tasikmalaya, West Java, Indonesia Years on Couchsurfing: 10 ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/Screen-Shot-2020-08-11-at-11.00.03-AM.png "Screen-Shot-2020-08-11-at-11.00.03-AM - Couchsurfing Blog")**Hey Henky! Why did you decide to get involved with CS and how do you mainly participate?** I liked and ( I still do like ) the concept it offered me. It allows me to meet people from around the globe and know their culture, and since I was born as a sociable person joining Couchsurfing really quenches my thirst for that. **What was your first CS experience?** It was 7 years ago ( in 2013) in Vietnam. we were lucky to have 2 different hosts in two cities: Ho Chi Minh and Hanoi. The one in Hanoi was really unforgettable. Our host were a newly married couple, at first we wanted to stayed at their house for 2 days only, but they forbade us to leave, so we lengthened our stay until 7 days. They really trusted and cared for us, they lent us their motorbike, to go around the city, they cooked us great food every day for free! **What was one of your most memorable hosting experiences?** Most of my guests are special to me, but if I have to choose one I can say that hosting Rosa and her husband Josep from Girona was exceptional. the moment I met them in front of my door I felt that chemistry. I didn’t know anything about Catalan culture and they explained their culture so deeply through their language, songs and their food. Now I’m a Catalan freak! **What about surfing?** My first surfing experience in Ho Chi Minh was quite shocking, funny and unforgettable, we stayed in a young girl’s house, her rented house had 5 floors, and we slept on the 3rd floor, when there was a big truck passing in front of her house the building always shook, so I couldn’t sleep well at that time because it shook many times during my sleep! Hahaha. But our hostess was a really great person. **What is the coolest gift you have received from a surfer?** I’m a big postcard collector, i have around 1000 postcards. So each time I receive postcard, I am always thankful, but apart from that I like receiving books and fridge magnets. **If you could surf with any celebrity alive or dead, who would it be and why?** Well, there are many celebrities I like, for alive I want to have Eros Ramazzotti, an italian top singer(I’m his biggest fan, I even have his signature!)Why? Because he’s so cool, and maybe we can sing together or I’ll ask him to cook italian food, we have so much in common! For dead celebrity I’d be glad to have Picasso, why? for me he’s one of a kind, i like his optimism, self-confidence, and I want to know everything about him from the first hand. **What is one book that has inspired your travels?** In Indonesia there’s a famous book writer called Trinity, she is called “The Naked Traveler,” I like the way she travels, she’s such a fearless female traveler with great sense of humor and intelligence! **What is a crazy story from your travels?** it was in 2013 when we took a train from Ho Chi Minh to Ninh Binh, it took 39 hours to arrive, nobody could understand English, the worst thing, our train hit a truck and 4 people died! **What is your dream trip?** To do IL CAMINO walking from Saint Jean Pied de Port in France to Santiago de Compostella in Spain which stretches about 780 kilometers , it’s a big challenge for me, not only for religious reason but also for my physical and my mental . A film by Martin Sheen called THE WAY really inspires me to do it! **What is your advice for a new Couchsurfer?** Be open minded, if your negative thinking is bigger than your positive thinking, Couchsurfing is not for you. Be open, open your heart, your mind, and your door and think that good people who are willing to help you do exist! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-henky/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-henky/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Meet an Ambassador --- ### [A Couchsurfer's guide to... Sulaymaniyah](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-sulaymaniyah/) **Published:** August 3, 2020 **Author:** Mike Joy **Excerpt:** Check out Aryan's guide to Sulaymaniyah **Content:** By: [Aryan](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/arian-mustafa) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/shutterstock_1743068864.jpg "shutterstock_1743068864 - Couchsurfing Blog")[MehtabHassan](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/HassanShots)shutterstockBest breakfast in town! I prefer local breakfast from traditional Chaikhana, yogurt, Qaimagh, tea and delicious local honey. A museum not to miss! Try to visit National Museum of Amna Suraka , you will surprised for what you see. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/shutterstock_577670392.jpg "shutterstock_577670392 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Matus Duda](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/MatusDuda)shutterstockWhere to dance! I advise finding a way to local marriage party where everybody enjoying traditional Kurdish dance. A treat-yourself meal! Latuna restaurant and 360 restaurant where during your meal you are rotating around suly and the view changes regularly. Where to sweat! There are many gyms but nature is always the best, so go work out in Azadi paro and Hawari shar with the amazing view. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/shutterstock_1233611143.jpg "shutterstock_1233611143 - Couchsurfing Blog")Hamdawi River [Al Orfali](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Orfali)shutterstockBest quick bite! Try to grab a sandwiches in Sahollaka (Salim street) street food Cute cafe! Many place to drink a coffee such as Nali cafe in Sarchnar and Barbara in Twimalik with Tche Tche in Parki Azadi. Best view! Over Goizha mountain whole Suly city in front of your eye, it is an amazing scene. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/shutterstock_1166479678.jpg "shutterstock_1166479678 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Nihayet Marof](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Nihayet%2BMarof)shutterstockThe perfect picture! To capture a photo from the mountain and close to the Suly symbol it will an amazing photo and memory Family fun! Chaviland is an area for families beside the children play yard you can enjoy the amazing view of the city and the mountain at the same time. Best day-trip out of town! Suly’s neighbors has many options to visit if you are hiker you can visit one of the mountains like Hawraman close to Irani boarder, or in summer visiting Dukan lake and many other options. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/shutterstock_1132031669.jpg "shutterstock_1132031669 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Elena Odareeva](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/odareeeva)shutterstockOne experience not to miss! Hike, Hike and hike everywhere you will find unique scene and mountain with very pure spring water and birds singing all over, enjoy the nature as much as you can. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-sulaymaniyah/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-sulaymaniyah/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Guides --- ### [A Couchsurfer's guide to... Voronezh](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-voronezh/) **Published:** July 21, 2020 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Excerpt:** A Couchsurfer's guide to Voronezh **Content:** ##### By: [Andrey Berman](https://www.couchsurfing.com/users/2007353090) Best breakfast in town! Speaking about getting breakfast in some kind of a dinery I would highly recommend tasting something traditionally Russian – something like BLINI – a dish in which you can find some familiar features with pancakes but they are not the same. You can try it with cottage cheese, caviar or something sweet like jam or condensed milk. I suggest you going to “Blin Medovich” place ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/shutterstock_1645318786.jpg "shutterstock_1645318786 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Irina Burakova](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/irirnn0215)shutterstockBest place to grab a drink! “Gvozdi” bar is a highly recommended bar to grab a drink, chat with somebody and to make friends Where to dance! “Balagan city” is a huge restaurant – one of the biggest in all Russia and you can not only order some traditional Russian dishes but to dance as well. It is situated in the very heart of the city so you won’t miss it 1 museum not to miss! If you are interested in the history of World War 2 I suggest you visit “Arsenal” – the place where you can dive deep into the atmosphere of peoples’ suffering: to read their letters written on a piece of paper, to hear the noises of german air forces bombing the city etc. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/shutterstock_1305909535.jpg "shutterstock_1305909535 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Kirill Skorobogatko](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Kirill%2BSkorobogatko)shutterstockWhere to sweat! “Olympic” sport park is the best place I suggest visiting for those who have time and energy to sweat extra during their journeys\\trips\\adventures. You can take part in different kinds of sports activities their – starting from jogging and ending up playing volleyball and even tennis Best view in the city! Not far from “Versaille” hotel you can find one of the best viewpoints in the whole city – you could behold various churches and the gorgeous view up on the river ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/shutterstock_1100963252.jpg "shutterstock_1100963252 - Couchsurfing Blog")[DedMityay](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/DedMityay)shutterstockCute cafe! “Ptichka coffee” is a nice and cozy cafe with a good interior and very relaxing atmosphere. Best quick bite! Shaurma place Best day-trip out of town! You can catch a local train to “Divnogorye” – a place you will enjoy visiting 100%. It’s an ancient monastery built in a rock and it looks spectacular. You can either choose to visit it with a guide or make this trip all by your own – the 2nd variant is completely free of charge. And that’s one of the advantages! ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/shutterstock_1252100923.jpg "shutterstock_1252100923 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Poliorketes](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Demetrios%2BPoliorketes)shutterstockWhere to try the local delicacy! Voronezh region is famous for its meat factories so if you are not a vegetarian I would suggest trying some meat dishes. You can find a lot of places here and there for that but personally I recommend you “Italyanskiy Dvorik” Family fun! “Grad” is no doubt a place which your kids could enjoy. There you can find everything to make your children smile and laugh: various attractions, a cinema, snack bars and cafes. This centre of entertainment is situated in the very northern part of the city though you can easily reach it with the means of public transport or your own vehicle. The perfect picture! There is natural sized copy of the first ship built under the order of Peter the Great here on the shipyards of Voronezh so I think the picture shot in front of this huge ship would be the best ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/shutterstock_1249563472.jpg "shutterstock_1249563472 - Couchsurfing Blog")[DedMityay](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/DedMityay)shutterstockOne experience not to miss! If you have enough time I would highly recommend you to rent a bicycle and just slowly explore the city and its surroundings – this land is full of ancient history. Historic moment! There is a monument “Rotonda” – it’s a part of a hospital of 20th century which was totally ruined by germans during World War 2 nd this monument still remains in its original condition – I mean all of these holes from bullets etc – you should visit this place for sure. There should be no war like this anywhere in the World. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/shutterstock_573993715.jpg "shutterstock_573993715 - Couchsurfing Blog")[DedMityay](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/DedMityay)shutterstock### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-voronezh/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-voronezh/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Guides --- ### [Best of... Korea](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/best-of-korea/) **Published:** July 21, 2020 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Excerpt:** Sujeong, our Ambassador in Korea, gives us her recommendations to getting the best of Korea! **Content:** ##### By: [Sujeong Kim](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/sujeongfish) Time needed: About a month! Hike Korean Mountains ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/shutterstock_1014821173.jpg "shutterstock_1014821173 - Couchsurfing Blog")Bukhansan [CJ Nattanai](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/CJ%2BNattanai)shutterstockThe four biggest are Bukhansan, Seoraksan , Jirisan or Hallasan. The land of Korea is 70% mountains, and Koreans are crazy about hiking. It will be one of best ways to feel of the nature, people, and culture. Explore the 3 seas ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/shutterstock_1085816465.jpg "shutterstock_1085816465 - Couchsurfing Blog")Sunrise from Korea [Panwasin seemala](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Panwasin%2Bseemala)shutterstockKorea is a peninsula surrounded by 3 seas: **East Sea**: enjoy the beaches or some outdoor activities: camping, swimming, surfing, or rafting, and eating fresh seafood **West Sea:** Stay on an island, have a relaxing time to see beautiful sunsets and tides, walk around the island and meet local people **South Sea:** Boat around thousands of islands, have local seafood. Do not miss Suncheon Bay Wetland Reserve and the Garden. Traditional Korean Cooking Class ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/shutterstock_1063729844.jpg "shutterstock_1063729844 - Couchsurfing Blog")Bimbimbap [MuhammadAzman](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/M.%2BUwais)shutterstockEspecially making Kimchi (the most essential side-dish for Korean food) or Makguli (traditional rice drink). You will see a nice connection of past and present in the heart of Korean culture. Temple stay ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/shutterstock_1016710108.jpg "shutterstock_1016710108 - Couchsurfing Blog")Yonggungsa Temple [aneksoowannaphoom](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/aneoho)shutterstockBuddhism is an important background of Korean tradition, and also a big part of oriental life philosophy and culture. You may do some meditation, and live like a monk far from all the civilization, and have really organic, healthy, and vegan or vegetarian food. It also gives you a very nice experience of staying in a kind of Korean traditional house. Many big temples in Korea have temple-stay programs, or you may be able to ask small temples to stay there with some work or donation. It will be a very good opportunity to see Korean traditional culture and philosophy. Explore Seoul ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/shutterstock_718460350-1.jpg "shutterstock_718460350-1 - Couchsurfing Blog")Seoul [FenlioQ](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Fenlio%2BKao)shutterstockThe city is a good mixture of OLD and NEW. Visit 2~3 of the old palaces. Gallery tours in Gangbuk and Gangnam. 2 very different parts of Seoul. Also very recommendable to walk around some neighborhoods in Gangbuk: Seongbukdong, Ihwadong, Gangnam: Cheongdamdong, Hakdong. Listen to some musicals and performances like NanTa or a K-Pop concert. Take a walk to Seoul trail, Buhansan trail, Seoul Castle Wall, etc.. Explore Busan and Gyeongju ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/shutterstock_1092078044.jpg "shutterstock_1092078044 - Couchsurfing Blog")Donggung Palace in Gyeongju [MarudTravelPhoto](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/marud_racing)shutterstockBoth are in Gyeongsangdo province where the people, food ,and accent are distinct. You many enjoy many different local foods in Busan, like Dwaeji Gukbab, Milmyeon, Eomuk(Eomuk cooking class), Hwe: raw fish or seafood (especially raw octopus) in Subyen Park. You can see a night view on the top of Hwangryeongsan, enjoying beach life, looking around Jagalchi market. And BIFF (Busan international film Festival) in October. 1.5 hours to Gyeongju, it used to be the ancient capital city of the Shilla Dynasty (1C~ 10C), based on Buddhism. There are still lots of remains, national treasures all around the city, and beautiful temples as well : Bulguksa, Seokgulam, Gameunsa, etc.. Visit Gwangju and Jeonju ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/shutterstock_1361458925.jpg "shutterstock_1361458925 - Couchsurfing Blog")Gwangju [Amankgupta](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Amankgupta)shutterstockThey belong to Jeollado province, where most of Korean people consider the best food in Korea; Kimchi, Bibimbap, and more or less all typical Korean dishes. Gwangju was the main incubator of Korean democratic movement in 80’s, so then you may visit some historic places there and talk to anyone local on the street their stories at the time, they might be good company to talk about the time. People, food, and the accent there are different from Gyeongsangdo. 1 hour to Jeonju, the city has got a beautiful lotus park, and kind of Summer palace of Choseon Dynasty, so there is something very good to see in traditional culture. One part of ‘Pansori'(Dongpyenje) kind of Korean styled ole opera was born in Jeollado, and there are some museums and academies around Jeongju. Seek a mystic treasure on Jeju ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/shutterstock_564285739.jpg "shutterstock_564285739 - Couchsurfing Blog")[AzmanMD](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/AzmanMD)shutterstockJeju is a volcanic island and you can Walk up to Oreum (Volcanic hill) and explore the 365 islands like, Udo or Marado. There are hidden forests like Saryeni or Bijarim,or you can pick tangerines in a farm, rent a scooter to travel around, or ride a horse. You can also try local food in Jeju like black pork bbq, abalone soup/porridge, peanut Makguli, Jeju Soju Hallasan Experience Local Countryside markets ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/shutterstock_148705262.jpg "shutterstock_148705262 - Couchsurfing Blog")Market in Seoul [qingqing](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/qingqing)shutterstockMost countryside local markets are not open everyday, but every 5th day on different schedules from neighboring towns. They sell local specials and sometimes you have local shows and performances as well. Cycling along the 4 top big riversides over Korea ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/shutterstock_1712458279.jpg "shutterstock_1712458279 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Stock for you](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Stock%2Bfor%2Byou)shutterstockHangang, Geumgang, Nakdonggang, and Yeongsangang. Or there are other good options for cycling around Korea as like Jeju Ole or Haeparang-gil.. Last piece of advice… Open yourself to broaden the horizon and build a wider world in you. Have enough of the different culture, people, food, and something special in Korea, for instance Bang culture as well : Jjimjilbang, Noraebang, Game/play.bang, or PC bang, etc.. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/best-of-korea/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/best-of-korea/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Guides --- ### [Napping in Venice](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/napping-in-venice/) **Published:** June 1, 2020 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/shutterstock_1247082889.jpg "shutterstock_1247082889 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Catarina Belova](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/catarina)shutterstockIt’s something you always hear about: *my semester abroad.* I’m okay with the cliche. I worked for it. I had spent the previous semester interning and working part time in order to save up for the trip. I used up my entire savings so that I could spend a summer in Europe and looking back four years later, it was the best decision I could have made. Unlike my peers, I couldn’t afford to stay in fancy hotels or hip hostels, but I didn’t want to anyways. Couchsurfing was made for someone like me. \*\* I’m 20 years old and I’m on a train that’s winding its way from the hills of Northern France to the spidery canals of Venice. I haven’t eaten all day, apart from the jar of peanut butter in my backpack that I’ve been taking swipes from. I watch the scenes pass from the window in my compartment and anticipate that we are soon to arrive. I pull out my phone to send a message to Emilio, the Couchsurfing host that I had connected with earlier that week. “Hey – I think we will be there in about 15 minutes” I receive an enthusiastic reply and think how grateful I am that we can communicate in English. I step out of the shadowed station and into the dazzling whiteness that is the Stazione di Venezia Santa Lucia. I walk towards the crowd and scan for the face I’ve tried to memorize from the profile. Someone calls my name and I see him. *Wow, he’s cute* – a passing thought as we greet each other, all smiles and hugs. Emilio hails a cab and we head to the apartment that he shares for a chance to drop off my bag. The house is inviting, with a buzz of conversations I cannot understand (I later find out that Emilio is studying Chinese and Korean and all of his roommates are fellow foreign language students). My arrival is celebrated and I am immediately shoved towards the kitchen where I spend the next hours learning the intricacies of capellini and being served the most delicious homemade Italian that I have ever had. With my belly warm and bloated, Emilio and I take to the streets. We walk endlessly, turning corners, into dead-ends, and he teaches me about the city and its history. He allows me to stop and take photographs and gawk at the architecture. In the evening, we head to the square to meet some of his university friends. Someone brings out a guitar, someone else a violin, and we dance. Emilio and I spend the next couple of days exploring the city’s ins and outs – me checking off my site-seeing list and he failing to convince me that Italian espresso is a delight. Emilio is a breakdancer and I sit in the shade and watch as he busks, feeling like a ‘cool’ young person. I hold the hat as people drop in change and stare in amazement at the headspins and windmills. We find a concrete ledge overlooking a particularly beautiful canal and lay back, falling asleep in the late afternoon heat. I barely notice the man who attempts to insult us, calling us street kids. On my last day in Venice, we head to his hometown so I can meet his family. It is everything you might imagine, full of love. We sit in the park by his childhood home and Francisco opens up emotionally to me. He cries as he tells me his life story and about the pain that he had endured. We share this moment and embrace and wipe away the tears with acceptance and friendship. Later that night, I find myself again on a train, thinking about what had passed between us. Thinking about what Venice had brought me, what Couchsurfing had welcomed me into. That trip I was initiated to the world of Couchsurfing. I became a part of the community of travelers that supports and assists one another along our journeys. I had forged a true and precious connection with a stranger and learned something about trust and about the universal bond we all share. Emilio and I are still friends and I am still grateful to Couchsurfing for the many memories it made possible. \*\*Emilio’s name has been changed for privacy [![shutterstock_1247082889](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/shutterstock_1247082889.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/shutterstock_1247082889.jpg) ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/napping-in-venice/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/napping-in-venice/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Stories --- ### [Best of... Bavaria (Germany)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/best-of-bavaria-germany/) **Published:** July 13, 2020 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Excerpt:** Matthias, our Ambassador in Bamberg, gives his tips to getting the best out of Bavaria, Germany. **Content:** ##### By: [Matthias](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/matze_sch) Time needed: About a month! Bamberg ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/shutterstock_1029149383-1.jpg "shutterstock_1029149383-1 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Sina Ettmer Photography](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/LaMiaFotografia)shutterstockStay here for 2 nights! Bamberg is a gem! Bamberg is well known for beer and its well preserved medieval old town city center with cathedral (Dom), the Old Palace, New Residence, Little Venice, the Old City Hall in the middle of a river, Villa Concordia and many more (all part of UNESCO World Heritage). You will have a nice view from Michaelsberg or Altenburg castle. Bamberg (district) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/shutterstock_1532633933.jpg "shutterstock_1532633933 - Couchsurfing Blog")[xbrchx](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/xbrchx)shutterstockStay in the city or in a village for 2 more nights! You will find the highest density of beer breweries in the world in the district of Bamberg! Rent a bike and do a tour! Most villages have breweries – there are more than 70 in the city and the district. Nuremberg (Nürnberg) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/shutterstock_219549259.jpg "shutterstock_219549259 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Pani Garmyder](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/mrssippy)shutterstockStay here for 3 nights! Nuremberg is the second biggest city in Bavaria. The Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds is very intersting about Germany’s sad past. The city has a big old town center with a castle, too. You can visit neighbouring Fürth with an old core, too! Rothenburg ob der Tauber ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/shutterstock_172557722.jpg "shutterstock_172557722 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Boris Stroujko](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/xantana)shutterstockStay here for 1 night! It is small, but well known for its well-preserved medieval old town, a destination for tourists from around the world. The town is very romantic and looks like it’s from a fairytale! The Allgäu region ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/shutterstock_1762910060.jpg "shutterstock_1762910060 - Couchsurfing Blog")[mindscapephotos](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/michaelped)shutterstockStay in Immenstadt im Allgäu for 5 nights! This is one of the most beautiful regions in Germany! Beautiful mountains, nice valleys, gorgeous towns! You can hike there, a lot. Towns or areas to visit: Oberstdorf, Oberstaufen, Lindau (Bodensee, Germany’s biggest lake) and the city of Kempten, where you could stay 2 nights, too. Neuschwanstein Castle and Hohenschwangau Castle – Stay in the town Füssen for 1-2 nights! Especially, Neuschwanstein Castle is well known in the world. The other castle is right next to it and the town of Füssen is nice. As you still are in the Allgäu region, there are many hiking routes, too! Munich – Stay here 3 nights! Bavaria’s capital and biggest city is well known for Oktoberfest, soccer, Olympic games (visit the tower and the park!), its beer halls (visit Hofbräuhaus) and for a strong economy (you could visit the BMW world, for example). Berchtesgaden ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/shutterstock_395071549.jpg "shutterstock_395071549 - Couchsurfing Blog")[canadastock](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/jlrphoto)shutterstockStay here for 3-4 nights! This is one of the most scenic areas in Germany, too! Like all my suggested experiences accessible by train, it is surrounded by the Alps. The Königssee lake, the Dokumentation Center at Hitlers vacation residence Obersalzberg, the Kehlsteinhaus and Bad Reichenhall (a spa town and traditional center of salt production) are worth a visit. You can hike in this region – a lot! Other options… ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/shutterstock_750703924.jpg "shutterstock_750703924 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Andrew Mayovskyy](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/andrewmayovskyy)shutterstockThere are other beautiful cities as Würzburg (old town, wineries), Regensburg (old town and Walhalla building), Passau (City of Three Rivers, old town), Dinkelsbühl (old town), Lindau – Bodensee (a town half build on an island in Germany’s biggest lake and old town center) and the Bavarian Forest (Bayerischer Wald) – a nice hilly region on the border to Czech Republic, where you can spend a couple of days, too. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/best-of-bavaria-germany/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/best-of-bavaria-germany/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Guides --- ### [A Couchsurfer's guide to... Wroclaw](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-wroclaw/) **Published:** July 8, 2020 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Excerpt:** Karolina, our ambassador in Wroclaw, gives her tips to getting the best out of this incredible Polish city. **Content:** ##### By: [Karolina](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/karolina-samolewska) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/shutterstock_1072655738.jpg "shutterstock_1072655738 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Telly](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Telly)shutterstockBest breakfast in town! Experience a spirit of Polish milk bars in iconic bar Miś. It was first opened in 1970, still serving traditional and super cheap Polish dishes. Just remember! No one speaks English there! One museum not to miss! “Panorama of the Battle of Racławice” – huge painting presenting the Battle of Racławice in April 1794, in which Poles led by Tadeusz Kościuszko won over Russians. The picture is 114 m long and 15 m high. Spectacular panoramic perspective, lighting and scenography constructed in front of the painting make it look multidimensional. During the 30 minutes tour, there are free audio guides available in many languages. Perfect picture! Xawery Dunikowski Boulevard is the best photo spot in Wrocław. You can see from there origin of the city Ostrów Tumski (Cathedral Island) in its whole range. Don’t miss a chance to see it during sunset! ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/shutterstock_1202984086.jpg "shutterstock_1202984086 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Emeryk III](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Emeryk%2BIII)shutterstockBest place to grab a drink! You can visit our local brewery AleBrowar. Wide variety of craft beers just in the middle of former Jewish district, which now is the most popular party place in the city. Where to dance! On Market Square there is Club Wesele, where you should wear quite formal clothes as would be worn at weddings. Some Polish disco music inside, some vodka and you can feel like on true Polish wedding! A treat-yourself meal! Good restaurant with traditional and fancy Polish cuisine is Konspira. You can find there a variety of meat dishes or dumplings, but the one which deserves most attention is Polish traditional soup żur – sour rye soup served inside bread loaf. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/shutterstock_696791908.jpg "shutterstock_696791908 - Couchsurfing Blog")National Museum [Lukasz Stefanski](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/PromesaArtStudio)shutterstockWhere to sweat! Active people can find many swimming pools around the city. The most popular is Aquapark, where there is special pool with waves, several water slides and spa center. In outside pools there are often fitness events organised. Best quick bite! You can’t say you’ve been to Poland, if you didn’t try doughnuts. The best ones, together with small pizzas called “pizzerka”, can be found in Trumienka. It is very popular among students as it’s located next to several universities. During the semester, there is always a long queue. Best view in the city! The Penitent Bridge (Mostek Pokutnic) – footstep bridge at the height of 45 m between two towers of St. Mary Magdalene Church, located in the Old Town, with view on two sides and a lot of metal stairs. You can find there two dwarfs Tekla and Martynka. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/shutterstock_411177490.jpg "shutterstock_411177490 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Velishchuk Yevhen](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/VelishchukYevhen)shutterstockCute cafe! You can relax on a big armchair in cozy and small cafe Cherubinowy Wędrowiec. It is located in Old Town in a garden of the biggest Polish library Ossolineum. During summer, there are outside seats available. They have classic menu, but also vegan one. Family fun! Kids can have a lot of fun in the ZOO. It is the oldest and the richest in fauna zoo in Poland. There are 12 pavilions, such as Odrarium, Terrarium, the Madagascar Pavilion and Africarium – Poland’s first oceanarium with a waterfall and 18 m long underwater tunnel. Kids can also enjoy their time in a rope park. It is pricey, but really worth a visit. Best day trip out of town! Although Wrocław is located close to many beautiful mountain ranges, you can find the most interesting visiting the Książ Castle in Wałbrzych. It is the largest castle in Lower Silesia and third largest in Poland, best known as the residence of the Hochberg family, who owned it for over 400 years. After the castle tour, you can visit Old Książ Castle, ruins of Castle Nowy Dwór, Museum of Porcelain, Old Mine Science & Art Centre or several peaks with viewpoints like Borowa or Dłużyna. You can get there by train, it takes around 1,5 hour. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/shutterstock_1135569638.jpg "shutterstock_1135569638 - Couchsurfing Blog")[ewaplesna](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/ewaplesna)shutterstockWhere to try the local cuisine! Trying local food in milk bars will make you feel like you travelled 50 years back in time. They are cafeterias which serve cheap and traditional dishes. The most famous ones are usually full in the lunch hours, sometimes queues lead to the street. Attention! No one speaks English there! Historic moment! History Centre Zajezdnia (Centrum Historii Zajezdnia) – located in an old tram depot, museum of modern history of Wrocław and Lower Silesia. Exhibition contains a lot of multimedia presentations, space arrangements, light and sound effects. It is the best choice to learn more about postwar history of the city to understand the region more! A tourist trap to avoid! Don’t buy souvenirs in shops on Market Square. They are very expensive. If I look for gifts for my future hosts, I always visit shops in The Shambles (Jatki) St. or Folkstar in Oławska St. underground passage. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/shutterstock_1646092450.jpg "shutterstock_1646092450 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Anna ART](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Anna%2BART)shutterstockAnything else to add… Must-see unique places are Neon Side Gallery and Colorful Yards on Roosevelt Street. Neon gallery contains almost 30 historical neon signs collected by Tomasz Kosmalski to save them from being taken to scrap, while the yards of old tenements are decorated with murals painted by local people. If you are lucky, you can meet people from these murals! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-wroclaw/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-wroclaw/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Guides --- ### [Best of... Serbia](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/best-of-serbia/) **Published:** July 6, 2020 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Excerpt:** Vladimir, our Ambassador in Serbia, gives you the must-sees for any trip to this gorgeous country! **Content:** ##### By: [Vladimir](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/vladimir74) Time needed: About a month! Belgrade ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/shutterstock_695817322.jpg "shutterstock_695817322 - Couchsurfing Blog")[MarinaDa](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Datsenko%2BMaryna)shutterstockFrom long history, Belgrade, the capital and biggest city of Serbia will tell you stories about two rivers – Sava and Danube, which are brought together in front of Kalemegdan fortress. From there, Knez Mihajlova pedestrian street will guide you toward bohemian street Skadarlija with unique Balkan atmosphere compared with Montmartre in Paris, or to famous Terazije square, National assembly, City Hall, New Palace, and most famous landmark of Belgrade – St. Sava Church. Visit Museum of Nikola Tesla, genius who gifted humanity with many significant discoveries and inventions, National Museum oldest one in Serbia with the most invaluable manuscript written in the Cyrillic script, and The Museum of Yugoslavia with Tito Memorial Center. Novi Sad ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/shutterstock_1107015005.jpg "shutterstock_1107015005 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Irma eyewink](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Irmaseyewink)shutterstockThe city is synonymous with diversity, multiculturalism, rich gastronomy, festival energy and visible heritage at each step. Novi Sad is not only the capital of Serbia’s northern province Vojvodina, but capital of young people as well. A city where nothing is rushed and everything happens at its own, leisurely pace, contributing to a relaxed atmosphere. Djerdap Gorge (Iron gate) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/shutterstock_1112404025.jpg "shutterstock_1112404025 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Zarko Djokic](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Zarko%2BDjokic)shutterstockOn your way through Serbia don’t miss the longest and deepest gorge of Europe, on the Danube river. Start from Golubac medieval fortress at the very entrance where the Danube faces, and continue to Lepenski vir archaeological site which dates from 6700-4500 B.C. – one of the most important and most complex cultures of prehistory. Follow the meandering river with a bike, kayak, or with cruising tour, or take a hiking tour to find spots with breathtaking views, and feel the mighty Danube. Homolje region ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/shutterstock_1363394186.jpg "shutterstock_1363394186 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Vae Isakhanian](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Vae%2BIsakhanian)shutterstockA shiny gemstone, Manasija Monastery in the picturesque river Resava gorge, with its magnificent temple and strong fortification was attracted by travel writers for centuries. Visit Resava cave, on the same river upstream from Monastery, the most valuable monument of geological heritage. Refresh yourself at the beautiful spring Veliko Vrelo and highest waterfall in Serbia – Veliki Buk. Niš ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/shutterstock_772810108.jpg "shutterstock_772810108 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Kanuman](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/kanuman)shutterstockBirthplace of the famous Roman Emperor Constantine the Great, Niš is the biggest city in the south of Serbia. Walk through Tinkers Alley, last well preserved craftsmen alley, visit the best preserved fortress in Central Balkan, and The Skull Tower, an unique monument in the world, built after the battle for liberation of Niš from Turks. Find the best burek spots and delicious food, which is one of the best in Serbia. Devil’s Town ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/shutterstock_511620160.jpg "shutterstock_511620160 - Couchsurfing Blog")[eivanov](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/emoto)shutterstockVisit Devil’s Town, a miraculous natural wonder. More than 200 attractive stone formations created by erosion, look like petrified wedding guests. Find out why is Vampire Serbian name for evil. Relax in near Prolom Spa and try the best water in Serbia. Tara National Park ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/shutterstock_288652187.jpg "shutterstock_288652187 - Couchsurfing Blog")[OgnjenO](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/OgnjenO)shutterstockRichness and variety of tourist attractions, most preserved natural environment, mountain relief with height between 800-1500m, and with breathtaking viewpoints, Tara mountain is one of the most beautiful in Serbia. Landscapes of rural areas and hospitality of local people make you wish to stay here a day longer. Take the chance to go by train on Šargan Eight, in the most attractive narrow gauge museum railway, close to Tara mountain. Uvac Special Nature Reserve ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/shutterstock_280294088.jpg "shutterstock_280294088 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Mila Davidovic](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/miladavidovic)shutterstockMost recognizable picture from the beautiful nature of Serbia, coming from curving meanders of the river Uvac. These are natural convolutions that are made due to many years of the river punching through the limestone rock, it looks like a maze, and in some places turns almost backward. Here you can find the most unusual cave which can only be entered from the river. From the hills, you can enjoy the flight of Griffon vulture and Golden eagle. Festival Guča ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/shutterstock_719864119.jpg "shutterstock_719864119 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Damian Pankowiec](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Damian%2BPankowiec)shutterstockIf you plan to visit Serbia in the beginning of August, don’t miss Guča Trumpet Festival, an annual brass band festival. By 2017, it grew into the largest trumpet festival, third ethno-festival and one of the 15 largest festivals in the world. Guča represents what Serbia is today in the best way: its openness, belief in oneself, hospitality, party and music. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/best-of-serbia/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/best-of-serbia/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Guides --- ### [Utrecht Couch Crash 2019!](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/utrecht-couch-crash-2019/) **Published:** June 26, 2020 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Excerpt:** Utrecht Couch Crash video! **Content:** The Utrecht Couch Crash 2019 was a four day event in the Netherlands. We organized a pub crawl, canoe tour, a free walking tour, a visit to a cheese market, a boat tour on the canal in Utrecht and a barbecue. Last but not least, we hosted a really cool final event: the Crazy Hat Party! Around 60 people joined the event and it was a huge success! We hope everyone had a great time and as the organizers we hope to see you all again sometime! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/utrecht-couch-crash-2019/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/utrecht-couch-crash-2019/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Crashes, Invasions and More! --- ### [Best of... Catalonia (Spain)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/best-of-catalonia-spain/) **Published:** July 6, 2020 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Excerpt:** Heading to Barcelona? Check out the Best of Catalonia, the region is just as gorgeous as its most famous city! **Content:** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/shutterstock_674086747.jpg "shutterstock_674086747 - Couchsurfing Blog") Calella de Palafrugell [Oleg P](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Oleg%2BPanasenko)shutterstock##### By: [Ana](https://www.couchsurfing.com/users/1005722798) Time needed: 1-2 weeks should be sufficient! Few destinations in Spain bring the crowds like Barcelona, as it’s a place with something to offer everyone. Unsurprisingly, the region where Barcelona is located, Catalonia, often gets overlooked in favour of the city. If you are looking for an in-depth alternative trip check out these unique destinations all over Catalonia. Delta de l’Ebre ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/shutterstock_720751204.jpg "shutterstock_720751204 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Marta navarroP](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/martanavarro)shutterstock[Delta de l’Ebre](https://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parque_natural_del_Delta_del_Ebro) is one of the most stunning natural environments in the region built by river Ebro’s sediment flows. As the seasonal home of dozens of migrating species of birds the area also hosts the third highest rice production in Spain. Take a stroll or rent a bike to cycle along the [reserve](http://parcsnaturals.gencat.cat/es/delta-ebre) and get to the end of the Delta where you will enjoy the unique coastal sandy landscape. No visit to Delta de l’Ebre would be complete without taking a [boat tour](https://www.deltaebro.com/Lugares-de-Interes-Delta-del-Ebro/deltebre.html) along Ebro to enjoy the beauty of the longest and most abundant river in Spain. Old city of Empuries ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/shutterstock_496729300.jpg "shutterstock_496729300 - Couchsurfing Blog")[JLJUSSEAU](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/JLJUSSEAU)shutterstockEven if you are not a history buff, [Empuries](https://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ampurias) is worth a visit. It is the largest and only well-preserved Spanish settlement that embodied two ancient civilizations living together; The Romans and The Greeks. Empuries is an old abandoned city that dates back to 575 BC. What makes the visit appealing is that the whole place has been restored providing a real outdoors museum that you can visit at your own pace, thanks to the audio guide. The [free guided tours](https://www.cbrava.com/es/revista/las-ruinas-de-empuries/) that they offer during the summer are incredibly eye-opening to those ancient cultures. The visit also includes the [museum](http://www.macempuries.cat/) building entrance located right in the border of the two cities. It does an excellent job of outlining Empuries’ history. There are a lot of artifacts and media displays that explain how they lived back then.. Congost del Mont-Rebei ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/shutterstock_750889930.jpg "shutterstock_750889930 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Gabor Kovacs Photography](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/gaborkovacs)shutterstockIf you are an adventure seeker, [Congost del Mont-Rebei](https://www.rutaspirineos.org/rutas/congost-de-mont-rebei) is your must-see in Catalonia. Congost del Mont-Rebei is right in between Catalonia and Aragón, where the river Noguera Ribagorçana serves as a natural border. The river had naturally eroded the land to dig a deep stunning gorge. You can take a basic visit, which is the stroll along the [wall](https://deandar.com/ferratas/via-ferrata-congost-montrebei) carved in the middle of the cliff or renting a kayak with a guide to go down the river. If you are a fan, make sure to book a tour in advance and get the most of the place! Fortalesa de Cardona ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/shutterstock_1019461144.jpg "shutterstock_1019461144 - Couchsurfing Blog")[AXL](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/gunblade)shutterstock[Cardona](https://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cardona) is a tucked away Catalan town highly recommended if you are looking for the real essence of the region. Cardona had been the wealthiest city in Catalonia for centuries thanks to the benefits coming from its salt mining. It has the strongest [fortress](http://cardonaturisme.cat/en/things-to-do/cardona-castle/general-interpretative-guided-visit-to-cardona-castle/) ever seen or built in this area which you can visit joining the regular tour or on your own. Over the years, the fortress, thanks to its strategic spot, defeated Catalonia from the muslims’ conquer as well as from the Bourbons troops during the [Succession war](https://historia.nationalgeographic.com.es/a/sitio-barcelona-fin-guerra-sucesion_10653). The visit manages to balance a [guided tour](http://entrades.cardonaturisme.cat/es/producte/visita-pcms) with independent exploration in some parts of the salt mine. You can also choose to arrange a tour inside the mines. Vall de Nuria ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/shutterstock_33183478.jpg "shutterstock_33183478 - Couchsurfing Blog")[peresanz](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/peresanz)shutterstockPack a lunch and enjoy the day in one of the best hiking visits around the region: [Vall de Nuria](https://www.valldenuria.cat/estiu/). It is known for its stunning and Insta-worthy landscapes. Most recommended to enjoy one of the best pre-Pyrenees view is to start the path in [Ribes de Freser](https://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Estaci%C3%B3n_de_Ribas_de_Freser) train station, but if you are planning to walk any of the [paths](https://www.valldenuria.cat/es/verano/actividades/senderismo/) on top of Nuria, save your energies by taking the “[cremallera](https://www.valldenuria.cat/estiu/cremallera/presentacio/)” train that will take you straight to the top. Once there, you have many possibilities that will fit your interests. You can just visit the area and take the cable (free ride) to go up to the youth hostel or you might want to get away from the main area and take the path heading to [Setcases](https://es.wikiloc.com/rutas-senderismo/gr-11-santuario-de-nuria-setcases-7868404), which is one of the most recommended uphill walks. Vineyards in Vilafranca del Penedés ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/shutterstock_519739387.jpg "shutterstock_519739387 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Marisa Estivill](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/estivillml)shutterstockRight in the heart of Catalonia, in [El Penedés](https://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pened%C3%A9s_(vino)) region lies “Carretera del vi”, a group of family-run vineyards surrounded by breathtaking views of the sea and [modernist style](https://www.enoturismepenedes.cat/es/el-modernismo-en-el-penedes) cellars. If you are a foodie traveller, book a tour and taste gourmet wines while you meet in person the families behind them and enjoy a wine tasting experience that you will remember. If you are a lucky traveller, you’ll be also invited to savor the local cheese, ham or bread. To make the most of this experience, check “Carretera del vi” [website](https://www.lacarreteradelvi.com/) to select your perfect type of experience. There is a budget affordable for everyone as you can choose from a wide selection of offers. Do not forget to try “[cava](https://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cava)”, the region’s special sparkling white wine! Cap de Creus ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/shutterstock_279412307.jpg "shutterstock_279412307 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Belikova Oksana](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/byelikova)shutterstock[Cap de Creus](https://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cabo_de_Creus) is without a doubt, one of the places you must see with your own eyes! The wild coast had created the most incredible geographic accidents, like “[Cova de s’Infern](https://redcostabrava.com/cova-de-sinfern-en-el-cap-de-creus/)”, a natural cave with a pool inside it. Have a swim there or walk along the paths touring the local beaches and enjoying the beauty of its diverse geology. “[Cala Culleró](http://es.blog.costabravas.com/cala-cullaro/,)” the most well-known bay inspired of [Dali’s](https://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Salvador_Dal%C3%AD) famous works while he was living in [Cadaqués](https://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cadaqu%C3%A9s), the must-see cute town in Cap de Creus. Girona ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/shutterstock_599656415.jpg "shutterstock_599656415 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Lena Serditova](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Serditova)shutterstockNo trip to Catalonia is complete without visiting the city of [Girona](http://www.ajuntament.gi/), a one hour trip from Barcelona but free of the crowds of the main city. After the release of the series “[Game of Thrones](https://got.gtarcade.com/#home)”, the city became well known for its scenarios representing the city of Braavos. Take a walk and explore its amazing green areas, the narrow steep streets of the Jewish quarter and the [Arabic baths](https://www.girona.cat/turisme/esp/monuments_banysarabs.php). You will find all of those inside the walled Old Quarter that sits surrounded by the river Onyar. It’s gothic style [cathedral](https://www.girona.cat/turisme/esp/monuments_catedral.php) is the main feature of the area. Get lost in the surrounding streets and enjoy the medieval architecture on display. It is without doubt one of the highlights of the old walled city. After your long walk take a break trying a budget-friendly but lively atmosphere. The locals’ recommendation goes to [König](https://www.konig.cat/es/) restaurants. They offer a full variety of sandwiches and a great range of Catalan tapas. Olot’s Volcanoes ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/shutterstock_249963781.jpg "shutterstock_249963781 - Couchsurfing Blog")[funkyfrogstock](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/funkyfrogstock)shutterstockOlot is a typical Catalan town located in a very exclusive area: [La Garrotxa](http://parcsnaturals.gencat.cat/es/garrotxa). The place is home to a large number of volcanoes that for centuries modeled the fascinating landscape, reason why the visit will make the delight of those interested in geology. Visitors will be impressed to walk around one of the most famous volcanoes, the [Croscat](http://es.turismegarrotxa.com/itinerarios-y-rutas/grederas-del-volcan-del-croscat-itinerario-15-parque-natural-196/). Take a look at the black land under your feet to understand how active Croscat was for years. Keep on moving to [La Fageda d’en Jordà](http://es.turismegarrotxa.com/la-garrotxa/27-lugares-de-interes-de-la-garrotxa/reserva-natural-de-la-fageda-d-en-jorda/), the only forest of the kind that survived indiscriminate deforestation thanks to the inadequacy of its soil for crops. If those visits awakened a genuine curiosity, don’t miss the museum of volcanoes in Olot! Altafulla ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/shutterstock_1284805321.jpg "shutterstock_1284805321 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Megapixeleses](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/megapixeles)shutterstockAltafulla will make you rediscover the beauty of Catalan cultural heritage featured in a beach. [Altafulla](https://naturalocal.net/es/destinos/tarragona/altafulla) is a picturesque walled town that will appeal to those who love typical food and lovely surroundings. Apart from paying a visit to its medieval town, take a quiet stroll along the fishermen houses right behind the beach and enjoy its artistic architecture. Located in costa [Dorada](https://costadaurada.info/es), Altafulla has a lot more than a charming beach to offer. There are well signaled coastal paths heading to [Castell de Tamarit](https://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Castillo_de_Tamarit) and its astonishing flowered gardens, and to [Bosc de la Marquesa](https://altresindrets.es/2014/06/21/el-bosque-de-la-marquesa-un-lugar-especial-y-solitario-de-la-costa-dorada-tarragona/), where you will find your perfect tiny spot in case you are into nudism. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/best-of-catalonia-spain/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/best-of-catalonia-spain/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Guides --- ### [Best of... Sweden](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/best-of-sweden/) **Published:** June 22, 2020 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Excerpt:** Planning a trip to Sweden? Check out Ela's recommendations to the top things to see! **Content:** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/shutterstock_556209544.jpg "shutterstock_556209544 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Oleksiy Mark](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/scanrail)shutterstock##### By: [Ela](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/ela-rakoczy) Time needed: 1-2 weeks would fit most of it Jokkmokk Winter Market: 1-2 days ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/shutterstock_1305088009.jpg "shutterstock_1305088009 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Kuznetsova Julia](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Shaarila)shutterstockHave you ever seen reindeer racing or heard about indigenous people of Sweden? If not, then you definitely should participate in Jokkmokk Winter Market, which takes place every February in Swedish Lapland. During the event you can learn more about the culture and traditions of Saami people, observe a lifestyle of a reindeer herder and, if lucky, listen to joik, which is a traditional form of signing in the Saami music. This is also a great opportunity to see the Northern lights if the sky is cloudless and if you get away from the city to enjoy the dance of lights in a complete darkness. **Transport option: bus** Gammplatsen in Lycksele: 1 day ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/shutterstock_192425915.jpg "shutterstock_192425915 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Mikhail Markovskiy](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/klug)shutterstockFor centuries Gammplatsen in Lycksele was used as a winter settlement for Saami people. Today it’s an open air museum that takes you back in time to Southern Lapland and shows how people used to live. The best time to go there is off-season, especially during bad weather to avoid the crowds and truly feel the place. **Transport options: bus** Petroglyphs at Nämforsen (Nämforsen hällristningar): 1 day ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/shutterstock_1689153844.jpg "shutterstock_1689153844 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Magnus Binnerstam](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Magnus%2BBinnerstam)shutterstockOne of Northern Europe’s largest rock carving collections was discovered at Nämforsen and it’s believed that the oldest ones had been carved over 6000 years ago. The petroglyphs represent people, elks, elk-headed boats, birds, fish, soles and cup marks. The place itself is really beautiful with its streams and forest. While visiting the place, be careful please to not step on the petroglyphs! **Transport option: bus** Stockholm: 1-7 days ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/shutterstock_1468292534.jpg "shutterstock_1468292534 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Sun Shine](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/NataliaMilko)shutterstockVisit Stockholm to enjoy its free museums, beautiful art of metro stations, variety of bars and cafes, cultural events, nature, remains of Vikings are much more. You’ll surely find something for yourself regardless of your interests. Also, the biggest pride parade of Scandinavia is organized in Stockholm every July. It’s the time when you can see the crowd of dancing soldiers, policemen and pastors of the Swedish church with rainbow flags in their hands without the fear of counter-demonstration, because there is none. Incredible, isn’t it? **Transport options: airplanes, trains, busses, boats, metro, trams** Sigtuna: 1 day ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/shutterstock_1490212610.jpg "shutterstock_1490212610 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Jonas Muscat](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Jonas%2BMuscat)shutterstockAn idyllic town located north of Stockholm is recommended to all those who want to escape from the noisy capital and have a pleasant walk by Lake Mälaren, through an adorable old town, by mediaeval churches, ruins and runestones. In December there are Christmas Markets organized in Sigtuna, which are worth visiting, as the experience is much more authentic than the ones organized for tourists in Stockholm. During the market, you can try the Nordic warm drink called Glögg, watch the traditional Lucia procession, listen to choirs and visit Sigtuna museum, and the town hall for free. **Transport options: bus** Runestones and Grave mounts/fields: 1+ days *(time depends on how many of them you want to see)* ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/shutterstock_615328358.jpg "shutterstock_615328358 - Couchsurfing Blog")[RPBaiao](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/RPBaiao)shutterstockAn absolute must-see for everyone interested in Vikings are runestones and grave mounds/fields. A lot of them are located around Stockholm, Uppsala, Nyköping and Sundsvall. To see most of them, you need to have a car, but some of them can be reached by bus. My top grave mounds/fields: 1\. Anundshög in Västerås (available by bus) 2\. Åsa gravfält in at Selaön (available by car) 3\. Högoms gravfält in Sundsvall (available by bus) 4\. Jordbrogravfältet in Stockholm (available by train + 1km on foot) My top runestones: 1\. Runinskrift U 337 (Granbyhällen) in Täby (available by bus) 2\. Runinskrift Sö 367 in Nyköping (available by bus) 3\. Runinskrift Hs 10 by Hälsingtuna kyrka in Hudiksvall (available by bus) The Medieval Week on Gotland: 1-7 days ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/shutterstock_168818072.jpg "shutterstock_168818072 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Peter Fuchs](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/PeterFuchs)shutterstockThe Medieval Week on Gotland is one of country’s biggest historic festivals taking place every year in August, mainly in Visby, listed on the UNESCO World Heritage Site list for being the best-preserved mediaeval city in whole Scandinavia. During the festival you can participate in about 500 various events – tournaments, mediaeval market, music, story-telling and much more, so you will certainly not get bored. **Transport options: boat** ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/best-of-sweden/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/best-of-sweden/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Guides, Travel Tips --- ### [Best of... Pakistan](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/best-of-pakistan/) **Published:** June 29, 2020 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Excerpt:** Our Ambassador in Pakistan, Hasan, gives us his 'Best Ofs!" to help you plan the perfect trip to Pakistan! **Content:** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/shutterstock_1113021485.jpg "shutterstock_1113021485 - Couchsurfing Blog")Deosai National Park [Abdul Rehman Joyia](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Abdul%2BRehman%2BJoyia)shutterstock##### By: [Hasan Ashraf](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/hasan-ashraf) Time: 1-2 weeks would fit most of it. Biryani in Karachi ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/shutterstock_252686917-1.jpg "shutterstock_252686917-1 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Tatiana Bralnina](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Tatiana%2BBralnina)shutterstockIf you are traveling to Pakistan, it is advisable to start your travel from Karachi. Karachi is famous for its cuisine but among that the best thing you could ever taste is a good Biryani. Frere Hall in Karachi ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/shutterstock_715533052.jpg "shutterstock_715533052 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Faz Mavic](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/fazal5)shutterstockA British colonial-era building intended to be used as a town hall but currently serves as an exhibition place and a monumental building of Karachi. Frere Hall was built in the Venetian-Gothic style that also blends elements of British architecture with local architectural elements, surrounded by lush-green grass garden. Makli Necropolis ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/shutterstock_146139869.jpg "shutterstock_146139869 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Ghulam Rasool](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/grmoghal)shutterstockIt is one of the largest funerary sites in the world, spread over an area of 10 kilometres near the city of Thatta. The site was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1981. The graves are built in the Chaukhandi style, which incorporates slabs of sandstone that were carefully carved by stonemasons into intricate and elaborate designs. Noor Mahal in Bahawalpur ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/shutterstock_1040535484.jpg "shutterstock_1040535484 - Couchsurfing Blog")[sumstock](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/sumstock)shutterstockOne of the palaces of the Nawabs of Bahawalpur, built in 1872. It is now a museum that contains artifacts from the princely state of Bahawalpur. Badshahi Mosque in Lahore ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/shutterstock_709252963.jpg "shutterstock_709252963 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Burhan Ay Photography](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Burhan%2BAy%2BPhotography)shutterstockThe Badshahi Mosque is a Mughal era mosque, built by Emperor Aurangzeb in 1671. It is widely considered to be one of Lahore’s most iconic landmarks. Shalimar Bagh in Lahore ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/shutterstock_1229812663.jpg "shutterstock_1229812663 - Couchsurfing Blog")[mirbasar](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/mirbasarphotography)shutterstockA garden complex when the Mughal Empire was at its artistic and aesthetic zenith. It was laid out as a Persian paradise garden intended to create a representation of an earthly utopia in which humans co-exist in perfect harmony with all elements of nature. In 1981, it was declared to be a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Lahore Fort ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/shutterstock_215609737.jpg "shutterstock_215609737 - Couchsurfing Blog")[image bird](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/image%2Bbird)shutterstockA citadel from the Mughal-era, in the city of Lahore that spreads over an area greater than 20 hectares. The foundations of the modern Lahore Fort date to 1566 during the reign of Emperor Akbar, who bestowed the fort with a syncretic architectural style that featured both Islamic and Hindu motifs. The fort was later expanded and developed by later emperors. After the fall of the Mughal Empire, Lahore Fort was used as the residence of Emperor Ranjit Singh, founder of the Sikh Empire. Clock Tower of Faisalabad ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/shutterstock_1729727953.jpg "shutterstock_1729727953 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Danyal Hamid](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Danyal%2BHamid)shutterstockIt is one of the oldest monuments still standing in its original state from the period of the British Colonial-era. The clock tower is placed at the center of the eight markets that from a bird’s-eye view look like the Union Jack flag of the United Kingdom. Faisal Mosque of Islamabad ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/shutterstock_518095525.jpg "shutterstock_518095525 - Couchsurfing Blog")[SAKhanPhotography](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Shahid%2BKhan)shutterstockIt is the largest, as well as its National mosque of Pakistan. It is located on the foothills of Margalla Hills. The mosque features a contemporary design consisting of eight sides of concrete shell and is inspired by a Bedouin tent. It was funded by the Saudi King Faisal but designed by a Turkish architect Vedat Dalokay. Pakistan Monument, Islamabad ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/shutterstock_243546580.jpg "shutterstock_243546580 - Couchsurfing Blog")[SAKhanPhotography](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Shahid%2BKhan)shutterstockA national monument and heritage museum located on the western Shakarparian Hills in Islamabad, the capital of Pakistan. The monument was constructed to symbolize the unity of the Pakistani people. It is adjoined by a museum, which includes a wax museum depicting important events leading to the Pakistan Movement. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/best-of-pakistan/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/best-of-pakistan/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Guides --- ### [Best Places To Kayak Around The World](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/best-places-to-kayak-around-the-world/) **Published:** June 30, 2020 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Excerpt:** Love Kayaking? Check out community member Mark Armstrong's favorite spots to Kayak around the world. **Content:** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/shutterstock_146509823.jpg "shutterstock_146509823 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Martina Ebel](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/tbel)shutterstock##### This article is a community submitted post by Mark Armstrong. Mark is originally from Sydney, Australia, and currently lives in a van (seriously). They’ve been on Couchsurfing for a little under 2 years now and loves traveling and kayaking different rapids. For more articles like this, check out their blog/website [Kayak Guru](https://kayakguru.com/). From the adventurous and dangerous to the calm and simple, the world is filled with amazing kayaking spots. This is good news for travelers who want something more than just seeing the sights from dry land. Each place on this list offers something unique, whether you’re an adrenaline seeker or a more relaxed paddler: **Water Safari On The Zambezi** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/shutterstock_1467365789.jpg "shutterstock_1467365789 - Couchsurfing Blog")[cordelia bua](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/cordelia%2Bbua)shutterstockThe Zambezi River wends its way through Zimbabwe and Zambia in Africa and is home to some incredible rapids and plenty of calmer water. If you’re the adventurous type, kick off your trip at the base of Victoria Falls. This massive waterfall sends water channeling through the Batoka Gorge and over some truly fierce rapids. The rapids have some great names too; [Commercial Suicide, Gnashing Jaws of Death, and the Devil’s Toilet Bowl](https://www.nationalgeographic.com/adventure/lists/paddling/best-paddling-trips-world/). For those who don’t feel like this kind of challenge, the waters a bit further downstream are much calmer. They also offer some incredible opportunities to view game in places like the Mana Pools National Park. Paddlers can pick one type of tour or combine them – adventure first and game viewing second. **Kayak In The Himalayas** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/shutterstock_1056857678.jpg "shutterstock_1056857678 - Couchsurfing Blog")[diy13](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/diy13)shutterstockThe Himalayas and Nepal are usually thought of as places for hiking and intrepid adventures heading up into the mountains. However, these mountains also lend themselves to the creation of rivers that are challenging and exciting to paddle along too. You can traverse vast sections of this mountain range from the seat of your kayak. There is even a [White Water Festival](https://www.redbull.com/int-en/best-kayaking-holidays) hosted every year in the region – the perfect way to get to know the rivers and the people There are a number of guided expeditions in the region, many of which take place over several days. These longer expeditions give you the perfect opportunity to really explore the mountains and to enjoy a unique vantage point of the area from the seat of your kayak. However, one of the most famous sections of the river to tackle is the Upper Set, which is just a half-day adventure and suited to all experience levels. **Paddle With Greenland’s Glaciers** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/shutterstock_1139055707.jpg "shutterstock_1139055707 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Song about summer](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/anyaberkut)shutterstockThe Sermilik Fjord in Greenland is an exceptional stretch of water. You can only really paddle it in high summer though, otherwise, the waters are too dangerous, and the weather will not be your friend. During this season, the waters are calm, still and almost glass-like, except when an iceberg breaks loose from the sheet and causes some waves. Your kayaking adventure here will take you past [massive chunks of ice that are floating away from the mainland](https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2009/sep/01/sermilik-fjord-greenland-global-warming). Their reflections in the calm waters are magnificent to see. You may also get lucky and see seals and whales playing in the waters around you. **Island Hopping In Croatia** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/shutterstock_1390138091.jpg "shutterstock_1390138091 - Couchsurfing Blog")[OldskoolDesign](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/OldskoolDesign)shutterstockThe Dalmatian Coast is fast becoming one of the must-see shorelines in the world. Just off the coast from [the city of Dubrovnik](https://www.britannica.com/place/Dubrovnik), there are literally hundreds of islands that are within easy paddling distance. They are also surrounded by coral reefs bursting with sea creatures. The best part is you don’t need a snorkel or diving gear to see any of it because the water is so clear. Not many boats are allowed in the area, making the waters heaven for kayakers and swimmers. You can spend days paddling from one island to the next, enjoying meeting the locals or taking some quiet time and a secluded cove on the smaller, deserted islands. **The New Zealand Gorges** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/shutterstock_639419113.jpg "shutterstock_639419113 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Thomas Lusth](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/thomaslusth)shutterstockNew Zealand enjoys a fairly small population and plenty of untouched landscapes, making it a great combination for travelers. You can get all the modern amenities you need and want in the cities, but in a matter of moments, you can be out in the wilderness with nothing but your food supplies and kayak for company. The South Island has a very mountainous terrain with rivers running through valleys and gorges and out over plateaus. You’ll find a range of difficulty levels here for kayakers of all levels of experience, with some impressive rapids to challenge even the most serious of paddlers. **Alaska’s Glacier Bay** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/shutterstock_681493939.jpg "shutterstock_681493939 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Ventu Photo](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/jenwan)shutterstockAlaska truly is a remote wonderland, especially for those looking for tranquility out on the open water. The coastline is rugged and wild, with deep fjords that take you inland between snow-capped mountains and untamed rainforest regions. The waters of Glacier Bay are largely calm, but there is enough excitement in the area for those who prefer an adventure when out on their kayak. You may even find yourself dodging glaciers as they move down and off the mountains. The region is [a UNESCO World Heritage Site](https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/72/) and a US National Monument, so it will remain untouched and completely pristine for years to come. It’s also a marine park, with plenty of wildlife both in the water and on the shores. There’s plenty to look out for as you explore the bay. **The White Waters Of Patagonia** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/shutterstock_1115788502.jpg "shutterstock_1115788502 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Dudarev Mikhail](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/mihtiander)shutterstockThe Futaleufú River in Chile is a haven for kayakers that love [white waters and challenging rapids](https://kayakguru.com/guide-classification-of-rapids/). The water races down the Patagonian mountains and into the Pacific at the tip of the country. The river is cold and brilliant, as melting snow and ice high up on the top of the Araucanía region flow into it all year round. The area is wild and untamed, with vast stretches of land where you won’t see any people except your kayaking group. [For safety’s sake](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-tips-to-stay-safe-when-traveling-solo/), it’s definitely best to take a guided tour down this river. In the upper reaches of the river, there are plenty of Class V+ rapids that will challenge even the most experienced of paddlers. As you head further away from the mountains, the waters calm down somewhat, but don’t get lulled into a false sense of security – there are rapids lurking along the entire length of the river. There are some calm stretches perfect for just floating along, and some more exciting stretches that require you to keep your wits about you. There’s a veritable paradise for paddlers to explore all over the world. All you need to do is pick your perfect spot. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/best-places-to-kayak-around-the-world/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/best-places-to-kayak-around-the-world/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Uncategorized --- ### [A life filled with Couchsurfing](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-life-filled-with-couchsurfing/) **Published:** June 9, 2020 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Excerpt:** 100 surfers. 37 countries. A lifetime full of memories. Read Daryl's story... **Content:** ##### By: Daryl Elliott ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/CS-Couch-Photo-BASE-Jumping-Wing-Suit-Jake-Fewster-Australia-Hamish-Stratford-New-Zealand-Graham-Dickinson-Canada-11-16-13-4.jpg "CS-Couch-Photo-BASE-Jumping-Wing-Suit-Jake-Fewster-Australia-Hamish-Stratford-New-Zealand-Graham-Dickinson-Canada-11-16-13-4 - Couchsurfing Blog")Three base jumper guests Jake Fewster Australia Hamish Stratford New Zealand and Graham Dickinson Canada They put me in a wingsuit 16 Nov 2013 Graham tragically passed in 2017 from a base jumping accident When I traveled in Europe decades ago, I did couchsurfing before it was a website or thing. When traveling during a summer of my University years, a lady friend and I would meet some nice locals when traveling about a city, and they would ask where we were staying that night, and we said that we hadn’t figured that out yet, and they would ask us if we would like to stay with them in their home that night. The people we met traveling were very nice, and I felt honored that they offered their friendship, trust, the comfort of their home, and the wonderful conversations that we had. I learned so much from them during my formative young adult years, and I will remain forever grateful to them. My family believes strongly that international travel is important for education, understanding differences, and building person-to-person bridges between societies. My parents had traveled to 190 countries (of about 208) by the time they had passed. I’ve traveled to 25 countries so far. This special relationship to travel brings me to a level of commitment to promoting international travel that is strong. When I learned decades later, after the advent of the Internet, that there was a hospitality group that organized couchsurfing, I was all in. It was such a great opportunity to ‘give back’ to travelers. There are several motivators for me to host people. First, it allowed travelers to travel more and meet more people and see more sites since it saved them money. Second, I believe in cooperation and the sharing society conceptually. Third, the people who visited were quite nice, which offers me the opportunity to learn more about their countries, people in general, and international politics, which all interest me. For these reasons, I did a lot of hosting over some years when I had a suitable living situation to host (which I unfortunately do not have at this current time). I’m happy to report that I was able to host over 100 people from 37 countries. I kept a spreadsheet so I could keep people and schedules straight and so I could keep email addresses for future correspondence. In this time, I got 125 all Positive CS site reviews. I’m proud of that fact. Along the way, I got hooked up with a group of international university exchange students who were studying in the US. Every year they would tell their successor students about me so they could stay for free in Las Vegas if they visited here. These students were the brightest from their countries. They competed with other students for these positions, and won their spot over between 500 and 1,000 other students. Our conversations were enjoyable as they were so well informed. The most common thing that non-Americans said to me when discussing their travels in the US is that they were surprised how nice Americans are. Perhaps because the US foreign policy is so belligerent that they thought Americans were not nice. From my own travels, I’ve found that most people are nice all over the world. One interesting story that I have from that period that I’ll never forget is about a young man, Byongrok, who as a member of the Special Forces in his home country of South Korea, which says a lot about his being bright and aware. He was traveling alone, but there were travelers from two different groups all from different countries at my home when he was there. I would sometimes try to include different traveler groups (only after each group had given permission) so they had the experience to meet each other as well as the local host. Anyway, Byongrok noticed that all the travelers all had laundry that had accumulated in their travels that I offered for them to wash in my clothes washing machine; he offered to buy me laundry detergent to replace what had been used. I said that CouchSurfing was free so I would not accept his offer, but thanked him for the offer. The next day, he came to me with a box of laundry detergent and he informed me that he wasn’t buying this as a gift for me, but was rather leaving it behind for the other travelers. lol What a gracious, and clever act. I smile and laugh when I think of Byongrok and his cleverness and generosity. Another time when we had a group of three sets of travelers, we played Scrabble in three languages. lol What fun. We hiked, played Frisbee golf, saw all the sites of Las Vegas, and had very nice times. As a vegan activist, we also discussed veganism if they were open to it. Some of them had barely heard of it since there are so few vegans in many countries. All of the conversations, no matter the topic, were fascinating. I’m grateful to the CouchSurfing community for offering this hospitality service. Travel on…. Daryl Elliott bVegan ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/RedRockCanyon-Jake-Fewster-Australia-Hamish-Stratford-New-Zealand-Graham-Dickinson-Canada-11-16-13-1.jpg "RedRockCanyon-Jake-Fewster-Australia-Hamish-Stratford-New-Zealand-Graham-Dickinson-Canada-11-16-13-1 - Couchsurfing Blog")Hiking in Red Rock Canyon near Las Vegas Notice the shadows on the rocks##### Have a story like this to share? Email social@couchsurfing.com and it could be published on our blog! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-life-filled-with-couchsurfing/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-life-filled-with-couchsurfing/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Stories --- ### [We hear you](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/we-hear-you/) **Published:** May 20, 2020 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** Dear Couchsurfing, We hear you. You’re disappointed that we did not communicate more about the financial state of the organization as a result of the global COVID-19 pandemic earlier. For that, we apologize. Sincerely. Genuinely. From our hearts. We are sorry. We are humbled by the outpouring of voices. You have shown us the depth of your passion for Couchsurfing, for the community, and for the friends you have made here. We do hear you. Now, it’s time to take a deep breath to explain more about what’s going on, and more importantly, why. We want you to understand the situation as clearly as we do and clarify a few of the most commonly asked questions surrounding the implementation of our member contribution program: **1) Why was I not warned?** We understand that not being able to login into Couchsurfing and interact with the community without first making a financial contribution is a shock and disappointing to many Couchsurfing members. The team supporting Couchsurfing is very small and we had very little time to try to do something, anything, to save Couchsurfing. The team was (and still is) working long days and through weekends just to get done what we can. Even sending millions of emails out to the community is not a simple feat. At the point of the rollout, we felt like this was the best option to keep the community we love. We are trying the best we can and we are sorry we let so many of you down. Looking back, not informing you of such a drastic change was a mistake. Going forward, we will work on a process together with the Couchsurfing Ambassadors on how we should communicate changes that impact the community. **2) Why did Couchsurfing start asking for contributions?** Since 2015, Couchsurfing has been solely focused on improving our community. By all measures we have been successful and we have grown to a size and vibrancy far beyond what many could imagine. Yet, less than 4% of our active members financially contributed to Couchsurfing by choosing to verify their profiles. This number dropped to nearly 0% in March. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, our community engagement dropped by almost 90% because fewer people are traveling and most people are staying home. That means even fewer people verifying their profiles and fewer people seeing advertisements and therefore less funding available for Couchsurfing. Given the global economic climate, fewer companies are advertising so we are seeing even less funding from the few advertisements we are displaying. We tried for two months to solve this problem in some other way and have had to fund operations with our cash reserves which were limited to begin with. In short, we had no other option than to turn to you, the community, for your support. **3) Did Couchsurfing consider other options?** Aside from profile verification and advertising, Couchsurfing tested over 10 different funding models multiple times in the past 4 years. These included asking for donations, permitting members to charge for hosting, asking surfers to pay a nominal fee when confirming a stay, negotiated advertising and sponsorships, affiliate partnerships (Couchsurfing getting paid when members purchased something we promoted), selling merchandise, a Couchsurfing cryptocurrency/blockchain, and more. Multiple versions of these were tested with minimal success. The funding we generated barely covered our costs associated with the tests themselves as well as the ballooning success of the community (growth and engagement). We did not sell your data. We would not feel comfortable doing this. We think this is unethical. We did not do this. We will never do this. There are mentions on various social media channels of Couchsurfing selling member data. So we will say this once more, we have not and will not do this. In addition to our attempts at generating additional funding, we also cut costs significantly. We constantly renegotiate our contracts. The beautiful (and expensive) Couchsurfing office which you can see pictures and videos of online was shuttered at the end of 2018 (it took us over 4 years to get out of the lease). Just like the Couchsurfing community, our team is now 100% remote and distributed all across the world. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, members of the team have taken partial pay cuts or are foregoing compensation altogether. **4) But doesn’t Couchsurfing have millions of dollars from rich investors? Isn’t it worth one billion U.S. dollars? Can’t you just raise more money from these wealthy people since this is all about money and they have so much of it?** While it is true that in 2011, and again in 2013, Couchsurfing sold parts of itself to investors (Silicon Valley venture capitalists) in exchange for capital that was reinvested into the company, 99% of that money was spent by early 2015. Those funds were used to improve, scrap, and replace technology that was outdated and expensive to maintain. By 2015 Couchsurfing was no longer an attractive investment for Silicon Valley venture capitalists, mostly because the community had remained the priority instead of making money. Prioritizing the Couchsurfing community was the right thing to do for the community, but not the right thing to do for the business. We stand by this decision. Couchsurfing was never worth a billion dollars. We are going to publish another blog post later this week with more details, but Couchsurfing has been an independent and financially self sustaining entity since 2015. None of the investors, founders, or prior team members are actively involved in the company nor have they been since 2015 (except for two team members: our team leads for mobile development and trust and safety). **5) What will you do with the profits you make from the new member contribution?** Our first priority is to ensure that our monthly operational costs are covered. If we start receiving contributions that are above our cost base we will start prioritizing new product development that will make Couchsurfing an even more meaningful and engaging community. What we will not be doing is sending any of those profits to our investors, or into the pockets of our CEO or employees. The money we earn at Couchsurfing has always gone straight back into the product. You will not see anyone at Couchsurfing driving a Lambo or flying in a Gulfstream jet on the way to the latest EDM party in Vegas. This is simply not part of the Couchsurfing DNA. **6) But how expensive can it be? Can’t we build an alternative for $25k?** Hosting an application costs money based on the amount of data you store, the complexity of the application, the features you offer, and the regulations to which you are subject. In order to provide much of the Couchsurfing functionality, some of which you see but most of which is behind the scenes, we have to integrate with and pay for third party technology. Scaling these applications to millions of members via web, mobile web, and iOS/Android mobile applications is expensive. Complying with regulations (like GDPR, which we fully support!) is expensive. Maintaining all of this is expensive. A great example of some of the costs Couchsurfing faces is with the use of maps in the existing web and mobile apps. While we don’t use maps as much as you all would like, we do leverage location data across every aspect of the Couchsurfing application. Couchsurfiing previously used Google Maps to provide all location information. This past summer our cost jumped from $8,000 per month to $40,000 per month due to Google’s latest price increase. We made a decision (along with many other apps) to transition to another maps provider, Mapbox. This transition took us over 2 months to complete due to the complexity of our application. Due to our small engineering team, it consumed 99% of their time. We are happy to report that with Mapbox our spend is now less than $4,000 per month. This anecdote is good at identifying the scale at which Couchsurfing operates and the discipline we have in operating a cost effective platform. This is not a simple application you can host on your own servers, or something you can re-build and support overnight. Our team is one of the least expensive parts of Couchsurfing. We have an incredibly small team of 25 who each do a job that is usually done by multiple people. Our team serves many functions: - Trust and Safety team: These folks ensure we are GDPR compliant as well as ensuring any safety complaints / violations are quickly addressed. - Mobile engineering team: Responsible for delivering iOS and Android applications with security and feature updates on a regular basis. - Web engineering team: Responsible for the entire codebase. This team was responsible for fixing and improving a rat’s nest of code touched by multiple generations of Couchsurfing employees. - DevOps team: Ensures the site does not “go down” (which it used to a lot in the past). - Product team: Interview users to understand what they need in terms of new features, works with engineering teams to improve existing features and build new ones. - Operations team: Manages the finances, accounting, and legal work of a distributed, global organization. Without any of the above Couchsurfing would resemble the wild west. The site and mobile applications would break and crash all the time with zero reliability. **7) So the larger you become the more money is needed?** In short, yes. It is a double-edged sword in that as we gain the amazing people that make up our community, it costs more to keep the systems in place to facilitate the connections that make Couchsurfing a place where we can easily share our lives and make a world enriched by travel. Maciej Ceglowsk, the founder of the site [pinboad.in](http://pinboad.in/), wrote about it in his blog and titled it “Don’t Be A Free User”: *Were you a big* [*Gowalla*](http://techcrunch.com/2011/12/05/gowalla-acqhire/) *fan? Did you like* [*Dodgeball*](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dodgeball_(service))*? Did you think* [*Trunk.ly*](http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2396138,00.asp) *(gasp!) was better than Pinboard? Did you make a lot of contributions to* [*Nextstop*](http://www.zdnet.com/blog/btl/facebook-to-acquire-shut-down-nextstop-site/36541)*? Do you miss* [*Aardvark*](http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/technology/2011/09/google-shuts-down-aardvark-and-9-other-companies.html) *and* [*EtherPad*](http://brainsik.theory.org/.:./2009/etherpad-to-shut-down-after-google-acquisition)*? Did “*[*I Want Sandy*](http://www.htmlist.com/rants/trusting-in-the-cloud-the-fallout-when-web-20-apps-disappear/)*” change your life?* *These projects are all very different, but the dynamic is the same. Someone builds a cool, free product, it gets popular, and that popularity attracts a buyer. The new owner shuts the product down and the founders issue a glowing press release about how excited they are about synergies going forward. They are never heard from again.* *Whether or not this is done in good faith, in practice this kind of ‘exit event’ is a pump-and-dump scheme. The very popularity that attracts a buyer also makes the project financially unsustainable. The owners cash out, the acquirer gets some good engineers, and the users get screwed.* *To avoid this problem, avoid mom-and-pop projects that don’t take your money! You might call this the anti-free-software movement.* *If every additional user is putting money in the developers’ pockets, then you’re less likely to see the site disappear overnight. If every new user is costing the developers money, and the site is really taking off, then get ready to read about those synergies.* *What if a little site you love doesn’t have a business model? Yell at the developers! Explain that you are tired of good projects folding and are willing to pay cash American dollar to prevent that from happening. It doesn’t take prohibitive per-user revenue to put a project in the black. It just requires a number greater than zero.* *I love free software and could not have built my site without it. But free web services are not like free software. If your free software project suddenly gets popular, you gain resources: testers, developers and people willing to pitch in. If your free website takes off, you lose resources. Your time is spent firefighting and your money all goes to the nice people at Linode.* *So stop getting caught off guard when your favorite project sells out! “They were getting so popular, why did they have to shut it down?” Because it’s hard to resist a big payday when you are rapidly heading into debt. And because it’s culturally acceptable to leave your user base high and dry if you get a good offer, citing self-inflicted financial hardship.* Our goal is not to “make lots of money” but rather to continue to invest in trust and safety initiatives, develop new and better features in the website and mobile applications, showcase the community, and provide support to all those incredible Couchsurfing members who reflect the Couchsurfing values to the world. **8) What about people saying that this is just like when Couchsurfing switched from a non-profit to a corporation?** Couchsurfing was NEVER a 501(c)(3) non-profit. Couchsurfing was founded in 2004 and applied for non-profit status but was denied by the United States tax authorities (the IRS) for not meeting the qualifications. Couchsurfing is and has been a company. It never qualified as a non-profit and has never been one. In a scenario where Couchsurfing was a non-profit and had achieved the same level of success, we would be in the same situation. Operational costs would be just as high, and they would need to be offset with some form of funding, like member contributions. As we will share in the coming weeks, we have serious aspirations for the impact we want Couchsurfing to have on the world. In our current world, corporations are the non-governmental organizations that can have the largest impact. As soon as some other organizational format can have a larger impact than a corporation, we will become one of those. Just because we are a corporation does **not** mean we are focused on money, profits, or expensive compensation packages. We are focused on none of those things. **9) Wait. Millions of members? So the Couchsurfing community hasn’t been slowly dying?** No. Quite the contrary. The number of active members has grown by leaps and bounds in the past four years with no money spent on marketing (because we have none to spend on this). We have been successfully acculturating members into the Couchsurfing ethos as the number of Couchsurfing members engaging with the website and mobile applications on a daily basis has grown 4x. The number of Couchsurfing members engaging with the website and mobile applications on a monthly basis has grown almost 5x. The community has never been more vibrant (prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, of course). With your participation, we have a real opportunity to transform the world in a way that few communities have. In an effort to avoid over-commercialization, very few members of the community were asked to contribute financially. Unfortunately, very few of our members have made the voluntary Verification payment meaning we have not seen an increase in our funding to match the increase in our membership. **10) Why have I not heard more from Couchsurfing about any of this in the past several years?** We have made a conscious effort to keep the focus on the Couchsurfing community and all the amazing things you do. There are community members who still hold grudges against Couchsurfing for things that were said or done in 2012. In order to avoid that, we focused on making consistent positive improvements to the website and mobile applications. Given the unprecedented times and this abrupt change, we are going to break from this to provide more detail about all things happening in the Couchsurfing community and what you can look forward to and expect in the future. **11) Okay. So what is a Couchsurfing contribution?** All we are asking for is some marginal financial support to help cover our costs. In the United States we are asking for $2.39/month or $14.29/year. This amount is adjusted in a number of currencies and is often considerably lower in various countries. **12) I don’t see it on my account, what does it look like?** It looks like this: - ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/image.png "image - Couchsurfing Blog") - ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/redmorescreenshot.png "redmorescreenshot - Couchsurfing Blog") If you don’t see this when you login it is because you have been left out of the contribution program due to either you 1) being an Ambassador, 2) having purchased Lifetime Verification, or 3) you are in a free country. **13) But what about countries that can’t afford $2.39/month or $14.29/year?** We have adjusted these amounts for many countries. In fact, **your contributions will allow over 75% of the world to still have access to the Couchsurfing community for free**. **14) How did you adjust the contributions and decide which countries did not have to contribute?** We looked at a variety of factors: economic development, economic purchasing power, credit card adoption, debit card adoption, digital payment adoption, size of the countries’ Couchsurfing communities, vibrancy of the countries’ Couchsurfing communities, country population size, country population density, and many other factors. **15) Will you be publishing a list of these countries?** Not just yet. Unfortunately, we have seen some chatter about people trying to circumvent the contribution program by saying they are from one of these countries even though they are not. This type of behavior is not in line with the Couchsurfing values. We consider this cheating everyone else who is contributing to Couchsurfing. If you do this you will be banned for life from Couchsurfing. **16) But do hosts have to contribute?** We are asking for contributions from all members. It is important that everyone participates. Everyone – whether you are hosting, surfing, organizing an event, or attending a hangout – receives value and needs to contribute to the Couchsurfing community. Everyone provides the community value, everyone receives value from the community. The contribution is for the tools and upkeep of the website and mobile applications that everyone in the community uses. **17) What if I purchased Verification?** If you purchased Verification we are not asking you to contribute for one full year from now. Thank you for your support of Couchsurfing – you are a huge piece as to why we are still a community! **18) Aren’t you holding my data hostage?** Nope. We understand some of you feel we are keeping your profiles “hostage” or require that you pay a “ransom”, and apologize for this. This was not the intention we had in trying to rally the community around saving Couchsurfing. We remain compliant with all privacy regulations. As has always been the case, you can ask for a copy of your data and to delete your account by contacting Couchsurfing Support at or through . **19) What happens to my profile, information, and pictures if I don’t contribute?** Nothing! Your profile will be waiting for you whenever you are ready to return to the Couchsurfing community. We understand if making a financial contribution to Couchsurfing is difficult at this time and can’t wait to see you in the future. **20) Won’t this make the community smaller?** Yes, but with fewer accounts to support our overhead will be lower and thus the funding will go further to improve member experience in the long-term. This is a win for members that choose to contribute. When you contribute to Couchsurfing, you are enabling others to enjoy Couchsurfing even when you are not (like when you are asleep and Couchsurfing members on the other side of the world are awake). Some members may look at this through the lens of “What does it do for me right now?” While we wish everyone could see the global impact of their contributions, we understand that certain members will not understand this aspect of contributing to a global community. While there may be a drop in the overall number of Couchsurfing members, the community will be stronger and the interactions better. There were people freeloading on Couchsurfing, using it as a way to find a free place to stay, not responding to messages, and flaking on hosts, hangouts, and events. By implementing the contribution program we will begin to put an end to all of this and raise the overall quality of our shared Couchsurfing community. **21) I see people saying negative things about Couchsurfing, what should I do?** Admittedly, we could have been more transparent beforehand, which may have allowed for less confusion. As with any change, some people will have an emotional reaction to implementing contributions. Unfortunately, with the current COVID-19 pandemic, this is bad news on top of bad news on top of bad news. We encourage everyone to show compassion towards people that are angry, upset, and frustrated by this change. There will inevitably be conspiracy theories, misinformation, and downright lies spread about Couchsurfing and these contributions. We know that some people and other sites are opportunistically preying on people’s temporary confusion. It is frustrating to have our intentions called into question which is why we’ve spilled our heart out to you now. We hope in doing so it has shed light on our commitment to keeping the Couchsurfing community alive. We encourage everyone to come to Couchsurfing with any questions, concerns, or clarification for anything seen on Couchsurfing or any other online channel. As always, you can contact Couchsurfing Support directly at Sincerely, The Couchsurfing Team [Login to Support Couchsurfing](https://www.couchsurfing.com/users/sign_in/?utm_source=blog&utm_campaign=contribution_drip_2&utm_content=control) ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/we-hear-you/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/we-hear-you/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** News --- ### [16th International Couchsurfing Day Discount!](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/16th-international-couchsurfing-day-discount/) **Published:** May 31, 2020 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** June 12th is the 16th anniversary of Couchsurfing. In celebration, local communities are holding [virtual meet-ups](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/international-couchsurfing-day-virtual-events/) to connect and share. [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Screen-Shot-2020-06-02-at-9.47.46-AM.png "Screen-Shot-2020-06-02-at-9.47.46-AM - Couchsurfing Blog")](https://store.couchsurfing.com/)Additionally we are offering 20% off our entire [Couchsurfing store](https://store.couchsurfing.com/) and free shipping today through June 12th. Use the code HAPPYBIRTHDAYCS and the 20% discount will be applied to any and all items! We encourage you to join local events, or create your own, and connect with your Couchsurfing community! ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Screen-Shot-2020-06-02-at-9.30.07-AM-1.png "Screen-Shot-2020-06-02-at-9.30.07-AM-1 - Couchsurfing Blog")### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/16th-international-couchsurfing-day-discount/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/16th-international-couchsurfing-day-discount/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Community, Featured --- ### [Couchsurfing necesita tu ayuda](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-necesita-tu-ayuda/) **Published:** May 14, 2020 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** Desde hace más de 14 años, la comunidad Couchsurfing ha estado disponible para cualquier persona que haya querido conocer a gente nueva, ver nuevos lugares y ampliar su perspectiva del mundo. Nuestra comunidad (**tu comunidad**) une a las personas en la vida real para celebrar su experiencia humana compartida. Los miembros de Couchsurfing dedican tiempo a conocerse a través de los lugares que aman y las vidas que viven, aceptando plenamente sus diferencias. Una aceptación y comprensión global de verdad, especialmente de personas diferentes a nosotros, no se puede producir sin el tipo de encuentros en persona que surgen de participar en la comunidad de Couchsurfing. **Ahora, sin tu ayuda inmediata, todo esto estará en peligro.** La pandemia global de COVID-19 está afectando seriamente a tu querida comunidad de Couchsurfing y nos estamos enfrentando a una crisis diferente a cualquier otra que se haya producido en nuestra historia. Debido a la recesión económica y al impacto directo en los viajes, las fuentes de financiación de Couchsurfing se han agotado y no tenemos otra opción que recurrir a vosotros, la comunidad, para que nos apoyéis. [Iniciar sesión para apoyar a Couchsurfing](https://www.couchsurfing.com/users/sign_in/?utm_source=blog&utm_campaign=contribution_drip_1&utm_content=control) Hemos reducido el tamaño de nuestro equipo, hemos hecho recortes salariales, hemos rescindido o renegociado todos los contratos, hemos eliminado el espacio físico de nuestra oficina (ahora somos una plantilla que trabaja al 100 % de forma remota) y solicitamos los fondos de ayuda COVID-19 proporcionados por el Gobierno de los Estados Unidos a través de la Ley CARES. Desafortunadamente, esto no será suficiente y pronto no podremos cumplir con nuestras obligaciones financieras. [Iniciar sesión para apoyar a Couchsurfing](https://www.couchsurfing.com/users/sign_in/?utm_source=blog&utm_campaign=contribution_drip_1&utm_content=control) A partir del 14 de mayo de 2020, vamos a solicitar contribuciones a los miembros por un importe de 2,39 $ al mes, o 14,29 $ al año si se paga por adelantado, para ayudar a Couchsurfing a sobrevivir. Esta contribución de los miembros es necesaria para acceder al sitio web de Couchsurfing y a las aplicaciones móviles. Tus contribuciones como miembro se utilizarán para apoyar a Couchsurfing durante la pandemia de COVID-19 y más allá, además de seguir manteniendo la seguridad de esta comunidad. Esta decisión ha sido nuestro último recurso y no se ha tomado a la ligera. [Iniciar sesión para apoyar a Couchsurfing](https://www.couchsurfing.com/users/sign_in/?utm_source=blog&utm_campaign=contribution_drip_1&utm_content=control) La realidad es que más del 96 % de la comunidad no brinda apoyo económico a Couchsurfing porque no lo hemos solicitado. Además, Couchsurfing genera solo unos pocos miles de dólares al mes procedentes de la publicidad. Claramente esto es insostenible en el escenario actual. Esta decisión de solicitar contribuciones a los miembros se ha basado en conversaciones internas entre los miembros del equipo y los asesores, en conversaciones y aportaciones de los Embajadores de Couchsurfing, y en los comentarios de miles de miembros. Estamos agradecidos por sus opiniones y su certeza de que la comunidad de Couchsurfing querrá contribuir de esta manera para ayuda a Couchsurfing a sobrevivir. Queremos agradecer a todos los que han encontrado tiempo para participar en el proceso de toma de decisiones. Estas son las buenas noticias: 1. ***Tu contribución permitirá a aquellos en países “no bancarizados” y en desarrollo mantener su acceso gratuito a la comunidad de Couchsurfing.** La diversidad de la comunidad de Couchsurfing es lo que nos une. Es imperativo, especialmente durante una crisis como la pandemia de COVID-19, que demostremos compasión e inclusión a aquellos que seguramente no puedan participar económicamente.* 2. ***Eliminaremos todos los límites en los mensajes y en las Couch Requests**. Queremos que la comunidad siga prosperando. Tener acceso a la comunidad de Couchsurfing durante este tiempo es una manera de mantenerse conectado e involucrado. Por favor, continúa participando en Couchsurfing.* 3. ***Eliminaremos la publicidad de terceros del sitio web y las aplicaciones móviles.** Couchsurfing implementó los anuncios en 2014 por necesidad. Creemos que este aspecto contradice el espíritu de Couchsurfing. Couchsurfing nunca ha vendido datos de miembros a terceros que podrían haber generado ingresos publicitarios lucrativos. En 2018, aplicamos gran parte de las normas europeas sobre derechos de privacidad a toda nuestra comunidad. Ahora podemos llevar esto un paso más allá con orgullo y comprometernos a no depender más de los anunciantes corporativos.* 4. ***Reduciremos el precio de la verificación.** Si bien el precio de la verificación es aparentemente alto, los servicios que brindamos como parte de la verificación también conllevan costes significativos. Nuestro objetivo es reducir significativamente el precio de la verificación para que sea más accesible para más miembros de la comunidad. Los miembros de Couchsurfing que hayan comprado una verificación antes de estos cambios no necesitarán contribuir durante un año a partir del 14 de mayo de 2020. No es necesario hacer nada para disfrutar de este beneficio.* 5. ***Seguiremos desarrollando el sitio web de Couchsurfing y las aplicaciones móviles.** Esto incluye mejores mensajes y notificaciones, una experiencia prácticamente libre de errores, y mapas en los que se muestre la comunidad de Couchsurfing, además de permitir que Couchsurfing apoye a otras organizaciones que compartan los mismos valores y misión que Couchsurfing.* Si crees que el mundo es un lugar mejor con Couchsurfing, te pedimos tu apoyo. Cada miembro de Couchsurfing cree en algo más grande que el dinero, las posesiones y la posición social. La comunidad de Couchsurfing ha tardado más de 14 años en crearse. Sin tu ayuda inmediata, esta comunidad se perderá para siempre. [Iniciar sesión para apoyar a Couchsurfing](https://www.couchsurfing.com/users/sign_in/?utm_source=blog&utm_campaign=contribution_drip_1&utm_content=control) Si conoces a alguien que quiera promover y defender los ideales de Couchsurfing, te pedimos que hables con estas personas sobre Couchsurfing y que les animes a unirse a Couchsurfing y a participar en nuestra comunidad. Si tienes alguna duda o pregunta, ponte en contacto con el equipo de asistencia de Couchsurfing enviando un correo a support@couchsurfing.com. Gracias por darnos la oportunidad de servirte a ti y a la comunidad de Couchsurfing. El equipo de Couchsurfing ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-necesita-tu-ayuda/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-necesita-tu-ayuda/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** News --- ### [Couchsurfing braucht deine Hilfe](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-braucht-deine-hilfe/) **Published:** May 14, 2020 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** Seit über 14 Jahren ist die Couchsurfing-Community für jeden da, der neue Leute treffen, unbekannte Orte entdecken und seinen Horizont erweitern möchte. Unsere Community – **deine Community** – bringt Personen im echten Leben zusammen, um das menschliche Erlebnis, das wir alle miteinander teilen, zu zelebrieren. Couchsurfing-Mitglieder lernen einander kennen, indem sie die Orte, die sie lieben, und ihr Leben mit anderen teilen und ihre Unterschiede feiern. Globale Akzeptanz und Verständnis – vor allem gegenüber Menschen, die anders sind als wir – sind nur mit der Art von persönlicher Begegnung möglich, die in der Couchsurfing-Community zustande kommt. **Ohne deine sofortige Hilfe ist all das in Gefahr.** Die globale COVID-19-Pandemie hat schwerwiegende Auswirkungen auf deine geliebte Couchsurfing-Community und wir stehen vor einer Krise, wie wir sie noch nie erlebt haben. Aufgrund des wirtschaftlichen Abschwungs und der direkten Auswirkungen auf das Reisen sind die Finanzierungsquellen für Couchsurfing erschöpft, und wir haben keine andere Möglichkeit, als dich und unsere Community um Unterstützung zu bitten. [Anmelden, um Couchsurfing zu unterstützen](https://www.couchsurfing.com/users/sign_in/?utm_source=blog&utm_campaign=contribution_drip_1&utm_content=control) Wir haben unsere Teams verkleinert, Gehälter gekürzt, alle Verträge gekündigt oder neu ausgehandelt, unsere Büroräume abgeschafft (wir arbeiten jetzt zu 100 % im Home Office) und COVID-19-Hilfsgelder beantragt, die von der US-Regierung im Rahmen des CARES Act bereitgestellt werden. Leider wird dies nicht ausreichen und wir werden unseren finanziellen Verpflichtungen bald nicht mehr nachkommen können. [Anmelden, um Couchsurfing zu unterstützen](https://www.couchsurfing.com/users/sign_in/?utm_source=blog&utm_campaign=contribution_drip_1&utm_content=control) Ab dem 14. Mai 2020 erheben wir einen Mitgliedsbeitrag von 2,39 USD pro Monat, oder 14,29 USD pro Jahr bei Vorauszahlung, um Couchsurfing am Leben zu erhalten. Dieser Mitgliedsbeitrag ist erforderlich, um auf die Couchsurfing-Website und mobilen Apps zugreifen zu können. Mit deinem Mitgliedsbeitrag unterstützt du Couchsurfing während der COVID-19-Pandemie und darüber hinaus und hilfst uns, diese Community weiterhin zu schützen. Diese Entscheidung mussten wir treffen, auch wenn sie uns nicht leicht gefallen ist. [Anmelden, um Couchsurfing zu unterstützen](https://www.couchsurfing.com/users/sign_in/?utm_source=blog&utm_campaign=contribution_drip_1&utm_content=control) Die Realität ist, dass über 96 % der Community Couchsurfing nicht finanziell unterstützen, weil wir nicht darum gebeten haben. Außerdem nimmt Couchsurfing mit Werbung nur ein paar tausend Dollar pro Monat ein. Dies ist in der derzeitigen Situation natürlich nicht aufrecht zu erhalten. Der Entschluss, Mitgliedsbeiträge zu erheben, basiert auf internen Gesprächen von Teammitgliedern und Beratern, Gesprächen und Meinungen von Couchsurfing-Botschaftern und der Meinung von tausenden Mitgliedern. Wir sind dankbar für ihre Meinungen und Zusicherungen, dass die Couchsurfing-Community auf diese Weise einen Beitrag leisten wollen wird, um Couchsurfing am Leben zu erhalten. Wir möchten jedem danken, der sich die Zeit genommen hat, uns bei dieser Entscheidung zu unterstützen. Es gibt gute Neuigkeiten: 1. ***Dein Beitrag ermöglicht es Menschen in Entwicklungsländern oder solchen, in denen ein Bankkonto nicht für jeden zugänglich ist, weiterhin kostenlos Zugang zur Couchsurfing-Community zu haben.** Die Vielfalt innerhalb der Couchsurfing-Community ist das, was uns verbindet. Besonders in einer Krise wie der COVID-19-Pandemie ist es unerlässlich, dass wir denjenigen gegenüber, die keinen finanziellen Beitrag leisten können, Mitgefühl zeigen und sie nicht ausgrenzen.* 2. ***Wir werden alle Beschränkungen für Nachrichten und Couch-Anfragen aufheben.** Wir möchten, dass die Community weiterhin aktiv ist und wächst. Während dieser Zeit Zugang zur Couchsurfing-Community zu haben, bietet die Möglichkeit, in Verbindung und aktiv zu bleiben. Bitte beteilige dich auch weiterhin an der Couchsurfing-Community.* 3. ***Wir entfernen Werbung von Drittanbietern von der Website und den mobilen Apps.** Anzeigen wurden 2014 notgedrungen von Couchsurfing eingeführt. Wir sind der Meinung, dass dieses Geschäft im Widerspruch zum Ethos von Couchsurfing steht. Couchsurfing hat niemals Mitgliedsdaten an Dritte verkauft, was lukrative Werbeeinnahmen ermöglicht hätte. Im Jahr 2018 haben wir große Teile der europäischen Standards für Datenschutzrechte für unsere gesamte Community umgesetzt. Wir können jetzt stolz einen Schritt weiter gehen und uns dazu verpflichten, uns nicht mehr auf geschäftliche Anzeigenkunden zu verlassen.* 4. ***Wir reduzieren den Preis für die Verifizierung.** Der Preis für die Verifizierung erscheint zwar hoch, doch der Service, den wir im Rahmen der Verifizierung erbringen, ist mit erheblichen Kosten verbunden. Unser Ziel ist es, den Preis für die Verifizierung erheblich zu senken, damit mehr Mitglieder der Community sie nutzen können. Couchsurfing-Mitglieder, die vor diesen Änderungen für die Verifizierung bezahlt haben, müssen ab dem 14. Mai 2020 ein Jahr lang keinen Beitrag leisten. Es muss nichts getan werden, um diesen Vorteil zu erhalten.* 5. ***Wir werden die Couchsurfing-Website und mobilen Apps weiterentwickeln.** Dazu gehören eine bessere Nachrichtenübermittlung und verbesserte Benachrichtigungen, eine nahezu fehlerfreie Erfahrung, Karten, die Präsentation der Couchsurfing-Community und die Möglichkeit für Couchsurfing, andere Organisationen zu unterstützen, die dieselben Werte und dieselbe Mission wie Couchsurfing haben.* Wenn du glaubst, dass Couchsurfing die Welt zu einem besseren Ort macht, bitten wir dich um deine Unterstützung. Jedes Mitglied von Couchsurfing glaubt an etwas Größeres als Geld, Besitz und Stellung. Es hat mehr als 14 Jahre gedauert, bis die Couchsurfing-Community zusammengekommen ist. Ohne deine sofortige Hilfe wird diese Gemeinschaft für immer verloren gehen. [Anmelden, um Couchsurfing zu unterstützen](https://www.couchsurfing.com/users/sign_in/?utm_source=blog&utm_campaign=contribution_drip_1&utm_content=control) Wenn du jemanden kennst, der die Ideale von Couchsurfing unterstützen und aufrechterhalten möchte, bitten wir dich, mit dieser Person über Couchsurfing zu sprechen und sie zu bitten, Couchsurfing beizutreten und in der Couchsurfing-Community aktiv zu sein. Wenn du Fragen oder Bedenken hast, kontaktiere bitte den Couchsurfing-Support per E-Mail an support@couchsurfing.com Vielen Dank für die Gelegenheit, dich und die Couchsurfing-Community zu unterstützen. Das Couchsurfing-Team ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-braucht-deine-hilfe/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-braucht-deine-hilfe/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** News --- ### [Couchsurfing potrzebuje Waszej pomocy](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-potrzebuje-waszej-pomocy/) **Published:** May 14, 2020 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** Od ponad 14 lat społeczność Couchsurfing jest otwarta dla każdego, kto chce poznać nowych ludzi, zobaczyć nowe miejsca i spojrzeć na świat z innej perspektywy. Nasza społeczność — **Wasza społeczność** — łączy ludzi w realnym świecie, umożliwiając im celebrowanie wspólnych doświadczeń. Użytkownicy serwisu Couchsurfing poświęcają czas na wzajemne poznawanie siebie poprzez miejsca, które kochają, i sprawy, którymi żyją, w pełni akceptując dzielące ich różnice. To prawda, że akceptacja i zrozumienie w wymiarze globalnym — zwłaszcza w odniesieniu do osób różniących się od nas — nie są możliwe bez tego rodzaju osobistych spotkań, do których dochodzi w ramach społeczności Couchsurfing. **Bez Waszej natychmiastowej pomocy wszystko to będzie zagrożone.** Globalna pandemia COVID-19 odcisnęła silne piętno na Waszej ukochanej społeczności Couchsurfing i stanęliśmy przez kryzysem, jakiego w naszej historii jeszcze nie było. Ze względu na spowolnienie gospodarcze i bezpośredni wpływ pandemii na podróże źródła finansowania serwisu Couchsurfing wyczerpały się. W tej sytuacji jedynym wyjściem jest dla nas zwrócenie się o pomoc do społeczności, czyli do Was. [Zaloguj się, aby wesprzeć Couchsurfing](https://www.couchsurfing.com/users/sign_in/?utm_source=blog&utm_campaign=contribution_drip_1&utm_content=control) Zmniejszyliśmy liczebność naszego zespołu, obcięliśmy wynagrodzenia, rozwiązaliśmy lub renegocjowaliśmy wszystkie umowy, wyeliminowaliśmy biura fizyczne (obecnie w 100% pracujemy zdalnie) i złożyliśmy wniosek o środki pomocowe na czas pandemii COVID-19 zapewnione przez rząd Stanów Zjednoczonych w ramach ustawy CARES. Niestety te działania nie wystarczą i wkrótce nie będzie nas stać na regulowanie zobowiązań finansowych. [Zaloguj się, aby wesprzeć Couchsurfing](https://www.couchsurfing.com/users/sign_in/?utm_source=blog&utm_campaign=contribution_drip_1&utm_content=control) Od 14 maja 2020 r. prosimy użytkowników serwisu Couchsurfing o wpłaty w kwocie 2,39 USD miesięcznie (lub 14,29 USD rocznie w przypadku płatności z góry), aby umożliwić nam dalsze funkcjonowanie. Ta wpłata będzie wymagana w celu uzyskania dostępu do witryny internetowej i aplikacji mobilnych Couchsurfing. Wpłaty naszych użytkowników zapewnią wsparcie serwisu Couchsurfing podczas pandemii COVID-19 i po jej zakończeniu oraz umożliwią dbanie o bezpieczeństwo całej społeczności. Decyzję tę traktujemy jako ostatnią deskę ratunku, a jej podjęcie nie było łatwe. [Zaloguj się, aby wesprzeć Couchsurfing](https://www.couchsurfing.com/users/sign_in/?utm_source=blog&utm_campaign=contribution_drip_1&utm_content=control) Rzeczywistość jest taka, że ponad 96% członków społeczności nie wspiera finansowo serwisu Couchsurfing, ponieważ dotychczas o to nie prosiliśmy. Na reklamach Couchsurfing zarabia jedynie kilka tysięcy dolarów miesięcznie. W obecnych warunkach ten model jest nie do utrzymania. Decyzja, by poprosić użytkowników o wpłaty, jest rezultatem wewnętrznych rozmów toczonych między członkami zespołu a doradcami, rozmów i uwag Ambasadorów Couchsurfing oraz opinii przekazanych przez tysiące użytkowników serwisu. Jesteśmy im wdzięczni za obserwacje i zapewnienia, że użytkownicy serwisu Couchsurfing będą chcieli w ten sposób przyczynić się do jego dalszego funkcjonowania. Chcemy podziękować wszystkim osobom, które znalazły czas na udział w tym procesie decyzyjnym. Garść dobrych wiadomości: 1. ***Dzięki Waszym wpłatom osoby z krajów „bezbankowych” i rozwijających się zachowają bezpłatny dostęp do społeczności Couchsurfing.** Różnorodność tej społeczności to coś, co nas spaja. Naszym obowiązkiem, zwłaszcza podczas takich kryzysów jak pandemia COVID-19, jest okazywanie współczucia i otwartości osobom, których trudna sytuacja ekonomiczna może stawiać uczestnictwo pod znakiem zapytania.* 2. ***Zniesiemy wszystkie limity wiadomości i zapytań o nocleg.** Zależy nam na dalszym prężnym funkcjonowaniu społeczności. Dostęp do niej w tym czasie to sposób na kontakty i interakcję z innymi. Prosimy Was o dalsze aktywne korzystanie z Couchsurfing.* 3. ***Usuniemy reklamy innych firm z witryny internetowej i aplikacji mobilnych.** Reklamy pojawiły się w Couchsurfing z konieczności w 2014 r. Uważamy, że ten rodzaj działalności jest niezgodny z etosem serwisu Couchsurfing. Nigdy nie sprzedawaliśmy danych użytkowników innym firmom, choć mogłoby to przynieść spore przychody z reklam. W 2018 r. objęliśmy całą naszą społeczność znaczną częścią europejskich standardów z zakresu ochrony prywatności. Teraz możemy z dumą pójść o krok dalej i obiecać, że będziemy całkowicie niezależni od reklam komercyjnych.* 4. ***Obniżymy cenę weryfikacji.** Chociaż cena weryfikacji może się wydawać wysoka, usługi zapewniane w ramach weryfikacji także wiążą się ze znacznymi kosztami. Naszym celem jest znaczne obniżenie ceny weryfikacji, tak aby mogło z niej skorzystać więcej członków społeczności. Użytkownicy serwisu Couchsurfing, którzy wykupili weryfikację przed wprowadzeniem tych zmian, nie będą musieli dokonywać wpłat przez rok od 14 maja 2020 r. Do otrzymania tej korzyści nie są wymagane żadne dodatkowe czynności.* 5. ***Będziemy nadal rozwijać witrynę internetową i aplikacje mobilne Couchsurfing.** Obejmie to ulepszenia wiadomości i powiadomień, praktycznie całkowite wyeliminowanie błędów, mapy, prezentacje społeczności Couchsurfing oraz umożliwienie użytkownikom serwisu Couchsurfing wspierania innych organizacji podzielających te same wartości i misję co my.* Jeśli uważacie, że dzięki Couchsurfing świat jest lepszy, prosimy Was o wsparcie. Każdy użytkownik serwisu Couchsurfing wierzy w coś więcej niż pieniądze, stan posiadania i status społeczny. Zbudowanie społeczności Couchsurfing w jej obecnym kształcie zajęło 14 lat. Bez Waszej natychmiastowej pomocy społeczność ta przepadnie na zawsze. [Zaloguj się, aby wesprzeć Couchsurfing](https://www.couchsurfing.com/users/sign_in/?utm_source=blog&utm_campaign=contribution_drip_1&utm_content=control) Jeśli znacie kogoś, komu zależy na promowaniu i kultywowaniu ideałów realizowanych przez Couchsurfing, prosimy, byście rozmawiali z takimi osobami o naszym serwisie i zachęcali je do dołączenia do społeczności Couchsurfing oraz aktywnego uczestniczenia w jej funkcjonowaniu. W razie pytań lub wątpliwości prosimy o kontakt z pomocą Couchsurfing pod adresem support@couchsurfing.com Dziękujemy za możliwość wsparcia Was i społeczności Couchsurfing. Zespół Couchsurfing ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-potrzebuje-waszej-pomocy/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-potrzebuje-waszej-pomocy/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** News --- ### [O Couchsurfing precisa da sua ajuda](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/o-couchsurfing-precisa-da-sua-ajuda/) **Published:** May 14, 2020 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** Há mais de 14 anos a comunidade do Couchsurfing oferece aos nossos membros oportunidades de conhecer novas pessoas e lugares e ampliar a visão de mundo deles. Nossa comunidade –**sua comunidade** – junta pessoas na vida real para aproveitar as experiências humanas que todos temos em comum. Membros do Couchsurfing dedicam o tempo para mostrar a vida deles e os lugares favoritos, conhecendo melhor uns aos outros e aceitando e abraçando plenamente as diferenças. A verdadeira aceitação e compreensão global – principalmente de quem não é igual a você – só acontece graças aos encontros pessoais promovidos pela participação na comunidade do Couchsurfing. **Sem sua ajuda urgente, tudo isso corre o risco de acabar.** A pandemia global da Covid-19 está afetando seriamente sua amada comunidade do Couchsurfing; estamos enfrentando dificuldades como nunca antes visto na nossa história. Devido à crise econômica e o impacto direto dela nas viagens, esgotaram-se as fontes usadas para financiar o Couchsurfing, e não temos outra opção a não ser recorrer a você, à comunidade, para nos ajudar. [Faça login para ajudar o Couchsurfing](https://www.couchsurfing.com/users/sign_in/?utm_source=blog&utm_campaign=contribution_drip_1&utm_content=control) Reduzimos nossa equipe, diminuímos salários, encerramos ou renegociamos todos os contratos, saímos do nosso escritório físico (agora trabalhamos de forma totalmente remota) e solicitamos verbas de auxílio Covid-19 fornecidas pelo governo dos Estados Unidos por meio da lei CARES. Infelizmente, isso não é suficiente e, em breve, não conseguiremos mais cumprir nossas obrigações financeiras. [Faça login para ajudar o Couchsurfing](https://www.couchsurfing.com/users/sign_in/?utm_source=blog&utm_campaign=contribution_drip_1&utm_content=control) A partir de 14 de maio de 2020, solicitamos contribuições de US$ 2,39 por mês, ou US$ 14,29 por ano, se pagos antecipadamente, para não deixar o Couchsurfing morrer. Para poder acessar o site e os aplicativos móveis do Couchsurfing, a contribuição feita pelos nossos membros será obrigatória. Suas contribuições serão usadas para ajudar o Couchsurfing a sobreviver diante da pandemia da COVID-19 e além, e para manter a segurança da comunidade. É uma decisão muito difícil e a consideramos como a nossa última alternativa. [Faça login para ajudar o Couchsurfing](https://www.couchsurfing.com/users/sign_in/?utm_source=blog&utm_campaign=contribution_drip_1&utm_content=control) O Couchsurfing não recebe apoio financeiro de mais de 96% da comunidade simplesmente porque não solicitamos isso. Além disso, anúncios e publicidade geram somente alguns milhares de dólares por mês ao Couchsurfing. Claramente, isso ficou insustentável na nossa situação atual. A decisão de solicitar uma contribuição dos nossos membros foi baseada em conversas internas realizadas entre membros da equipe e conselheiros, orientações dos Embaixadores do Couchsurfing e informações fornecidas por milhares de membros. Somos gratos pelo seu apoio e a opinião de que a comunidade do Couchsurfing fará contribuições de acordo com esse novo modelo para manter o Couchsurfing vivo. Agradecemos a todos que dedicaram tempo para participar do processo de tomada de decisão. Há boas notícias: 1. ***Sua contribuição permitirá que membros de países “sem apoio bancário” e em desenvolvimento continuem acessando a comunidade do Couchsurfing gratuitamente.*** *A diversidade da comunidade do Couchsurfing é o que nos une. É fundamental, principalmente durante crises como a pandemia da Covid-19, mostrarmos compaixão e inclusão a quem não pode contribuir financeiramente.* 2. ***Retiraremos todos os limites de mensagens e solicitações de sofás.*** *Queremos que a comunidade continue crescendo. Acreditamos que o acesso à comunidade do Couchsurfing neste momento é uma ótima maneira de permanecer conectado e envolvido. Continue participando do Couchsurfing.* 3. ***Retiraremos a publicidade externa do site e dos aplicativos móveis.*** *Em 2014, o Couchsurfing passou a incluir anúncios por necessidade. Acreditamos que esse tipo de negócio não combina com o espírito do Couchsurfing. O Couchsurfing nunca vendeu dados de membros a terceiros, o que poderia ter gerado receitas com publicidade. Em 2018, disponibilizamos grandes partes das normas europeias de direitos de privacidade à toda comunidade. Agora podemos orgulhosamente dar um passo adiante e nos comprometer a não trabalhar mais com anúncios de empresas.* 4. ***Reduziremos o preço da Validação.*** *Embora o preço da Validação pareça alto, os serviços que oferecemos como parte dela têm custos significativos. Nosso objetivo é reduzir bastante o preço da Validação para que fique mais acessível a mais pessoas da comunidade. Membros do Couchsurfing que adquiriram a Validação antes dessas alterações não precisarão contribuir pelo período de um ano a partir de 14 de maio de 2020. Você não precisa fazer nada para receber esse benefício.* 5. ***Continuaremos desenvolvendo o site e os aplicativos móveis do Couchsurfing.*** *Isso inclui aprimorar o recurso de mensagens e notificações, prestar um serviço praticamente sem bugs, disponibilizar mapas, divulgar a comunidade e apoiar outras organizações que compartilham os mesmos valores e missão do Couchsurfing.* Se você acredita que o mundo é melhor com o Couchsurfing, pedimos o seu auxílio. Todo membro do Couchsurfing acredita em algo além de dinheiro, de bens e de status. Foi mais de 14 anos para a comunidade do Couchsurfing se desenvolver. Agora, sem a sua ajuda urgente, nossa comunidade deixará de existir para sempre. [Faça login para ajudar o Couchsurfing](https://www.couchsurfing.com/users/sign_in/?utm_source=blog&utm_campaign=contribution_drip_1&utm_content=control) Se você conhece alguém que acredita e deseja apoiar os ideais do Couchsurfing, fale com ela sobre nós e incentive-a a participar da comunidade do Couchsurfing. Se tiver dúvidas, fale com o Suporte do Couchsurfing pelo e-mail support@couchsurfing.com. Obrigado pela oportunidade de estar com você e a comunidade do Couchsurfing. Equipe Couchsurfing ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/o-couchsurfing-precisa-da-sua-ajuda/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/o-couchsurfing-precisa-da-sua-ajuda/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** News --- ### [Couchsurfing нужна ваша помощь](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-нужна-ваша-помощь/) **Published:** May 14, 2020 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** Более 14 лет сообщество Couchsurfing доступно всем, кто хочет познакомиться с новыми людьми, увидеть новые места и лучше узнать мир. Наше сообщество — **ваше сообщество** — объединяет людей, чтобы они могли получать удовольствие от непосредственного общения друг с другом. Члены сообщества Couchsurfing знакомятся с новыми людьми, путешествуя в любимые места или принимая гостей у себя дома. Какими бы разными мы ни были, полное принятие и понимание других людей — особенно тех, кто отличается от нас — невозможно без личных встреч, организованных благодаря участию в сообществе Couchsurfing. **Но без вашей помощи все это может оказаться под угрозой.** Пандемия COVID-19 оказалась серьезным испытанием для вашего любимого сообщества Couchsurfing, и мы столкнулись с кризисом, аналогов которому в нашей истории еще не было. Из-за экономического спада и прямого влияния на сферу путешествий источники финансирования Couchsurfing истощены, и у нас нет другого выбора, кроме как обратиться к сообществу за поддержкой. [Войдите, чтобы поддержать Couchsurfing](https://www.couchsurfing.com/users/sign_in/?utm_source=blog&utm_campaign=contribution_drip_1&utm_content=control) Мы сократили нашу команду, уменьшили заработную плату, отменили или пересмотрели все контракты, отказались от служебных помещений (теперь мы полностью работаем удаленно) и подали заявки на финансовую помощь в связи с COVID-19, организованную правительством Соединенных Штатов в рамках закона CARES Act. К сожалению, этого недостаточно, и скоро мы не сможем выполнять наши финансовые обязательства. [Войдите, чтобы поддержать Couchsurfing](https://www.couchsurfing.com/users/sign_in/?utm_source=blog&utm_campaign=contribution_drip_1&utm_content=control) По состоянию на 14 мая 2020 года для поддержания работы Couchsurfing мы просим заплатить членские взносы в размере 2,39 $ в месяц или 14,29 $ в год, если они выплачиваются авансом. Этот вклад необходим для доступа к сайту Couchsurfing и мобильным приложениям. Ваши вклады будут использованы для поддержки Couchsurfing во время пандемии COVID-19 и после нее, а также для поддержания безопасности этого сообщества. Это крайняя мера, и это решение далось нам нелегко. [Войдите, чтобы поддержать Couchsurfing](https://www.couchsurfing.com/users/sign_in/?utm_source=blog&utm_campaign=contribution_drip_1&utm_content=control) В действительности более 96% членов сообщества не оказывают финансовой поддержки Couchsurfing, поскольку мы об этом не просили. Реклама приносит Couchsurfing всего несколько тысяч долларов в месяц. В нынешней ситуации этого явно недостаточно. Решение о запросе членских взносов было принято на основе переговоров между членами команды и консультантами, разговоров с активистами Couchsurfing, а также мнений тысяч пользователей. Мы благодарны за их точку зрения и заверения в том, что сообщество Couchsurfing захочет внести свой вклад в поддержку Couchsurfing. Спасибо всем, кто нашел время для участия в процессе принятия этого решения. Есть и хорошие новости: 1. ***Ваш вклад позволит людям в не обслуживаемых банками и развивающихся странах сохранить свободный доступ к сообществу Couchsurfing.*** *Разнообразие сообщества Couchsurfing — это то, что нас объединяет. Во времена кризисов вроде пандемии COVID-19 очень важно проявлять сострадание и единство с теми, кто, возможно, не может принимать участие из-за сложной экономической ситуации.* 2. ***Мы снимаем все ограничения на сообщения и запросы на ночлег.** Мы хотим, чтобы сообщество и дальше процветало. Наличие доступа к сообществу Couchsurfing в течение этого времени — это способ поддерживать связь друг с другом. Пожалуйста, продолжайте участвовать в сообществе Couchsurfing.* 3. ***Мы удалим стороннюю рекламу с сайта и мобильных приложений.** Рекламные объявления появились на Couchsurfing в 2014 году по необходимости — мы считаем, что это противоречит идеалам нашей компании. Couchsurfing никогда не продавала данные о пользователях третьим лицам, что могло бы приносить доход от рекламы. В 2018 году мы внедрили большую часть Европейских стандартов в отношении прав на неприкосновенность частной жизни во всем нашем сообществе, и теперь мы можем с гордостью сделать следующий шаг и взять на себя обязательство больше не полагаться на корпоративных рекламодателей.* 4. ***Мы снизим стоимость подтверждения.**Хотя стоимость подтверждения личности кажется высокой, услуги, которые мы предоставляем в рамках подтверждения, сопряжены с большими затратами. Наша цель — значительно снизить стоимость подтверждения и сделать его более доступным. Членам сообщества Couchsurfing, которые получили подтверждение до этих изменений, не нужно будет делать взнос в течение одного года, начиная с 14 мая 2020 года. Чтобы получить это преимущество, никаких дополнительных действий не требуется.* 5. ***Мы продолжим работать над развитием сайта Couchsurfing и мобильных приложений.**В частности, мы работаем над улучшением обмена сообщениями и уведомлениями, устранением ошибок, картами, знакомством с сообществом Couchsurfing и возможностью Couchsurfing поддерживать другие организации, которые разделяют аналогичные ценности и цели.* Если вы считаете, что с Couchsurfing мир становится лучше, мы просим вас о поддержке. Каждый член сообщества Couchsurfing верит во что-то большее, чем деньги, имущество или статус. Сообщество Couchsurfing формировалось в течение 14 лет. Без вашей оперативной помощи оно будет потеряно навсегда. [Войдите, чтобы поддержать Couchsurfing](https://www.couchsurfing.com/users/sign_in/?utm_source=blog&utm_campaign=contribution_drip_1&utm_content=control) Если вы знаете кого-то, кто хочет продвигать и поддерживать идеалы Couchsurfing, мы просим вас поговорить с ними о Couchsurfing и призвать их присоединиться к нашему сообществу Couchsurfing. По любым вопросам связывайтесь со службой поддержки Couchsurfing через support@couchsurfing.com Спасибо за возможность поддержать вас и сообщество Couchsurfing. Команда Couchsurfing ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-%d0%bd%d1%83%d0%b6%d0%bd%d0%b0-%d0%b2%d0%b0%d1%88%d0%b0-%d0%bf%d0%be%d0%bc%d0%be%d1%89%d1%8c/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-%d0%bd%d1%83%d0%b6%d0%bd%d0%b0-%d0%b2%d0%b0%d1%88%d0%b0-%d0%bf%d0%be%d0%bc%d0%be%d1%89%d1%8c/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** News --- ### [Couchsurfing a besoin de vous](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-a-besoin-de-vous/) **Published:** May 14, 2020 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** Depuis plus de 14 ans, la communauté Couchsurfing permet de rencontrer de nouvelles personnes, de découvrir de nouveaux lieux et de mieux comprendre le monde. Notre communauté, **qui est aussi la vôtre,** réunit des personnes du monde réel pour leur permettre de vivre des expériences authentiques. Les membres de Couchsurfing apprennent à se connaître par l’intermédiaire de leurs modes de vie, des lieux qu’ils apprécient, et les différences de chacun sont vues comme des richesses à partager. Pour véritablement comprendre et accepter ceux qui sont différents de nous, les rencontres dans le monde réel comme celles permises par la communauté Couchsurfing sont indispensables. **Sans votre aide immédiate, tout cela risque de partir en fumée.** La pandémie de COVID-19 frappe de plein fouet notre communauté, et nous faisons aujourd’hui face à une crise d’une ampleur sans précédent dans notre histoire. La récession et l’impact direct de la pandémie sur les voyages ont réduit les sources de financement de Couchsurfing à peau de chagrin, et nous sommes donc contraints de nous tourner vers vous, notre communauté. [Connectez-vous pour soutenir Couchsurfing](https://www.couchsurfing.com/users/sign_in/?utm_source=blog&utm_campaign=contribution_drip_1&utm_content=control) Nous avons réduit nos effectifs, baissé les salaires, renégocié la plupart des contrats et même éliminé certains d’entre eux, supprimé nos bureaux (l’intégralité de notre personnel est désormais passée au télétravail) et demandé à bénéficier des aides spéciales accordées par le gouvernement des États-Unis dans le cadre du CARES Act. Malheureusement, ces initiatives restent insuffisantes et nous ne serons bientôt plus en mesure de nous acquitter de nos obligations financières. [Connectez-vous pour soutenir Couchsurfing](https://www.couchsurfing.com/users/sign_in/?utm_source=blog&utm_campaign=contribution_drip_1&utm_content=control) À compter du 14 mai 2020, nous invitons nos membres à nous verser 2,39 $ par mois, ou 14,29 $ par an (paiement unique), pour assurer la survie de Couchsurfing. Cette contribution est demandée pour accéder au site Web et aux applications mobiles de Couchsurfing. Elle permettra à Couchsurfing de poursuivre ses activités pendant la pandémie et au-delà, mais aussi de continuer à protéger la communauté. C’est le cœur lourd que nous avons pris cette décision, qui constitue désormais notre dernier recours. [Connectez-vous pour soutenir Couchsurfing](https://www.couchsurfing.com/users/sign_in/?utm_source=blog&utm_campaign=contribution_drip_1&utm_content=control) En vérité, 96 % de la communauté n’assure aucun soutien financier à Couchsurfing, tout simplement car nous ne lui avons pas demandé de le faire. Par ailleurs, la publicité ne génère que quelques milliers de dollars chaque mois. Cette stratégie n’est donc clairement pas viable en l’état actuel des choses. Après des conversations en interne avec nos équipes et nos conseillers, des échanges avec les ambassadeurs Couchsurfing et après avoir pris en compte les retours de milliers de personnes de la communauté, nous avons pris la décision de demander aux membres de nous soutenir financièrement. Nous leur sommes reconnaissants de nous avoir fait part de leurs idées, mais aussi de nous avoir confirmé que la communauté Couchsurfing est prête à mettre la main à la poche pour assurer sa survie. Merci à tous ceux qui ont pris le temps de participer à ce processus décisionnel. Nous avons aussi de bonnes nouvelles : 1. ***Votre contribution permettra aux personnes vivant dans des pays « non bancarisés » et en développement de continuer à accéder gratuitement à la communauté Couchsurfing.*** *Notre diversité est aussi la raison de notre unité. Nous sommes persuadés que nous devons faire preuve de compassion et inclure ceux qui ne sont peut-être pas en mesure de participer financièrement, en particulier pendant une crise comme celle du COVID-19.* 2. ***Nous allons supprimer toutes les limites applicables aux messages et aux demandes d’hébergement.** Nous souhaitons en effet que notre communauté continue à prospérer. Par cette action, nous vous encourageons à rester connectés les uns aux autres. Nous comptons sur vous pour continuer à faire vivre Couchsurfing.* 3. ***Nous allons supprimer les publicités tierces de notre site Web et de nos applications mobiles.*** *Le recours aux publicités a démarré en 2014, car nous n’avions à l’époque pas d’autre choix. Nous estimons toutefois que cette mesure est contraire à la philosophie de Couchsurfing. Sachez que nous n’avons jamais vendu les données de nos membres à des tiers, alors qu’une telle activité aurait pu générer des revenus publicitaires extrêmement lucratifs. En 2018, nous avons d’ailleurs appliqué une grande partie des normes européennes de confidentialité à l’ensemble de notre communauté. Nous sommes désormais fiers d’aller encore plus loin et de ne plus dépendre d’annonceurs privés.* 4. ***Nous allons réduire le prix de la vérification.*** *Le prix de la vérification peut paraître élevé, mais les services qui lui sont associés sont eux-mêmes coûteux. Notre objectif est de parvenir à réduire significativement ce prix pour le rendre accessible à une plus grande partie de notre communauté. Les membres de Couchsurfing ayant payé une vérification avant ces changements ne seront pas tenus de contribuer pendant un an à compter du 14 mai 2020. Aucune action de votre part n’est nécessaire pour profiter de cet avantage.* 5. ***Nous allons continuer de faire évoluer le site Web et les applications mobiles de Couchsurfing.*** *Nous prévoyons notamment d’améliorer les messages et les notifications, d’éliminer la quasi-totalité des bugs, d’ajouter des cartes, de mettre en valeur les membres de la communauté Couchsurfing et d’adopter une politique permettant à Couchsurfing d’aider les organisations qui partagent ses valeurs.* Si vous pensez que Couchsurfing, à son échelle, contribue à rendre le monde meilleur, soutenez-nous. Pour les membres de Couchsurfing que nous sommes, l’argent, le patrimoine et le statut social ne sont que secondaires. La communauté Couchsurfing a aujourd’hui 14 ans. Si vous ne lui apportez pas immédiatement votre aide, elle risque bien de disparaître à tout jamais. [Connectez-vous pour soutenir Couchsurfing](https://www.couchsurfing.com/users/sign_in/?utm_source=blog&utm_campaign=contribution_drip_1&utm_content=control) Si vous connaissez des personnes prêtes à promouvoir et à défendre les idéaux de Couchsurfing, n’hésitez pas à leur parler de nous, à les encourager à nous rejoindre et à participer à notre communauté. N’hésitez pas à contacter l’assistance de Couchsurfing à l’adresse support@couchsurfing.com si vous avez des questions ou des inquiétudes. Merci de nous offrir l’opportunité de vous aider et d’aider la communauté Couchsurfing. L’équipe Couchsurfing ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-a-besoin-de-vous/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-a-besoin-de-vous/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** News --- ### [Couchsurfing 需要您的帮助](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-需要您的帮助/) **Published:** May 14, 2020 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Excerpt:** COVID-19 全球大流行病正严重影响着您挚爱的 Couchsurfing 社区，我们正面临着历史上前所未有的危机。由于经济不景气以及对旅行的直接影响，Couchsurfing 的资金来源已用尽，我们别无选择，只能寻求社区的支持。 **Content:** 在过去的 14 年里，Couchsurfing 社区为任何想要结识新朋友、见识新地方、更深入地了解他们的世界的人提供服务。我们的社区——**您的社区**——将现实生活中的人们团结在一起，庆祝人类的共同体验。Couchsurfing 会员花时间通过他们所爱的地方和他们的生活相互了解，充分包容彼此的差异。诚然，如果没有参与 Couchsurfing 社区的亲身体验，就不可能实现全球认可和理解，尤其是对不同于我们的人的认可和理解。**如果没有您的及时帮助，所有这一切都将岌岌可危。** COVID-19 全球大流行病正严重影响着您挚爱的 Couchsurfing 社区，我们正面临着历史上前所未有的危机。由于经济不景气以及对旅行的直接影响，Couchsurfing 的资金来源已用尽，我们别无选择，只能寻求社区的支持。 [登录以支持 Couchsurfing](https://www.couchsurfing.com/users/sign_in/?utm_source=blog&utm_campaign=contribution_drip_1&utm_content=control) 我们缩减了团队规模，削减了薪酬，取消或重新谈判了所有合同，撤掉了我们的实际办公空间（我们现在是 100% 远程办公），并申请了美国政府通过《冠状病毒援助救济和经济安全法案》(CARES Act) 提供的 COVID-19 救济金。遗憾的是，这一切努力还无法满足需求，我们很快将无法履行我们的财务义务。 [登录以支持 Couchsurfing](https://www.couchsurfing.com/users/sign_in/?utm_source=blog&utm_campaign=contribution_drip_1&utm_content=control) 自 2020 年 5 月 14 日起，我们要求会员每月缴纳 2.39 美元作为会员捐款，如果预缴的话，则每年缴纳 14.29 美元，以维持 Couchsurfing 的生机。要访问 Couchsurfing 网站和手机应用程序，需要这笔会员捐款。您的会员捐款将用于支持 Couchsurfing 度过 COVID-19 疫情及此后的难关，继续维护本社区的安全。这是万不得已之计，不是轻率的决定。 [登录以支持 Couchsurfing](https://www.couchsurfing.com/users/sign_in/?utm_source=blog&utm_campaign=contribution_drip_1&utm_content=control) 现实情况是，社区中 96% 以上的人士都没有向 Couchsurfing 提供任何资金支持，因为我们没有要求过。Couchsurfing 每月的广告收入也只有几千美元。显然，在当前环境下这种情况无法持续下去。要求会员捐款的决定是基于团队成员和顾问之间的内部对话、来自 Couchsurfing 大使的对话和意见，以及数千名会员提供的意见。我们非常感谢他们的观点和保证，我们希望通过这种方式为 Couchsurfing 社区做出贡献，以维持 Couchsurfing 的生机。我们要感谢每一位抽出时间参与决策过程的人士。 好消息是： 1. ***您的捐款将使那些“没有银行存款”和发展中国家的人们能够继续免费使用 Couchsurfing 社区。**Couchsurfing 社区的多样性使我们团结一心。当务之急，尤其是在像 COVID-19 大流行病这样的危机期间，我们必须对那些可能在经济上没有能力参与的人士表示同情和包容。* 2. ***我们将取消对消息和沙发请求的所有限制。**我们希望社区能够继续繁荣发展。在这段时间内，访问 Couchsurfing 社区是保持联系和参与的一种方式。请继续参与到 Couchsurfing 中来。* 3. ***我们将从网站和移动应用程序中删除第三方广告。**出于必要，Couchsurfing 在 2014 年推出了广告。我们认为这项业务与 Couchsurfing 的精神背道而驰。 Couchsurfing 从未将会员数据出售给第三方，尽管这本可以带来丰厚的广告收入。2018 年，我们将欧洲隐私权标准的大部分内容扩展到了整个社区。我们现在可以自豪地更进一步，承诺不再依赖企业广告商。* 4. ***我们将降低验证价格。**虽然验证的价格看似很高，但作为验证的一部分，我们提供的服务也要付出高昂的成本。我们的目标是大幅降低验证的价格，让更多的社区用户能够享受到更多的服务。在这些变更之前购买了验证服务的 Couchsurfing 会员自 2020 年 5 月 14 日起一年内不需要缴费。无需采取任何行动即可获得这项福利。* 5. ***我们将继续发展 Couchsurfing 网站和移动应用程序。**这包括更好的消息传递和通知、近乎零缺陷的体验、地图、展示 Couchsurfing 社区，以及让 Couchsurfing 能够支持与 Couchsurfing 具相同价值观和使命的其他组织。* 如果您相信，有了 Couchsurfing，世界更美好，请您支持我们。每一位 Couchsurfing 会员都相信比金钱、财产和地位更重要的东西。Couchsurfing 社区花了 14 年的时间才齐心共聚。没有您的及时帮助，这个社区将永不复存。 [登录以支持 Couchsurfing](https://www.couchsurfing.com/users/sign_in/?utm_source=blog&utm_campaign=contribution_drip_1&utm_content=control) 如果您认识任何想要推广和坚持 Couchsurfing 理想的人士，请您向他们介绍 Couchsurfing，鼓励他们加入 Couchsurfing 并参与 Couchsurfing 社区。 如果您有任何疑问或疑虑，请通过 support@couchsurfing.com 联系 Couchsurfing 支持人员。 感谢您借此机会为您本人和 Couchsurfing 社区提供支持。 Couchsurfing 团队 ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-%e9%9c%80%e8%a6%81%e6%82%a8%e7%9a%84%e5%b8%ae%e5%8a%a9/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-%e9%9c%80%e8%a6%81%e6%82%a8%e7%9a%84%e5%b8%ae%e5%8a%a9/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** News --- ### [Couchsurfing ha bisogno di te](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-ha-bisogno-di-te/) **Published:** May 14, 2020 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** Per oltre 14 anni, la community di Couchsurfing è stata a disposizione di chiunque volesse incontrare nuove persone, vedere posti diversi e allargare la propria prospettiva sul mondo. La nostra community – **la tua community** – unisce le persone per celebrare e condividere le proprie esperienze umane. I membri di Couchsurfing imparano a conoscersi nei posti che amano e nelle vite che vivono, accogliendo senza riserve le differenze gli uni degli altri. L’accettazione e la comprensione dell’altro a 360° – specialmente delle persone meno simili a noi – non possono avvenire senza incontrarsi di persona, come succede a chi fa parte della community di Couchsurfing. **Senza il tuo aiuto, tutto questo sarà in pericolo.** La pandemia dovuta al COVID-19 sta colpendo duramente la tua amata community, e ci troviamo ad affrontare una crisi senza precedenti nella nostra storia. A causa della recessione economica e dell’impatto diretto sui viaggi, le risorse di finanziamento per Couchsurfing sono esaurite, e non abbiamo altra scelta che rivolgerci a te, la nostra community, per chiedere aiuto. [Accedi per sostenere Couchsurfing](https://www.couchsurfing.com/users/sign_in/?utm_source=blog&utm_campaign=contribution_drip_1&utm_content=control) Abbiamo ridimensionato i nostri team, accettato tagli agli stipendi, eliminato o rinegoziato tutti i contratti, eliminato il nostro ufficio fisico (stiamo lavorando al 100% da remoto) e richiesto i fondi per l’emergenza COVID-19 messi a disposizione dal governo degli Stati Uniti attraverso il CARES Act. Tutto questo però non è abbastanza, e molto presto non riusciremo più a soddisfare i nostri obblighi finanziari. [Accedi per sostenere Couchsurfing](https://www.couchsurfing.com/users/sign_in/?utm_source=blog&utm_campaign=contribution_drip_1&utm_content=control) A partire dal 14 maggio 2020, chiediamo ai nostri membri di contribuire con 2,39$ al mese o 14,29$ all’anno per mantenere in vita Couchsurfing. Il contributo dei membri sarà necessario per accedere al sito web di Couchsurfing e alle applicazioni mobili. I contributi dei membri verranno utilizzati per sostenere Couchsurfing durante e dopo l’emergenza COVID-19 e per continuare a mantenere al sicuro questa comunità. È la nostra ultima spiaggia, e non è una decisione che prendiamo alla leggera. [Accedi per sostenere Couchsurfing](https://www.couchsurfing.com/users/sign_in/?utm_source=blog&utm_campaign=contribution_drip_1&utm_content=control) La verità è che oltre il 96% della community non fornisce alcun sostegno finanziario a Couchsurfing perché non l’abbiamo mai chiesto. Non solo: Couchsurfing riceve solo poche migliaia di dollari al mese dalla pubblicità. Chiaramente, in questa situazione tutto questo non è sostenibile. La decisione di chiedere un contributo ai membri è stata presa a partire da discussioni interne fra i nostri team e consulenti, conversazioni e contributi degli Ambasciatori Couchsurfing e dalle proposte di migliaia di membri. Siamo grati a tutti per il contributo e per averci rassicurato che la nostra community sarebbe stata pronta a impegnarsi per mantenere vivo Couchsurfing. Vogliamo ringraziare tutti quelli che hanno trovato il tempo di prendere parte a questo processo decisionale. Ci sono buone notizie: 1. ***Il tuo contributo permetterà a coloro che si trovano nei paesi ancora “scoperti” e in via di sviluppo di mantenere l’accesso gratuito alla community di Couchsurfing.** La nostra diversità è quello che ci unisce. È di vitale importanza, specialmente durante le crisi come questa emergenza sanitaria, dimostrare compassione e inclusione verso chi potrebbe non essere economicamente in grado di partecipare.* 2. ***Rimuoveremo tutti i limiti sui messaggi e sulle Richieste divano.** La nostra community deve continuare a prosperare. Accedere alla community di Couchsurfing in questo periodo è un modo per restare coinvolti e in contatto. Continua a fare parte di Couchsurfing.* 3. ***Rimuoveremo le pubblicità di terze parti dal sito web e dalle applicazioni mobili.** Le pubblicità erano state implementate da Couchsurfing nel 2014 per necessità. Riteniamo che questa attività sia in contrasto con la nostra etica. Couchsurfing non ha mai venduto i dati dei membri a terze parti che avrebbero potuto ottenere profitti da entrate pubblicitarie. Nel 2018 abbiamo esteso gran parte degli standard europei sulla privacy a tutta la nostra community. Ora siamo pronti a fare un ulteriore passo avanti, smettendo di affidarci agli inserzionisti aziendali.* 4. ***Ridurremo i costi di Verifica.** Nonostante il costo di Verifica possa sembrare elevato, anche i servizi che forniamo come parte del processo di Verifica hanno costi altrettanto elevati. Il nostro obiettivo è quello di abbassare in maniera significativa il prezzo della Verifica, in modo da renderlo accessibile a una porzione maggiore della community. I membri Couchsurfing che hanno acquistato la Verifica prima di questi cambiamenti non avranno bisogno di versare il contributo annuale a partire dall’14 maggio 2020. Non sono necessarie azioni per ottenere questo vantaggio.* 5. ***Continueremo a far crescere il sito web di Couchsurfing e le applicazioni mobili.** Tutto ciò include migliori funzionalità di messaggistica e notifiche, un’esperienza virtuale senza bug, mappe, la presentazione della community e la possibilità di sostenere altre organizzazioni che condividono i nostri stessi valori e la nostra missione.* Se credi che il mondo sia un posto migliore con Couchsurfing, ti chiediamo di aiutarci. Tutti i membri di Couchsurfing credono in qualcosa di più del denaro, della proprietà e dello status sociale. Ci sono voluti più di 14 anni per far nascere la community di Couchsurfing. Senza il tuo aiuto, sarà persa per sempre. [Accedi per sostenere Couchsurfing](https://www.couchsurfing.com/users/sign_in/?utm_source=blog&utm_campaign=contribution_drip_1&utm_content=control) Se conosci qualcuno che vuole promuovere e sostenere gli ideali di Couchsurfing, ti chiediamo di parlare di noi e di incoraggiarli a unirsi a Couchsurfing e a prendere parte alla nostra community. Per qualsiasi domanda o problema, contatta l’assistenza Couchsurfing all’indirizzo email support@couchsurfing.com Grazie per l’opportunità di sostenere te e tutta la community di Couchsurfing. Il team di Couchsurfing ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-ha-bisogno-di-te/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-ha-bisogno-di-te/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** News --- ### [Couchsurfing بحاجة إلى مساعدتكم](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-بحاجة-إلى-مساعدتكم/) **Published:** May 14, 2020 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** إنّ مجتمع Couchsurfing ظل متاحًا على مدار أكثر من 14 عامًا لأي شخص يريد مقابلة أشخاص جدد أو مشاهدة أماكن جديدة أو توسيع مداركه في هذا العالم. يعمل مجتمعنا – **الذي هو مجتمعكم** – على توحيد الناس في الحياة الواقعية للاحتفاء بتجاربهم المشتركة معًا. حيث يقضي أعضاء Couchsurfing وقتًا في التعرف على بعضهم البعض من خلال تلك الأماكن التي يحبونها والحياة التي يعيشونها، مع قبول اختلافاتهم بشكل كامل. ولا يمكن أن يتم القبول والتفاهم الحقيقي بمختلف أنحاء العالم – خاصة مع الأفراد المختلفين عنا – دون لقاءات شخصية كالتي تنتج من المشاركة في مجتمع Couchsurfing. **وبدون مساعدة عاجلة منكم، سيتعرض كل هذا للخطر.** تؤثِّر الجائحة العالمية لفيروس كورونا (كوفيد 19) تأثيرًا شديدًا على مجتمع Couchsurfing المحبوب، ونحن نواجه الآن أزمة لم نتعرض لمثلها في تاريخنا. فبسبب الانكماش الاقتصادي والتأثير المباشر على حركة السفر تم استنفاد مصادر تمويل Couchsurfing، وليس لدينا خيار آخر سوى اللجوء إليكم وإلى المجتمع من أجل الحصول على دعم. [سجِّل الدخول وادعم Couchsurfing](https://www.couchsurfing.com/users/sign_in/?utm_source=blog&utm_campaign=contribution_drip_1&utm_content=control) لقد قمنا بتقليص عدد أعضاء فريق العمل، وحصلنا على تخفيضات على الأجور، وألغينا أو أعدنا التفاوض بشأن جميع العقود، ولم نعد نعمل بمكاتبنا الفعلية (فنحن الآن نعمل عن بُعد بنسبة 100%)، وتقدّمنا بطلب إلى حكومة الولايات المتحدة بموجب قانون CARES Act من أجل الحصول على إعانة مالية بسبب فيروس كورونا (كوفيد 19). وللأسف فلن يكون ذلك كافيًا، حيث أننا لن نتمكن قريبًا من الوفاء بالتزاماتنا المالية. [سجِّل الدخول وادعم Couchsurfing](https://www.couchsurfing.com/users/sign_in/?utm_source=blog&utm_campaign=contribution_drip_1&utm_content=control) اعتبارًا من 14 مايو 2020، سنقوم بطلب مساهمات من أعضائنا بمبلغ 2.39 دولار أمريكي شهريًا أو 14.29 دولار أمريكي سنويًا بحالة الدفع مقدمًا، وذلك من أجل استمرار وجود Couchsurfing. إنّ هذه المساهمة مطلوبة من الأعضاء للتمكّن من الوصول إلى موقع وتطبيقات الهاتف المحمول الخاصة بـ Couchsurfing. سيتم استخدام مساهمات الأعضاء لدعم Couchsurfing خلال جائحة فيروس كورونا (كوفيد 19) وما بعدها، ولمواصلة الحفاظ على سلامة هذا المجتمع. هذا القرار بمثابة ملاذ أخير نلجأ إليه، ولم يتم اتخاذه بسهولة. [سجِّل الدخول وادعم Couchsurfing](https://www.couchsurfing.com/users/sign_in/?utm_source=blog&utm_campaign=contribution_drip_1&utm_content=control) بالواقع إنّ أكثر من 96% من أفراد المجتمع لا يقدمون أي دعم مالي لـ Couchsurfing لأننا لم نقوم بطلب ذلك مسبقًا. كما أنّ Couchsurfing تجني بضعة آلاف من الدولارات فقط شهريًا من الإعلانات، ومن الواضح أنّ هذا لن يكون دائمًا في ظل الظروف الحالية. اعتمد هذا القرار لطلب المساهمات من الأعضاء على مناقشات داخلية بين أعضاء فريق العمل والمستشارين، وعلى محادثات ومعلومات من سفراء Couchsurfing، ومعلومات مقدّمة من قِبل آلاف الأعضاء. نحن ممتنّون جدًا لآرائهم وتأكيداتهم على أنّ مجتمع Couchsurfing سيرغب في المساهمة بهذه الطريقة من أجل استمرار وجود Couchsurfing. نريد أن نشكر كل من اقتطع جزءًا من وقته للمشاركة في عملية اتخاذ القرار. لدينا أخبار جيدة: 1. **ستمكِّن مساهماتكم أولئك الذين يعيشون في دول نامية “وليس بها خدمات مصرفية”، من الاستمرار في الوصول إلى مجتمع Couchsurfing مجانًا. *إن تنوّع مجتمع Couchsurfing هو ما يوّحدنا، ومن الضروري خاصة خلال الأزمات مثل جائحة فيروس كورونا (كوفيد 19)، أن نُظهر التعاطف والاحتواء لهؤلاء الذين قد لا يتمكّنون من المشاركة لأسباب مادية.*** 2. **سنزيل جميع القيود المفروضة على الرسائل وطلبات الاستضافة، *فنحن نريد أن يواصل هذا المجتمع ازدهاره. فالتواصل مع مجتمع Couchsurfing خلال هذه الفترة هو وسيلة للبقاء على اتصال وارتباط مع الآخرين، فيرجى الاستمرار بالمشاركة في Couchsurfing.*** 3. **سنزيل إعلانات الجهات الخارجية من موقع الإنترنت وتطبيقات الهاتف المحمول.** *لقد تم إدخال الإعلانات بواسطة Couchsurfing بعام 2014 بدافع الضرورة، ونحن نشعر أن هذا العمل يتعارض مع روح Couchsurfing. لم تقم Couchsurfing أبدًا ببيع بيانات الأعضاء لجهات خارجية، الأمر الذي كان بإمكانه أن يدر إيرادات إعلانية مربحة. وبعام 2018، قمنا بإضافة الكثير من المعايير الأوروبية الخاصة بحقوق الخصوصية على مجتمعنا بأكمله، ويمكننا الآن وبكل فخر أن نخطو خطوة أخرى ونلتزم بعدم الاعتماد على الشركات المعلِنة.* 4. **سنقوم بتخفيض تكلفة التحقق من الهوية.** *وبينما تبدو تكلفة التحقق من الهوية مرتفعة، فإنّ الخدمات التي نقدمها كجزء من التحقق من الهوية ينتج عنها أيضًا تكاليف كبيرة. هدفنا هو خفض تكلفة التحقق من الهوية بشكل كبير لتمكين المزيد من أفراد المجتمع من القيام بذلك. لن يحتاج أعضاء Couchsurfing الذين قاموا بشراء التحقق من الهوية قبل هذه التغييرات إلى تقديم مساهمات لمدة عام واحد بدءًا من 14 مايو 2020. ولا يجب اتخاذ أي إجراء من أجل الاستفادة من هذه الميزة.* 5. **سنستمر في تطوير موقع Couchsurfing وتطبيقات الهاتف المحمول.** *ويشمل ذلك تحسين للرسائل والإشعارات، وتقديم تجربة تكاد تكون خالية من الأخطاء، وخرائط، وعرض لمجتمع Couchsurfing، وتمكين Couchsurfing من دعم المنظمات الأخرى التي تشترك معها بنفس القيم والأهداف.* إن كنت تعتقد أن العالم أفضل مع Couchsurfing، فإننا نطلب مساعدتك. كل عضو من أعضاء Couchsurfing يؤمِن بما هو أهم من المال والممتلكات والمكانة. لقد استغرق الأمر أكثر من 14 عامًا لتكوين مجتمع Couchsurfing، وبدون مساعدتك العاجلة فإننا سنفقد هذا المجتمع للأبد. [سجِّل الدخول وادعم Couchsurfing](https://www.couchsurfing.com/users/sign_in/?utm_source=blog&utm_campaign=contribution_drip_1&utm_content=control) إن كنت تعرف أي شخص يريد الترويج لمبادئ مجتمع Couchsurfing ودعمها، فنحن نطلب منك التحدث معه عن Couchsurfing وتشجيعه على الانضمام إليه وعلى المشاركة في مجتمع Couchsurfing. إن كانت لديك أية أسئلة أو استفسارات، يرجى الاتصال بفريق دعم Couchsurfing من خلال support@couchsurfing.com شكرًا لك على منحنا هذه الفرصة لدعمك ودعم مجتمع Couchsurfing. فريق Couchsurfing ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-%d8%a8%d8%ad%d8%a7%d8%ac%d8%a9-%d8%a5%d9%84%d9%89-%d9%85%d8%b3%d8%a7%d8%b9%d8%af%d8%aa%d9%83%d9%85/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-%d8%a8%d8%ad%d8%a7%d8%ac%d8%a9-%d8%a5%d9%84%d9%89-%d9%85%d8%b3%d8%a7%d8%b9%d8%af%d8%aa%d9%83%d9%85/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** News --- ### [We are all in this together](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/we-are-all-in-this-together/) **Published:** May 13, 2020 **Author:** Mike Joy **Content:** Couchsurfers from all over the world came together to share messages of support with one another. We’re all in this together. We will be back to Couchsurfing soon! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/we-are-all-in-this-together/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/we-are-all-in-this-together/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Uncategorized --- ### [A Couchsurfer's guide to... Karachi](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-karachi/) **Published:** May 13, 2020 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Excerpt:** Hasan, our Ambassador in Karachi, gives his insider tips to seeing the true heart of Pakistan's largest city. **Content:** By: [Hasan](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/hasan-ashraf) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/shutterstock_1460360153.jpg "shutterstock_1460360153 - Couchsurfing Blog")[ibrarkunri](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/ibrarkunri)shutterstockBest breakfast in town! When it comes to food, there is no comparison of Karachi in the rest of Pakistan. Also, due to the size and population of the city there are so many places and a variety of breakfast which are very difficult to single out so I will list a few places: – Quetta Alamgir Hotel at Bahadurabad (for Chai Paratha) – Toosa at Bahadurabad (for Halwa Puri) – Dera at Boat Basin (for stuffed Parathas)” One museum not to miss! Karachi is home to many museums. National Museum, PAF Museum, Maritime Museum, Quaid-e-Azam House Museum and Mohatta Palace Museum are to name a few. But among all these I personally think anyone visiting Karachi should visit the National Museum as it contains even 5000 years old relics. This museum explains a lot about the history of this land and previous civilizations. Currently, it has 11 galleries ranging from culture, sculptors, Islamic Art, Paintings, Coins, Manuscripts and Ethnology to religious relics and artifacts of Hinduism, Buddhism and Islam. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/shutterstock_1227916588.jpg "shutterstock_1227916588 - Couchsurfing Blog")[C4289N](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Chainkrub)shutterstock Best quick bite! Among the tens of food streets in Karachi, the one place to experience food is Burns Road. It is the oldest food street in Karachi that has experienced generations of foodies. Burns Road preserves the taste of the traditional Pakistani dishes such as Haleem, Kebabs, Biryani, Fried Fish and Nihari in all their glory. Best place to grab a drink! Like many Muslim countries, alcohol is banned in Pakistan. But one beverage that the whole country is crazy about is milk-tea that we call Chai. In Karachi, there are thousands of roadside cafes which are mostly run by Pathans. The best place to have a Chai is Quetta Alamgir Hotel. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/shutterstock_1719280093.jpg "shutterstock_1719280093 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Johnny110](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Syed%2BMohxin)shutterstockA treat-yourself meal! A one-of-a-kind of experience to have in Karachi is to have reached Do Darya in the evening, watch the sunset by the sea and have dinner in any of the restaurants there. But the best place to eat there is Kolachi. Historic moment! A historic monument in Karachi is the Empress Market. Built in the British Colonial-era in 1889 and named after Queen Victoria, the Empress of India. This place served as a marketplace for daily use items for the British Officers residing around it. It also has a clock tower that was built to notify the time to people in that area. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/shutterstock_1500482240.jpg "shutterstock_1500482240 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Aleem Zahid Khan](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Aleem%2BZahid%2BKhan)shutterstockBest view in the city! Being a low altitude city with no such skyscrapers, it is very difficult to have a place to view the whole city. But Kidney Hill is one such interesting place to the people of Karachi for such an experience, as it is almost in the center of the city and gives a very clear view of Karachi. Where to try the local delicacy! The food for which Karachi is most famous for in the whole work is Biryani and the most famous place for best Biryani in Karachi is Naseeb Biryani in Baloch Colony. This place is not to be missed when in Karachi, at all costs! ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/shutterstock_195628523.jpg "shutterstock_195628523 - Couchsurfing Blog") [highviews](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/highviews)shutterstockCute cafe! TDF Ghar is the first place that would come to your mind if you combine coffee/tea with book reading and that too with a pocket friendly price. A house built in 1930 turned into a cafe, retaining the history and heritage of Karachi. It also has a small and quiet library. Best day-trip out of town! The best day trip from Karachi is the city of Thatta which has 3 featured sites: 1\) Makli Necropolis: a 400 year old graveyard, spread over an area of 10 kilometers and is house to about 1 million tombs. It is declared to be a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The funerary architecture of the largest monuments synthesizes Muslim, Hindu, Persian, Mughal, and Gujarati influences, known as the Chaukhandi style which incorporates slabs of sandstone carefully carved into intricate and elaborate designs. 2\) Shah Jehan Mosque: built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jehan in the 17th century. It is the known to be the most elaborate display of tile work and geometric brick work. 3\) Keejhar Lake: it is the second largest fresh water lake in Pakistan.” ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/shutterstock_1027801630.jpg "shutterstock_1027801630 - Couchsurfing Blog")Makli Graveyard [Muhammad Saad Bakhtiar](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/artbysaad)shutterstockFamily fun! Karachi is short of recreational activities but still a place to hangout with family, especially if you are with kids is PAF Museum Park. It features a big park with rides and swings. It is also a great place to relax. The perfect picture! The place for the best pictures in Karachi is Frere Hall. A historic building from the British Colonial era, surrounded by lush green park is a perfect place amidst the city for a perfect picture. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/shutterstock_1602247054.jpg "shutterstock_1602247054 - Couchsurfing Blog")[abdulbaqi](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/abdulbaqi)shutterstockOne experience not to miss! One experience not to miss in Karachi is a morning walk by the Clifton beach. The place is not very clean but it is a unique place with grey sand to walk on. No matter what, you will feel happiness walking on the beach while the waves touch your feet. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/shutterstock_659926963.jpg "shutterstock_659926963 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Burhan Ay Photography](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Burhan%2BAy%2BPhotography)shutterstockA tourist trap to avoid! Tourists would see a lot of beggars. They shouldn’t be given any money as they are just professionals who beg day and night and belong to a beggar mafia rolling millions everyday. Anything else to add! Karachi, the first capital of Pakistan and the largest and most populated city of the country is a multicultural counter where people from all over the country and mostly those who had migrated from India, during the independence, reside. A very interesting city which has to offer every culture from the rest of Pakistan. It is called a mini-Pakistan. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-karachi/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-karachi/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Guides --- ### [10 Questions with a CS Ambassador: Pandelis](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-pandelis/) **Published:** May 11, 2020 **Author:** Mike Joy **Excerpt:** Meet Pandelis, our CS Ambassador in Nicosia, Cyprus. **Content:** ##### Name: [Pandelis](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/pandelis) City: Nicosia, Cyprus Years on Couchsurfing: 8 ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/b7d0ca1a-04f6-4e4f-8be5-f855bedb5e2a.jpg "b7d0ca1a-04f6-4e4f-8be5-f855bedb5e2a - Couchsurfing Blog")**Hey Pandelis! So tell us why you decided to get involved in Couchsurfing?** I believed (and still do) that it’s great for people to have the choice to learn a different culture by hanging out or staying at a local. I mainly participate by organizing CS meetings and other events. **We definitely agree with you! What was your first Couchsurfing experience?** I toured around a specific region of my country a person which I met at a hiking-camping event. He asked me what was the best way to visit that region and I told him that since I was on holiday I could take him there. When I did that he told me I was ‘a natural CSer’, he urged me to create a profile and he gave me my first reference and voucher. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/19027936_l_79956ed410e49f13100f36c0670583cc.jpg "19027936_l_79956ed410e49f13100f36c0670583cc - Couchsurfing Blog")**Very cool! Why did you decide to become an Ambassador?** Because through my early experiences in CS I had realized I enjoy organizing events in which people from different cultures meet and interact. **Events are great ways to get involved! If you could host one celebrity, who would it be?** Seth Rogen, because I have the feeling that then there will not be a moment in which I will get bored. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/04b861dc-ab92-4d58-8dcd-190ba17ead28.jpg "04b861dc-ab92-4d58-8dcd-190ba17ead28 - Couchsurfing Blog")**That’s a good one! He would be a hilarious guest! What is one place in your city that has a community spirit like Couchsurfing?** I would say ‘Hoi Polloi’ Cafe in Nicosia (occupied area), where there is always a mixed nationalities ‘crowd’; sitting, drinking, chatting, dancing or relaxing together. **Sounds fun! What is one place in Nicosia that every tourist must visit?** The Green Line, because no matter how beautiful, multi-cultured and safe Nicosia is, it still remains the last divided capital in Europe. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/96a8140d-32d1-4065-abda-ad0b09e541b1.jpg "96a8140d-32d1-4065-abda-ad0b09e541b1 - Couchsurfing Blog")**What is a crazy thing that has happened to you?** Once I found a visa card near an ATM, I called the related bank service and they told me the owner will reply to me in a while to arrange a meeting in order to give her her card. I went there to realize that she was a well-known actress, playing in my then-favorite TV show. **What is one thing you never go on a trip without?** In addition to the boring basic staff, like wallet, passport and mobile phone, I would also have a novel, just in case I want to sit somewhere and relax. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/19027902_l_27517a85610514be8bac1ca8678349f4.jpg "19027902_l_27517a85610514be8bac1ca8678349f4 - Couchsurfing Blog")**Always need a good book to read! What is your dream vacation?** Traveling alone, with minimal luggage, to a country there so many landmarks I wish to see like Netherlands and Spain. **What is your one piece of advice to new Couchsurfers?** Be open and careful at the same time. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-pandelis/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-pandelis/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Meet an Ambassador --- ### [A Couchsurfer's guide to... Tehran](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-tehran/) **Published:** May 7, 2020 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Excerpt:** Our Ambassador in Tehran gives us her tips to getting the most out of Iran's largest city and the stunning nature that surrounds it. **Content:** ##### By: [Mery](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/peace_from_iran) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/shutterstock_364875146.jpg "shutterstock_364875146 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Mazur Travel](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/mazzzur)shutterstockBest breakfast in town! Amo Yahya Tea House”,since it has the best omelets in Tehran. If you are a cheese lover don’t miss Parchak Cheese House & Café. One museum not to miss! For sure “Golestan Palace” is a must-see. It is the oldest historic monument in Tehran.it has several gardens, museums and collections of Iranian crafts. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/shutterstock_1305414259.jpg "shutterstock_1305414259 - Couchsurfing Blog")Golestan Palace [Efired](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/vetrova)shutterstockWhere to grab a drink! Unfortunately, you cannot find any place where they serve alcoholic drinks. But just as a suggestion I would recommend trying Iranian Herbal Teas. E.g. at “Iranian Artist Forum Veggie Restaurant “ Best quick bite! “Cluna” has many branches in Tehran and famous for its club sandwiches that are always fresh and tasty. The fillet club sandwich is the healthiest choice. “Namino” is another good choice with many branches in Metro Stations. The perfect picture! Tehran Grand Bazaar. Also, Tajrish bazaar is another unique place to see. Don’t miss carpet bazaar in Khayyam Street. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/shutterstock_633379451.jpg "shutterstock_633379451 - Couchsurfing Blog")Tehran Grand Bazaar [Tappasan Phurisamrit](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/krajomfire)shutterstockWhere to dance! There aren’t any dance clubs in Tehran. People usually have dance parties in their own privacy among friends or families. A treat-yourself meal! SPU restaurant. It has one of the best “Shashlik Kebab”.it is located in “Darakeh”. Darakeh is a popular hiking area that attracts many people with very pleasant weather. Best view in the city! “Bame” Tehran, meaning; Tehran’s roof. You have an amazing view of the whole city. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/shutterstock_389085139.jpg "shutterstock_389085139 - Couchsurfing Blog")View from Azadi Tower [Leonid Andronov](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/andronovl)shutterstockCute cafe! Haft-e-Tir neighborhood is famous for its cafes. In karimkhan st. there are number good cafés. “name” café, “Tehroon” café and etc. Best day-trip out of town! Lavasan. There are number of small villages in this affluent town Where to sweat! Enghelab Sport Complex has variety of options to offer, from body building gym to golf and bowling. There a lot of hiking mountains in Tehran. The most famous one is “Tochal Complex”. It also has ski resort, bag jumping, bungee jumping, trampoline jumping and zip line. But if you are looking for somewhere with quietness I will suggest “Darabad” Mountains with rivers, waterfalls and natural springs. It’s usually real nature lovers’ choice. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/shutterstock_1476722495.jpg "shutterstock_1476722495 - Couchsurfing Blog")Darband Village at the foot of Tochal Mountain [eFesenko](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/eFesenko)shutterstockWhere to try the local delicacy! Abgoosht is an Iranian stew. It is also called Dizi. Best place to find it; ”Alak restaurant” also called “Sarayealak”. There are also other Iranian traditional foods served in this restaurant One experience not to miss! Bungee jumping in Tochal complex. Historic moment! The Azadi Tower or Shahyad Tower marks the west entrance to the city. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/shutterstock_1621768579.jpg "shutterstock_1621768579 - Couchsurfing Blog")[PedramRostamian shr](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/PedramRostamian_sh)shutterstockFamily fun! First choice is Eram Amusement Park. Also “Chitgar” park is another option, if you like to take a boat on its lake or do some bicycle riding, where they rent bikes. A tourist trap to avoid! Usually hotels in Tehran are expensive and not very good; considering services provided. Maybe hostels are better choice. Anything else to add… There aren’t many good vegetarian restaurants in Tehran. I would recommend “Zamin Vegetarian Restaurant” and “Iranian Artist Forum Veggie Restaurant” ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-tehran/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-tehran/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Guides --- ### [Vote for your favorite "This is How I Couchsurf" Video!!](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/vote-for-your-favorite-this-is-how-i-couchsurf-video/) **Published:** September 15, 2017 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** For the past month, Couchsurfing members from all over the world have been submitting videos to the “This is How I Couchsurf” video contest. Now, it’s time for **you** to help us choose the winner! Please watch the below videos and “like” your favorites on Youtube to vote! You have from now until midnight (PST) on September 25 to like the videos and vote. After that, the Top Ten videos with the most ‘likes’ on Youtube will advance to the final round. Couchsurfing staff will then vote to select the winners! The grand prize winner will receive **a flight anywhere in the world up to $2,000USD for their next Couchsurfing adventure!** The runner-up winner will win a **$500 USD cash prize!** Good Luck! If you have any additional questions, free to email social@couchsurfing.com and we’ll get back to you ASAP. \[embedyt\] https://www.youtube.com/embed?listType=playlist&list=PLYjlHmZqPtcYS5OOhmvDt7AOmPzP3j6cp&layout=gallery\[/embedyt\] ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/vote-for-your-favorite-this-is-how-i-couchsurf-video/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/vote-for-your-favorite-this-is-how-i-couchsurf-video/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** News --- ### [Beach Clean Up: Acapulco](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/beach-clean-up-acapulco/) **Published:** April 28, 2020 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** Some time ago the idea of the Couchsurfing Acapulco community arose to carry out an event in which it provided protection of the environment, culture, fun and coexistence with the community. So “La Isla de la Roqueta” came to mind. With a radiant sun and 30 degrees temperature, we met on Saturday, March 14, 2020, to embark towards this Protected Natural Reserve, known as La Isla de la Roqueta. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/embarco-0.jpg "embarco-0 - Couchsurfing Blog")I was honestly afraid that no one would come, but 11 members from 6 countries attended the event. We had visitors from Taiwan, USA, France, Poland, Spain and of course Mexico. We start our first activity doing a little more than 2 km of Hiking, in which we organize teams of 3 people to collect garbage, mainly Plastics, Cans and Glass. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Senderismo-1.jpg "Senderismo-1 - Couchsurfing Blog")It is worth mentioning that the vast majority of tourists are unaware of this incredibly beautiful ride, which is why I decided to share this wonderful experience with Couchsurfing travelers who were in Acapulco. During the tour we were able to appreciate some birds, as well as some magical corners, in which the memory photo could not be missing. 30 minutes later we reached the highest part of the Island where there is a museum with archaeological pieces found here. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/89939490_10157390472904751_5978341755861336064_n-9.jpg "89939490_10157390472904751_5978341755861336064_n-9 - Couchsurfing Blog")We continue our journey along the path for 40 more minutes until we find the first viewpoint to delight in the immensity of the Pacific Ocean of an impressive Turquoise Blue. Where we take the opportunity to admire and at the same time take a break. We continued the path of the trail until we reached Palmitas Beach, our final point, where we would develop the other activities, while some members did Snorkel to appreciate the marine fauna and the coral reef near the beach, others had fun on the beach or simply enjoying the sun rays for a nice tan. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Palmitas-Beach-1-8.jpg "Palmitas-Beach-1-8 - Couchsurfing Blog")After a while of healthy fun, we organized ourselves to prepare the Picnic together, One team prepared a delicious guacamole, another prepared a cold pasta with legumes and the third team had to serve and prepare some toast to accompany. This activity was very nice and fun. We were almost at the end of the event and we all felt like family, as if we had known each other for life. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Picnic3-7.jpg "Picnic3-7 - Couchsurfing Blog")It was a great adventure and an extraordinary experience for everyone, something nice to feed our traveling spirit and continue helping other members of the Couchsurfing community. Thank you friends of the CS Acapulco team Martha and James, Sergio from Spain. Our friends CS Travelers: Noe from Merida, Daniel and Ilse from Tijuana, Françoise from France, Klaudia from Poland, Rose from Taiwan and Collin from USA ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Palmitas-Beach-5.jpg "Palmitas-Beach-5 - Couchsurfing Blog")[![Palmitas-Beach-5](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Palmitas-Beach-5.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Palmitas-Beach-5.jpg) [![Picnic3-7](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Picnic3-7.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Picnic3-7.jpg) [![Palmitas-Beach-1-8](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Palmitas-Beach-1-8.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Palmitas-Beach-1-8.jpg) [![89939490_10157390472904751_5978341755861336064_n-9](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/89939490_10157390472904751_5978341755861336064_n-9.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/89939490_10157390472904751_5978341755861336064_n-9.jpg) [![Senderismo-1](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Senderismo-1.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Senderismo-1.jpg) [![embarco-0](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/embarco-0.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/embarco-0.jpg) [![Playa-de-los-enamorados-3.jpg](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Playa-de-los-enamorados-3.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Playa-de-los-enamorados-3.jpg) [![Mirador-4.jpg](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Mirador-4.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Mirador-4.jpg) [![Palmitas-Beach-5.jpg](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Palmitas-Beach-5.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Palmitas-Beach-5.jpg) [![picnic1-6.jpg](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/picnic1-6.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/picnic1-6.jpg) [![Picnic3-7.jpg](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Picnic3-7.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Picnic3-7.jpg) [![Palmitas-Beach-1-8.jpg](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Palmitas-Beach-1-8.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Palmitas-Beach-1-8.jpg) [![89939490_10157390472904751_5978341755861336064_n-9.jpg](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/89939490_10157390472904751_5978341755861336064_n-9.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/89939490_10157390472904751_5978341755861336064_n-9.jpg) [![embarco-0.jpg](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/embarco-0.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/embarco-0.jpg) [![Senderismo-1.jpg](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Senderismo-1.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Senderismo-1.jpg) [![IMG-20200321-WA0018-2.jpg](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/IMG-20200321-WA0018-2.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/IMG-20200321-WA0018-2.jpg) ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/beach-clean-up-acapulco/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/beach-clean-up-acapulco/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Featured, Stories --- ### [A Couchsurfer's guide to... Maastricht](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-maastricht/) **Published:** April 30, 2020 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Excerpt:** Our Ambassador in Maastricht, Arne, lets you in on the secret gems of one of Europe's oldest cities! **Content:** ##### By: [Arne](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/arnedoddema) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/shutterstock_675208114.jpg "shutterstock_675208114 - Couchsurfing Blog")St Servaas Bridge [Martin Bergsma](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/DutchScenery)shutterstockBest breakfast in town! For breakfast in Maastricht ‘Livin’ Room’ is definitely the place to be. It’s located in the city center and they serve healthy food prepared with love. They have vegetarian and vegan options and also a gluten free option. There’s a cozy atmosphere and with good weather you can also sit in the garden area. If you are a food blogger this place is also great for Instagram pictures btw 😉 The perfect picture! 1\. Take a picture of the Old St. Servaas bridge with a view of the west side of the city while strolling next to the river Maas. 2\. Visit the Dominicanen Bookstore. This is a bookshop located in an old church. 3\. St. Servaas church from the Vrijthof square has got to be the iconic picture from Maastricht ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/shutterstock_1634142895.jpg "shutterstock_1634142895 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Henk Vrieselaar](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/vriesela)shutterstockCute cafe! Coffeelovers has 6 different locations in the city and is a good place for a drink and to get some work done. Best place to grab a drink! De Gouverneur is a place that specializes in beers. They serve over 300+ beers and their menu is a nicely categorized book with all the different kinds of beers. The food here is also worth it. For cocktails you should try ‘Mr. Smith’. This place is literally hidden and you need to find the doorbell that says: ‘press here for drinks’ after which a host will open the door for you and guide you to a refurbished basement where the cocktail bar is. Mystery, taste and intrigue all come together here. One museum not to miss! 1\. Bonnefanten Museum: They have a nice changing modern art exhibition. One of the recent artists who was showing their artwork here was the one and only David Lynch! 2\. Museum aan het Vrijthof: A nice building with interesting exhibitions, right in the middle of the city center!” ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/shutterstock_1617404947.jpg "shutterstock_1617404947 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Kim Willems](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/KimWillems)shutterstockWhere to dance! Complex Maastricht. The focus here is electronic underground artists and music and they have about 150-200 events per year. Historic moment! For those who want to explore the history of the area on a deeper level, guided tours are available at Fort St. Pieter, as well as below it. That’s right, below the St. Pieter mountain there are many meandering tunnels which often date back centuries. These tunnels can be explored on foot and on bike. More information [here](https://www.exploremaastricht.nl/maastricht-underground). Maastricht is the city where in 1992 the Maastricht Treaty AKA Treaty on European Union was signed. This took place in the Gouvernement building which is located next to the river Maas and it’s where the European Union was founded. The Helpoort is part of the old city wall and dates back to the 13th century(!) and it’s one of the important landmarks of the city. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/shutterstock_1153507762.jpg "shutterstock_1153507762 - Couchsurfing Blog")Helpoort [Sina Ettmer Photography](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/LaMiaFotografia)shutterstockA treat-yourself meal! Novo new dining’ for the excellent cuisine and Chateau Neercanne for excellent cuisine, great view and a beautiful decor. These restaurants are Michelin recommended! Once experience not to miss! Visit the ENCI quarry! It’s a wonderful place to walk in nature and spot beautiful plants and animals. More information can be found [here](https://www.visitmaastricht.com/locations/2146331402/enci-quarry). ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/shutterstock_1202534008.jpg "shutterstock_1202534008 - Couchsurfing Blog")ENCI Quarry [Theo Duijkers](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Theo%2BDuijkers)shutterstockBest quick bite! 1\. Piano B, for the best pizza in town! (Only take-out service) 2\. BABS burritos for good food and amazing and attentive service. Best view in the city! Make a trip up the rather unusual tower of Sint-Janskerk. While the church itself is free to visit, for just €2.50 it’s possible to climb the 281 spiralling steps of the narrow tower and ascend onto the red roof of the church. From the top it gives a good view of the city within the city center. Visit Fort St. Pieter on the St. Pieter mountain for a good view of the city a little outside of the city center. This location also gives a very nice nature area to go for walks or jogging ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/shutterstock_1234825777.jpg "shutterstock_1234825777 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Harry Beugelink](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/hpbfotos)shutterstockWhere to try the local cuisine! Maastrichts Zuurvlees’ is the local cuisine to try. This can be found at multiple restaurants and one example which is worth a visit is Cafe Sjiek. Best day-trip out of town! 1\. Vaalserberg and the three-country-point: If you want to climb the highest mountain in the Netherlands, this is your chance! OK, it’s not a mountain but a hill. Psst… Just don’t tell this to the Dutch, as they don’t know it yet. They are convinced it’s a mountain. Also this is the place that brings together the borders of the Netherlands, Belgium and Germany. 2\. Brunssummerheide is a nature preserve to the south of Brunssum. The name of the park can be translated as Brunssum’s Heathlands. The landscape is quite diverse – hilly sand dunes, peat bogs, pine forests and vast areas covered with heath. They say, the park turns into purple magic in the autumn when the heath is in bloom.” ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/shutterstock_1497492404.jpg "shutterstock_1497492404 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Alexander Jung](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/AlexanderJung)shutterstockA tourist trap to avoid! Stay away from the small town Valkenburg which is located close to Maastricht. I often hear people visiting Maastricht also wanting to go there, but you can find everything there also in Maastricht itself. Although it’s recommended on the internet often I think it’s a little overrated. Especially the Christmas markets cause the one in Maastricht is just as nice and probably even nicer! Also try to avoid taxis. Using taxis in The Netherlands is just not worth your money.. Anything else to add… Maastricht is a member of the ‘Most Ancient European Towns Network’ which is a working group of the oldest cities in Europe. In 2018, 18,000 students studied at Maastricht University, 53% of whom were foreign students. About half of the bachelor’s programmes are fully offered in English and most of the master’s and doctoral programmes are in English. Maastricht University regularly ranks as one of Europe’s leading universities. The University has been placed in the top 300 universities in the world by five major ranking tables. Maastricht is part of the Meuse-Rhine Euro region, which includes the nearby German and Belgian cities of Aachen, Eupen, Hasselt, Liège, and Tongeren. The Meuse-Rhine Euro region is a metropolis with a population of about 3.9 million with several international universities. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/shutterstock_1234825744.jpg "shutterstock_1234825744 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Harry Beugelink](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/hpbfotos)shutterstock### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-maastricht/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-maastricht/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Featured, Guides --- ### [10 Questions with a CS Ambassador: Ratheesh](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-ratheesh/) **Published:** May 4, 2020 **Author:** Mike Joy **Excerpt:** Meet Ratheesh, A CS Ambassador in Kochi, India! **Content:** ##### Name: Ratheesh City: Kochi, India Years on CS: 8 ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/5bb3f7e7-33f2-4d28-a528-f94a48b5963e.jpg "5bb3f7e7-33f2-4d28-a528-f94a48b5963e - Couchsurfing Blog")**Hi Ratheesh! Tell us, why did you decide to get involved with the Couchsurfing community?** Through Couchsurfing, I’ve met people from all different cultures and backgrounds, and have made many friends I never would have met otherwise. CS is a travel app which helps travelers meet and stay with locals across the globe. I organise monthly meetups, trips in my city in the last 2 years. **That’s great! People like you are the backbone of CS! What was your first CS experience?** I participated in a Walkathon trip in Manila in 2012. **Wow! Very cool. And why did you decide to become a CS Ambassador?** So far I have created 25 meetups, 28 events/Trips in Kochi in the last two years. You can check my profile for past events details and also pictures of the events. CS is my passion & So I decided to become an ambassador of my City (Kochi). ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/0b7973f8-6f64-4d23-ba2b-92cf61856530.png "0b7973f8-6f64-4d23-ba2b-92cf61856530 - Couchsurfing Blog")**Wow! We love a super active Ambassador! What has been one of your most memorable experiences as a host?** I hosted Daniele, a Italian guy. The simplest and most humble guy I have ever met. He came to Varkala for a CS event in spite of his busy travel plans. He is a down to earth person. He gifted me Italian chocolates and coffee powder **Amazing. And what about as a surfer?** I stayed in Manila, Philippines with a host named April. She is very friendly, showed me around the city, cooked food for me and she treated me like a family member. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/18764763_l_144d089472463e0c6a47fdd985d0e1b8.jpg "18764763_l_144d089472463e0c6a47fdd985d0e1b8 - Couchsurfing Blog")**Sounds like a great experience! What is a thoughtful gift you’ve received from a surfer?** I got yummy Italian chocolates and coffee powder from one Italian host **Amazing and delicious gifts! What is one book that has inspired your trips?** The Alchemist. Tells the enthralling story of an Andalusian shepherd who wants to travel in search of treasure. **I love The Alchemist too! What is one quote that has inspired your travels?** > Travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer **Great words to live by! What is the craziest thing that has happened to you while traveling?** Once during trekking at night, I lost my way for a few hours and I got scared hearing weird sounds in the forest. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/3f45cb5d-21de-4345-a945-334762a5d07e.png "3f45cb5d-21de-4345-a945-334762a5d07e - Couchsurfing Blog")**And lastly, what is your one piece of advice to new Couchsurfers?** You have friends all over the world, you just haven’t met them yet.” Host Travelers, listen to their stories, show them around your city and also surf in other cities, hangout with the locals, learn their culture and eat local food. Leave references for each other. Make memories. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-ratheesh/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-ratheesh/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Featured, Meet an Ambassador --- ### [Quarantined in the Peruvian Amazon](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/quarantined-in-the-peruvian-amazon/) **Published:** May 5, 2020 **Author:** Mike Joy **Excerpt:** Giancarlo, a Couchsurfing Ambassador, shares his story of Quarantine from a guesthouse in the Peruvian Amazon. **Content:** ##### By: Giancarlo ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/IMG-20200322-WA0072.jpg "IMG-20200322-WA0072 - Couchsurfing Blog")I am writing from the city of Yurimaguas, the last point with road in the peruvian Amazonas jungle. This is our story and how Covid-19, the quarantine and curfew shaped a great group of people and we all became a new family. Quarantine in Peru started on the 16th of March, a group of friends (Joel from USA, Tim from Germany and Leo from Italy) and I were exploring Pacaya Samiria Natural Reserve in Loreto for 5 days without any kind of connection with the world. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/received_2074233240334421.jpeg "received_2074233240334421 - Couchsurfing Blog")We left the Reserve the last day before quarantine began and arrived to Lagunas which is a native community at 2pm and at around 1130pm we finally took the boat which would bring us back to Yurimaguas. Our plan was to try to arrive to the biggest city in this area called Tarapoto but we weren’t able to do it. In Lagunas, 3 more guys joined us: Pierre from Switzerland, Felix and Robert from Germany. Now we were a group of seven travelers trying to find a way to get to Yurimaguas and find a place to stay during the quarantine. We were able to take the last boat from Iquitos, which stopped in Lagunas before heading to Yurimaguas, but we had to wait for more than 3 hours in the port of Lagunas in the middle of the night to make the 00:30 am departure. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/IMG_20200413_134307.jpg "sdr - Couchsurfing Blog")After 8 hours of traveling through Huagalla river, one of the biggest ones in Peru which feeds Marañón river, we finally reached the amazing Amazonas. Thunderstorms were part of this trip but at 9am in the morning we finally arrived to Yurimaguas. Local people were a bit scared and worried because they thought that tourists may have brought the virus, they took pictures of us all the time but we could manage the situation and explain to the local people through the authorities, that we were healthy. We decided to walk from the port in Yurimaguas to the center and look for Yacuruna Guest House where we had decided to spend the first days of quarantine. Yacuruna is a beatiful and rustic house over the edge of Huallaga river and it is run by Loic, a french man who opened the place for us and for all the travelers stuck in Yurimaguas. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/IMG-20200321-WA00561.jpg "IMG-20200321-WA00561 - Couchsurfing Blog") In Yacuruna we met 5 more travelers from Germany: Ado and his wife Tina (motorcycle travelers) Lennart and his wife Lea and Pascal. All of them were also stuck. The same day, in the afternoon Laura and Luc a couple from France joined us and, we all together, because of the circunstances, shared the place and the quarantine together. We all formed a big and international family very different but with many things in common. Couchsurfing was one of the reasons we were together because I tried to find more travelers and help them with the place during the quarantine. We all learned many things like our cultures and language, we shared meals and recipes. We also organize an international chess tournament and played many card games, we also tried to help people with cleaning and painting the neighborhood, Pierre, who is doctor, offered himself as a volunteer in the local hospital to help people in Yurimaguas. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/IMG_20200322_233118.jpg "mde - Couchsurfing Blog")Our days were great despite the circumstances and the difficulty of living in house with 21 other people with different cultures and habits. Some days went slow and others went fast, we really learned to respect to each other and our coexistence during this time was fantastic. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/WhatsApp-Image-2020-04-14-at-8.53.06-AM.jpeg "WhatsApp-Image-2020-04-14-at-8.53.06-AM - Couchsurfing Blog")We had an amazing sight of the river, the jungle in front of us, sunrises and sunsets were great but the most amazing thing we could see was the dolphins swimming and jumping in the river. We lived through many storms but we were always together and happy to be sharing this adventure. We are still stuck here, although half the group has left Peru with the help of their embassy. There are still 8 of us sharing our days with these amazing people who have become our family. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/IMG_20200404_174345.jpg "IMG_20200404_174345 - Couchsurfing Blog")I am very happy of being part of this new family and also of being part of couchsurfing Ambassadors. International family: Ado and Tina (Germany) Lennart and Lea (Germany) Luc and Laura (France) Florence and Simon (Belgium) Tim, Robert, Felix, Pascal, Paul, Leonie, Lene (Germany) Leo, Marco (Italy) Joel (USA) Pierre (Switzerland) Giancarlo (Peru) Pepe and Emilie (Peru and France) ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/quarantined-in-the-peruvian-amazon/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/quarantined-in-the-peruvian-amazon/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Featured, Stories --- ### [A Couchsurfer's guide to... Sevilla](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-sevilla/) **Published:** April 3, 2020 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Excerpt:** Daniel, our CS Ambassador in Sevilla, gives us his tips to getting the most out of this beautiful Andalusian city. **Content:** ##### By: [Daniel](https://couchsurfing.page.link/7aKRQyrBMBcUrgvDA) The perfect picture! There is almost no place in Seville as photogenic as [Plaza de España](https://www.andalucia.com/cities/seville/plazadeespana.htm). Even George Lucas realized it when he decided to film some sequences of Star Wars there. You can easily spend several hours there just taking pictures. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/shutterstock_659209018.jpg "shutterstock_659209018 - Couchsurfing Blog")Plaza España by [LucVi](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/LucVi)shutterstockBest breakfast in town! Of course we do “churros” in south Spain for breakfast, especially on weekends. Nevertheless, the real classic down here is the typical “tostá” (toasted bread). Almost any restaurant/bar open in the morning will offer you a decent one. There are many kinds depending what do you decide to spread on it. My favorite is the olive oil and smash tomato with Spanish ham or cheese. If you feel brave enough, you can try it with “manteca colorá” (animal fat butter), grossly tasty and over-caloric. Best view in the city! You cannot miss the sunset from the top of “[Metropol Parasol](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g187443-d1015407-Reviews-Setas_de_Sevilla_Metropol_Parasol-Seville_Province_of_Seville_Andalucia.html)“, aka “Las Setas”. It is the largest wooden structure in the world and the 360° view of the city is just amazing. The ticket is very cheap and you get a free drink in a bar at the market downstairs with it. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/shutterstock_597429230.jpg "shutterstock_597429230 - Couchsurfing Blog")[LucVi](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/LucVi)shutterstockBest place to grab a drink! Doubtless, “[Taberna Álvaro Peregil](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g187443-d2298544-Reviews-Taberna_Alvaro_Peregil-Seville_Province_of_Seville_Andalucia.html)” is one of the most genuine bars in the city center. This tiny and typical place serves the so-called “vino de naranja”, a sweet red wine perfumed with the bitter oranges that grows all over the city streets. Where to dance! “[Carboneria](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g187443-d754093-Reviews-La_Carboneria-Seville_Province_of_Seville_Andalucia.html)” is a historical place to attend a free flamenco dance show at night. It became touristy, but it still preserves the bohemian essence that it had when I used to frequent it almost 20 years ago. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/shutterstock_296106386.jpg "shutterstock_296106386 - Couchsurfing Blog")Flamenco show in Sevilla [Marcin Krzyzak](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/MKrzyzak)shutterstockWhere to sweat! There is a fabulous park where is very difficult to meet up with other tourists. “[Parque Miraflores](https://www.sevilla.org/servicios/medio-ambiente-parques-jardines/parques/parques-urbanos/parque-de-miraflores)” has +200.000 acres of historic buildings, trees from all over the world, artificial lakes, open air gyms, urban gardens and an authentic local atmosphere. A perfect place to go jogging. Where to try the local delicacy! Tapas, tapas and more tapas. There are plenty of places to eat good tapas in Seville, bit also quite a few to eat bad ones. Follow local advice and try to eat the specialty of each place. My favorite tapa is a vegan one, “espincas con garbanzos” at “[El Rinconcillo](https://www.elrinconcillo.es/en/home/)“, a bar open since 1670. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/shutterstock_309336386.jpg "shutterstock_309336386 - Couchsurfing Blog")El Rinconcillo by [cornfield](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/cornfield)shutterstockBest quick bite! You can try the best bites in town at the almost one century years old tavern “[Blanco Cerrillo](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g187443-d1002669-Reviews-Blanco_Cerrillo-Seville_Province_of_Seville_Andalucia.html)“. Famous locally for its “adobo”, marinade and deep fried anchovies. The soft inside and crunchy outside “pavía”, deep fried codfish is also a feast. You can order them to go or have them there with a local beer standing up in front of the steel bar, right like a local. Best day-trip out of town! Undoubtedly, the archaeological ruins of “[Italica](https://www.italicasevilla.org/en/)“, just 12km away from Seville. It was the first Roman city founded out of the Italian peninsula and it has the third largest amphitheater in the old Roman Empire. It was also the hometown of two of the most important emperors: Trajan and Hadrian. Some important scenes of “GoT” were filmed there. Not to be missed if you have at least more than a couple of days in the city. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/shutterstock_132390617.jpg "shutterstock_132390617 - Couchsurfing Blog")Roman Amphitheater at Italica by [Aleksandar Todorovic](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/master2)shutterstockCute cafe! I have to admit that coffee is not our strong suit in Spain. But things are getting slowly better year by year. However, there are cute places with decent hot drinks that are perfect to chill a bit or to hang out with friends. “[Picalagarto](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g187443-d5862881-Reviews-Picalagartos-Seville_Province_of_Seville_Andalucia.html)” is my favorite, a classic among locals. One experience not to miss! Getting lost in the labyrinthine narrow streets of Santa Cruz neighborhood trying to find the [Roman temple of Mármoles](https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g187443-d16882755-r660359911-Calle_Marmoles-Seville_Province_of_Seville_Andalucia.html) street. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/shutterstock_505963618.jpg "shutterstock_505963618 - Couchsurfing Blog")Street in Santa Cruz [Irina Sen](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/irinasen)shutterstockA tourist trap to avoid! Avoid the city tour bus. Most beautiful places are in very narrow streets that you can just access by foot. You can walk everywhere within the city center. Almost every corner is worth a stop. Historic moment! There are just too many historical places in Seville that it is too hard to pick just one. Even if you visit the city for a very short period of time, there are at least three musts you absolutely cannot miss: the [cathedral](https://www.andalucia.com/cities/seville/cathedral.htm), the cathedral and the cathedral. Also the [Alcazar](https://www.alcazarsevilla.org/en/) and [Torre del Oro](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g187443-d191140-Reviews-Torre_del_Oro-Seville_Province_of_Seville_Andalucia.html) if you’ve got the time. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/shutterstock_1035286006.jpg "shutterstock_1035286006 - Couchsurfing Blog")Cathedral of Sevilla by [V E](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/word_landmarks)shutterstockAnything else to add… Address to anyone by saying “miarma”. It literally means “my soul” in sevillian dialect. You will probably get a surprised smile back and fully attention to whatever you want to ask or say. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-sevilla/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-sevilla/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Guides --- ### [10 Questions with a CS Ambassador: Farrukh](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-farrukh/) **Published:** April 27, 2020 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Excerpt:** Meet Farukkh, our Ambassador in Long Beach, and find out why he still loves Couchsurfing 8 years on! **Content:** Name: [Farrukh Mustafa](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/fmustafafamily) City: Long Beach, California, USA Years on CS: 8 **Hey Farrukh! So why did you decide to get involved with CS?** Variety of people and a variety of places has been my favorite mantra I love creating events mostly hiking, trips, pot luck and meet up events with travelers. I love to show around and host too. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/80136223-357d-4ac1-8d64-17ba4505ef0a.jpg "80136223-357d-4ac1-8d64-17ba4505ef0a - Couchsurfing Blog")CS Meetup in Paris**What was your first CS experience?** It is an interesting memory, one of the CS members (who is like brother now) randomly posted on his birthday that it will be great joy if someone can be part of his birthday and I messaged him, it was random, it was great. It was soul searching too. **That’s sweet! And why did you become an Ambassador?** I loved connecting people to people not where I live but globally, whatever it takes even if it means helping a surfer finding a host, I love creating these long lasting global connections. Back when I was living in Pakistan I connected all major cities CS people and connected them through events , not only CS but tourism or travel related to bring the CS community together in any relevant event. When I got to know the Ambassador Program, I felt It will help my passion greatly. **What has been one of your most interesting hosting experiences?** My wife.. We met through CS back in early 2013 while she was on her world tour post graduation and 1 year after we were married. (Don’t get me wrong haha I never tried to use it as dating app, we became good friends afterwards and finally got married ) So we are a happy CS couple ever since.. and feel like zillion interesting stories that followed during our combined traveling and CS experiences there after. **Wow! That’s amazing! Glad to hear it wasn’t your reason for being on CS! What about surfing?** It’s very difficult to answer. I Have had amazing experiences. A lot of people we surfed with are now like family friends. However one of the experiences from a host in Kandy Sri Lanka who hosted us at a very nice resort at a historical location, we thought he was showing us around but when we realized that our luggage got checked in so we got a bit overwhelmed and asked why did he do that and he replied because of some unavoidable circumstances he couldn’t host at home so he was embarrassed and instead of cancelling last minute he did this. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/6c4e2e5e-4975-4b9d-a4a3-7f355ddd39a8.jpg "6c4e2e5e-4975-4b9d-a4a3-7f355ddd39a8 - Couchsurfing Blog")**Wow! A resort stay through CS. Cool. What is a special gift you’ve received from a surfer?** We got a special wooden hand made greeting card on our first wedding anniversary, all the way from Russia from a Russian couple we hosted. **That’s awesome. So if you could host any famous person, who would it be?** Alan Eustace, who holds the world record for the highest-altitude free-fall jump, I feel he is an achiever par excellence both in his professional life and then this adventure part. Priceless. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/ca7ca5f5-bbab-426f-901c-c66d62f40aa5.jpg "ca7ca5f5-bbab-426f-901c-c66d62f40aa5 - Couchsurfing Blog")**I’m sure he would be quite an adventure! What’s one of your coolest travel stories?** Lost our way to our resort while hiking and stuck between howling wolves around and freezing temperature in Kashmir Pakistan. **Glad you made it! What is something everyone should see in Long Beach?** The food districts in both Long Beach and LA have a lot to offer, Little Tokyo, Little Ethiopia, Korea Town, China Town, Little India, you find Cambodian, Vietnamese, El Salvadorian , Brazilian countless ethnic varieties here and I love it. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/815e6239-db4d-4084-9101-e033e9849983-1.jpg "815e6239-db4d-4084-9101-e033e9849983-1 - Couchsurfing Blog")**I love all those foods! Lastly, what is your piece of advice to new Couchsurfers?** Try to create a deep meaningful memories and connections with the people you get to know through couchsurfing, hosting, surfing or through any event. Contribute as much as to this great cause. Even if you can’t host…. add value to the whole ecosystem of CS. Add value in any possible way to the people/CS community at large. The last thing you can think about is abusing this beautiful concept by becoming a freeloader or other community standards violating activities. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-farrukh/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-farrukh/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Meet an Ambassador --- ### [A Couchsurfer's guide to... A Coruña](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-a-coruna/) **Published:** April 23, 2020 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** ##### By: [Sydney Rome](https://www.couchsurfing.com/users/12105) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/shutterstock_570001993.jpg "shutterstock_570001993 - Couchsurfing Blog")A Coruña [Botond Horvath](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/botondhorvath)shutterstockBest breakfast in town! One of the best breakfast spots in town right now is the ‘Sanbrandan Lunch’ Restaurant, in the up-and-coming Plaza Fábrica de Tabacos district. Sanbrandan is a Galician chain of bakeries which offers a wide variety of cakes and bread and this recently-opened branch appears to be their flagship, providing an even wider selection of breakfast and brunch options including a range of healthy salads and delicious fruit juices. Best view in the city! The best view of the city, as well as a section of the infamous Costa de la Muerte, can be seen from the ‘Monte de San Pedro’. The Monte also features a beautiful park with a hedge maze and children’s play area, as well as a strategically-placed cafe and restaurant where you can enjoy a mesmerizing coastal sunset with a coffee or a beer. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/shutterstock_1011085951.jpg "shutterstock_1011085951 - Couchsurfing Blog")View from Monte de San Pedro [Simple Moments](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/DGphotographer)shutterstockOne museum not to miss! An interesting museum to visit not just for the content, but also for the overall design, is the MUNCYT (Museo Nacional de Ciencia y Tecnología). The museum is open every day except for Monday, and features a range of rotating exhibits as well as a really cool permanent fixture in the guise of the cockpit of a Boeing 747. Historic moment! Built in the 2nd century and renovated towards the end of the 18th, ‘La Torre de Hércules’ is the oldest lighthouse in use today. Recognized as one of the most iconic national monuments in Spain, the lighthouse was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in June 2009. La Torre can be visited every day, and on Mondays the entrance is free. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/shutterstock_1039403185.jpg "shutterstock_1039403185 - Couchsurfing Blog")Torre de Hercules [saiko3p](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/saiko3p)shutterstockBest place to grab a drink! There’s no shortage of pubs and bars in A Coruña, but if you want to try our local award-winning 1906 Red Vintage beer, (widely-known as ‘La colorada’), why not go straight to the source.. so to speak – ‘La Cervecería Estrella de Galicia’. La Estrella is a big noisy brewery brimming with character (as well as characters), and back in 2014 they apparently served more cañas than any other drinking establishment in the whole of Spain. The perfect picture! Galicia has a particular approach to constructing balconies known locally as ‘Galerias’. If you want to see galerias at their best, then A Coruña’s ‘Avenida de la Marina’, (often referred to as the ‘Crystal City’ due to the sheer number of windows covering the facades of the buildings), is probably the most Instagram-friendly spot in town. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/shutterstock_1176434248-1.jpg "shutterstock_1176434248-1 - Couchsurfing Blog")Galerias on Avenida de la Marina [Tenreiro](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Tenreiro)shutterstockWhere to dance! If you want to experience traditional Galician music and dance, you really can’t go past ‘A Repichoca’ in A Coruña’s ever-popular Monte Alto district. Local musicians often perform there on the weekend as young folks spontaneously break into dance on the cosy little dancefloor. To avoid disappointments though, I recommend you consult their Facebook page to see if and when the next live performances will be. Best quick bite! The cheapest and quite possibly quickest bite stop in the buzzing central food quarter of the Rúa Galera is ‘La Bombilla’. With a reasonable range of tapas including: Calamares, Albondigas, Ensaladilla and the ever-popular Tortilla, ranging from €1.10-1.20, you’d be hard-pressed tp find a cheaper alternative in Galicia.. or just about anywhere. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/shutterstock_1036662241.jpg "shutterstock_1036662241 - Couchsurfing Blog")Pedestrian walking street in historic center of A Coruña [saiko3p](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/saiko3p)shutterstockA treat-yourself meal! For a little culinary indulgence while you’re exploring downtown, I urge you to try ‘La Postrería’. Besides its hip and contemporary interior, this mainly dessert-oriented restaurant is also renowned for its artisan ice creams and cakes, and provides vegetarian and vegan meals as well as gluten-free options. Where to sweat! An excellent place to swim and get some sorely-needed exercise after all those tapas and fine dining is the ‘Metropolitan La Solana’. Boasting an olympic-size climatized salt-water pool, tennis + paddle courts and a fully-equipped gymnasium, the Solana’s harbor-side location also provides some of the best views in town. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/shutterstock_1188984193.jpg "shutterstock_1188984193 - Couchsurfing Blog")A Coruña Harbor [lunamarina](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/lunamarina)shutterstockCute cafe! El Café de Macondo’ has been open for business for over 25 years and it shows. Literally all the walls of this old-world cafe are covered with framed paintings and prints which read like a who’s-who of the local art scene. The cafe which also regularly hosts book readings and poetry nights, is also a favourite hangout for chess aficionados. Best day-trip out of town! If you have half a day to spare, I recommend you take a bus (or drive down) to Santa Cruz. Half an hour east of A Coruña, in the municipality of Oleiros lies this sweet little town centred around a small castle which appears to be floating in the middle of the sea. If you approach the town from one of the nearby coastal paths, you can also enjoy some lovely nature walks with panoramic views. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/shutterstock_702939127.jpg "shutterstock_702939127 - Couchsurfing Blog")Castille de Santa Cruz [Katerina Knyazeva](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/katerinaknyazeva)shutterstockOne experience not to miss! If you’re searching for somewhere to celebrate ‘La Noche de San Juan’, a traditional festival held around the world during Midsummer which takes place on the evening of 23 June, look no further. As night falls, hundreds of bonfires are lit all over the city, and if you head for the beaches of Riazor and Orzán you’ll be able to take part in one of the biggest and decidedly most vibrant Beach Parties on the planet. Where to try the local cuisine! The best-known and decidedly most popular Galician dish has to be Polbo á Feira (Grilled Octopus). Between the Estación de Tren and Los Mallos district lies what some ex-pats have affectionately come to know as the #pulpomile – an area with numerous ‘Pulpeiras’ serving up the local delicacy, along with other local treats like Pimientos de Padrón and Raxó. All the Pulpeiras in this area are pretty good, but I personally recommend ‘A Nova Lanchiña’ or ‘A Nova Lanchiña II’. if you’re lucky enough to get a table of course. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/shutterstock_1521239927.jpg "shutterstock_1521239927 - Couchsurfing Blog")[jessicahyde](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/jessicahyde)shutterstockA tourist-trap to avoid! Seafood is generally very good throughout the city, but as with most places where food happens to be one of the major tourist attractions, it might be a good idea to avoid a lot of the more popular eateries nestled around the central Plaza Maria Pita square. There are certainly plenty of more favourable, flavourful and budget-friendly options available between the main Rúas Galera and Barrera. Anything else to add… If you’re a foodie like me, you really don’t want to miss the annual ‘Concurso de Tapas Picadillo’, which generally takes place around the middle of September. For two weeks you’ll be able to enjoy a wide range of delicious tapas, which for the purpose of the contest are divided in two categories: ‘Traditional’ and ‘Creative’, in over 70 bars and restaurants scattered around the city. Just one thing though, don’t forget to vote for your favorite! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-a-coruna/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-a-coruna/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Guides --- ### [Carpe Diem: Sou's first Couchsurfing adventure](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/carpe-diem-sous-first-couchsurfing-adventure/) **Published:** April 15, 2020 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/shutterstock_292690169-1.jpg "shutterstock_292690169-1 - Couchsurfing Blog")[f11photo](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/f11photo)shutterstockI was reading The Magic by Rhona Byrne for the second or third time, Day 1 is all about counting blessings. And while writing it down, I figured out that I am blessed to have traveled to Kuala Lumpur. ![Carpe Diem](https://souboyy.files.wordpress.com/2019/08/carpe-diem.jpg?w=620 "prod_time - Couchsurfing Blog") I started as a features writer for the Telegraph, way back in like 2005 when I just finished my standard 10th, and then started writing for the Deccan Chronicle in Mumbai 2009 onwards, later Feme Fashions and FashionFad (this gave great exposure to the diverse and glitzy fashion world in Mumbai, the city of dreams). I started this blog when I first traveled to Aamby Valley and when I decided to do a one-year diploma in fashion communications from National Institute of Fashion Technology which is the most reputed one in India for fashion studies. I lived in Dubai in 2014, and then Abu Dhabi in 2015 and worked in content marketing and communications. ![KL blog 2](https://souboyy.files.wordpress.com/2019/08/kl-blog-2.jpg?w=620 "- Couchsurfing Blog") I worked and lived in Hong Kong in 2016 in a fashion house and briefly in a fashion magazine. My first solo trip overseas was in Kuala Lumpur. However, I traveled on a business trip to Indonesia and Singapore in 2018 while I was handling corp communications for a British machinery brand who was expanding in South-east Asia. Once I finished this six months branding and communications project with this UK company in November, I had some time in my hand (like a month) before taking a brief fashion project in Delhi for 6 weeks in Jan 2019. I had like $1800 USD in my travel card and without thinking twice I booked a two-way Malindo Airways ticket to Kuala Lumpur to spend my 2019 new year there. It was my first solo trip overseas in South-east Asia! In 2016, I did travel solo to Macau during Easter holidays for two days to explore the city as I was handling communications of a fashion project based out of Hong Kong therein. I had taken a ferry to Macau to see some great sea view from the boat, travel, etc. ![KL blog 3](https://souboyy.files.wordpress.com/2019/08/kl-blog-3.jpg?w=620 "- Couchsurfing Blog") So, I was joined by my old friend Tiyas from Bali, whom I met in Hong Kong CS meet up, and Robin who is my CS dutch friend from the Netherlands (lives in Singapore now), and few friends from Couchsurfing who were traveling in Kuala Lumpur during new year or staying there short term for any internships, project, work, and studies. KL is very interesting! Kuala Lumpur is pretty cosmopolitan I must say. I got a cheap sim card from the airport for the week I was to stay there and went to my hostel. I kept my luggage, took a nap, woke up in the evening, showered and headed to meet Tiyas and Robin in Robin’s hostel where he had organized a Dutch pancake meetup which was massive. Over 100 Couchsurfers and travelers had joined in there and I was super happy to meet Tiyas. We hugged each other for like 10 minutes and it was exciting, we met after almost a year or something. The whole world is a family, we travel to know more about our own self since traveling makes us realize how big and beautiful the world is… ![KL blog 1](https://souboyy.files.wordpress.com/2019/08/kl-blog-1.jpg?w=620 "- Couchsurfing Blog") To travel is to live. I love my Couchsurfing family. One love, endless adventures. Carpe Diam! Stay tuned! ❤ ❤ ❤ – Sou ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/carpe-diem-sous-first-couchsurfing-adventure/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/carpe-diem-sous-first-couchsurfing-adventure/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Stories --- ### [10 Questions with a CS Ambassador: Cynthia](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-cynthia/) **Published:** April 20, 2020 **Author:** Mike Joy **Excerpt:** Meet Cynthia who has traveled to 7 continents, 109 countries, 50 US states. Find out what made her join Couchsurfing and become an Ambassador. **Content:** ##### Name: [Cynthia](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/ladylawyer) City: Winter Haven, Florida, USA Years on CS: 12 ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/17485735_l_8a7dd9d69f9d74df5b584de1a33c81d0.jpg "17485735_l_8a7dd9d69f9d74df5b584de1a33c81d0 - Couchsurfing Blog")**Hi Cynthia! So how did you first find out about Couchsurfing?** Read an article in National Geographic Traveler Magazine **Oh wow! I would love to read that article. Why did you get involved with CS? And how do you mostly participate nowadays?** WHY? In 2007, my travels had started expanding; I needed new ways of gathering current information on places; and I also wanted to meet locals. HOW? I enjoy all aspects of CS, but I am probably most known for organizing events around the world. **Amazing! What has been one of your most memorable hosting experiences?** I hosted three Germans, including 2 Ambassadors (the country and a city) all at once for a long weekend! So much fun and talk about CS as to how it has enhanced our lives. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/46bd4390-8b89-4798-83c4-8dbb41bb7a6c.jpg "46bd4390-8b89-4798-83c4-8dbb41bb7a6c - Couchsurfing Blog")**Ambassadors meeting Ambassadors! I love it. What about surfing?** I have surfed with amazing people across the Globe. I had a couple in Botswana move out of their house so my friends and I could stay there. I have lived in both a castle and a converted closet. There are so many experiences, that this box is not big enough to fully answer. **Very true. That is some incredible generosity! If you could host or surf with one famous person, alive or dead, who would it be?** Marco Polo – – as that guy knew how to travel! **That’s a great answer! He sure did! What is one quote that inspires you?** “The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page.” – Saint Augustine ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/0b25cb2f-f334-4272-ae4c-cc30e12f0978.jpg "0b25cb2f-f334-4272-ae4c-cc30e12f0978 - Couchsurfing Blog")**I love that quote too. What is the craziest thing that has ever happened to you while traveling?** In July of 2019, I landed at a place in the Russian High Arctic of Franz Josef Land on a Poseidon Expedition. No human had ever landed at that place. It is amazing that the world is so huge that in 2019, there are still a few places that humans have not been! **Wow! Boldly going where no one has gone before! Incredible. What is one thing you never go on a trip without?** My sense of adventure. I have been to all 50 US States, 7 Continents and 109 countries. A sense of adventure (and a great Tortuga backpack) are essential as I continue to collect passport stamps around the globe! **Wow, so with all that travel, what is your dream vacation?** I lived my ‘dream’ trip (not vacation) in 2019-2020 by visiting both our Polar Regions within 9 months! But, like all good CSers, once one ‘dream’ becomes a reality, it is time for a new ‘dream.’ Next up is cruising through the Suez Canal and exploring the Arabian Peninsula. **Very true! Last question, what is your one piece of advice for new Couchsurfers?** “THEORY ADVICE: Open yourself to the world, and the world is full of possibilities. PRACTICAL ADVICE: READ the CS RULES; READ the CS profiles of the people you intend to host/surf.” ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/f2e82da3-748c-414d-93a9-3d72985672a6.jpg "f2e82da3-748c-414d-93a9-3d72985672a6 - Couchsurfing Blog")### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-cynthia/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-cynthia/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Meet an Ambassador --- ### [We Will Meet Again](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/we-will-meet-again/) **Published:** April 17, 2020 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** The idea was simple, the result was extraordinary. A group of 4 Ambassadors contacted Couchsurfers all over the world and asked that they send a short video saying ***we will meet again.*** Many made signs, spoke their native languages, played instruments and showed a bit of their lives under quarantine. Let this remind us all that we are in this together and we will meet again! Thank you Raul, Luka, Alberto and Jason for all your hard work! - ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Screen-Shot-2020-04-17-at-4.00.12-PM.png "Screen-Shot-2020-04-17-at-4.00.12-PM - Couchsurfing Blog") - ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Screen-Shot-2020-04-17-at-4.00.38-PM.png "Screen-Shot-2020-04-17-at-4.00.38-PM - Couchsurfing Blog") - ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Screen-Shot-2020-04-17-at-4.01.00-PM.png "Screen-Shot-2020-04-17-at-4.01.00-PM - Couchsurfing Blog") - ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Screen-Shot-2020-04-17-at-4.01.27-PM.png "Screen-Shot-2020-04-17-at-4.01.27-PM - Couchsurfing Blog") - ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Screen-Shot-2020-04-17-at-4.01.56-PM.png "Screen-Shot-2020-04-17-at-4.01.56-PM - Couchsurfing Blog") - ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Screen-Shot-2020-04-17-at-4.00.26-PM.png "Screen-Shot-2020-04-17-at-4.00.26-PM - Couchsurfing Blog") - ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Screen-Shot-2020-04-17-at-4.02.09-PM.png "Screen-Shot-2020-04-17-at-4.02.09-PM - Couchsurfing Blog") ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/we-will-meet-again/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/we-will-meet-again/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Featured, Stories --- ### [A Couchsurfer's guide to... Bangkok](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-bangkok/) **Published:** April 16, 2020 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Excerpt:** Our Ambassador in Bangkok, Agus, gives us his tips to seeing the best of Bangkok. From temples to Khao San road, let Agus let you know the secrets only locals know! **Content:** By: [Agus](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/agusprianto111) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/shutterstock_1104510797.jpg "shutterstock_1104510797 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Travel man](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Mongkolchuewong)shutterstockBest breakfast in town! There are several recommended places, but to start you can take a walk around Khao San road in the morning, there will be several street vendors selling some authentic Thai breakfast. One of my favorites is [Khao Soi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Khao_soi) (A typical breakfast from North Thailand). Historic moment! [Chinatown](https://www.hotels.com/go/thailand/best-chinatown-things-to-do), Just wandering around Chinatown is one of my favorite things to do. The moment you enter China town area you will get a typical old town vibe. There are many interesting street food to be enjoyed too. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/shutterstock_1149718817.jpg "shutterstock_1149718817 - Couchsurfing Blog")[SOUTHERNTraveler](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Nott+Sutthipong)shutterstockOne museum not to miss! [MoCA](https://mocabangkok.com/) (Museum of Contemporary Art) Bangkok is amazing. A bit out of the city so better go in the morning. Best place to grab a drink! If you are into meeting people and enjoying a reasonably priced drink, [Khao San road](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g293916-d546013-Reviews-Khaosan_Road-Bangkok.html) is your best option, there will be many other travelers hanging around there. But if you want to go to a place where you can enjoy the view of the city from above, rooftop bar is where you should go ([Skybar](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g293916-d583526-Reviews-Sky_Bar_Bangkok-Bangkok.html), [Banyan tree](https://www.banyantree.com/en/thailand/bangkok/dining), etc. it is a fancy rooftop bar by the way). ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/shutterstock_100401436.jpg "shutterstock_100401436 - Couchsurfing Blog")Backpacker haven of Khao San Road [1000 Words](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/thousandwords)shutterstockA treat-yourself meal! Go to [CentralWorld](https://www.hotels.com/go/thailand/centralworld) mall or [Terminal 21](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g293916-d2425310-Reviews-Terminal_21-Bangkok.html). There are so many options for good cafes and restaurants. Where to sweat! [Lumphini Park](https://www.hotels.com/go/thailand/lumpini-park), there is an open air fitness center where you just have to pay 40 Baht and you can use the equipment (You might be able to join a public aerobic class too if you come around 6 PM). ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/shutterstock_349249775.jpg "shutterstock_349249775 - Couchsurfing Blog")Lumphini Park [PICONEST](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/piconestpico)shutterstockWhere to dance! Again, to have a crazy night out and dancing Khao San road is recommended, where there will be a street party which will start around 10/11 pm every night. There are some nightclubs too around that area which mostly close at 2 AM. Best view in the city! Visit [Wat Saket](https://www.hotels.com/go/thailand/wat-saket) (Golden temple), the entrance ticket is 50 Baht. Recommended to go in the afternoon so you can enjoy the sunset from the top of the temple. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/shutterstock_1099129721.jpg "shutterstock_1099129721 - Couchsurfing Blog")Wat Saket at dusk [Craig Schuler](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/CraigSchuler)shutterstockCute cafe! [Caturday Cat Cafe](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g293916-d7910265-Reviews-Caturday_Cat_Cafe-Bangkok.html) is a well known one to spend time playing with cute cats or [Little Zoo Cafe Siam Bangkok](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g293916-d9806571-Reviews-Little_Zoo_Cafe-Bangkok.html) is also a good option. Best day trip out of town! Cycling to [Bang Kachao](https://theculturetrip.com/asia/thailand/articles/bang-krachao-exploring-bangkoks-hidden-jungle-oasis/) is one of my favorite things to do, or another alternative will be a day trip to [Ayuthaya](https://www.audleytravel.com/us/thailand/places-to-go/ayuthaya), you can go and back by train (2 hours trip), and rent a bicycle to visit temples in the area. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/shutterstock_683138305.jpg "shutterstock_683138305 - Couchsurfing Blog")Ayutthaya [iPhoto Thailand](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/iphotothailand2)shutterstockWhere to try the local cuisine! Go to some night markets, [Ratchada Train Night Market](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g293916-d8130989-Reviews-Train_Night_Market_Ratchada-Bangkok.html) and [Indy Night Market](https://thailand.tripcanvas.co/bangkok/indy-night-market-dao-khaonong/) (on Dao Khanong) are recommended places. There are many food options and after eating move to any bar which has a 2nd floor so you can enjoy the view of all markets while enjoying your drink. Family fun! Cycling around Bang Kachao, Day trip to Ayuthaya is recommended for family too. Or in the city, bring the kids to Fantasia lagoon, another option is to visit the Puzzle Room Bangkok and enjoy the escape room game with the kids. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/shutterstock_400931311.jpg "shutterstock_400931311 - Couchsurfing Blog")Biking on Bang Kachao [TEERASAK KHUNRACH](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/TEERASAK+KHUNRACH)shutterstockOne experience not to miss! Get a Thai massage. You deserve to experience the famous Thai massage while you are in Thailand. The perfect picture! [Wat Arun](https://www.hotels.com/go/thailand/wat-arun)! Either in the day time inside Wat Arun temple, or reserve a table for a dinner at one of the cafe/restaurants opposite the river so you can enjoy Wat Arun’s view in the night (Wat Arun will look really nice in the evening when the light is switched on around 7PM). ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/shutterstock_661831759.jpg "shutterstock_661831759 - Couchsurfing Blog")Wat Arun [saiko3p](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/saiko3p)shutterstockA tourist trap to avoid! Tuktuk, be really careful about this. They know tourist see going around with tuktuk is a really Thai thing you can do, so make sure you know what is the deal up front before hop on one of it. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/shutterstock_169203917.jpg "shutterstock_169203917 - Couchsurfing Blog")[SasinTipchai](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/SasinT)shutterstock### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-bangkok/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-bangkok/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Guides --- ### [When you meet great people during difficult times: A letter from Quarantine](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/when-you-meet-great-people-during-difficult-times-a-letter-from-quarantine/) **Published:** April 14, 2020 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Excerpt:** When Malaysia went on lockdown, Chiara was in the middle of an 8 month trip through Asia. Luckily, Reham welcomed her into her apartment. **Content:** Hello Couchsurfers! We are Chiara and Reham, from Italy and Egypt. We would love to share our story, which can bring a bit of positivity and optimism during these difficult moment we are all living. First of all, we want to thank Couchsurfing, without which this story wouldn’t have existed. So let’s start from the beginning. We met in Kuala Lumpur almost 10 days ago, on the CS hangout, just one week before Malaysia was put on locked down. Reham lives and works in Kuala Lumpur, Chiara has been traveling by herself for almost 8 month around South East Asia. We ended up in a hangout with a bunch of fellow travelers and we had a great time all together. It was incredible how we all bonded in just few hours! *From being strangers to friends, it’s just a heartbeat away.* So the next day we all decided to spend the weekend on a remote island in Malaysia, just to get clear our minds from all the overwhelming Coronavirus news. After not even half a day on the paradise island, where the Coronavirus hadn’t stepped foot yet, the news, that we all feared, arrived: Malaysia would have got into quarantine in two days. The day after we rushed to Kuala Lumpur in a big hurry, scared of getting stuck on the island. Almost all hostels and hotels in the city would have closed as well. Chiara didn’t know where to go and couldn’t afford a room by herself in a hotel. Reham was so kind and offered to host us both at her place, in her own room. Since the 18th of March we have been sharing the quarantine, living in the same small bedroom, cooking and eating the same food. We have been going through these dark times together, fighting the loneliness and supporting each others as much as we can. At the end of the day, we are two foreigners in a foreign country, away from our respective families and friends. Because of the Coronavirus a lot of people, especially travelers, got stuck in a country that it is not theirs with no place to stay or friends to be with. Nobody should be alone right now. We felt so lucky that we found each other in a such unexpected way. That’s why we are so grateful to Couchsurfing, which allowed us to meet and, eventually, to keep each others’ company during the quarantine in Malaysia. Loneliness is probably one of worst side effects caused by the spread of the Coronavirus. We thought our story could give some hope to people alone out there, forced into the quarantine. It might sound cheesy, but we are stronger if we all help each other out. Let’s hope we will be able to travel again soon and meet all the amazing people out there! A big hug, [Reham](https://www.instagram.com/rehamelshrkawy2012/) & [Chiara](https://www.instagram.com/chiaramaggiore_ph/) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/D4fQBzBsTh1Zw0gylpjRD9Ds5.jpg "D4fQBzBsTh1Zw0gylpjRD9Ds5 - Couchsurfing Blog")[![D4fQBzBsTh1Zw0gylpjRD9Ds5](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/D4fQBzBsTh1Zw0gylpjRD9Ds5.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/D4fQBzBsTh1Zw0gylpjRD9Ds5.jpg) ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/when-you-meet-great-people-during-difficult-times-a-letter-from-quarantine/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/when-you-meet-great-people-during-difficult-times-a-letter-from-quarantine/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Uncategorized --- ### [10 Questions with a CS Ambassador: Nadia](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-nadia/) **Published:** April 13, 2020 **Author:** Mike Joy **Excerpt:** Meet Nadia, a nomadic CS Ambassador living in Saarbrucken! **Content:** ##### Name: [Nadia](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/nadia83) City: Saarbrücken Years on CS: 10 ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/8004642_l_595eb9d90b11543061b9747090350590.jpg "8004642_l_595eb9d90b11543061b9747090350590 - Couchsurfing Blog")**Hey Nadia, so how did you first hear about Couchsurfing?** I was doing research for my first solo trip – 1 year Australia – and read about it in a blog. **And why did you decide to get involved?** I was traveling – had forgotten that I had signed up months earlier – and met some people who told me about it, so I used CS from then on. **What was your first experience on CS?** I was Couchsurfing in Australia and my host took me around the area, brought me to local spots to watch hundreds of kangaroos. Then we met up with his friends. It was a less known city and he had reached out to me incase I would pass by on my way – I decided to stop for a few days. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/7620967_l_d547c480f0a1562fda49dafa1b71b479.jpg "7620967_l_d547c480f0a1562fda49dafa1b71b479 - Couchsurfing Blog")Nadias trip in Canberra**Amazing. And why did you decide to become an Ambassador?** After returning from my trip I started organizing many events on my city and was eager to help other travelers out. Kind of payback for the generosity I received while traveling. **What has been your most memorable hosting experience?** It was a spontaneous last minute host. At the weekly meeting I organized was a group of 4 guys left as their car had broken down. So I took them back to my place. Since I was living in a rather small apartment at the time without that many sleeping options I just gave the apartment to them and went to sleep at my moms place. When I returned in the morning they had made breakfast for me. **That’s a great story! What about as a surfer?** It was one my first experiences. I was hosted in a house of friends that had other couchsurfers staying as well as some local friends. There were always more than 10 people around – not necessarily the same ones each day – and at night you would just pick whichever sleeping spot is empty (floor space , couch, room etc.) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/A10458A4-F6C7-4199-81A3-CFDDBD506AAC.jpg "A10458A4-F6C7-4199-81A3-CFDDBD506AAC - Couchsurfing Blog")**Sounds fun! What is the best gift you’ve received?** A written poem and from another a hand drawn picture. **Personal gifts are always the best! What book has inspired you?** I haven’t been inspired by a book. I do love reading books though – one I recently read reassures my chosen lifestyle: The Why Cafe **I’ll look it up! Do you have a favorite quote?** > Not all who wander are lost. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/0FB994A9-257B-44AC-A85D-4F0D3D853BD4.jpg "0FB994A9-257B-44AC-A85D-4F0D3D853BD4 - Couchsurfing Blog")**Great quote! Lastly, what is your piece of advice to new Couchsurfers?** Meet up with some Couchsurfers in your area to get some references. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-nadia/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-nadia/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Meet an Ambassador --- ### [Coronavirus Updates](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/coronavirus-information/) **Published:** February 25, 2020 **Author:** Mike Joy **Excerpt:** Please stay up to date on your country's health advisories, the advice of medical professionals and your local news. Communicate with hosts or surfers if you feel uncomfortable with an upcoming trip. **Content:** *\*\*Update March 16th: We have continued to monitor the situation and make the appropriate recommendations to the community. As many cities and countries have imposed quarantines or partial lock-downs, we advise all members to stay up to date with local regulations and rules. Please continue to maintain social distancing and seek medical treatment if you feel ill. Avoid crowded areas and large events. For some ways to continue to use Couchsurfing during these times, check out our post on [Couchsurfing from home](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/5-ways-to-use-couchsurfing-at-home/). Stay safe and up to date!*\*\* *\*\*Update March 5th: We urge all travelers to actively communicate with their hosts regarding the local situation in the cities and towns they are traveling to. The situation can change rapidly and there is a potential for travel to be affected or halted due to the virus. Ensure that you have a backup plan if your host is unable to host you, contact your insurance regarding trip cancelations or rerouting tickets. If you plan to attend events, contact the organizer to ensure it is still taking place as some cities have limited public gatherings. Continue to take all usual precautions, like washing hands, seeking medical attention if you feel ill and covering your mouth when coughing or sneezing.\*\** In December, 2019, the first case of COVID-19 was reported in China and has since been reported in various countries. *“COVID-19 is still affecting mostly people in China with some outbreaks in other countries. Most people who become infected experience mild illness and recover, but it can be more severe for others.”* –[WHO](https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/advice-for-public) Our top priority at Couchsurfing is your safety. We recommend that you stay up to date on the virus through the WHO (World Health Organization) website, your local news, and your country’s health warnings. If you have an upcoming trip to a place that currently has Coronavirus outbreaks, please read that country’s health recommendations as well. If you are currently hosting or surfing, please communicate with your host/surfers and be respectful and understanding of any trip changes. If you are feeling unwell, inform your guest or host and ensure that they are comfortable with the trip proceeding. > Standard recommendations to prevent infection spread include regular hand washing, covering mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing, thoroughly cooking meat and eggs. Avoid close contact with anyone showing symptoms of respiratory illness such as coughing and sneezing. > > [World Health Organization](https://www.who.int/health-topics/coronavirus) The WHO recommends the following [basic protective measures](https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/advice-for-public) against the Coronavirus: 1\. Wash your hands frequently 2\. Maintain social distancing (2 metres/6 feet) when in public 3\. Avoid touching eyes, nose, and mouth 4\. If you have a fever, cough, and difficult breathing – seek medical care early 5\. Wear a face mask when in public ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/coping-with-stress-copy.png "coping-with-stress-copy - Couchsurfing Blog")[WHO](https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/advice-for-public) Coping with stress### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/coronavirus-information/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/coronavirus-information/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Community, Community Updates, Featured --- ### [A Couchsurfer's guide to... Hangzhou](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-hangzhou/) **Published:** April 9, 2020 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Excerpt:** Han, our Ambassador in Hangzhou, gives us his recommendations of what to see and do on your next trip to this beautiful Chinese city. **Content:** ##### By: [Han](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/aviatorhan) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/shutterstock_791353567.jpg "shutterstock_791353567 - Couchsurfing Blog")[SnvvSnvvSnvv](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/snvv)shutterstockBest breakfast in town! A chain restaurant called [咬不得高祖生煎](https://www.google.com/search?sxsrf=ALeKk0053CEWRgKQ7qnRY4COVuu1YMDSHw:1586525978122&q=%E5%92%AC%E4%B8%8D%E5%BE%97%E9%AB%98%E7%A5%96%E7%94%9F%E7%85%8E+hangzhou&npsic=0&rflfq=1&rlha=0&rllag=30270335,120148557,1951&tbm=lcl&ved=2ahUKEwiT_ejq_d3oAhXDhXIEHcJQCEEQtgN6BAgKEAQ&tbs=lrf:!1m4!1u2!2m2!2m1!1e1!1m4!1u16!2m2!16m1!1e1!1m4!1u16!2m2!16m1!1e2!2m1!1e2!2m1!1e16!3sIAE,lf:1,lf_ui:9&rldoc=1#rlfi=hd:;si:3472150901718208432,l,Ch7lkqzkuI3lvpfpq5jnpZbnlJ_nhY4gaGFuZ3pob3VaPwoZ5ZKsIOS4jeW-lyDpq5jnpZYg55SfIOeFjiIi5ZKsIOS4jeW-lyDpq5jnpZYg55SfIOeFjiBoYW5nemhvdQ,y,wGSDc6k9rSo;mv:[[30.284761600000003,120.16403799999999],[30.255909900000002,120.1330763]];tbs:lrf:!1m4!1u2!2m2!2m1!1e1!1m4!1u16!2m2!16m1!1e1!1m4!1u16!2m2!16m1!1e2!2m1!1e2!2m1!1e16!3sIAE,lf:1,lf_ui:9), offering several options for all-day meals, from fried noodles to shengjian, eastern China’s featured local food. Shengjian is filled with hot soup, which the name of this restaurant is originated – “don’t (take a big) bite”, instead, take a small bite and sip the soup thoroughly before you proceed eating. Be careful, the soup inside shengjian may be hot. One museum not to miss! [Chinese umbrella museum](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298559-d7151864-Reviews-China_Umbrella_Museum-Hangzhou_Zhejiang.html) is worth visiting. Oil-paper umbrellas and shy but elegant southeastern Chinese girls are sort of a stereotype combination. Before Year 618 umbrellas were invented and used in China and you may learn how it has evolved over time. The museum has some spots for visitors to take photos. Free entry. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/shutterstock_1572358552.jpg "shutterstock_1572358552 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Stary Kierowca](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Stary+Kierowca)shutterstockBest place to grab a drink! [Midtown brewery](https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g298559-d9758604-r618313622-Midtown_Shangri_La_Hangzhou-Hangzhou_Zhejiang.html), situated in business area in Hangzhou, is the first choice for draft beer lovers. One pint costs about 50 yuan, expensive but usually with live band. Indoors and outdoors places available. Where to sweat! Forget about gym when you have [West lake](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/West_Lake)! It takes you half a day (3-5 hours) to walking near to the lake and only to finish half of it! Along the way, you will be close to some mountains with pagodas ([baochu pagoda](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Baochu_Pagoda), for example). They are not tall and only takes several tens of minutes to reach the top. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/shutterstock_520069960.jpg "shutterstock_520069960 - Couchsurfing Blog")[4045](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/4045)shutterstockWhere to dance! [Vineyard socia10](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g298559-d2518809-Reviews-Vineyard_Socia10-Hangzhou_Zhejiang.html) is for those who are confident to show off how well they dance salsa and other latino dancings. Often packed with expats and teachers to get you started even if you’re a beginner and need some mood. Best quick bite! Some small restaurants bake local-style Chinese bread visibly. They are cheap, though not necessarily tasty – you’ll have to try your luck. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/shutterstock_1653034966.jpg "shutterstock_1653034966 - Couchsurfing Blog")Wu Dalang Cookcake Shop [Weiming Xie](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/xieweiming)shutterstockWhere to try to the local cuisine! [Green Tea](https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g298559-d1588190-r207190015-Green_Tea_Restaurant_Longjing_Road-Hangzhou_Zhejiang.html) and [Grandma’s Kitchen](https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g298559-d3402575-r158415744-Grandma_s_Home_HuaZhe-Hangzhou_Zhejiang.html) have “failsafe” options for eastern Chinese cuisines with a fair price. Decor is fine, may need to wait at peak hours. English menu available. Cute cafe! While coffee is popular in Europe, in Asia youngsters drink milk tea. Milk tea shops offer a lot of beverage options: plain tea, milk tea, juice, coffee, with ingredients, sweetness, ice volume and other “parameters” fully customizable. Don’t miss it. Popular brands are Coco, 1 diandian, 奈雪の茶.” ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/shutterstock_535685254.jpg "shutterstock_535685254 - Couchsurfing Blog")Tea blackboard in Hangzhou [Zvonimir Atletic](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/zvonimira)shutterstockFamily fun! A train park called 白塔公园 has a train restaurant and an elevated restaurant on gantry crane. It has real rail tracks and some nature nearby. Free entry. Best view in the city! There are two best routes for taking iconic photo of west lake: one is along Su causeway, you’ll be able to take photos of nearby mountains and city views; the other is near to Hubin road, the mountains faraway, undisturbed by any buildings are great for nature lovers. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/shutterstock_404386096.jpg "shutterstock_404386096 - Couchsurfing Blog")West Lake [zhao jiankang](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Zhao+jian+kang)shutterstockHistoric moment! Hangzhou is a place with folktales. The most well-known tales are [Butterfly Lovers](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Butterfly_Lovers) and the [Legend of the White Snake](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Legend_of_the_White_Snake). You may visit Leifeng pagoda if you’re interested in the latter tale. Ticket: 40 CNY/adult. The perfect picture! There is a fake [Eiffel tower](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298559-d6754047-Reviews-TianduCheng_Eifel_Tower-Hangzhou_Zhejiang.html) in Hangzhou, far far away from the city, but the tower itself is spectacular. Nothing interesting nearby though, and may take an entire day if using public transport to get there and return. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/shutterstock_1144981646.jpg "shutterstock_1144981646 - Couchsurfing Blog")Tianducheng [michael168](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/michael168)shutterstockA tourist trap to avoid! The walking street ([Hefang street](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298559-d1645910-Reviews-Hefang_Street-Hangzhou_Zhejiang.html)) is ok to have a look, but do not try the snack collection in a building or a smaller ‘street’ there. They are insanely overpriced with horrible quality control. Beverages are also more expensive on that exact street, but hey, just one block away, the milk tea shops will have drinks at a reasonable price! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-hangzhou/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-hangzhou/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Guides --- ### [Running from lockdown: How one Couchsurfer ran a marathon in his living room](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/running-from-lockdown-how-one-couchsurfer-ran-a-marathon-in-his-living-room/) **Published:** April 7, 2020 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Excerpt:** Jean Marc, our Country Ambassador in Spain, runs a marathon in his living room, to raise money for charity and keep himself sane. **Content:** What does a frustrated runner imprisoned indoors during one of the world’s hardest-hit cities’ strict COVID-19 lockdown do, when he has finished counting the floor tiles in his lounge and polished all his copper cutlery? He completes an indoor marathon inside his own flat by running the 9.65m distance between his street-facing window and the kitchen washing machine 4,373 times, that’s what he does. He also streams it live on Facebook and raises $4,400 for two global healthcare charities in the process. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/W2WM.jpg "W2WM - Couchsurfing Blog")That’s what [Jean-Marc](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/jeanmarcknoll), our Country Ambassador for Spain, did last Saturday. What began as only a semi-serious attempt to get a little exercise after 2 weeks of complete inactivity turned into a feel-good story that made it into local newspapers, national radio, runner podcasts and community websites in his native United Kingdom. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Celebration.jpg "Celebration - Couchsurfing Blog") A seasoned marathon runner, Jean-Marc was less concerned by the thought of running 42.195km inside his Madrid flat than the idea of having to talk to the recording camera for five hours to keep the watching public entertained and move them to donate to the cause. His stream of consciousness monologue was aided by the tremendous support from his spectators, in the shape of just over 1,200 cheering comments made and two spontaneously ordered courier deliveries of Spanish jamón and Corona beers (LOL), to his window as he was running. Stories recounted by Jean-Marc to pass the time varied from his theories on Taylor Swift’s coffee shop dating habits to the recipe for a guaranteed world-saving COVID-19 vaccine: his Madrid Corona Casserole. There was even time to play the quizmaster as he fired off general knowledge questions to his audience, fresh from the previous night’s virtual pub quiz. 5 hours and 7 minutes after setting off, he ran through his toilet paper finish line, arms aloft in victory and with a glow owing perhaps more to the red wine consumed during the three previous “drink breaks” than the exertion of running. As he realised regretfully that the amazing adventure had come to an end, the fleeting moment of sorrow gave way to excited realisation: he would never have to run towards the washing machine again. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Madrid-tape.jpg "Madrid-tape - Couchsurfing Blog")### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/running-from-lockdown-how-one-couchsurfer-ran-a-marathon-in-his-living-room/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/running-from-lockdown-how-one-couchsurfer-ran-a-marathon-in-his-living-room/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Stories --- ### [10 Questions with a CS Ambassador: Habib](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-habib/) **Published:** April 6, 2020 **Author:** Mike Joy **Excerpt:** Meet Habib, an Ambassador in Karachi, Pakistan! **Content:** Name: [Habib](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/habithetraveler) City: Karachi, Pakistan Years on Couchsurfing: 1.5 ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/8dc0ecd1-a8b2-4da0-a0a3-1e1b9dfa1800.jpg "8dc0ecd1-a8b2-4da0-a0a3-1e1b9dfa1800 - Couchsurfing Blog")**Hi Habib! Why did you decide to get involved with CS and how do you mainly participate?** I liked this unique idea of meeting people from all over the world, interact, listen to them and exchange my travel stories with them, and off course make new friendships. I really love this idea of meeting new people, be a host or become a guest while traveling. I believe this way of meeting people and learning from their experiences will help me a lot to better understand about people and off course any part of the world. I mainly participate by creating CS events, joining interesting CS event created by other members, attending meetups and joining hangouts with other travelers and couch surfers. I also try to post a good travel plan few days before I am traveling to any destination to let the other couch surfers know about me and once when I am at the destination, I try to create a good event if there is nothing happening around. Believe me, I did it and I have got a very positive response as well as made some great friendships, from both the local couch surfers as well as those travelers visiting the same area. **Incredible! And what was your first experience like?** My first CS experience after creating my profile was attending a CS meetup in my city Karachi. It was surprisingly a great experience as I was meeting some people during that meetup for the first time who turned out to be some of the great experienced travelers as CouchSurfers from whom I learned a lot about traveling, couch surfing, countries, cultures, food and people. Today, they are my best travel and Couch Surfing buddies 🙂 **Such a great first memory! I think events are great ways to get introduced to the community! What was one of your most interesting experiences hosting on CS?** My most interesting hosting experience was with a Chinese guest who arrived at my place from Africa. He was the first Chinese I’ve hosted ever. During his stay with me, I learned a lot about his culture and way of living and so he about ours. We rode bikes and explored about 8 places and attractions of my city. During his stay with me, I kept on creating events so the other CouchSurfers and travelers of the city were also joining us at different places. So it was all fun and a great experience! ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/921770DB-E380-4B8F-AE2A-97EFC401A0EE.jpg "921770DB-E380-4B8F-AE2A-97EFC401A0EE - Couchsurfing Blog")**Just what CS should be! A true cultural exchange! What about surfing?** The most interesting surfing experience was staying at the place of a city Ambassador of Lahore city who organized a historical Grand National Meetup and a visit to Kartarpur Corridor. That event was attended by more than 200 people. It was a wonderful experience from the comfortable stay at my host’s place to the event itself. I never met such a huge number of couch surfers at a time, with whom I spent all the day and night, Had awesome dinners, lots of interactions, explored the city together and much more. It was a great fun and the most interesting surfing experience of my life. **Wow! 200 people, that is a serious event! What has been a gift you’ve received from a surfer that was especially meaningful?** I was very happy to see a pack of famous black tea from Kenya brought by my Chinese guest (Surfer) who was visiting my city Karachi right after completing his trip in Africa. That was the first gift I’ve got till today and off course I enjoyed it a lot. **If you could host any celebrity, who would it be and why?** Bruce Wills, because my friends says I looks like him especially my eyelids, when I am bald 😉 ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/0601b53b-621b-4a92-8a60-7a523f6cdab6.jpg "0601b53b-621b-4a92-8a60-7a523f6cdab6 - Couchsurfing Blog")**Ha! I can see it!! What is a book that has inspired your travels?** “The Forty Rules of Love” By Elf Shafak, The story of a Wandering Dervish “Shams” for in search of his companion “Rumi” as well as the love of divine. A wonderful tale for It is provocative in the best sense of that term, a rare novel that succeed in illuminating the mystical aspects of daily existence, a novel of intelligence as well as heart, with wisdom that infuses every page. **Sounds very interesting! What is a quote that inspires you?** > Traveling — it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller. > > Ibn Battuta **I’ve never heard that before. That’s beautiful. What is one food from Karachi that everyone needs to try?** Biryani, A mixed rice Indian and Pakistani dish composed of meat, rice, spices and marinade, and can be made in a number of different ways. Besides meat, it can be cooked as vegetable Biryani by adding vegetables instead of meat, mutton or chicken. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/358ce70a-e57c-4280-ac21-5741e3b4b382.jpg "358ce70a-e57c-4280-ac21-5741e3b4b382 - Couchsurfing Blog")**Yum! I am in for any rice dish! What is your go-to Karaoke song?** I love the Spanish song “Bailando – by Enrique Iglesias” **I am a huge Enrique fan, so I totally get that! What is somewhere everyone needs to visit in Karachi?** I would say to go see Empress Market located in Saddar area of Karachi. This will gives you both the past colonial history of Karachi as well as the current markets in surroundings, off course this is the city center too which will connect you to many accessible historical and worthwhile places nearby. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/95ae6597-2dc9-402b-8545-9d793395893c.jpg "95ae6597-2dc9-402b-8545-9d793395893c - Couchsurfing Blog")**Sounds gorgeous. Last question, what is one piece of advice for any new Couchsurfer?** CouchSurfing is not about staying at someone’s place for free. It is more than a unique opportunity to meet new people, explore their towns and cities through the eyes of people who lives there so be always kind and generous to your hosts when you visit them. A little or a small piece of gift to your hosts may lead to a great friendship. Also, always try to find a host who seems more genuine to you by reading their references written by the people stayed with them. On the other hands, if you are a host, it is very important for you to understand how your guests feel when they arrive so always be kind with them too : ) Happy CouchSurfing!! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-habib/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-habib/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Meet an Ambassador --- ### [Turn left: An extraordinary experience](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/turn-left-an-extraordinary-experience/) **Published:** April 1, 2020 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Excerpt:** Read one family's story about discovering Couchsurfing, and how their first surfer showed just how small the world truly is. **Content:** By: [Laurie](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/lhomstad@yahoo.comh) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/49effcdb-411b-45a1-aaf1-300c08054473.jpg "49effcdb-411b-45a1-aaf1-300c08054473 - Couchsurfing Blog")We are in our fifties. We signed up for Couchsurfing for our son to use while he was in college in another state. We decided to host a few young travelers and it turned out they all had something in common. They were all attending a hypnosis conference which is held in our city, so we felt comfortable and knowing the reason for their stay helped us in trusting them. The second surfer, in his twenties, skyped his parents in Mexico City within minutes of his arrival at our place. His parents wanted to meet us and thank us for hosting their son. This was a very reassuring sign, that Carlos was a good person. Both me and my husband got along with Carlos immediately and when he wanted to borrow our bike or needed a ride, we did not hesitate to say yes! I love to be a tour guide of our area and was glad to show Carlos around. He was a planner and had a specific place he wanted to go and have lunch, but the timing was tough and we got to the museum within minutes of it closing. I have never had more fun speed walking, running through three stories and 200,000 square feet in fifteen minutes. We laughed and had so much fun together. Then we drove to the restaurant and this is when the magic/serendipity really happened. Carlos wanted to go to a specific place to eat that he found on Yelp, and when we were at the street light, I very spontaneously said, let’s go to this place over here instead. He questioned my decision and I told him I just had a good feeling it would be good. Sure enough..we found parking right in front and when we opened the door to the restaurant, you could see his eyes light up as he loved the décor. He said it reminded him of his home in Mexico, and then the hostess was taking us to our seats, and we heard from across the room, a young very pretty lady scream at us and said, “Carlos?” and the next thing I knew Carlos was running into the arms of this young lady who was our waitress. Mind you, he had never visited our area ever before. He was shaking, he was so happy and in disbelief that someone would know him so far from home! It turned out they were both college students together at the University in Mexico City. What a SMALL WORLD!! I wish the story ended with them getting married or something cool like that…Nope…but it is just a good story of trusting your intuition when God guides you turn right instead of left…just do it! [![49effcdb-411b-45a1-aaf1-300c08054473](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/49effcdb-411b-45a1-aaf1-300c08054473.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/49effcdb-411b-45a1-aaf1-300c08054473.jpg) ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/turn-left-an-extraordinary-experience/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/turn-left-an-extraordinary-experience/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Stories --- ### [Grounded Nomad's First Time Hosting](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/grounded-nomads-first-time-hosting/) **Published:** March 30, 2020 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Excerpt:** Meet CT and read why he decided to start hosting when he found himself in a new city. **Content:** ##### By: [CT](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/ctweichmann) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/C65F2673-7828-42FC-922D-C28F889C19CB.jpg "C65F2673-7828-42FC-922D-C28F889C19CB - Couchsurfing Blog")LA GraffitiIn May 2018, I was living in Beverly Hills. Having moved recently for a new job that reduced my travel opportunities significantly, life was very insulated. I missed the experiences I had when I was traveling. I remembered that I had signed up for Couchsurfing a couple years prior, and I thought that it might be a fun way to meet new people and gain some travel experiences. I met with my friends and talked with my family in order to discuss the safety factors and all other elements about hosting strangers in my home. Most of my friends could not understand why I would do this. And they were further mystified when I explained I wouldn’t make any money. After much deliberation and prayer, I decided to take the leap. I reactivated my profile and spruced it up with pictures and details. Almost immediately, I received many requests for hosting. After combing through the dozens, I finally settled on a message from two French girls who were visiting LA. I took French in high school, and there is a soft spot in my heart for all things French… I guess I am somewhat of a Francophile. After accepting them, I didn’t know what to do in the meantime. I got my place ready as much as I could. In LA, I had a one-bedroom place, so I made sure I had a queen air mattress. Luckily, the living room was huge and could fit the mattress behind my couch with plenty of space. I spent a lot of time researching the most photogenic spots around LA: graffiti wings, famous signs, cool trees, sunsets, whatever else I could find. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/shutterstock_633629336-1.jpg "shutterstock_633629336-1 - Couchsurfing Blog")Los Angeles [Chones](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Chones) shutterstockFinally, the time had arrived. Louise and Sacha showed up to my place, and I was officially a Couchsurfing host. They were the most perfect guests I could have imagined. We saw the Hollywood stars, palm trees, the Hollywood Sign, and the Beverly Hills fountain. They got to go to Planet Hollywood and it was such a wonderful time. One thing I remember vividly was that I started a playlist on Spotify with the goal of getting international music all into one playlist. They gave me a song that was pretty graphic. Here two of the sweetest, nicest girls I’d met in a while, and yet this song was graphic. When I brought that up, their response was, “We are French.” It was then that I knew they would always be dear in my heart. After they left, I truly missed them. I realized that I loved being a host and tour guide. Since then, I have hosted over 150 people in two different cities. I continue to update my playlist with guests’ favorite songs. I also received an Instax camera for Christmas. I have been taking selfies with my guests here in Austin as my new apartment’s key focal point. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/E24C93FE-423A-42CE-BBA8-E1B10F918C57.jpg "E24C93FE-423A-42CE-BBA8-E1B10F918C57 - Couchsurfing Blog")[![E24C93FE-423A-42CE-BBA8-E1B10F918C57](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/E24C93FE-423A-42CE-BBA8-E1B10F918C57.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/E24C93FE-423A-42CE-BBA8-E1B10F918C57.jpg) [![C65F2673-7828-42FC-922D-C28F889C19CB](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/C65F2673-7828-42FC-922D-C28F889C19CB.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/C65F2673-7828-42FC-922D-C28F889C19CB.jpg) [![shutterstock_633629336-1](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/shutterstock_633629336-1.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/shutterstock_633629336-1.jpg) [![shutterstock_633629336](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/shutterstock_633629336.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/shutterstock_633629336.jpg) [![CT_Sacha_Louise_201806.jpg](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/CT_Sacha_Louise_201806.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/CT_Sacha_Louise_201806.jpg) ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/grounded-nomads-first-time-hosting/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/grounded-nomads-first-time-hosting/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Stories --- ### [A Couchsurfer's guide to... Ankara](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-ankara/) **Published:** March 26, 2020 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Excerpt:** Our Ambassador in Ankara, Turkey tells us his favorite places to help you get the most out of Turkey's charming capital! **Content:** ##### By: [Reshed](https://couchsurfing.page.link/uNEE6rnZD7oMcJGG9) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/shutterstock_1284688273.jpg "shutterstock_1284688273 - Couchsurfing Blog")Ankara Castle [muratart](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/muratart)shutterstockCute cafe! Ankara has many cafes where you can enjoy playing traditional games as well. I recommend you to try “[Farabi Sahnesi](https://www.facebook.com/farabisahnesi/)“. It is a cozy cafe where you can enjoy some theater as well. Best breakfast in town! The Turkish breakfast is very famous, it consists of many plates and dishes. I recommend you to try restaurant called “Liva”. In this place will find many various Turkish breakfast options, it will take you many minutes just to choose. In addition, you will enjoy the service where most of the staff can speak English. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/shutterstock_1129285013.jpg "shutterstock_1129285013 - Couchsurfing Blog")Traditional Turkish breakfast [Gulsen Ozcan](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/gulsenozcan)shutterstockBest place to grab a drink! There are many cool places to have a drink in Ankara. I can recommend you one where is really cheap before 19:00. The bartender can speak English fluently and you will get the chance to taste some really good cocktails too. The bar name is “[No 1 Pub](https://www.facebook.com/NO.1PUB/)“. 1 museum not to miss! The [Museum of Anatolian Civilizations](https://museums.eu/museum/details/16100/museum-of-anatolian-civilizations) won the prize of the best museum in Europe in 2009. It is totally a must-visit museum. You will enjoy seeing how the Anatolian civilizations evolved during more than 3000 years. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/shutterstock_1079616200.jpg "shutterstock_1079616200 - Couchsurfing Blog")[bumihills](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/alabaster)shutterstockWhere to dance! Dancing in Ankara can be a good choice to have fun and enjoy your night. I will recommend you two clubs where you can dance with a great DJ performances. The first one is a pub actually but it has dancing space; it is called “[Riff Pub](https://www.facebook.com/riffankara/)“, the other one is called “[Kite](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298656-d7395955-Reviews-Kite-Ankara.html)” and it is a club where you can enjoy different types of music. The perfect picture! If you love nature and taking pictures, you should visit on of Ankara lakes; “[Mogan](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lake_Mogan) and [Emir](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298656-d10543865-Reviews-Eymir_Lake-Ankara.html) Lakes”. The nature and the forest there are amazing for relaxing and taking some pictures. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/shutterstock_1384567499.jpg "shutterstock_1384567499 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Bilal Kocabas](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/bkocabas)shutterstockA treat-yourself meal! The Turkish cuisine is very famous with grilled dishes, and in this aspect I recommend you to try “ASPAVA” the one in “Anıt Cad”. ASPAVA is a chain of restaurants but the one I suggested is the best. However, if you are vegan or you want to try a very nice and charming restaurant, I can suggest you two; the first one is called “[L’avare](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g298656-d12452902-Reviews-L_avare-Ankara.html)” and it serves amazing dishes from all around the world. The other one is “[Big Chefs in Atakule Tower](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g298656-d13976940-Reviews-Big_Chefs-Ankara.html)“. The last restaurant has amazing view to all Ankara city, also the dishes are amazing. Best view in the city! You can see all the city of Ankara from 3 different places. My first and favorite place is “[Ataküle Tower](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298656-d2619601-Reviews-Atakule-Ankara.html)“. It is easy to access and free to get to the top of the building to see around. The second option is “[Ankara Castle](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ankara_Castle)“. From there you can see all the city from the old town also you can enjoy the visit to the historical castle. The last option is to get to the “[Telefric](https://www.ego.gov.tr/tr/sayfa/1082/teleferik)” and enjoy the ride while watching the city under you. You will pay money for it, but it’s cheaper than a bottle of water. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/shutterstock_1345552157.jpg "shutterstock_1345552157 - Couchsurfing Blog")Ankara Skyline with Atakule tower illuminated [Orhan Cam](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/orhancam)shutterstockWhere to sweat! “[MacFit](https://www.macfit.com.tr/)” gyms are a very famous chain in Ankara. You go to the one in Tunalı if you want to do some sport. It has many coaches who can speak English fluently. You can also try “[Yoga La Yoga](https://www.yogalayoga.com/)” to practice some yoga of course. The coaches there can speak English as well. Historic moment! [Ankara Castle](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ankara_Castle) and the area of “[Hamamönü](https://www.goturkey.com/destinations/hamamonu)” are the oldest places in the city. It is definitely worthy to visit them as they show the old culture of the city. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/shutterstock_1423120301.jpg "shutterstock_1423120301 - Couchsurfing Blog")Charming old part of Ankara [yilmazsavaskandag](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/yilmazsavaskandag)shutterstockBest street food! The best place to try street food is to go to the city center especially at night. In “Karanfil” street in the city center has numerous options to try. Best day-trip out of town! The suburbs of Ankara are more famous than the city itself. I recommend you to visit the areas around the city of you have plenty of time. You should see the areas of [Beypazarı](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Beypazar%C4%B1,_Ankara), [Kızılcahamam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/K%C4%B1z%C4%B1lcahamam) and [Salt lake](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lake_Tuz). ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/shutterstock_1465558553.jpg "shutterstock_1465558553 - Couchsurfing Blog")Lake Tuz [Naeblys](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/vampy1)shutterstockA tourist trap to avoid! Try to avoid the bars in the city center. Although they may sound cheap, the quality of the drinks are very disappointing. Family fun! Ankara has the largest amusement park in all Europe. It is called “[Eurasia Park](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298656-d16874424-Reviews-Wonderland_Eurasia-Ankara.html)” or Wonderland. It is a huge area with many themes, games and fun. You can also visit “[Gençlik Park](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298656-d2691590-Reviews-Genclik_Park-Ankara.html)” to enjoy a green land and some fun games. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/shutterstock_1357139813.jpg "shutterstock_1357139813 - Couchsurfing Blog")Wonderland Park Eurasia [Bilal Kocabas](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/bkocabas)shutterstock### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-ankara/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-ankara/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Guides --- ### [Museums open their virtual doors](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/museums-open-their-virtual-doors/) **Published:** March 22, 2020 **Author:** Mike Joy **Excerpt:** Stuck indoors? Check out the world's most famous museums online! **Content:** With many museums and theaters closed to the public, now is the perfect time to check out the online galleries and videos of some of the world’s most famous homes of Arts and Culture. Here are a few of the famous sites that are offering online galleries, virtual tours or streaming videos. Louvre Museum (Paris, France) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/shutterstock_1406439509.jpg "shutterstock_1406439509 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Bist](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Bist)shutterstockCheck out the [virtual tours](https://www.louvre.fr/en/visites-en-ligne) of some of the Louvre’s galleries or see [this list ](https://www.louvre.fr/en/media-en-ligne)of videos available on the Louvre’s site. Metropolitan Museum of Art (New York City, USA) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/shutterstock_1147747199.jpg "shutterstock_1147747199 - Couchsurfing Blog")[BiksuTong](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/BiksuTong)shutterstock[The Met 360](https://www.metmuseum.org/art/online-features/met-360-project) offers, well, 360 degree views of some of its most famous galleries. State Hermitage Museum (Saint Petersburg, Russia) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/shutterstock_296419574.jpg "shutterstock_296419574 - Couchsurfing Blog")[dimbar76](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/dimbar76)shutterstockThe State Hermitage Museum has a [full virtual tour](https://www.hermitagemuseum.org/wps/portal/hermitage/panorama/!ut/p/z1/04_Sj9CPykssy0xPLMnMz0vMAfIjo8zi_R0dzQyNnQ28LMJMzA0cLR09XLwCDUyd3Mz0w8EKDHAARwP9KGL041EQhd_4cP0oVCv8Pb2BJviHmHr4-4c5GzmbQBXgMaMgNzTCINNREQAJ272H/dz/d5/L2dBISEvZ0FBIS9nQSEh/?lng=en) of the museum or you can watch [this video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_MU73rsL9qE) on youtube for a complete 5 hour walk through. Uffizi Gallery (Florence, Italy) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/shutterstock_203451493.jpg "shutterstock_203451493 - Couchsurfing Blog")[T photography](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Katsuyoshi+Tanaka)shutterstockCheck out the Uffizi Gallery’s [digital archives](https://www.uffizi.it/en/pages/digital-archives) which are complete with photos, artwork catalogues and drawing databases. The British Museum (London, England) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/shutterstock_1229132131.jpg "shutterstock_1229132131 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Alex Segre](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/alexsegre)shutterstockThe British Museum has more than 60 galleries [free online](https://www.britishmuseum.org/collection/galleries) and [virtual tours](https://www.britishmuseum.org/collection/galleries/prints-and-drawings-virtual-gallery) available for some collections. Guggenheim Museum (New York City, USA) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/shutterstock_675369121.jpg "shutterstock_675369121 - Couchsurfing Blog")[ItzaVU](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/ItzaVU)shutterstockBrowse the [online galleries](https://www.guggenheim.org/artwork/site/solomon-r-guggenheim-museum) of the Guggenheim. Dalí Theater-Museum (Figueres, Spain): ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/shutterstock_196896461.jpg "shutterstock_196896461 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Vladimir Sazonov](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/sazonoff)shutterstockThe Dalí Theatre-Museum has a [full virtual visit](https://www.salvador-dali.org/en/museums/dali-theatre-museum-in-figueres/visita-virtual/) available. Bolshoi Theater (Moscow, Russia): ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/shutterstock_1422218621.jpg "shutterstock_1422218621 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Milosz Maslanka](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/miloszmaslanka)shutterstockThe Bolshoi Theatre has [live relays](https://www.bolshoi.ru/en/about/relays/) of their ballet performances online. Opera ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/shutterstock_1032649720.jpg "shutterstock_1032649720 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Igor Bulgarin](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/bulgarin)shutterstockOperaWire has a [complete list ](https://operawire.com/a-comprehensive-list-of-all-opera-companies-offering-free-streaming-services-right-now/)of all opera companies that are offering free streaming services. Google Arts & Culture ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/shutterstock_341615756.jpg "shutterstock_341615756 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Christian Mueller](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/chris64)shutterstockIt may not be a museum, but Google has [vast online galleries](https://artsandculture.google.com/) of everything from street art to the international space station to Gustav Klimt. #### Is your favorite museum offering virtual tours or online galleries? Tell us in the comments! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/museums-open-their-virtual-doors/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/museums-open-their-virtual-doors/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Advice --- ### [10 Questions with a CS Ambassador: Agus](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-agus/) **Published:** March 23, 2020 **Author:** Mike Joy **Excerpt:** Meet Agus, our Couchsurfing Ambassador in Bangkok. **Content:** ##### Name: [Agus](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/agusprianto111) City: Bangkok Years on Couchsurfing: 7 ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/a4fb7fbd-5723-4935-b17d-99a24e6e4222.jpg "a4fb7fbd-5723-4935-b17d-99a24e6e4222 - Couchsurfing Blog")Agus in Da Nang**Hey Agus! Tell us why you got involved with Couchsurfing…** When I did my very first trip abroad, I knew I had to be more outgoing and open, I love traveling and having a moment in every trip is what I cherish. So far CS has always been one of my main ways to be able to meet the real people and to create a timeless memories. Mostly I participate by hosting people, surfing, organizing meetups, or attending local event organized by fellow CSer. **Amazing. And what was your first CS experience?** It was in Porto during one of my business trips, for the very first time I decided to throw myself into a group of strangers and ended up hanging out with them again the next day, and almost every night that week. Until on my last night before my flight to Madrid, one of the members invited me for another hangout the next day which I had to decline. When they found out that I was leaving the next day early morning, everyone decided to not let me go sober, so we ended up bar hopping and partying around the city. That was the first time I felt so welcomed and that’s the moment that made me decide to re-establish the CS community in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/7906f169-92cc-4250-92dc-db5d01d69022.jpg "7906f169-92cc-4250-92dc-db5d01d69022 - Couchsurfing Blog")Agus with some Couchsurfers**That is a great first experience! So what has been your favorite surfing experience?** When I had a trip to Vietnam. My host picked me up when I arrived, and we immediately explored the city, trying the delicious Vietnamese coconut coffee, local Vietnamese food, trying many Local Vietnamese experiences, beers and so on and so on. We never spent a day without doing anything fun and memorable. The day I have to leave and head to Hanoi, he dropped me to the airport and stayed until my check in time opened. **Aw! I love a good host who really takes the time to show you their city. What is the coolest gift you’ve received as a host?** One of them was when I hosted 3 people from Lithuania, after their stay they told me that they are actually artists in Lithuania and they wanted me to have their just released CD. We, becoming friends on Facebook, and that’s how I know they are actually on a Lithuanian National TV show. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/70c5bbe0-03c0-499f-abfd-1b78457b19d9.jpg "70c5bbe0-03c0-499f-abfd-1b78457b19d9 - Couchsurfing Blog")**So you hosted celebrities! Cool! What is your favorite quote that inspires you?** > Earth has music for those who listen. **What has been the craziest thing that has happened to you while traveling?** I was robbed once by a stranger when I was in Alexandria, Egypt. It somehow changed my mood and made me cautious and anxious. Fortunately, the next day a CS friend invite me to visit some places in the city, and the day after I was invited to enjoy a really authentic and traditional Beduin meal a little bit outside of Alexandria. Those unpleasant experiences from the first day was washed out quickly by all of the amazing people I met the next day. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/440aa775-81d9-4187-b6a2-9a21fe126b48.jpg "440aa775-81d9-4187-b6a2-9a21fe126b48 - Couchsurfing Blog")**I’m so sorry that happened! But so glad to hear a Couchsurfer made it a little better. So what is one food we all need to try next time we come to Thailand?** That will be a Green curry with noodle, it spicy but it is super delicious! or Mango sticky rice yumm! **I’ve had it and it is delicious! So what is your go-to Karaoke song?** We are the champion – Queen **Classic. So what is the one place all travelers need to go to in Bangkok?** Wat Arun at day time and at night time. There are so many temples in Thailand, as well as Bangkok. But personally I will recommend only few to get the whole idea of how temple is in Bangkok. Wat Arun is one of them, the design and the color is amazing at day time and the lighting is gorgeous at night if you enjoy it from any spot opposite of the river (better if you book a spot in one of the coffee shops or rooftop restaurants opposite of Wat Arun). ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/shutterstock_661831759.jpg "shutterstock_661831759 - Couchsurfing Blog")Wat Arun [saiko3p](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/saiko3p)shutterstock**It is gorgeous! Very true. What is one thing you never go on a trip without doing?** Posting a public trip in Couchsurfing. **Love that. And lastly, what is your advice to new Couchsurfers?** Be yourself, be as open as possible but still have a common respectful attitude towards other human. And complete your profile information before contacting other members! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-agus/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-agus/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Meet an Ambassador --- ### [A Couchsurfer's guide to... Kolkata](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-kolkata/) **Published:** March 19, 2020 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Excerpt:** Our CS Ambassador in Kolkata, Viv, gives us his favorite places and must-see foods for your next visit to Kolkata! **Content:** ##### By: [Viv](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/viv-sarkar) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/shutterstock_776856460.jpg "shutterstock_776856460 - Couchsurfing Blog")Panaroma of Kolkata [Mazur Travel](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/mazzzur)shutterstockBest Breakfast in town! First and most important travel tip in Kolkata… Try the local food! Over the years the city has seen people from different cultures coming and settling down here, bringing their own cuisine. The locals have a special love for food, making Kolkata a food lovers paradise with a lot of diverse option. [Tiretti Bazaar](https://www.indiatimes.com/culture/food/open-at-5am-tiretti-bazaar-in-kolkata-is-a-paradise-for-every-authentic-chinese-food-lover-321337.html) (near Central metro) is by far the most popular breakfast market where locals go to have some early morning Tibetan breakfast. It starts at 5am (yes we do start early) and finishes by 9am where you can try delicious dumplings, breaded pork chops, rice and sesame seed sweet balls, roasted pork sausages and a host of Tibetan delicacies. However, if this feels too early for you, you can always visit anyone of the numerous sweet shops in the north of the city and try the local breakfast ‘[kochuri-sabji with jilipi](http://www.thebeaconkolkata.co.in/kolkata-kochuri-kachori/)‘ Historic moment! While in Kolkata do visit the [Indian Coffee House](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indian_Coffee_House) near College Street. This legendary coffee place has been running for centuries and renowned writer, poets, artists, freedom fighters used to come here to practice their art or discuss with their peers over a cup of coffee. The place still holds the old Calcutta vibe where locals across all age group meet in the evening for a cup of coffee over a cigarette to discuss about various topics of day to day life from politics to sports. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/shutterstock_767482495.jpg "shutterstock_767482495 - Couchsurfing Blog")Indian Coffee House [Mazur Travel](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/mazzzur)shutterstockBest place to grab a drink! My personal favorite is [Broadway Bar](https://www.tripadvisor.com/LocationPhotoDirectLink-g304558-d1154434-i436139021-Broadway_Hotel-Kolkata_Calcutta_Kolkata_District_West_Bengal.html). Located conveniently close to the Chadni Chowk metro station it is one of the oldest traditional Kolkata Bar which sees a host of local crowd along all age groups assembling for a drink every evening. [Olypub](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g304558-d1958118-Reviews-Olypub_Bar_and_Restaurant-Kolkata_Calcutta_Kolkata_District_West_Bengal.html) in Park Street is also quite popular among locals which does have a similar old Calcutta feel. Both these joints serve tasty appetizers as well and are pocket friendly . Among slightly more expensive options, [Monkey Bar](https://www.facebook.com/monkeybarkol/) is definitely the best place to go which does have innovative cocktails, good food, great music and a very nice view of the city. You can also explore places like [Uno Chicago Bar](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g304558-d15595217-Reviews-Uno_Chicago_Bar_Grill-Kolkata_Calcutta_Kolkata_District_West_Bengal.html) and [Whats Up Cafe](https://www.zomato.com/kolkata/whats-up-southern-avenue/menu) if you don’t mind going a bit farther from the city center Where to sweat! [Maidan](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maidan_(Kolkata))! It’s the huge central park, right at the heart of the city. Visit it for a jog or a even maybe participate in a game football with the locals who assemble there every afternoon to play their favorite sport. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/shutterstock_1626047683.jpg "shutterstock_1626047683 - Couchsurfing Blog")Maidan Park with Victoria Memorial [Sudip Biswas07](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/SUDIP_BISWAS)shutterstockWhere to dance! Clubs in Kolkata are expensive and have an entrance fee ranging from $20 to $50 (can go up to $100 on special days) so personally I prefer visiting place like [10 Downing Street](https://10ds.in/10-downing-street-kolkata/) or [The Grid](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g304558-d10692700-Reviews-The_GRID-Kolkata_Calcutta_Kolkata_District_West_Bengal.html) which are pubs with good music and a floor to dance. Among clubs [Phoenix Bar n Club](https://www.eazydiner.com/kolkata/phoenix-bar-n-club-the-astor-hotel-elgin-644168) and [Roxy](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g304558-d4548347-Reviews-Roxy_The_Park-Kolkata_Calcutta_Kolkata_District_West_Bengal.html) are places which does have all the necessities to dance your way through out the night. Best street food! Ahh finally ! This is what Kolkata is famous for, and there are so many places on my mind. [Mitra Cafe](https://www.zomato.com/kolkata/mitra-cafe-golpark) is definitely the place you must visit if you are looking for street food. Try their Egg Devil . If you can handle spices, you can try Fish Kabiraji and Mutton Afghani as well. In Kolkata you would definitely encounter with the famous Kolkata Rolls! Do try Rolls at [Nizam’s](https://www.zomato.com/kolkata/nizams-new-market-area) (they were the inventor of the Rolls) or [Kusums](https://www.zomato.com/kolkata/kusum-rolls-park-street-area) in Park Street. For vegetarian/vegan options you can try the local croquette locally known as ‘chop’ or ‘telebhaja’. Priced about 5 to 10 cents, you will find a host of small vendors selling them in the evening especially in Central and North Kolkata. Head to Surya Sen Street in the evening and find Kalika’s there, the most famous ‘telebhaja’ eating placing in the city. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/shutterstock_210540235.jpg "shutterstock_210540235 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Radiokafka](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/radiokafka)shutterstockA treat-yourself meal! [Mocambo](https://www.nytimes.com/2008/08/31/travel/31bites.html)! Hands Down! This place is running for decades and maintains the same consistency when comes to the quality of food and provides a brilliant fine dine experience. Only drawback is, it usually has a waiting time especially in the evening and weekends. Other options can be [Saffron Tree](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g304558-d15089271-Reviews-The_Saffron_Tree-Kolkata_Calcutta_Kolkata_District_West_Bengal.html) or [Spice Kraft](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g304558-d11965641-Reviews-Spice_Kraft-Kolkata_Calcutta_Kolkata_District_West_Bengal.html) which offers brilliant experimental dishes inspired from different world cuisines on their menu. Best view in the city! Take a ferry ride from [Babughat](https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g304558-i7263-k11684693-Howrah_Babughat_Ferry_Service-Kolkata_Calcutta_Kolkata_District_West_Bengal.html) towards Howrah in the evening along the river. As the sun sets and the city lights light up , you will definitely enjoy a spectacular view of the city’s iconic [Howrah Bridge](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Howrah_Bridge) and the [Vidyasagar Setu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vidyasagar_Setu) (bridge) from the ferry with the city in the backdrop ! ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/shutterstock_1450380323.jpg "shutterstock_1450380323 - Couchsurfing Blog")Vidyasagar Setu at sunset [Hari Mahidhar](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Hari+Mahidhar)shutterstockCute cafe! [Raj’s Spanish Cafe](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g304558-d4559380-Reviews-Raj_Spanish_Cafe-Kolkata_Calcutta_Kolkata_District_West_Bengal.html) is located right at the heart of the city in Sudder Street and does see a lot backpackers assembling there for a cup of coffee, or a quick bite. I personally like visiting this place sometimes for a cup of Honey Lemon Ginger Tea after a tiring day at work. Family fun! [Eco Park](https://ecoparknewtown.com/) is perfect place for an outing with family. A bit off the city center this huge park has miniature versions of the 7 wonders of the world and you can have perfect time cycling around, boating and play some sport if you would like. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/shutterstock_1347014768.jpg "shutterstock_1347014768 - Couchsurfing Blog")Eco Park [Sudhakar Bisen](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Sudhakar+Bisen)shutterstockWhere to find the local delicacy! Seriously! Don’t miss out on the local Bengali cuisine. It is by far the most complex cuisine I know off and takes hours to prepare. And when it comes to eating, the food is served and consumed in a particular order (least spicy to most spicy). A typical lunch comprises of an array of vegetarian and non vegetarian dishes, the most famous of all is the fish more specifically river fish which is the main diet of the people here. Their no alternative to a home made ‘maacher jhol’ (fish curry). So the best place to try is at your Couchsurfers place 😛 , although places like [6 Ballygunje Place](https://6ballygungeplace.in/) and [Kasturi](https://www.zomato.com/kolkata/kasturi-restaurant-new-market-area) do serve delicious authentic Bengali cusine. For trying out the famous Bengali Sweets, visit [Balaram](https://www.balarammullick.com/) and [Radharam Mullick](https://www.balarammullick.com/) or the [Mishti Hub](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mishti_Hub) near Eco Park. One experience not to miss! [Durga Puja](https://www.tripsavvy.com/durga-puja-festival-essential-guide-1539246)! Not only in Kolkata, but if you have plans to visit India don’t miss out on Durga Puja experience in Kolkata. As a city Kolkata is known for its love for its art, food and culture. And all of this comes together in one place during Durga Puja, the main festival of the city. It is often referred as the largest public art display on the planet and is celebrated for a span 5 days during late September early October. The entire city is filled with thousands of art installations, illuminated with brilliant lights and people are out on the street through out the night celebrating. While you have probably heard about Indian festivals like Holi, Diwali etc, Durga Puja is our best kept secret! ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/shutterstock_1181867125.jpg "shutterstock_1181867125 - Couchsurfing Blog")Durga Puja [Rudra Narayan Mitra](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Rudra+Narayan+Mitra)shutterstockA tourist trap to avoid! Although its not a tourist trap, but I would suggest avoid visiting the museums by paying $7-$8 which is 10 times more than Indians. Although the museums have a better collection compared to other Indian museums but if you have already visited museums in Europe it has nothing new to offer. Last piece of advice… Kolkata is a leisurely city, best experienced on foot. Walk through the narrow lanes of Kolkata to visit places like [Kumartuli](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kumortuli) (the idolmakers lane), [College Street](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/College_Street_(Kolkata)) (one of the largest book market), [Dalhousie Square](https://www.wmf.org/project/dalhousie-square) etc. to experience Kolkata at its best. And if you feel a bit tired, hop on the vintage trams of Kolkata which reminds of the city’s colonial past. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/shutterstock_1312652225.jpg "shutterstock_1312652225 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Yavuz Sariyildiz](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Yavuz+Sariyildiz)shutterstock### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-kolkata/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-kolkata/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Guides --- ### [The Birth of the Couchsurfing Messiah](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-birth-of-the-couchsurfing-messiah/) **Published:** March 3, 2020 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** #### By: [Jonathan Doyle](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/jonathan_d) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/11222498_10152960229042333_6567082802390075122_o.jpg "11222498_10152960229042333_6567082802390075122_o.jpg - Couchsurfing Blog")It was 2013, and the world was full of possibilities. I had set my life on a new and fresh course and was ready to travel the world. First stop, New York City. It was one month before my trip, and I started looking at hotel prices in Manhattan. I knew that wasn’t going to work on my budget, so I began googling. That’s when I stumbled across this site called Couchsurfing. It looked way too good to be legitimate. Rewind a month and a half. I had completely tweaked my back and couldn’t get away from the pain except to walk. That’s when I tweaked my foot and couldn’t walk. So I found a solution. I signed up for a three day trial membership to a gym that had an indoor pool. Problem solved. Walking in water was good for back and foot. And they had a hot tub! That’s where I met Alexandra. I knew something was unusual about her. She was alive! I wanted whatever she had. But I didn’t see her in the gym again. The elderly Russian woman who had seen us talking in the hot tub would tell me I should find her again. No luck. Fastforward again to May 2013 and me digging through the Couchsurfing website, skeptical but curious. And there she was. Alexandra. She had a profile on Couchsurfing. That’s when the bells and whistles began to go off in my head. I sent her several ecstatic messages and hoped for the best. And I signed up for an account. Immediately I put in for some hosts in NYC. Then I went off to the gym, and who did I see for the first time in a month and a half? I ran up to Alexandra (she told me later she thought I was weird) and spilled the whole story. She became the first of many amazing friends I’ve met in the Couchsurfing community. I ended up realizing I needed a few references to find a host in Manhattan. One kind person suggested that I go to local events to earn references. So I looked at the events listed in my area and found that they all occurred after my trip was scheduled. I knew I had to do something, so I created the first of many *Eat Up* events and personally invited over 50 locals. I had six references in a week and made many more new friends. I ended up staying in New York for four days, staying with two hosts. One I still visit every time I head to the city. The trip was a life changing trip, and I continued creating, assisting, and hosting local and regional events like the Charleston Beach Crash, the Greenville Lake Crash, and the Cozy Crash. At one of the events someone labeled me the Couchsurfing Messiah, and I guess the name fit. It’s been a wild ride. I’m now in a busy time of life, but I’m coming back soon. Save a seat for me, and y’all have fun! ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/ImageJonathan.jpeg "ImageJonathan - Couchsurfing Blog")#### This story was written and submitted by a member of the Couchsurfing Community. All user submitted stories are reviewed by the Couchsurfing Community Team. All views, opinions and experiences expressed are solely those of the author. Posts may be edited for clarity or length. [![ImageJonathan](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/ImageJonathan.jpeg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/ImageJonathan.jpeg) [![11222498_10152960229042333_6567082802390075122_o.jpg](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/11222498_10152960229042333_6567082802390075122_o.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/11222498_10152960229042333_6567082802390075122_o.jpg) ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-birth-of-the-couchsurfing-messiah/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-birth-of-the-couchsurfing-messiah/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Stories --- ### [10 films to satisfy your travel itch](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-films-to-satisfy-your-travel-itch/) **Published:** March 17, 2020 **Author:** Mike Joy **Excerpt:** A well made movie can transport you to a different place, time and body. Here are our picks for 10 films that will transport you to your dream travel destination and satisfy that wanderlust, at least for a little bit. **Content:** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/shutterstock_714806110.jpg "shutterstock_714806110 - Couchsurfing Blog")Matamata New Zealand filming site of Lord of the Rings [Blue Planet Studio](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/BiancoBlue85)shutterstockA well made movie can transport you to a different place, time and body. Titanic brought us to the middle of the freezing Atlantic Ocean, Avatar to the jungles of Pandora, and The Hunger Games to Panem. Here are our picks for 10 films that will transport you to your dream travel destination and satisfy that wanderlust, at least for a little bit. [Paris, je t’aime](https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/paris_je_taime) **Destination**: Paris **Plot**: 18 stories, 18 directors, 18 casts – 1 theme: Love in Paris. **Mike’s review**: An eternal movie for the eternal city. These 12 small (non-intersecting!) stories will give you 18 different love stories from the city of love. Every time I get a little nostalgic for Paris, I turn this on and fall a little more in love with Gaspard Ulliel Paris. [Where’d You Go, Bernadette](https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/whered_you_go_bernadette) **Destination**: Antarctica (and Seattle a little bit) **Plot**: Bernadette disappears. Where’d she go? Why’d she leave? Well the destination above gives you a clue… but watch and find out why! **Mike’s review**: I watched this on a plane because there was little else I wanted to see and immediately fell in love. Cate Blanchett is incredible and the scenery from Antarctica made me want to buy a ticket on one of the prohibitively expensive cruises, like, yesterday! [Zodiac](https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/zodiac) **Destination**: San Francisco **Plot**: A serial killer taunts authorities by sending coded messages to be printed in the San Francisco Chronicle. **Mike’s review:** Is it a weird choice for travel inspiration as it centers on a serial killer? Maybe. But the crimes were so long ago that you are unlikely to be his next target, and the film really does trace all around San Francisco and the Bay Area in a quite gorgeous way. And look, not everyone draws inspiration from romance movies – thrillers can be just as inspirational for travel lovers! [The Lord of the Rings](https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/the_lord_of_the_rings_the_fellowship_of_the_ring) **Destination**: New Zealand **Plot**: I will not even try to summarize the plot of the trilogy. Let’s just say it is epic and if you haven’t seen it – now is the time. **Mike’s review**: I mean, again, I can’t review a 9 hour trilogy – but what I will say, is this film showcases New Zealand’s scenery in a way that can only be described as breathtaking. I believe it is mostly from the South Island, and should not be missed in anyone’s lifetime. [Atonement](https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/atonement) **Destination**: The English Countryside (and a little bit Dunkirk) **Plot**: Where to begin. A young girl sees something happen between her sister and the son of the housekeeper. Thinking she understands it and her sister is in danger, she accuses him of a crime and begins a chain of events that ends tragically for everyone involved. **Mike’s review**: A gorgeous movie set in the ever-lovely English Countryside, Atonement will bring you from lakes to manors to London to Dunkirk and back again. The Dunkirk part may only be one incredible (and incredibly long) scene, but it is, in my opinion, the most gorgeous shot in all of cinema and this film is easily one of my top 5 of all time. [The Motorcycle Diaries](https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/the_motorcycle_diaries) **Destination**: South America **Plot**: Based on the diary of Ernesto ‘Che’ Guevarra, a young Che takes a trip through South America with his friend and motorcycle. What he witnesses heavily influences his political views and the direction his life takes. **Mike’s review**: Gael Garcia Bernal can do no wrong. And if you want to see him embody the legendary Che Guevara while exploring the incredible landscapes of South America on motorcycle, then this is your film. [Call Me By Your Name](https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/call_me_by_your_name) **Destination**: Northern Italy **Plot**: A boy falls in love with a graduate student staying with his family at their Italian summer home. Based on the book of the same name, the movie captures young love amidst the Italian countryside so beautifully **Mike’s review**: If you want to immediately fall in love with the landscape of Northern Italy and dream of summers in the countryside, then this is your movie. I can’t say enough about Call Me By Your Name, but it launched the career of Timothée Chalamet which is a gift in and of itself. [The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel](https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/the_best_exotic_marigold_hotel_2012) **Destination**: India (no specific city is mentioned… but they fly into Delhi) **Plot**: A group of retirees are lured to a gorgeous hotel in India to spend their golden years on a new adventure. The hotel is not quite what it is advertised to be, the experiences is not what they expected, but the journey they take is truly magical. **Mike’s review**: This is the feel-good movie of feel-good movies. If you’ve been to India, you will be nostalgic to return and if you haven’t – well you will get to adjust to it just like the cast of golden-years Brits do. [La La Land](https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/la_la_land) **Destination**: Los Angeles **Plot**: 2 people, chasing their dreams in Los Angeles, fall in love. But can their love survive the difficulties that come in the city of dreams? **Mike’s review**: Sure, it paints modern day Los Angeles in an overly sympathetic light; but it truly is a beautiful movie about two people trying to make it in La La Land. Warning: it is a musical, which many people for some reason don’t realize – but don’t let that deter you it will not only make you want to visit LA, but quit your job, get a studio apartment and make it big. ***editors note: please do not do that*** [Eat Pray Love](https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/eat_pray_love) **Destination**: Rome, India (Pataudi to be specific) and Bali **Plot**: A woman, fresh off a divorce and mid-life crisis takes a year journey to three cities. One focusing on food (Rome), one focusing on meditation and prayer (an Ashram in India) and one where she finds love again (not the goal, but the result – Bali) **Mike’s review**: I mean, put Julia Roberts in a room talking to a blank wall and I am in – but this movie so beautifully captures each place that it is a mainstay on any ‘movies to inspire wanderlust’. You will fall in love with each place as deeply as she did and probably start researching your next trip immediately. #### What movie transports you to a different world and shows the beauty of another country? Comment below! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-films-to-satisfy-your-travel-itch/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-films-to-satisfy-your-travel-itch/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Featured, Stories --- ### [Baja California Norte: The undiscovered California](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/baja-california-norte-the-undiscovered-california/) **Published:** December 17, 2019 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Excerpt:** Just south of the US-Mexico border, this beautiful wine country is finally getting the recognition it deserves. **Content:** #### **By:** [**Kaitlyn Urrutia**](https://www.instagram.com/kaiturrutia/)**. Kaitlyn is a Los Angeles native who travels often and has been a Couchsurfing member since 2017. She has been visiting Baja California with her family since she was a child.** ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/shutterstock_290304575-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C665&ssl=1 "shutterstock_290304575 - Couchsurfing Blog")By [Gustavo Frazao](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/gustavofrazao)shutterstockSouthern California is as well-known for its nearly year-round balmy climate as it is for its road-trip-ability. Californians pride themselves on the multitude of landscapes at their fingertips. With an endless amount of weekend getaway options, from the pool-filled oasis of Palm Springs to the sandy beaches of Santa Barbara, California’s neighbors to the south are too often overlooked. The Mexican state of Baja California begins where San Diego ends, just beyond the USA’s southern border. From scrumptious dollar tacos to upscale wineries (at half the price of US wineries!), you will not regret this little jaunt into Mexico. Just make sure you remember your passport as the states may share a name but are most definitely different countries! **Rosarito** ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/shutterstock_1194479689-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "shutterstock_1194479689 - Couchsurfing Blog")Coastal views as you drive towards Rosarito by [Priscilia Salinas](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/prisciliasalinas)shutterstockTake the scenic route from the San Ysidro border in San Diego down the 1D, Mexico’s answer to the Pacific Coast Highway, it’s unobstructed views rival those in Big Sur and Malibu. Make your first stop a small coastal resort town of Rosarito. Once a hugely popular party town, first catering to Hollywood elite in the mid-1900’s then to rowdy college students from San Diego, nowadays it’s a better spot to feast, shop, and stroll in the daylight. Try the local’s cash-only [Tacos El Paisano](https://www.google.com/maps/uv?hl=en&pb=!1s0x80d931c0208d8d97%3A0xbe28e49b9b540ba2!3m1!7e115!4shttps%3A%2F%2Flh5.googleusercontent.com%2Fp%2FAF1QipPf030E3EJw4bxy9Zppq6WNk6YSW7g2vIpMogX9%3Dw260-h175-n-k-no!5stacos%20el%20paisano%20-%20Google%20Search!15sCAESAggC&imagekey=!1e10!2sAF1QipOIagC_DhYdoh6vArI0twt5n2X9JA5m_h4xaamS), my family visited the area every summer growing up and the weeks-long strict taco-only diet from this no-frills spot is a formative part of my upbringing. The tacos run between $1-$2, making it an easily under $5 lunch. Cross the street to the west for a market that’s touristy at first glance but full of hidden Mexican-made gems, think painted pottery, handwoven textiles, and of course, the illustrious opportunity to get your hair braided. **Puerto Nuevo** ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/ceviche-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "ceviche - Couchsurfing Blog")Baja style fish ceviche tostada by [alberto cervantes](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/albertocc311)shutterstockContinue your journey to the Fishing Village of Puerto Nuevo. At first glance, the entire town could seem like a tourist trap. However, with your first bite of ceviche, you’ll realize you’re in seafood heaven. Whole fresh-caught lobsters go for around $20 at many of the restaurants in this seaside town. Seafood lovers should consider spending a full day here, you can plan to lie on the beach between meals or grabbing cocktails at one of the many rooftop spots overlooking the Pacific. **Roadside Taco Break** ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/BajaCarneAsadaTacos.jpg?fit=1024%2C740&ssl=1 "BajaCarneAsadaTacos - Couchsurfing Blog")Baja style Carne Asada Tacos by [VG Foto](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/vicy)shutterstockOn a stretch of road between Puerto Nuevo and Valle De Guadalupe lies the best taco spot I’ve ever been to in all my taco-eating years. It’s called [Taquería El Trailero](https://www.yelp.com/biz/taquer%C3%ADa-el-trailero-ensenada) and has 10+ types of excellently marinated and freshly grilled meats to choose from that run for about $1 USD each. While they offer a variety of things beyond tacos, the tacos are so good that I’ve never even considered a torta or tostada. The usual suspects of a great taco are all here: fire-kissed homemade tortillas, a smattering of cilantro and onions, and creamy Baja-style guacamole. What makes it truly special is they’re also topped with expertly flavored salsa, charcoal-grilled spring onions, perfectly pickled red onions, and robust pinto beans to boot. If your mouth isn’t watering right now, sorry, I simply cannot relate. **Valle De Guadalupe** ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/shutterstock_1367739680-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "shutterstock_1367739680 - Couchsurfing Blog")Valle de Guadalupe welcome sign by [hotzone](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/marquez)shutterstockValle de Guadalupe or “The Napa of the South,” said potentially no one ever, but I would argue endlessly with anyone who disagrees. It’s a great place to hang your hat and enjoy a few days of serene wine tasting with sweeping vineyard views, there are a plethora of affordable boutique hotels, Airbnb’s and couches to be surfed. Wine tastings in this region run from about $8-$12 USD. Incredible meals and snacks cost at about half of what you’d find at an upscale winery in California, approx. $25 for two courses and a drink. Visit instagram-worthy spots like campestre-styled [Finca Altozano](http://fincaltozano.com/), modern tempranillo-specialized [Clos de Tres Cantos](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g499403-d9974273-Reviews-Clos_de_Tres_Cantos-Valle_de_Guadalupe_Ensenada_Municipality_Baja_California.html), or oak tree-shaded [Casa Magoni](https://casamagoni.com/) to taste the best wines from the region. Ubers are plentiful in this area (while not true of all parts of Baja) and somehow operate at prices that don’t seem real, (15-minute rides cost around $2 USD – so tip your driver!) ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/shutterstock_784818346-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "shutterstock_784818346 - Couchsurfing Blog")Vineyard in Valle de Guadalupe by [Sherry V Smith](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/sherry+v+smith)shutterstockBaja California Norte has long been neglected both by visitors to California and to Mexico as a whole. However, those days are now behind Baja California Norte. With some of the best food in the country, wineries that rivals it’s neighbor to the north, and seafood at prices that make you order seconds – it is definitely time to plan your next trip just south of the border. Why not add it to your next California road trip? But remember, passports required! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/baja-california-norte-the-undiscovered-california/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/baja-california-norte-the-undiscovered-california/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Advice **Tags:** baja california, california, ceviche, ensenada, puerto nuevo, road trip, rosarito, Southern California, tacos, taqueria, valle de guadalupe, vineyard, wine tasting, winery --- ### [5 ways to use Couchsurfing without leaving your home](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/5-ways-to-use-couchsurfing-at-home/) **Published:** March 16, 2020 **Author:** Mike Joy **Excerpt:** Couchsurfing is a vibrant community, both on and off line. During this time of limiting social interactions, discover the amazing ways Couchsurfing connects people online! **Content:** During this time, it is extremely important to practice ‘[social distancing](https://hub.jhu.edu/2020/03/13/what-is-social-distancing/)‘ and limit in-person interactions. Since this includes travel, you may be thinking that there is no reason to login to Couchsurfing. However, during a time where social interaction is limited – there is no better time to involve yourself with the online communities that Couchsurfing maintains. Here are some ways to e-meet other travelers (and locals!) while respecting quarantine and keeping everyone in your community safe. 1\. Jump into [groups](https://www.couchsurfing.com/groups) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Screen-Shot-2020-03-16-at-9.01.47-AM.png "Screen-Shot-2020-03-16-at-9.01.47-AM - Couchsurfing Blog")There are thousands of groups on Couchsurfing, all public, and all ready to be discovered. Do you love music festivals, but your favorite is canceled? Check out the [music festival](https://www.couchsurfing.com/groups/music-festivals) group. Do you love [sailing](https://www.couchsurfing.com/groups/sailing-sea-sun-and-blue-sky-fanatics), but need to stay in doors? Check out the group and see how other sailors are handling quarantine. No matter what you love, there is a Couchsurfing group to connect you with your community – go find it! Where to find it: Login to the website (unfortunately, groups are not in the app.) Then navigate to ‘Groups’ in the top right OR search ‘Find Groups’ to use a keyword to narrow your search. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Screen-Shot-2020-03-16-at-9.01.25-AM.png "Screen-Shot-2020-03-16-at-9.01.25-AM - Couchsurfing Blog")2\. ***E***-ttend [***E***vents](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/barcelona-virtual-tour) (emphasis on the ***E***) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Screen-Shot-2020-03-16-at-9.11.27-AM.png "Screen-Shot-2020-03-16-at-9.11.27-AM - Couchsurfing Blog")I know what you’re thinking, events is exactly what you’re not supposed to do! Although events are usually in a bar, park or cafe – our community is getting creative. There is no reason why an event can’t be planned for the world to participate in from the comfort (and safety) of their own home. Have an idea for connecting with your community online during this time, then create your own event. Check out this [cool event](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/barcelona-virtual-tour) the Barcelona community put together. Where to find it: Login to the website and navigate to ‘events’ in the top right. Open the app, and local events are listed in your dashboard! ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Screen-Shot-2020-03-16-at-9.13.37-AM.png "Screen-Shot-2020-03-16-at-9.13.37-AM - Couchsurfing Blog")3\. Open Hangouts! ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/IMG_6770.jpg "IMG_6770 - Couchsurfing Blog")Want to see how others in your area are spending their quarantine? Want to chat about movies to stream? Want advice on the best puzzle to order online? Open up hangouts in the [Couchsurfing app](https://www.couchsurfing.com/about/mobile/) and start chatting with others! Where to find it: Hangouts is only available in the Couchsurfing [App](https://www.couchsurfing.com/about/mobile/). Open the app and navigate to ‘hangouts’ in the bottom menu. 4\. Get [Advice](https://www.couchsurfing.com/nearby/advice)! ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Screen-Shot-2020-03-16-at-9.21.19-AM.png "Screen-Shot-2020-03-16-at-9.21.19-AM - Couchsurfing Blog")Want to post a question for all locals in your area? Search ‘Find local advice’ and your city. It’s a great time to ask how others are passing their time, a TV recommendation to practice the local language, music to explore, or hidden places to see once quarantine is over. Where to find it: Login to the website. In the search box, scroll down to ‘Find Local Advice’ ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Screen-Shot-2020-03-16-at-9.22.51-AM.png "Screen-Shot-2020-03-16-at-9.22.51-AM - Couchsurfing Blog")5\. Start a [Discussion](https://www.couchsurfing.com/dashboard)! ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Screen-Shot-2020-03-16-at-9.30.56-AM.png "Screen-Shot-2020-03-16-at-9.30.56-AM - Couchsurfing Blog")What are locals talking about? Check it out right on your dashboard in **discussions!** You can hop into other people’s threads or start your own. Get people talking, meet others in your community, and find out a little bit more about your community! Where to find it: Login to the website. On your dashboard, scroll down. Discussions are below events in ‘What’s happening near…’! ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Screen-Shot-2020-03-16-at-9.27.30-AM.png "Screen-Shot-2020-03-16-at-9.27.30-AM - Couchsurfing Blog")#### How are you using Couchsurfing during quarantine? Share your stories and tips in the comments or on social! ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/shutterstock_1241911273-1.jpg "shutterstock_1241911273 (1) - Couchsurfing Blog")[simona pilolla 2](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/simonapilollatnf)shutterstock### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/5-ways-to-use-couchsurfing-at-home/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/5-ways-to-use-couchsurfing-at-home/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Community Updates, Featured --- ### [Travel hack: Proof of Onward Travel](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/proof-of-onward-travel/) **Published:** September 24, 2019 **Author:** Mike Joy **Excerpt:** If you have ever bought a one-way ticket to start your backpacking adventure with no end in sight, and had "proof of onward travel required" uttered to you at the airport counter, you know the sinking feeling in your gut as your plans crash around you. Luckily, you are not out of luck! **Content:** #### About the author: [Mike Joy](http://instagram.com/iammikejoy) is a prolific traveler, connoisseur of open-ended backpacking trips, and Community Manager at Couchsurfing. If you have ever bought a one-way ticket to start your backpacking adventure with no end in sight, and had these words uttered to you at the airport counter, you know the sinking feeling in your stomach as your trip seems to crash down before it even starts. ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Upset-passanger.jpg?fit=910%2C607&ssl=1 "Upset-passanger - Couchsurfing Blog")By [Monkey Business Images](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/stockbroker)shutterstock Your flight is already purchased, you have carefully budgeted how much you can spend a day and you have no idea where you will be flying home from, much less the date. Unfortunately, many, many countries have proof of onward travel as an entry requirement. Although I have RARELY been asked this by border control (in Costa Rica we did have to buy a return bus ticket back into Nicaragua, even though everyone knew we were not taking it) – the issue is the airline letting your board in the first place. ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/shutterstock_278339894.jpg?fit=910%2C608&ssl=1 "shutterstock_278339894 - Couchsurfing Blog")By [ArtWell](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/artwell)shutterstock The reason airlines require this is actually quite simple, if you are denied entry because you don’t have proof of onward travel (an unenforced requirement for many nations) they are responsible for flying you back. Don’t worry though, there are ways to satisfy this requirement without having to choose an end date for your trip. I have used all three of these techniques to test this rule while traveling. ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/shutterstock_1343983004.jpg?fit=910%2C607&ssl=1 "shutterstock_1343983004 - Couchsurfing Blog")By [illpaxphotomatic](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/giuseppecarbone)shutterstock **1) Buy a cheap flight** The first time this happened to me, in 2011, I was at the check-in counter in San Francisco flying into Thailand. I was planning on teaching English in Thailand after getting my TESOL certificate so I most definitely did not have a return flight. I bought a US$40 flight into Ho Chi Minh for some random date within my visa-free period with Air Asia. I never ended up using this flight and lost the money, but it got me on the plane and if I had been prepared, I could’ve actually done a side trip to Cambodia, Laos or any other Air Asia destination. In Europe, RyanAir and EasyJet often have incredibly low fares that can be used for a great weekend getaway and proof of onward travel! **2) Credit card miles** The year was 2018, I was flying into Quito, Ecuador and I was required to show proof of onward travel to board my flight from the USA. Luckily, I had racked up enough airline miles with my Chase Sapphire (no advertisement, it’s just the credit card I have) which allows you to cancel a flight within 24 hours with no penalty and instant return of your airline points. I booked the flight, boarded the plane four hours later, cancelled my booking 12 hours after that and saw the points back within 72 hours. ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/shutterstock_1345920926.jpg?fit=910%2C607&ssl=1 "shutterstock_1345920926 - Couchsurfing Blog")By [Pavel Kapysh](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/pvl)shutterstock **3) Reserve a seat** Only a few airlines do this, so you will need to do a little homework, but for Central and South America you are in luck. Panama’s National Carrier, COPA, has a ‘price lock’ option for 24-hours. It lets you book a flight and hold it under your name, for free, for 24 hours. It emails you the reservation and to the *Avianca* check-in desk, flying to Lima, it was enough proof of onward travel to get me on the flight. I never went back to complete the reservation, with payment, so the reservation just disappeared into the abyss of the internet and I explored Perú with no issues. To me, this feels the most risky as it is not an actual ticket, but I met many backpackers who did this and no one seemed to have encountered an issue. When dealing with international flights it is often better to be safe than sorry. I’ve had friends had to book a refundable flight at the airport counter, then enter the hell of actually getting the refund and struggling without that money while traveling on the backpacker budget. Rather than hoping for the refund to come before your bank account goes into the red, use one of the above tips and start your trip worry-free. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/proof-of-onward-travel/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/proof-of-onward-travel/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Advice **Tags:** air travel, featured, South America, travel, travel blog --- ### [Mad Crash 2019](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/mad-crash-2019/) **Published:** October 13, 2019 **Author:** Mike Joy **Excerpt:** The last week of September, 2019, Madrid held their second MadCrash event. And it was incredible. Make sure to check out the amazing events and incredible CS Community next time you're in Madrid! **Content:** ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/Madrid-view-1024x683.jpg "Madrid-view - Couchsurfing Blog")By [Matej Kastelic](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/kasto80)shutterstockThe last week of September, 2019, Madrid held their second [MadCrash](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/madcrash-2019) event. And it was incredible. In case you don’t know what a ‘crash’ is, let me break it down for you. A crash is a multi-day event where Couchsurfers from all of the world come together, and hang out for a whole weekend. The local community plans a weekend of events, and in the case of Madrid, the organizers went above and beyond! ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/IMG_9504.jpg?fit=851%2C1024&ssl=1 "IMG_9504 - Couchsurfing Blog")Pez Tortilla The event began on Thursday, with a Tapas tour that began at [Pez Tortilla](https://peztortilla.com/la-latina/). Pez Tortilla, in case you are not a *[tortilla](https://www.finecooking.com/article/the-spanish-tortilla-is-the-best-of-all-omelets)* aficionado like myself, is the best *tortilla* in Madrid. Ok, that may be a little bold, but it is delicious. With tortilla flavors such as salmon, avocado and spinach or brie, truffle and ham; their tortilla provides a nice twist on the Spanish classic, and it was the perfect place to meet other Couchsurfers, get some dinner, kick off the weekend and get our MadCrash bracelets (which got us discounts and entrances to other crash events). Friday night was the official welcome party and was held at [Generator Hostel](https://staygenerator.com/hostels/madrid?lang=en-GB). This hostel is unlike any hostel I have stayed at in recent memory. The entrance looks like a chic cafe, and the rooftop has an incredible view of central Madrid. We had a photo booth set up capturing everyone’s selfies and watched the sunset as our weekend began. ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/photo.jpg?fit=819%2C1024&ssl=1 "photo - Couchsurfing Blog")MadCrash Organizers at the CS PhotoBooth Saturday was an action-packed day. There were many events to choose from, such as a free walking tour where Nacho, one of the organizers gave us a quick lesson in Madrid’s history. The gastronomical tour, where Jean-Marc showed us the less touristy, but equally delicious [Madrid markets](https://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mercado_de_la_Cebada). A photo tour, a wine tour, a salsa tour, there were so many events to choose from that I truly wished I could be in two places at once. But the grand event of the day, was the evening event. Beginning at 10pm, we were treated to a [Flamenco](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flamenco) Workshop by the group *[Amorai Flamenco](https://www.facebook.com/amoraiflamenco/)* followed by a private Flamenco performance. If you have ever seen flamenco, you can imagine how incredible this way. Especially as we had just spent an hour learning the history, the words, and the moves. ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/couchsurfingmadrid.28-09-19-37.jpg?fit=910%2C608&ssl=1 "couchsurfingmadrid.28-09-19-37 - Couchsurfing Blog")Sunday was the final day of the crash, but it didn’t slow down at all. The morning kicked off with a running group, a cycling group, an intricately planned treasure hunt and the MadCrash picnic. The picnic was held at [Parque Templo de Debod](https://www.esmadrid.com/en/tourist-information/templo-de-debod) (a fascinating park centered around an Egyptian temple) and was the perfect end to the weekend. People played guitar, shared [bocadillos](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bocadillo) and [chorizo](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chorizo), played lawn games and the photo booth made another appearance. It was the perfect time to just meet Couchsurfers from all over the world and enjoy our last day in Madrid. ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/couchsurfingmadridpicnic.28-09-19-67-2.jpg?fit=910%2C608&ssl=1 "couchsurfingmadridpicnic.28-09-19-67-2 - Couchsurfing Blog") These events happen all over the world all year long, in fact I met many Couchsurfers who purposefully choose their holidays around Couch Crashes. In some countries they’re called ‘invasions’ or ‘camps’ or ‘national meetings’ but they all mean the same thing – an amazing weekend, filled with amazing people, in an amazing place. MadCrash, you were an incredible experience! ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/couchsurfingmadridpicnic.28-09-19-68-1.jpg?fit=910%2C608&ssl=1 "couchsurfingmadridpicnic.28-09-19-68-1 - Couchsurfing Blog")MadCrash 2019### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/mad-crash-2019/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/mad-crash-2019/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Community, Crashes, Invasions and More! **Tags:** couchcrash, couchsurfing, csmadrid, madcrash, madrid --- ### [Ten things to eat in New Orleans](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/ten-things-to-eat-in-new-orleans/) **Published:** December 6, 2019 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Excerpt:** New Orleans' Ambassador Charles gives us his recommendations for the top ten delicacies that are 'must-haves' on your next trip to New Orleans. **Content:** #### By: [Charles Pizzo](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/charles-french-quarter). Charles is a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America and former chair of the International Association of Business Communicators (IABC). He has been on Couchsurfing since 2016, is the current CS Ambassador in New Orleans and has hosted over 250 surfers. ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/shutterstock_1372299326-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "shutterstock_1372299326 - Couchsurfing Blog")Bourbon Street by [Sean Pavone](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/sepavo)shutterstockTravelers flock to New Orleans for its jazz, architecture, and history. Some people go just to party, but be sure to try several of New Orleans’ most iconic dishes during your visit. The city has many charms—and its cuisine ranks high among them. You’ll find more than one type of food here, all considered local. That’s because the area has long been a melting pot of cultures. Creole is the main style in the city, a mix of French and Spanish cuisine. It’s usually seasoned mildly. It’s spicier cousin, Cajun food, originated west of the city in the countryside, bayous, and swamps. New Orleans is a majority black area; it’s soul food is legendary. A common question: is all local food spicy? No. Your best bet is to ask. Different chefs season different ways. The same dish can be mild in one place, and spicier down the street. Here are ten things you can try for a true taste of New Orleans: **[Gumbo](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gumbo)** ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/shutterstock_1128951335-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C684&ssl=1 "shutterstock_1128951335 - Couchsurfing Blog")Traditional Cajun Gumbo by [Diana Zuleta](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/dzuleta)shutterstockThis stew-like soup has been traced back to West Africa. It takes many forms; the two most prevalent versions are seafood or chicken and sausage. It’s a well-known local axiom that no two versions are ever the same. Some are thickened with a [roux](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roux) (flour and fat), others with okra, and some with filé powder (ground sassafras leaves). Cajun versions have a deeper, dark roux and are usually spicier. [**Jambalaya**](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jambalaya) ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/shutterstock_632159657-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "shutterstock_632159657 - Couchsurfing Blog")Sausage and Shrimp Jambalaya by [Ivana Lalicki](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/ivana+lalicki)shutterstockAlso based on a West African dish, jambalaya is a rice dish cooked with what locals call the trinity—onions, bell peppers, and celery. Meat or seafood is often included, but this can vary. Chicken and sausage are common, yet so is shrimp. It’s not uncommon to find variations featuring rabbit or game. There are two major schools of jambalaya cookery. The Cajun version is brown (and spicier); the Creole version is red owing to tomatoes (a nod to the many Sicilian immigrants who immigrated to New Orleans). **[Po’ Boy](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Po'_boy)** ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/5-Po’-Boys-_-Mother’s-Restaurant-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C768&ssl=1 "po boys ferdi turkey janet - Couchsurfing Blog")Po Boys | Mothers Restaurant by Charles PizzoIn simplistic terms, this is a baguette sandwich. The name is short for “poor boy,” a reference to transit workers who were fired during a violent strike in 1929. Sympathetic restaurateurs fed the starving laborers with fries on New Orleans French bread topped with beef gravy. Today, the fillings vary, but the bread is a constant. Perhaps the most famous contemporary versions are roast beef with warm brown gravy, fried shrimp, or even gator sausage (usually cut with pork because alligator meat is quite lean). Modern riffs include the use of Vietnamese báhn mì bread and creative fillings such as fried green tomatoes with remoulade sauce, pork belly, or even fried mac n’ cheese. Your server may ask if you want it “dressed.” That’s local parlance for “with lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, and mayonnaise.” This too can vary, so ask. A muffuletta is not technically a po’ boy because it’s served on round, seeded Italian bread. But, it’s a solid choice if you like olives, Italian cold cuts, and cheeses. **[Fried Chicken](https://theculturetrip.com/north-america/usa/louisiana/articles/5-best-places-for-fried-chicken-in-new-orleans/)** ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/2-Fried-Chicken-_-Dooky-Chase--scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C765&ssl=1 "2-Fried-Chicken-_-Dooky-Chase- - Couchsurfing Blog")Fried Chicken | Dooky Chase by Charles PizzoThis dish is well known throughout the South, and there are many outstanding versions here. Lots of locals swear by the versions found in area Soul food restaurants, but this dish can be irresistible most anywhere if fried fresh and served piping hot. Good fried chicken should have a crisp crust that crackles, and be moist and well seasoned inside (look for buttermilk- or -brined versions). While fried chicken is sometimes served in gourmet restaurants, most locals swear by a national fast food version that got its start in the city. You’ll also find a proliferation of fried chicken counters of varying quality on Bourbon and Frenchmen streets. [**Crawfish Étouffée**](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/%C3%89touff%C3%A9e) ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/1-Crawfish-Étouffée-with-cheese-grits-_-Mother’s-Restaurant.jpg?fit=1024%2C768&ssl=1 "1-Crawfish-Étouffée-with-cheese-grits-_-Mother’s-Restaurant - Couchsurfing Blog")Étouffée with cheese grits | Mothers Restaurant by Charles PizzoThe name translates from French as “smothered.” Vegetables and other goodies are cooked down, often in butter, with peeled crawfish tails (or shrimp). The result is often rich, unctuous, and savory. Like most Cajun food, every chef has her or his own recipe. Some might add tomatoes. Most versions are mild. Looking for boiled crawfish? The season runs from March – June. [**Charbroiled Oysters**](https://www.nola.com/entertainment_life/eat-drink/article_734f2877-01d3-572a-a0fc-dbd167619554.html) ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/3-Charbroiled-Oysters-_-Drago’s--scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C768&ssl=1 "3-Charbroiled-Oysters-_-Drago’s- - Couchsurfing Blog")Charbroiled Oysters | Dragos by Charles PizzoA relatively new addition to the culinary landscape, bi-valves are doused in a garlicky, herbed, and cheesy olive oil-based dressing. Then, they are broiled or grilled over an open flame in the shell until the oyster is cooked. Even people who say they don’t eat oysters have taken a liking to this preparation. They’re often served with bread (ideally warm) to sop up every last drop of the sauce. Purists might prefer raw oysters, or the classic Oysters Rockefeller. But charbroiled oysters have taken New Orleans by storm, and are well worth trying. **[Barbecue Shrimp](https://www.yelp.com/search?find_desc=Bbq+Shrimp&find_loc=New+Orleans%2C+LA)** ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/4-Barbecue-Shrimp-_-Pascals-Manale.jpg?fit=1024%2C768&ssl=1 "The Original BBQ Shrimp | Pascal Manales, New Orleans, LA | Credit: LouisianaSeafoodNews.com - Couchsurfing Blog")Barbecue Shrimp | Pascals Manale by Charles PizzoThe name might sound like something you’d find in Texas, but the resemblance stops there. Not technically barbecued, peel and eat shrimp are bathed in pepper and olive oil (sometimes mixed with butter) and baked. They are cooked in the shell and easy to peel, albeit messy. These are also served with bread to help you soak up the seasoning. Once in awhile, you may find a variation on this, less peppery but loaded with Italian herbs and white wine. Both versions are good, though different. **[Red Beans and Rice](https://nola.eater.com/maps/best-red-beans-new-orleans)** ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/shutterstock_62228710-1-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "shutterstock_62228710-1 - Couchsurfing Blog")Red beans and rice with sausage by [HG Photography](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/hgwood)shutterstockA working class (read: inexpensive) staple, beans are simmered all day till creamy and soft. Most, but not all, versions are made with ham or sausage. Vegetarian versions have gained popularity and can be found. Available every day in restaurants, this was once home food usually prepared on Monday, the traditional washday. Red beans can cook unattended, freeing the home chef to clean and what not. It’s common to see red beans paired with sausage links (as pictured) or fried chicken. **[Beignets](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Beignet)** ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/7-Beignets-Café-du-Monde-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C768&ssl=1 "7-Beignets-Café-du-Monde - Couchsurfing Blog")Beignets | Café du Monde by Charles PizzoThese little pillows of fried dough goodness topped with way too much powdered sugar have reached the zenith of iconic status. They’re simple yet beguiling—especially when fresh out the fryer. Tear the sweet dough apart to smell the steam emanating from within. Pair with café au lait (coffee and chicory with hot milk) for the quintessential Crescent City experience. Looking for a snack for later, or a souvenir? Beignets are ethereal when fresh, but a dud once cold. Instead, buy sugary pralines from most any shop downtown. [**Bread Pudding**](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bread_pudding) ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/shutterstock_162419801-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C685&ssl=1 "shutterstock_162419801 - Couchsurfing Blog")Bread Pudding by [cobraphotography](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/nicolebranan)shutterstockThe local dessert of choice in many restaurants, bread pudding is made from stale French bread used to make po’ boys. It’s soaked in custard laced with cinnamon and nutmeg, and occasionally other things, then baked. Most of the time, it’s served with an accompanying sauce featuring butter, sugar, and some kind of booze. We prefer warm bread pudding, but the occasional cold one can be refreshing too. It’s soft, sweet, and sinful. Contrary to popular belief, very few versions include raisins. ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/NoLaStreet-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C550&ssl=1 "NoLaStreet - Couchsurfing Blog")French Quarter Restaurants by [f11photo](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/f11photo)shutterstockIf you’ve been watching your budget and eating nothing special, this is the city to splurge and indulge yourself with the culinary traditions that make New Orleans famous. Need recommendations for where to try these foods? Check out #### A version of this article was originally published in [Ambush Magazine](https://issuu.com/ambushpublishing/docs/ambush_magazine_volume_37_issue_18/20) Volume 37 Issue 18 on August 26, 2019 and is reprinted here with permission. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/ten-things-to-eat-in-new-orleans/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/ten-things-to-eat-in-new-orleans/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Advice **Tags:** ambush magazine, barbecue shrimp, beignets, bread pudding, charbroiled oysters, crawfish, etouffee, fried chicken, gumbo, jambalaya, New Orleans, NOLA, po boy, red beans and rice --- ### [Alejandro: From $10 a day to a NYC photo exhibit](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/alejandro-from-10-a-day-to-a-nyc-photo-exhibit/) **Published:** March 12, 2020 **Author:** Mike Joy **Content:** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/photo-at-photo-exhibit-compressed1.jpg "photo-at-photo-exhibit-compressed1 - Couchsurfing Blog")Alejandro with his NYC photo exhibit[Alejandro Turbay](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/alejandrot), from Colombia, recently returned from a four year trip to 28 countries in Asia, the Middle East and Africa on only $10 dollars a day. It was his dream to take a trip around the world and he was lucky enough to fulfill it and now wants to share the experience with others. Couchsurfing was fundamental to his keeping costs low and being able to keep traveling and connecting with cultures as his trip continued. He was lucky enough to connect with and make friends everywhere he went and wants others to encourage others to also chase after their dreams. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/backpack-at-exhibit-compressed1-1.jpg "backpack-at-exhibit-compressed1-1 - Couchsurfing Blog")Alejandro and his backpackHe currently has an exhibit in New York City showing photos from his trips and has written extensively (and posted to Instagram!) documenting his experiences, the places he went and the incredible people he meant. If you have a chance, check out his exhibit in New York City or remotely through his travel [blog](http://www.pleaseliveyourdream.com) and [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/viajarparainspirar/). ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Alejandro-Photo-Exhibit-Invite-March1.jpg "Alejandro-Photo-Exhibit-Invite-March1 - Couchsurfing Blog")- ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/SUDAN.jpg "SUDAN - Couchsurfing Blog") - ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/COUCHSURFING-ROBERT-JORDAN.jpg "COUCHSURFING-ROBERT-JORDAN - Couchsurfing Blog") - ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/COUCHSURFING-LIBANO.jpg "COUCHSURFING-LIBANO - Couchsurfing Blog") ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/alejandro-from-10-a-day-to-a-nyc-photo-exhibit/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/alejandro-from-10-a-day-to-a-nyc-photo-exhibit/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Stories --- ### [A Couchsurfer's Guide to... Oslo](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-oslo/) **Published:** March 11, 2020 **Author:** Mike Joy **Excerpt:** Check out our Ambassador Mads' recommendations to getting the most out of your next trip to Oslo! **Content:** ##### By: [Mads](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/maxpleasure) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/shutterstock_2413813481.jpg "shutterstock_2413813481 - Couchsurfing Blog")Oslo Harbor [S F](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/bloodua)shutterstockBest breakfast in town! Godt Brød Munch Brygge: «Godt Brød» (Good Bread) is a chain of ecological bakeries. They bake in the outlets, so all the baked products are pretty much fresh out of the oven and they also serve glutenfree options for coeliacs. The latest cafe they opened is situated in the new area of Oslo called Bjørvika, where you’ll also find the Opera House, the financial district, plus some cool places for photographing. Nearby is also Sørenga – Oslo’s new urban district – with a wooden city “beach”. The beach at Sørenga is the go-to-beach for Oslos young & hip population, but it also has a sandy beach with shallow water for the more family oriented travelers. After you’ve had your breakfast, you can rent a kayak or a canoe if you want to explore Oslo from the fjord, then visit the Opera House, before you enjoy the sunset while walking on the beach promenade or enjoy an expensive drink on one of the many restaurants or pubs there. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/godt-brod-P8160109.jpg "godt-brod-P8160109 - Couchsurfing Blog")Godt Brod by MadsBest place to grab a drink! The bars at Grønland or Grünerløkka are popular. Personally I prefer Grunerløkka, but most of all I prefer one of my local bars in Gamlebyen. 1 museum not to miss! [Norsk Folkemuseum](https://norskfolkemuseum.no/en/): I recommend visiting the Folk Museum located at Bygdøy peninsula. It’s an open air museum which will give you some insight into Norwegian building practice over several centuries. You get to see how people have lived through the ages and during the summer season they have employees placed around the museum who’s dressed up in old costumes while preparing different small dishes from local cuisine. Don’t be afraid to ask for a bite! The folk museum is Norway’s largest museum of cultural history, featuring the world’s oldest open air museum and large indoor collections. The museum’s most popular attraction is Gol Stave Church. It was built around year 1200 and is one of 28 remaining stave churches in Norway. Vis-a-vis the Folk Museum is the Viking Ship Museum, which is also worth a visit. To get to Bygdøy, you can take bus (#30) or a ferry from downtown over to Bygdøy and then wak/take the bus from the ferry. If you have plenty of time it’s also nice to walk the along the seaside promenade to get there. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/folk-museum-stave-church-img_3074.jpg "folk-museum-stave-church-img_3074 - Couchsurfing Blog")Norsk Folk Museum by MadsWhere to dance! The best Open Mic in town! Every third Wednesday there’s an open mic night called “[OpenXpressions](http://nordicblacktheatre.no/about/open-xpressions/)” held at Cafeteatret. It’s always a vibrant and positive atmosphere and plenty of talented musicians perform there. If you’re a traveling artist you can also sign up to perform. You can sing, play an instrument, play together with the talented house band, perform slam poetry, juggle, show off your magic trick. At OpenXpressions everything is possible and you’ll never know what you’ll get (P.S. show up before 19:00 to sign up if you want to perform). Very often the audience starts dancing or singing along when the artists perform and this is by far the most positive open stage in Oslo. Recently I started creating an event for every OpenXpression on the CS website, so make sure to check couchsurfing.com or the app when you’re visiting Oslo. The only rules for OpenX is: – Show maximum love & maximum respect for the artists that are performing, and – The entry is free, but you’ll have to pay attention. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/cafeteatret-openxpressions.jpg "cafeteatret-openxpressions - Couchsurfing Blog")Mads Bjørkli performing at OpenXpressions Cafeteatret Photo by Thomas LønstadA treat-yourself meal! [Vaaghals](https://www.vaaghals.com/) located in the Bjørvika financial district. Since you Couchsurf you can spend your lodging budget on food. Bring your host and treat you both for a meal deeply rooted in Norwegian cooking traditions. At this kitchen they use seasonal ingredients in a creative and innovative way. Where to sweat! Go for a run in what the locals call Frognerparken, also known as [Vigelands](https://www.visitoslo.com/en/product/?TLp=181601) Park among the tourists. Frognerparken has more than 200 sculptures by Gustav Vigeland. Feel your cultural capital rise, while your energy levels are declining and sweat is dripping. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/shutterstock_1517941403.jpg "shutterstock_1517941403 - Couchsurfing Blog")Vigeland Sculpture Park [Maykova Galina](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Maykova+Galina)shutterstockBest quick bite! At Grønland you’ll find several Indian restaurants and street food places. They’re cheap and quick. Definitely not authentic Norwegian, but still good food for a decent price. Best view in the city! If you enjoy sunsets and photographing cityscapes, but at the same time you don’t want to miss out on some contemporary art, then [Ekebergåsen](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ekeberg) (Ekeberg Hill) is the place for you. There’s an art deco style restaurant up there and in the surrounding park, you’ll find several sculptures by contemporary artists. There’s also a cool video installation up there, which is at it’s best after sunset. Walk up from the city, or take tram #18 or #19 to Ekebergparken. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/shutterstock_1564764037.jpg "shutterstock_1564764037 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Barnabas Davoti](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/davotibarna)shutterstockBest day-trip out of town! Go for a canoe trip in [Nordmarka](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g190479-d1005603-Reviews-Nordmarka-Oslo_Eastern_Norway.html) or [Østmarka](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/%C3%98stmarka). Oslo is pretty much surrounded by forests. To the North we have Nordmarka (the Northern Forest) and to the East we have Østmarka (the Eastern forest). There are several outlets where you can rent a canoe or kayak, either for a day-trip or for longer trips. You can also join guided day-tours. A day-trip on either on the Oslofjord or on one of our many lakes is a great way to relax and really appreciate life. Of course, if you have enough time, the best option is to spend the night in the forest or on one of the islands (you must bring your own tent and food). ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/canoetrip-P8250342.jpg "canoetrip-P8250342 - Couchsurfing Blog")By MadsWhere to try the local cuisine! Dovrehallen or Kaffistova. Both restaurants are famous for serving Norwegian food. Family fun! The city beach at [Sørenga](https://www.visitoslo.com/en/product/?TLp=1113304). They have a sandy beach with shallow water for kids, there’s ice cream available and also plenty of cafes/restaurants. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/shutterstock_1161696679.jpg "shutterstock_1161696679 - Couchsurfing Blog")Sorenga [aquatarkus](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/AndriiZhezhera)shutterstockOne experience not to miss! Do not miss out on one of our Couchsurfing concerts! From time to time we arrange house concerts in one of our Couchsurfer’s home. Then we have 3 artists that are performing: always good vibes and good music. Remember to bring your own beverage though. Historic moment! [Akershus Fortress](https://www.visitoslo.com/en/product/?TLp=14900) is situated downtown. It’s an historical place you shouldn’t miss. It’s a nice place to enjoy your lunch if you’ve packed some sandwiches. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/shutterstock_1043398909.jpg "shutterstock_1043398909 - Couchsurfing Blog")Akershus Fortress [Anton Ivanov](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/siempreverde22)shutterstockA tourist trap to avoid! [Karl Johans Gate](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Karl_Johans_gate) – the main pedestrian street of the city leading from Oslo Centralstation up to the Royal Palace. It’s a real horror show: horrible restaurants, expensive pubs and delusional people out shopping. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-oslo/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-oslo/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Guides --- ### [Small ripples, big waves](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/small-ripples-big-waves/) **Published:** March 10, 2020 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** ##### By: [Ellen Pauwels](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/ellenpauwels) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/shutterstock_1074027326.jpg "shutterstock_1074027326 - Couchsurfing Blog")Pondicherry India [Shiva Filmmaker](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Shiva.+Filmmaker)shutterstockI owe a lot to Couchsurfing. It sounds stupid when I say it, but Couchsurfing changed my life in a profound way. I have been a member since 2014. A friend of mine was an active member at that time and he talked with so much passion and enthusiasm about the community that I made a profile. I stayed quiet though. I guess I was not ready yet for the jump. I was in a long term relationship then and he didn’t like meeting new people (and how scary that can be) as much as I did and still do. We broke up in 2016 and after 2 years and a lot of self work, self reflection and a lot of struggles with myself I finally decided to go for it: in 2018 I made my first solo trip. To get a taste of what CS was, I dipped in one toe first. I took a chance and looked for travellers in my neighbourhood. I asked one girl if she would like to be hosted by me. I didn’t live in a big city, but one hour with train and bus away, so I knew I wasn’t going to be a ‘popular’ option. I didn’t have references at that time, so she took a chance on me too by saying yes, but the experience was so wonderful! We had such deep and interesting conversations and at that moment I was sold on CS. I will be forever grateful to her too, because also because of her I continued my journey on CS. A few days later I left for my first solo trip through Europe and the goal was to couchsurf through it all. Finding my first host in Budapest was hard… I sent over 30 messages, but also there one host took on the challenge and she made my first visit to Budapest the best I could ever have imagined! Luckily, finding the other hosts was easier and each of them are such amazing people! I have had some rough years in which I doubted the world and mankind, but CS restored my faith in humanity. When I got home, I continued hosting and each of the people I hosted I will remember forever. But there is more… Sometimes small ripples make big waves. One of my hosts during that Europe trip invited me to visit her in India. During the three days she was hosting me, I had told her that I didn’t like at all my India trip in 2017. She said that I should come if I was ready to give India a new chance. So in April 2019, I took the plunge and went, out of curiosity, for the challenge and because I wanted to see the country through new, different and more local eyes. The unexpected happened: I lost my heart to Pondicherry (and India). I came home, felt homesick and lost in my own life and own country and rebooked a flight for July about four days later. Now it’s March 2020 and since January 2020 I live in Pondicherry. I have a volunteering visa for one year, but I don’t know how long I will actually stay. Might be shorter, might also be a lot longer. Every option is open. I give up my rental house in Belgium, I put my job on hold, I gave away and threw away more than half of my stuff and I put the rest of the boxes in a friend’s attic. In time maybe these boxes will also disappear, because I don’t miss the stuff in them at all. That one host gave me a big opportunity when she invited me, but it was also listening to the stories of all those other hosts and surfers that made me realise I am also one of ‘those’ people: I have a restless travellers’ soul. I never saw myself like this and I still don’t, but here I am, living in another country, trying to make it work. A country that couldn’t be more different from the one I have known for 36 years… I feel free. All the useless stuff I owned is gone. I cried during the move and cleanup, because I had to face more than 10 years worth of junk. But no matter how crazy the past year has been, it was worth it. I am happy to be where I am, literally but also psychologically. I learnt that I can be happy with a lot less and I appreciate now more what I do have. Especially the people in my life… I miss my friends and family in Belgium, but I cherish them more now. Even if I stay only a few months in India instead of long term, I can already feel I will have learnt so much and I am so grateful for this opportunity. It was Couchsurfing that opened the door. There are some awesome people out there and a lot of them belong to the couchsurfing community. I will continue to meet people here in Pondicherry, because even here, far away from home, my curious travellers’ soul is still alive. ##### This story was written and submitted by a member of the Couchsurfing Community. All user submitted stories are reviewed by the Couchsurfing Community Team. All views, opinions and experiences expressed are solely those of the author. Posts may be edited for clarity or length. [![shutterstock_1074027326](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/shutterstock_1074027326.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/shutterstock_1074027326.jpg) ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/small-ripples-big-waves/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/small-ripples-big-waves/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Stories --- ### [If you like Rome... you'll love Tunisia](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/if-you-like-rome-youll-love-tunisia/) **Published:** November 5, 2019 **Author:** Mike Joy **Excerpt:** All roads lead to Rome, and one of those roads is straight from the beautiful Tunisia. Home to numerous Roman ruins, beautiful beaches, and planets far far away - consider Tunisia the next time you're planning a vacation! **Content:** #### By Mike Joy, A travel enthusiast, A1 French speaker, and Couchsurfing Community Manager. For many of us, our first backpacking trip is to somewhere we perceive as safe, accessible, and beautiful. Europe ends up being the go-to destination for many travelers but there are many destinations around the world that rival Europe and they should definitely be considered when planning your next trip. Rome is incredible, and if you’ve been and fallen in love – then we propose Tunisia for your next trip. If you like the [Colosseum](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Colosseum)… - ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/shutterstock_112264382-1.jpg?fit=1024%2C683 "shutterstock_112264382-1 - Couchsurfing Blog")Colosseum at El Jem by [Marques](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/mrks) shutterstock - ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/IMG_8836-1.jpg?fit=1024%2C768 "IMG_8836-1 - Couchsurfing Blog")Inside of the Colosseum of El Jem Notice the lack of tourists [By Mike Joy](http://instagram.com/mikejoyboy) - ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/IMG_8794-1.jpg?fit=1024%2C768 "IMG_8794-1 - Couchsurfing Blog")Actual selfie I took at the Colosseum at El Jem Imagine leaving your camera for a selfie in Rome by [Mike Joy](http://instagram.com/mikejoyboy) I’m sorry Rome, but [El DJem](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/El_Djem) has you beat in the [Colosseum](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Colosseum_(disambiguation)) department. Sure, it is slightly smaller (it is technically the 3rd largest in the world but the 2nd largest that is still standing) but it is also about 5,000 times less popular than [Rome](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rome). I easily took photos with no one else in the frame. If you like the [Roman Forum](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roman_Forum)… - ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/IMG_9208.jpg?fit=849%2C1024 "IMG_9208 - Couchsurfing Blog")Iconic doorframe of Dougga [by Mike Joy](https://instagram.com/mikejoyboy) - ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/IMG_9114.jpg?fit=1024%2C768 "IMG_9114 - Couchsurfing Blog")Theatre of Dougga A play for one By [Mike Joy](http://instagram.com/mikejoyboy) - ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/IMG_9391.jpg?fit=768%2C1024 "IMG_9391 - Couchsurfing Blog")Temple in Dougga By [Mike Joy](http://instagram.com/mikejoyboy) [Dougga](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dougga) is like having the complete Roman Forum to yourself. I mean. I was there for 2 hours and saw exactly 6 other people, one of whom was a guide offering his services for $10. It is much smaller than the Forum, so you can explore it in a couple hours, but the photos you will get are incredible. If you like the beach: - ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/shutterstock_1306794031.jpg?fit=1024%2C681 "shutterstock_1306794031 - Couchsurfing Blog")Guellala Dejerba By [BTWImages](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/bapaume)shutterstock - ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/Monastir.jpg?fit=1024%2C993 "Monastir - Couchsurfing Blog")Beach at Monastir with Ribat in the background By [Mike Joy](http://instagram.com/mikejoyboy) - ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/shutterstock_1131811427.jpg?fit=1024%2C683 "shutterstock_1131811427 - Couchsurfing Blog")Beach at Hammamet By [Zribis](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/zribis)shutterstock Rome is not known for its beaches, but Tunisia is. [Hammamet](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hammamet,_Tunisia) is an hour drive from [Tunis](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tunis). [Bizerte](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bizerte) is 1.5. [Sousse](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sousse) is 2. [Djerba](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Djerba) is an hour flight. Each of these is a completely manageable weekend trip from Tunis and will give you [medinas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Medina_quarter) (old city), [ribats](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ribat) (fortresses), museums, and of course – beaches! If you like to get lost in neighborhoods… - ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/shutterstock_339867380-1.jpg?fit=1024%2C679 "shutterstock_339867380-1 - Couchsurfing Blog")By [eFesenko](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/efesenko)shutterstock - ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/shutterstock_686855305.jpg?fit=1024%2C683 "shutterstock_686855305 - Couchsurfing Blog")View of the harbor from Cafe des Delices By [Valery Bareta](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/bareta)shutterstock - ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/shutterstock_184358891.jpg?fit=1024%2C583 "shutterstock_184358891 - Couchsurfing Blog")Rooftops of Sidi Bou Said By [Goran Jakus](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/goranjakus)shutterstock [Sidi Bou Said](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sidi_Bou_Said) is a neighborhood in Tunis that will make you think that you have been transported to [Santorini](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Santorini). The white and blue buildings will have you forget that you are still in Tunis. The stone streets are pedestrian only and it curves up a hill giving most buildings a view of the sea. Plus, this neighborhood is only a 30 minute walk from the Roman ruins of [Carthage](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carthage). Do I need to say more? If you like to visit movie sets… - ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/shutterstock_47651737.jpg "shutterstock_47651737 - Couchsurfing Blog")Abandoned filming locations of Tatooine in Star Wars Tataouine Governorate By [Dmitriy Krasko](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/grauvision)shutterstock - ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/shutterstock_769887085.jpg "shutterstock_769887085 - Couchsurfing Blog")Ksar Ouled Soltane by [Leonid Andronov](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/andronovl)shutterstock - ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/shutterstock_1325816336.jpg "shutterstock_1325816336 - Couchsurfing Blog")Tozeur Tataouine Governorate by [Nikita Grishchenko](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/nikita_grishchenko)shutterstock Rome may have Roman Holiday but Tunisia has Star Wars. Yes, [Tatooine](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tatooine) was filmed (and named) after a real place! And I promise you it is much easier to get to than Han Solo made it appear. [Tataouine](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tataouine) is a city in the southern [governorate](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Governorates_of_Tunisia) of Tunisia, set squarely in the [Sahara Desert](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sahara), and whether you want to visit the actual locations (and villages) of Star Wars or just escape the world and sleep under the stars – Tataouine is the place to go. If you like Rome (and can’t decide why!) - ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/shutterstock_701550793.jpg?fit=1024%2C548 "shutterstock_701550793 - Couchsurfing Blog")The Roman Baths ruins in Carthage By [Valery Bareta](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/bareta)shutterstock - ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/IMG_7852.jpg?fit=1016%2C1024 "IMG_7852 - Couchsurfing Blog")Zaytuna Mosque and the rooftops in Tunis medina By [Mike Joy](http://instagram.com/mikejoyboy) - ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/shutterstock_1506395855.jpg?fit=1024%2C576 "shutterstock_1506395855 - Couchsurfing Blog")The metro connecting Carthage Sidi Bou Said and La Marsa with the rest of Tunis by [chrisontour84](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/chrisontour84)shutterstock To compare Rome and Tunis would be to make a very very weak comparison. They are not at all similar and liking one does not mean you will enjoy the other, however, any trip to Tunisia would be incomplete (if not logistically impossible) without a stop in Tunis. [Carthage](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carthage) was the largest [Roman city](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ancient_Carthage) in North Africa and its ruins still stand amongst the apt named neighborhood of Tunis, [Carthage](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carthage_(municipality)). The [Medina](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Medina_of_Tunis), [Zaytuna Mosque](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Al-Zaytuna_Mosque), [La Marsa](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/La_Marsa), and many other areas of Tunis are well worth a visit as well. The city is massive and chaotic but extremely charming and a great jumping off point to see the rest of the country. I strongly recommend staying in La Marsa or Sidi Bou Said and using the efficient metro to explore the rest of Tunis. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/if-you-like-rome-youll-love-tunisia/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/if-you-like-rome-youll-love-tunisia/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Advice, Featured **Tags:** biserte, bizerte, carthage, colosseum, djerba, Dougga, hammamet, rome, sahara desert, sidi bou said, Sousse, star wars, tataouine, tatooine, tunis, tunisia --- ### [10 Questions with a CS Ambassador: Andrey](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-andrey/) **Published:** March 9, 2020 **Author:** Mike Joy **Excerpt:** Meet Andrey and find out what he loves about Couchsurfing and cycling. **Content:** ##### Name: [Andrey](https://www.couchsurfing.com/users/2007353090) City: Voronezh, Russia Years on CS: 3 ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/90a288e6-76ac-461b-9472-77b624287486.jpg "90a288e6-76ac-461b-9472-77b624287486 - Couchsurfing Blog")**Hey Andrey! Why did you decide to get involved with CS?** I was planning a bicycle route throughout Russia so decided to host someone at first and, truth be told, it was an unforgettable experience **As so many are! What was your first experience on Couchsurfing like?** I hosted a family of cyclists from Colombia who cycled the world with their huge white dog Fantasma. At first I was a little afraid of sharing the apartment with totally unknown people, but it ended up with chatting all the time about Latin American festivals, traditions and bachata! ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/d1aa5abc-2910-4d1e-8f82-108d0282a162.jpg "d1aa5abc-2910-4d1e-8f82-108d0282a162 - Couchsurfing Blog")The first but not last surfers of Andrey**Sounds amazing! And why did you become a CS Ambassador?** I am trying to share the idea of Couchsurfing and get involved with as many people as I can because I think it is still not so many active couches (at least in the cities of Russia, outside of Moscow and St. Petersburgh). I am also trying to organize different kinds of activities from time to time to make our CS life more interesting here in the city. **Great. What was one of your most interesting experiences hosting?** I tend to think that my most unusual guests were the members of this Colombian family with a dog… **The first and most interesting! Awesome. What about surfing?** Being hosted with a mayor of the city in Magas. I was just slowly riding through the city when a group of people “caught” me to ask a few questions. They were wearing casual clothes – no ties and whatever. During our chatting I finally found out one of them is the mayor of the city! After a half an hour walk we went to a restaurant, to museum of Ingushetia then and finally he booked and paid a room in a hotel for me. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/5ea5ac9d-5054-4b92-a177-f8f56ec78396.jpg "5ea5ac9d-5054-4b92-a177-f8f56ec78396 - Couchsurfing Blog")Cruising the Adzhimushkaysky quarry in Kerch**Wow! Very generous! What has been a gift you’ve received that you really appreciated?** Once I received a gas tank 250 ml which I really needed for my future trips! **We love a practical gift! If you could host any famous person, alive or dead, who would it be and why?** Actually I am a bog fan of Jean-Claude Van Damme so if I had a choice I would be really happy to host him, to show him the country. **He is an icon, so I get it. What is a quote that inspires you?** > Every time I see an adult on a bicycle, I no longer despair for the future of the human race. > > H.G. Wells ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/e26304c8-7a6a-41c5-ad5e-0704a2dff944.jpg "e26304c8-7a6a-41c5-ad5e-0704a2dff944 - Couchsurfing Blog")**I love that, especially since I am a big bike rider too! But mostly for transportation sake. What is a dream vacation of yours?** Slowly cruising from one country to another exploring, Couchsurfing, volunteering from time to time and just living the Life enjoying every moment of it. **Sounds incredible. Hope you get to do it someday. Last question, what is your one piece of advice to a new Couchsurfer?** To add all the info about yourself, add some photos. But in general – just realize that CS is a one big and international family here and you have to behave yourself exactly as you do it with the members of your own family. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/cabe1490-ead1-42e0-b8f6-ab7807373161-1.jpg "cabe1490-ead1-42e0-b8f6-ab7807373161-1 - Couchsurfing Blog")### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-andrey/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-andrey/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Meet an Ambassador --- ### [A Couchsurfer's guide to... Yosemite National Park](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-yosemite-national-park/) **Published:** March 5, 2020 **Author:** Mike Joy **Excerpt:** Find out the best places in Yosemite National Park to make the most of your trip to this iconic park! **Content:** ##### By: [Michael Chen](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-nuremberg/) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/shutterstock_1181662462.jpg "shutterstock_1181662462 - Couchsurfing Blog")Yosemite [canadastock](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/jlrphoto)shutterstockBest breakfast in town! Coffee Bar at the [Ahwahnee Hotel](https://www.nationalparkreservations.com/lodge/yosemite-ahwahnee-hotel/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIuceUgaKB6AIVAZ6fCh0IzAqOEAAYASAAEgIz1PD_BwE#property-header-menu); [Degnan’s Kitchen](https://www.yosemite.com/restaurants-dining/degnans-deli/) in Yosemite Village; or Starbucks at [Yosemite Lodge](https://www.nationalparkreservations.com/park/yosemite-national-park/lodges/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIqZyImaKB6AIVGKSzCh3OwwGcEAAYAyAAEgJ5XPD_BwE). One museum not to miss! [Ansel Adams Gallery ](https://www.anseladams.com/ansel-adams-yosemite/)and the [Indian Museum](https://www.nps.gov/yose/learn/historyculture/indian-village-of-the-ahwahnee.htm) in Yosemite Village. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/shutterstock_7285958651.jpg "shutterstock_7285958651 - Couchsurfing Blog")Ansel Adams Gallery [Kit Leong](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/kitleong)shutterstockWhere to dance! During the year, there are traditional Indian Dances performed by local tribes you can watch if you happen to be visiting when they are there Where to sweat! The [Mist Trail hike to Vernal and Nevada Falls](https://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/vernalnevadatrail.htm) is one of the most popular half-day hikes that give you a good workout. In summer you can swim in the Merced River at various places in Yosemite Valley. An easy, short hike to a great view is the [Sentinel Dome hike](https://www.yosemitehikes.com/glacier-point-road/sentinel-dome/sentinel-dome.htm)–in summer. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/shutterstock_221898349.jpg "shutterstock_221898349 - Couchsurfing Blog")Mist Trail [topseller](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/mblach)shutterstockBest place to grab a drink! There are bars in Curry Village, and at the Ahwahnee Hotel and Yosemite Lodge. A treat-yourself-meal! The Ahwahnee Hotel has excellent food (you can check the menu outside the restaurant area–but be aware they do have a dress code); you can also get a meal at Yosemite Lodge; and best is to cook your own meal at a campfire by your campsite looking up at Half Dome! ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/shutterstock_370281491.jpg "shutterstock_370281491 - Couchsurfing Blog")The Ahwahnee Hotel is a great choice for snacks drinks and dinner [EarthScape ImageGraphy](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Earthscape)shutterstockBest quick bite! In Yosemite Village, get a quick bite in grill area on the deck behind the Village store, or get a pizza at [Degnan’s Loft](https://www.yosemite.com/restaurants-dining/the-loft-at-degnans/) (open in summer), or a sandwich at [Degnan’s kitchen](https://www.yosemite.com/restaurants-dining/degnans-deli/). In Curry Village, there are fast food places as well. Best view! On Fridays and Saturdays in Summer (end of June to first week of September) there are [Star Parties](https://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/programs.htm) at [Glacier Point](https://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/glacierpoint.htm) where astronomy groups bring big telescopes to view the night sky from one of the best places in America to do so; Tunnel View gives you the iconic view of Yosemite Valley. In daytime, Tunnel View, Glacier Point, Sentinel Dome, Vernal and Nevada Falls, Yosemite Falls. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/shutterstock_754753498.jpg "shutterstock_754753498 - Couchsurfing Blog")Glacier Point [Simon Dannhauer](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/fotomonie)shutterstockCute cafe! Grab some coffee, hot chocolate and pastries from the small coffee bar in the Ahwahnee hotel and sit on the back patio and look up at Half Dome, or read a book inside in the Great Lounge area where they have large fires in winter; In summer, grab a snack from the Glacier Point Snack Bar and look out from Glacier Point. Best day-trip! Many will do the day hike to the top of Half Dome (a 12 hour hike that has 5000 feet of elevation gain and is about 16 miles of hiking). You must get a permit to do this hike in summer. You can also do the 1.5 hour drive to the south entrance and go to the [Mariposa Grove](https://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/mg.htm) of Giant Sequoia trees. This is the best group of Giant Sequoias in Yosemite, but is best visited in late spring, summer and fall as the road may be closed to snow in winter. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/shutterstock_1175764084.jpg "shutterstock_1175764084 - Couchsurfing Blog")Mariposa Grove [My Good Images](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/kapu)shutterstockWhere to try the local food! Camp food! Bring your own food to cook over your campfire grill. Rach campsite has a campfire grill where you can cook your own food (including marshmallows for S’mores!). There are also soem picnic areas around Yosemite Valley where you can get first come, first served picnicking space with a table to meet with friends. The perfect picture! Most popular: [Tunnel View](https://www.yosemite.com/what-to-do/tunnel-view/), and Glacier Point (in Summer), and from the top of Half Dome, Sentinel Dome (much easier to reach than Half Dome after about 30 minutes of hiking) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/shutterstock_11306752161.jpg "shutterstock_11306752161 - Couchsurfing Blog")Tunnel view at sunset [Andrew S](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/andrewsound)shutterstockFamily fun! The [Yosemite Village Visitors Center](https://www.yosemite.com/locations/yosemite-valley-visitors-center/), all year; the ice skating rink and Badger Pass ski and snowboard areas in winter; renting bikes and rafts from Curry Village. Take one of the nature walks led by Park Rangers during the day. There are also night programs at Camp Curry and other camping areas that are designed to appeal to kids. One experience not to miss! Star Parties every Friday and Saturday (when the skies are clear) from the end of June to the first week of September at Glacier Point. A good place to camp is at Bridalveil Creek Campground, a first come, first served campground located about 10 minutes from Glacier Point. This may not open until the end of June. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/shutterstock_1121954483.jpg "shutterstock_1121954483 - Couchsurfing Blog")Milky way over half dome from Glacier Point [Bill45](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Bill+Vorasate)shutterstockHistoric moment! Ansel Adams Gallery and the Indian Museum/Village. Also look at the Yosemite Guide newspaper for organized Ranger-led walks during the day which will cover Yosemite history. A tourist trap to avoid! I would avoid paying for any organized bus tour from SF or LA. These are usually quite expensive (hundreds of dollars) and then take up either most of a whole day or a couple of days and then you may only spend a few hours in Yosemite Valley (which does not give you nay time to explore on your own). After riding on a bus for 10-12 hours or over a couple of days, your total time where you can walk around in the Yosemite Village area may just be 1-2 hours. If you go yourself, consider taking buses (like Greyhound) or trains (Amtrak) which connect with the YARTS bus system. But you will have to stay overnight and your options are a hostel outside Yosemite, camping in Yosemite Valley or staying in the somewhat expensive lodgings in Yosemite Valley. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/shutterstock_469695596.jpg "shutterstock_469695596 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Petr Podrouzek](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Petr+Podrouzek)shutterstockAnything else to add… Check the San Francisco Couchsurfing events pages as well as the Yosemite (and Los Angeles if you are coming from the south) to find other Couchsurfers who may be interested in traveling with you so you can consider sharing a car, lodgings or just traveling together on a bus or train. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-yosemite-national-park/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-yosemite-national-park/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Guides --- ### [A Couchsurfer's guide to... Torbay](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-torbay/) **Published:** January 9, 2020 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Excerpt:** Torbay is a borough in Southwestern England consisting of the towns of Torquay, Paignton and Brixham. Our Ambassador, Rhiane, gives us her tips to getting the most out of your trip to this gorgeous part of England. **Content:** ##### By: [Rhiane Winter](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/rhianewinter) ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/shutterstock_654669748-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C768&ssl=1 "shutterstock_654669748 - Couchsurfing Blog")Brixham one of three towns in Torbay By [photoeccles](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Geoff+Eccles)shutterstock**Best Breakfast in town!** [Brody’s Breakfast Bistro]() in Torquay: a brekkie heaven tucked away out of sight. All you can eat breakfast or options such as all you can eat pancakes or all you can eat toast. They have a pancake and waffle machine, full English breakfast options, a wall full of cereal, as well as all the jams, spreads and sauces you can think of. Unlimited tea, coffee, and orange juice, and they also do burgers in the evening. **1 Museum not to miss!** Torquay was the birthplace of [Dame Agatha Christie](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Agatha_Christie), the author of dozens of detective novels and creator of [Poirot](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Agatha_Christie%27s_Poirot) and [Miss Marple](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Miss_Marple). She has a dedicated gallery in [Torquay Museum](http://www.torquaymuseum.org/homepage), and her holiday home in Greenway is now a [National Trust property](https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/greenway) overlooking the River Dart, which can be reached by [riverboat](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g186253-d2038103-Reviews-Greenway_Ferry_River_Boat_Cruises-Dartmouth_Devon_England.html) or steam train from Paignton – a great way to arrive at a great museum! ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/shutterstock_209771320-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "shutterstock_209771320 - Couchsurfing Blog")River Dart at Totnes By [jennyt](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/jennyt)shutterstock**Best place to grab a drink!** [Liberty cocktail bar](https://libertybrixham.business.site/) in Brixham – probably the coolest thing to come to Brixham since William of Orange in 1688. Step inside and the super stylish decor will make you forget you’re in a quaint seaside town. They have almost any alcoholic or caffeinated drink you can imagine, which is rather a lot! **Where to dance!** Torquay harbour is brimming with bars and clubs, so much so that there is an ambulance stationed there on Friday and Saturday nights. While that doesn’t look favourably on our British tendency to under-think and over-drink, you’ll find many places to have a light boogie or hardcore dance sesh, with the assurance that help is never too far away if your dancing gets the better of you. Check out [The Foundry](https://www.thefoundrytorquay.com/) and [The Attic](http://www.atticlive.com/) for an adventurous night out. ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/shutterstock_751869016-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C684&ssl=1 "shutterstock_751869016 - Couchsurfing Blog")Torquay Harbor at sunset by [Roberto La Rosa](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/robertolarosa)shutterstock**A treat-yourself-meal!** For a bite of history, try the[ Old Market House](https://www.oldmarkethousebrixham.co.uk/) in Brixham. They have both pub food and fine-dining options to suit everyone, set in a charming stone market house. For a real taste of haute cuisine, book a table at [the Elephant](https://www.elephantrestaurant.co.uk/) in Torquay. Unfortunately, I’ve never been, but if there’s one fancy place anyone mentions, it’s the Elephant. **Best Quick Bite!** You’re in Devon. Go eat a pasty. ‘Nuff said! Here are the best of the best in each town (so you have no excuse not to try one!): [Fuller’s Pasties](http://restaurantwebexpert.com/FullersPasties/) in Brixham [Hallet’s Bakery](http://hallettsthebakers.co.uk/) in Paignton [Oggy Oggy](http://www.oggyoggyfranchise.com/) in Paignton and Torquay [The Cornish Bakery](http://www.thecornishbakery.com/) in Torquay And a bonus… you’re in Devon. It’s [Devonshire cream tea time](https://www.grandtorquay.co.uk/our-food/)! ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/shutterstock_1421210675-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C692&ssl=1 "shutterstock_1421210675 - Couchsurfing Blog")A pasty on the beach By [Jeanette Teare](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/J+Teare)shutterstock**Where to sweat!** [Shoalstone pool](http://shoalstonepool.com/) in Brixham – a free outdoor seawater pool. This pool is run by volunteers and is only open during the summer months, but it’s a rare gem that’s hard to find anywhere else. I spent most of my summer holidays there with my friends, daring each other to jump off Ladybird Rock. Come by in the early morning for an invigorating swim before everyone else arrives, or take your kids there to have a splash, finishing with a picnic on the beach or lunch at the café. When the wind is strong the waves crash over the side into the pool which is quite dramatic! There are changing rooms, toilets, a café and a car park. For the winter or bad weather, check out [Torbay Leisure Centre](http://www.leisurecentre.com/torbay-leisure-centre) in Paignton, or the Riviera Centre in Torquay for a huge choice of sports and activities. [The Riveria Centre](https://www.rivieracentre.co.uk/) has a wave pool and slides, so great for kids! **Best View in the City!** Name me a place with seven hills… No, not Rome, Torbay! You’re bound to be walking either uphill or downhill, and with so many uphills there are plenty of breathtaking views to be found. Head to [Hope’s Nose](https://goo.gl/maps/DqGcDuoR4x1EnVta7) and Thatcher Point on a clear day for a panorama of not just Torbay, but the whole of Lyme Bay too. ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/shutterstock_1569810280-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "shutterstock_1569810280 - Couchsurfing Blog")Thatcher Point By [BerndBrueggemann](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/wildplacebos)shutterstock**Cute Cafe!** [The Lion’s Monocle](https://goo.gl/maps/qA8fNSyqfDiAqikG8) in Paignton – perhaps a bit pricey, but definitely cute and cosy, and full of curiosities to catch your attention. Instead of setting up shop somewhere cool and hip, the owner brought something cool and hip to a town that could benefit from it. Their cakes and coffee are quite delicious. If you’re looking for somewhere a tad more affordable but still cosy and busy, head to [Coffee#1](https://www.coffee1.co.uk/locations/torquay/) around the corner. They also have a coffee shop in [Torquay](https://goo.gl/maps/NNMU4i5q5z6BWpVW7) and all around the South West. **Best day-trip out of town!** The town of Totnes is just a half hour bus ride away. Hop on the [Stagecoach Gold double-decker](https://www.stagecoachbus.com/routes/south-west/gold/torquay-strand-totnes-royal-seven-stars/xdcgold.o) – don’t let the free wi-fi tempt you, but do sit on the upper deck and admire the lush rolling hills. Totnes is a haven for anyone living an alternative lifestyle, packed full of vegan cafés, buskers, artisan artifacts, and quirky clothing. Their busy Christmas market is one of the most unique and interesting in the country. Beyond Totnes lies [Dartmoor](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dartmoor), a national park known for its tors, which are hills topped with outcrops of bedrock. It’s also the setting for the Sherlock Holmes story ‘[The Hound of the Baskervilles](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Hound_of_the_Baskervilles)‘. ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/shutterstock_52723693-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "shutterstock_52723693 - Couchsurfing Blog")Totnes By [Samot](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/veveruska)shutterstock**Where to try the local cuisine!** Brixham is renowned for its fish, for good reason. It often ends up all the way in London, but you don’t have to go there to try it – just pop to the [London Fryer](http://www.londonfryer.co.uk/) in Paignton. You can’t come to Torbay without trying the best fish and chips in town, as rated by me, my family, friends, and everyone who queues out the door on a Friday night. I recommend booking ahead if you want to get a table in their cosy restaurant; otherwise, head down to the beach huts and have tea by the sea. **The perfect picture!** Probably any of the ample beaches that Torbay has to offer, showcasing the rich red sandstone cliffs and, well, sand! Take a look at the music video of ‘[The Bay](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9PnOG67flRA)‘ by Metronomy for some inspiration. ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/shutterstock_1569833701-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "shutterstock_1569833701 - Couchsurfing Blog")Paignton coastline By [BerndBrueggemann](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/wildplacebos)shutterstock**Family Fun!** For the summer, [Quaywest](https://www.splashdownwaterparks.co.uk/quaywest/) in Paignton is the obvious choice, a waterpark parked right next to the beach. If your little ones love pirates, make sure to plan your trip in May, when the annual [Brixham Pirate Festival](https://brixhampirates.com/) is held. It’s an attempt to break the world record for the number of pirates in one place! There are all sorts of events and stalls and things to do. Some people take this very seriously – one man even dresses up as Jack Sparrow and never breaks character. For the most adventurous Couchsurfing kids, and especially larger groups, check out [Grenville House](https://www.grenvillehouse.co.uk/activities.html) for some awesome outdoor experiences. **Historic Moment!** [William of Orange](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/William_III_of_England) was the last person to successfully invade Britain, and he landed at Brixham in 1688. There is a statue commemorating this historic moment and his declaration: “the liberties of England and the Protestant religion I will maintain.” Dwarfing the monument is a full-sized replica of the [Golden Hind](https://goldenhind.co.uk/), whose captain, [Sir Francis Drake](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Francis_Drake), was the second person in history to circumnavigate the globe. ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/shutterstock_1333150799-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "shutterstock_1333150799 - Couchsurfing Blog")William of Orange by [RogerMechan](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/windswept)shutterstock**One experience not to miss!** Torbay is home to a number of tall ships, or traditional sailboats. These ships enter races, various events and offer programmes throughout the year. You can [book](https://www.trinitysailing.org/sailing-holidays) some of these boats, learn to sail, and turn your trip into a real voyage! **A tourists trap to avoid!** British seaside towns are chock-full of piers and penny arcades, and Torbay is no exception. They can be a fun way to pass the time, especially when the weather doesn’t turn out how you hoped… but be aware that you will never get all your money back! ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/shutterstock_1300670518-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C695&ssl=1 "shutterstock_1300670518 - Couchsurfing Blog")Paignton Pier By [Simon Day](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Simon+Day)shutterstock**Anything else to add…** Sure, it’s not New York or Barcelona (although there is a Barcelona in Cornwall!) but we still have a lot of things to offer. Why not skip London and explore the other corners of our lovely country? The southwest corner first, of course! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-torbay/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-torbay/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Guides **Tags:** brixham, devon, england, paignton, torbay, torquay --- ### [10 Questions with a CS Ambassador: Kelly](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-kelly/) **Published:** March 2, 2020 **Author:** Mike Joy **Excerpt:** Meet Kelly! An Ambassador in Madrid with years of travel under her belt and many stories to share! Check out her guides on Thessaloniki and Seoul as well! **Content:** #### Name: [Kelly](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/kellyaslan?action=show&controller=user_profiles) City: Madrid, Spain Years on Couchsurfing: 9 ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/cf80b1ff-b71c-4a44-ab9c-333495c02fa1.jpg "cf80b1ff-b71c-4a44-ab9c-333495c02fa1 - Couchsurfing Blog")**Hey Kelly! So tell us, how did you first find out about Couchsurfing?** At a random bar meeting through a friend. **Amazing. And why did you decide to get involved?** I needed to surround myself with like minded people. People with interesting lives. People with stories and experiences to share. People I could relate to. People that see the good in other people. **Very true. Glad you found that on Couchsurfing. So what was your first experience on CS?** Being a single mom meant I had to take it slow and do my due diligence. After attending events and acquainting myself with the local CS hub for almost a year, one rainy November night towards the end of a metal pub event, I got to talking to 2 Russian kids, both 21, who as it turned out had a newborn with them sleeping in a carry on at the back of the bar. They had no host, and apparently no back up plan either. Needless to say, I took them all in for about 2 weeks. And gave them both crash lessons on child rearing before sending them back into the world. That was my beginning. **Wow. A baby in a bar! Bold. What has been another of your most interesting hosting experiences?** I have this saying about hosting, “I open my door to complete strangers, and hope that by the time they leave they will be like family just came by for a visit. And for family, the door is always open.” So the interesting part for me is staying in touch. Meeting up again, at my place, theirs, somewhere in the world. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Kellymadcrash.jpg "Kellymadcrash - Couchsurfing Blog")Kelly hosting a game at MadCrash 2019**A beautiful sentiment. What about surfing?** Omg. Only on CS could one experience such adventures. I am talking about the kind of stuff movies are made of. My most memorable, by far, damn, this is difficult too you guys! You are killing me! My son and 6 other people I adopted along the way sleeping in a newly built, campstyle, somewhere in south Morocco, between Essaouira and Agadir. There was no roof/ceiling. We literally slept counting the stars and wondering what a scorpion sting felt like! Haha **Wow! Hopefully you didn’t experience one! What’s your favorite gift you’ve received from a surfer?** Oh my, who doesn’t like a magnet, right? Especially one that doesn’t break! Remember that folks. But by far, food and drinks from all over the world puts a huge smile on my face. I suppose it’s the extra effort one puts into this that makes the whole thing feel uber special. And imagine homemade stuff!!! Real tearjerker. I should know. gallivanting all over Asia in the summers carrying 5-6 kilos of chorizo for my CS hosts and friends isn’t easy! So of course I appreciate it even more! **That is kind of you! Cured meat for months is a commitment! What is one amazing story from your travels?** One thing in particular that had a tremendous personal impact on me takes the cake: I am in Busan, South Korea. Haeundae, it’s packed, broad daylight, 40 degrees, I am waiting for the lights to turn, so I can cross over to the beach front. I see all of a sudden a toddler no more than 3 running in traffic trying to cross over to my side. All this happened in split seconds, but I remember it like in slow mow..I sprang to action, stopped the traffic, grabbed her up from the middle of the street, and ran back out. I thought her parents must have seen what happened and will most likely cross when the lights turn. I kept her in my arms trying to lift her high, make her more visible..we stood at the traffic light for 10 minutes. Nobody came, nobody was frantically screaming for their child, nobody even inquired or offered to help even though 100 people stared on while this whole event unfolded before their eyes. I even got worried that I might get in trouble. I decided to take her to the police station. Somebody must have reported her missing. When I got there, they all sprang to action, but they were all calm and collected. For those 20 minutes of my life, I switched from horror to shock to relief to bewilderment to despair and then back to disbelief when they told me nobody had reported a child missing. I couldn’t fathom how this was possible. Then the following happened: a police officer unbuttoned her top, reached out for a necklace she was wearing, flipped it and read out a phone number to another officer who dialed the number. No one answered. He tried again and again. The third time somebody picked up. 5 minutes later a man casually strolled in all smiles, scooped her up and soothed her. Apparently, the family wasn’t even aware the child was missing. He thanked me, apologised to all parties involved for any inconvenience he may have caused and waved bye with a smiling Nae Yun in his arms. No ID check for him, no report filed, nothing. It took me a week to recover mentally and psychologically.. to process my feelings and embrace this experience. I grew up in a part of the world where children disappear all the time. Where even the most vigilant eye can’t guarantee a child’s safety. I had my own son in a body wrap till 2 and a leash until 5. I remember losing him once in a supermarket for 3 minutes, and I went all Rambo. How wonderful it must be to live in a society where there’s no crime. Where a child missing is no big deal. Where the first thing in people’s mind is, “it’s ok, she is around playing. Worse case scenario is somebody will find her and call her ID number.” Where the authorities promote ID chains for children, so their parents can be contacted in case of any emergency! Where crime is so low, especially certain types of crime, that people don’t worry about losing their children in public. Crazy huh? I remember calling my son after, I never call him when I travel, but I needed to hear his voice. **Wow. That is an intense story. My mom would have gone full Rambo too if I went missing for even a few minutes. And she did a few times! So, what is your favorite cuisine from Spain that everyone should try?** Galician. Hands down is the best cuisine in Spain. Ok, Andalusian too. Ok, Basque is yummy too. Damn it. Another impossible question! **Ohhh. True, Spain has some great cuisine. What’s somewhere in Madrid everyone should visit?** Templo de Debod.. for one, cause we are talking about an actual Egyptian temple in the center of Madrid. Secondly, for the sunset. Best sunset spot in town. And the Guernica from Picasso in the Reina Sofia museum; for obvious reasons. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/templededebod.jpg "templededebod - Couchsurfing Blog")Sunset at Temple de Debod [Leonid Andronov](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/andronovl)shutterstock**Agreed! I love both of those. Lastly, what is your advice for new Couchsurfers?** Couchsurfing is what you make of it. Follow the rules and you will always be safe. There’s plenty of room to grow as a human being on CS. So long as you are open to improving yourself on any level, CS can completely transform your life. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-kelly/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-kelly/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Meet an Ambassador --- ### [10 Questions with a CS Ambassador: World Jason](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-world-jason/) **Published:** January 27, 2020 **Author:** Mike Joy **Excerpt:** After only 1 year on Couchsurfing, Jason has amassed over 70 references, hosted, surfed and planned events in Orlando. Find out why he got so active so fast! **Content:** #### Name: [World Jason](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/worldjason) City: Nomadic (Seattle, Washington) Years on Couchsurfing: 1 ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/20191205_205710-1.jpg?fit=1024%2C940&ssl=1 "20191205_205710-1 - Couchsurfing Blog")**Hey Jason! How did you first learn about Couchsurfing?** By reading Matt Kepnes book, “How to Travel the World on 50 Dollars a Day”. **Amazing. Glad to hear his book has been so inspirational! And what made you get involved?** I wanted to figure out how to travel the world for several years on a budget. I started reading all sorts of books, the author started talking about the couchsurfing app, and staying with people all over the world. I was blown away, and I knew immediately I had to be involved! I recognized that I could save money on travel, but even more than that, I saw this as an opportunity to make lifelong friends with people who are also passionate about travel. Now, I participate mainly by organizing events, helping new people get involved and surfing. Within a year my goal is to begin to travel the world. Right now my focus in the USA, but in 2021 I will start my international journey. **Incredible. Many people first get involved for surfing then discover that CS is so much more. What was your first CS experience like?** My first experience was as a surfer in Tampa. I met my host at the Tampa Riverwalk. We had a great conversation and we immediately found we had lots in common. She invited me to participate in a Zumba class down on the river, which I did. It was my first experience with Zumba! There were maybe 50 people there, and it was absolutely amazing. My host was from Europe and had moved to Tampa. She had been to almost a hundred countries! We talked for hours about what it is like to live and travel in various parts of the world. She explained how CS works and what makes a good host and surfer. And I still use many of her tips to this day. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/73cc81fa-b7fd-41ec-8809-ca1fb8441703.jpg "73cc81fa-b7fd-41ec-8809-ca1fb8441703 - Couchsurfing Blog")Tamp **A great first experience is so important! Glad she was willing to explain the community to you and it has had such a big payoff! Why did you become an Ambassador?** Once I started getting to know members of this community, I realized I wanted to play a part in growing and helping this community. This is more than a group of people to me. This is my tribe. My family. I was spending a lot of time in Orlando and had met some amazing people during my travels there. I met one of the ambassadors and was invited to participate in planning the 2019 Orlando Couch Crash. The event was an amazing success, and I realized I wanted to play a larger role in helping to shape and grow this community. My goals as an Ambassador are to (a) help grow the community through setting up events (b) recruit new members who would be a great fit for CS (c) help new members become involved with the community (d) work on safety issues to ensure a positive CS experience for everyone involved **Sounds great! We love to hear that! What been one of your most amazing experiences on CS?** When I first visited Orlando I stayed with an amazing host who has since become a dear friend. She showed me how amazing Orlando really is, and removed many misconceptions I had about the city. I had almost decided to write off Orlando as just a city for tourists, but through my incredible host I was able to see the “real” Orlando that tourists never see. It was during this time with my host where I started to understand how incredible it is to stay with locals who know their cities. **Amazing! If you could host or surf with any famous person who would it be and why?** For celebrities who are dead, I think I’d love to travel with Mark Twain. He has a killer sense of humor and I appreciate that he is a realist. For living celebrities, I’d love to travel with Steve Cook. He is a fitness IG influencer, and the person who inspired me to get into bodybuilding. He just seems like a really cool and amazing guy. ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/1c94a12c-021c-42bf-bd3f-5eb7efe3638b-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "1c94a12c-021c-42bf-bd3f-5eb7efe3638b - Couchsurfing Blog")Jason competing in a 2019 body building competition**I’m sure you’d have some killer workouts! What quote has inspired your travels?** > TRAVEL IS FATAL TO PREJUDICE, BIGOTRY, AND NARROW MINDEDNESS, AND MANY OF OUR PEOPLE NEED IT SORELY ON THESE ACCOUNTS. > > Mark Twain **Incredible quote! What’s a crazy thing that has happened to you while traveling?** One thing I’ve realized is that you can’t plan for everything. Things will happen. Travel teaches you to be flexible and to go with the flow. It also teaches you to rely on others, and to learn to be ok asking for help. Crazy things happen all the time when you are on the road. But that is where the magic is. The serendipity. Learning to allow and accept the random nature of life is what makes travel so amazing. **Very great point and perspective. What’s one thing you never go on a trip without?** My backpack! Seriously, I live out of this thing. It’s 28 litres and I’ve learned how to travel long term on very little. I am what you might consider an extreme minimalist. In order to travel with such limited space, one of my absolute necessities is to reduce space used by the items I bring with me. A key to this is a space saver bag for my clothing, which allows me to shrink down my clothing and make room for other items. Anything that saves space is always super useful, and I am constantly refining my packing to reduce the space I use. **A great backpack is definitely key to a great trip. Last question, what is one piece of advice you would give to a new Couchsurfer?** Go to events! Ideally a Couch Crash. Once you see the kinds of amazing people involved in this community, you will be hooked. Every day I learn more and more about travel from the amazing people I spend time with. Life is an adventure and is meant to be lived fully. Couchsurfing will help you do just that. ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/6ab08145-2296-4be0-90ad-d342047a565a.jpg?fit=1024%2C768&ssl=1 "6ab08145-2296-4be0-90ad-d342047a565a - Couchsurfing Blog")Orlando Couch Crash group pic### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-world-jason/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-world-jason/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Meet an Ambassador --- ### [A Couchsurfer's guide to... Nuremberg](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-nuremberg/) **Published:** February 27, 2020 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** #### By: [Vanessa](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/vanessa.r1) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/shutterstock_1470666725.jpg "shutterstock_1470666725 - Couchsurfing Blog")Historic NurembergMaxbruecke [FooTToo](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/FooTToo)shutterstockBest breakfast in town! I like the [Katzentempel](https://katzentempel.de/standorte/nuernberg/) because they have interesting dishes, very nice vegan cakes and pancakes, and fluffy cats. For a bargain, one might want to try [Alex](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g187310-d807765-Reviews-ALEX_Nurnberg-Nuremberg_Middle_Franconia_Franconia_Bavaria.html) at Hauptmarkt; when it’s warm you can sit on the terrace and have a view over the market place (Hauptmarkt). [Casa Pane](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g187310-d4586624-Reviews-Casa_Pane-Nuremberg_Middle_Franconia_Franconia_Bavaria.html) at Hauptmarkt also has a decent breakfast for a good price. 1 museum not to miss! The [Dürer-House](https://museums.nuernberg.de/albrecht-duerer-house/) is interesting, it has a nice exhibition of his art in the house he used to inhabit, with his workshop at the top; and across from it is the best museum shop ever. (Visit only takes about one hour.) I also quite like the [Documentation Center](https://museums.nuernberg.de/documentation-center/), but it’s a little intense and takes a few hours to visit. The Germanisches Nationalmuseum has a lot to offer; it’s very large and has something for everyone. (Some of the exhibits are a little older, though). You can spend as much time there as you like, depending on what you want to see. All these three museums have English and German texts. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/shutterstock_12435885851.jpg "shutterstock_12435885851 - Couchsurfing Blog")Documentation Center [Bob Pool](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Bob+Pool)shutterstockA treat-yourself meal! [Mariposa](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g187310-d8853888-Reviews-Mariposa-Nuremberg_Middle_Franconia_Franconia_Bavaria.html) has good food and it’s very cozy there (note: they don’t serve alcohol). [Chay](https://www.happycow.net/reviews/chay-vegan-kitchen-nuremberg-181590) in Erlenstegen also has very good food (but you will probably need to take the tram to get there). [Miss Vietnam](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g187310-d7745686-Reviews-Miss_Vietnam-Nuremberg_Middle_Franconia_Franconia_Bavaria.html) is a small place in the center that I can also recommend very much (not as pricey as the other two but also not as cozy, but a cute little place). [Thanh](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g187310-d10136342-Reviews-Thanh_Vietnamese_Home_Kitchen-Nuremberg_Middle_Franconia_Franconia_Bavaria.html) in Johannis has very good food and cool decor. Best place to grab a drink! Buy a beer at the supermarket and drink it at [Tiergärtnertorplatz](https://www.tripadvisor.com/LocationPhotoDirectLink-g187310-i28187464-Nuremberg_Middle_Franconia_Franconia_Bavaria.html), if the weather is nice. Once it reopens, the [Kulturgarten](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g187310-d1340685-Reviews-KulturGarten-Nuremberg_Middle_Franconia_Franconia_Bavaria.html) is worth a visit and it’s close to the main station. Many of the places in the city center are touristy. I recommend going to [Gostenhof](https://tourismus.nuernberg.de/en/experience/shopping/hot-spot-gostenhof/) for cooler bars and breweries. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/shutterstock_1549165790.jpg "shutterstock_1549165790 - Couchsurfing Blog")Tiergartnertorplatz city gate and tower [chrisdorney](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/chrisdorney)shutterstockBest street food! We have really good falafel in Nuremberg. There are around 4 stalls either at [Hauptmarkt](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g187310-d241826-Reviews-Hauptmarkt-Nuremberg_Middle_Franconia_Franconia_Bavaria.html) (when there is no other market there) or near [Lorenzkirche](https://tourismus.nuernberg.de/en/discover/places-of-interest/location/lorenzkirche-st-lawrence-church/) (when Hauptmarkt is occupied). I prefer the Lebanese and Syrian ones, but I’ve tried them all and they are really all very nice. Where to break a sweat! You can jog around the [Wöhrder See](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g187310-d4545018-Reviews-Woehrder_See-Nuremberg_Middle_Franconia_Franconia_Bavaria.html) or along the river [Pegnitz](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pegnitz_(river)), or do some yoga/juggling/whatever on [Wöhrder Wiese](https://tourismus.nuernberg.de/buchen/deine-gastgeber/kathrin-winkler-hotel-prinzregent/location/woehrder-see-und-woehrder-wiese/) or [Hallerwiese](https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hallerwiese). ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/shutterstock_1411276712.jpg "shutterstock_1411276712 - Couchsurfing Blog")Woehrder See [Animaflora PicsStock](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Butterblume2105)shutterstockFamily fun! The [Wöhrder See](https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/W%C3%B6hrder_See) now has a little beach, you can go for a swim there, and there’s a place to skate and bike and some water games. It’s quite nice. I think going into the forest for a little walk is always a good family things. You can go to Valzner Weiher, there is a marked path with some activities for children. Best view in the city! From [Maxbrücke](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g187310-d12278402-Reviews-Maxbruecke-Nuremberg_Middle_Franconia_Franconia_Bavaria.html), from the castle, or from the tower of the [Sebald Church](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g187310-d243418-Reviews-St_Sebaldus_Church-Nuremberg_Middle_Franconia_Franconia_Bavaria.html) (only open sometimes). ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/shutterstock_754237924.jpg "shutterstock_754237924 - Couchsurfing Blog")Saint Sebald [RossHelen](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/RossHelen)shutterstockBest day-trip out of town! [Cadolzburg](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cadolzburg) (visit the newly renovated castle, have some ice cream in the town center, and go up for a view from the lookout tower). You can do a bike tour there or take the train. Visitors also love [Bamberg](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bamberg); it’s a beautiful city but of course very touristy. Take the train to [Gräfenberg](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gr%C3%A4fenberg,_Bavaria) and do a hike around there, to the [Lillachquelle](https://www.komoot.com/guide/6023/hiking-around-weissenohe), and go to one of the local breweries. In the summer, go to Altmühlsee or [Brombachsee](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gro%C3%9Fer_Brombachsee) for some swimming, walking, cycling, and more. The perfect picture! It might not be very unique, but I like the [Ehekarussel](https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/ehekarussell), the castle, the [Maxbrücke](https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maxbr%C3%BCcke_(N%C3%BCrnberg)), and the [Weißgerbergasse](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g187310-d7129747-Reviews-Weissgerbergasse-Nuremberg_Middle_Franconia_Franconia_Bavaria.html). ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/shutterstock_551223760.jpg "shutterstock_551223760 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Travel Faery](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/VladaZ1)shutterstockHistoric moment! The city center has a lot of historic places. But if you want to see something different, go to the [Luitpoldhain/Zeppelinfeld/Kongresshalle/Dutzenteich](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nazi_party_rally_grounds), you can take a walk there, get some info on history, and have a beer afterwards at the [beergarden Gutmann](http://www.gutmann-am-dutzendteich.de/unser-haus/biergarten.html). A tourist trap to avoid! Barfüßer, Goldenes Posthorn, O’Shea’s, Finnegan’s, any of the large chain restaurants and bars. Mostly the places near the train station are overpriced and not so good (with some exceptions, like Hannemann and Kater Murr, a little bit hidden in a side street). I can recommend King’s Arms and Bäckerhof, for example. 1 last piece of advice! I recommend just taking a few hours and strolling around the city. There is a tourist office by the main station (Königstor) and at the Hauptmarkt. Get a map there and just walk by some of the sites, such as Ehekarussel, Henkersteg, the castle, Weißgerbergasse, Fleischbrück, Hauptmarkt, maybe even [Handwerkerhof](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g187310-d241803-Reviews-Handwerkerhof-Nuremberg_Middle_Franconia_Franconia_Bavaria.html) (touristy but interesting), the castle gardens (April to October only), some of the churches are worth a visit, Tiergärtnertor. But you can also leave the center and take a walk through the [Stadtpark](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g187310-d10373303-Reviews-Stadtpark-Nuremberg_Middle_Franconia_Franconia_Bavaria.html) or along the [Wöhrder See](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g187310-d4545018-Reviews-Woehrder_See-Nuremberg_Middle_Franconia_Franconia_Bavaria.html) and have a drink at the new café on the north shore, see some of the art noveau buildings in the Nordstadt, walk along the Pegnitz to the west, or take a little trip to Fürth (10-15 minutes by subway). ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/shutterstock_512768974.jpg "shutterstock_512768974 - Couchsurfing Blog")Stadtpark [Val Thoermer](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/valthoermer)shutterstock### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-nuremberg/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-nuremberg/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Guides **Tags:** couchsurfing, documentation center, ehekarussel, germany, gostenhof, hauptmarkt, kulturgarten, lorenzkirche, maxbruecke, Nuremberg, pegnitz, saint sebald, tiergartnertorplatz, woehrder see --- ### [10 Questions with a CS Ambassador: Mauro](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-mauro/) **Published:** February 24, 2020 **Author:** Mike Joy **Excerpt:** Meet Mauro, our Ambassador in Marche, Italy! **Content:** #### Name: [Mauro](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/mauro.piccotti) City: [Marche](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marche), Italy Years on Couchsurfing: 9 ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/c3d84232-a59e-4676-a09f-8b699dd2e5ac.jpg "c3d84232-a59e-4676-a09f-8b699dd2e5ac - Couchsurfing Blog")Mauro on a llama farm**Hi Mauro! What made you get involved with Couchsurfing?** I never liked so much to travel with friends – too touristic – and I’m more interested in knowing cultures and people than visiting places, so I easily get bored moving around taking pictures. When I discovered that there were crazy people willing to host and be hosted by strangers I thought I had to be one of these crazy people. **We are a little crazy, aren’t we! What was your first CS experience?** My first experience happened in Summer, when an American opera singer – Stephanie – wrote me because (she thought) Roma was close to my village (more than 3 hours by train… close?!) and she was curious to see my family’s little vineyards. It was memorable to see her singing barefoot in the middle of the vineyard, and wandering through the beaches and the little villages of my region in motorbike. I love my village and my region, and even if in these last years Marche is getting a bit more touristic, we don’t often see foreigners in this area. I’ve always felt some kind of ambassador, writing to people asking for help/info and hosting, also because it’s not easy to enjoy the beauties of my land without a local guide and a car, so when I discovered the Couchsurfing Ambassador program I decided to apply. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/16055115_l_ac63a25de1f6dbd30e455aefa67c886c.jpg "16055115_l_ac63a25de1f6dbd30e455aefa67c886c - Couchsurfing Blog")Mauro and Stephanie**Your area sounds gorgeous. What is one of your most memorable hosting experience?** It’s hard to choose. I could answer the first one, but it would be unfair. I hosted some really great globetrotters, and these have been probably the most unforgettable: the Puerto Rican girl traveling alone around the world (1000 days…) with her ukulele, the Hong Kong guy arrived in winter after months of travels in Europe with a small and cheap scooter which was literally in pieces, the Ukrainian hitchhiker who moved along all the Italian coast and a half Europe always and only doing hitchhiking, with a backpack and a guitar. **They all sound truly memorable and unique! What about as a surfer?** Also this one is hard… I could say the one in Riga with Reinis and his girlfriend. The first night I couldn’t call him when I returned very late due to some problems with my phone, and I almost had to sleep outside; the following day we went together in countryside and he let me drive his old, 70 year old, soviet truck in the woods, unforgettable. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/24277453_l_eae403b0d7731f77e4bea28ceb408fe8.jpg "24277453_l_eae403b0d7731f77e4bea28ceb408fe8 - Couchsurfing Blog")Mauro Driving a GAZ 51 in the Latvia**What is one book that has inspired your travels?** One of the first books about travels I read was “The lord of the rings”, I was a teenager and for sure it inspired me: when it’s better to go in group and when alone, how important is the equipment, the fact that along the path you could face problems and you will loose people, but also that you will meet great people and friends you still don’t know. **Great trilogy! I’ve heard incredible things about New Zealand, where the films were filmed, too. What is a quote that inspires you?** > Every trip is lived three times: when we dream it, when we live it, and when it **Wow, that’s beautiful. I’ve never heard that quote before. What is the craziest thing that has ever happened to you while traveling?** I’ve never traveled in wild places and unluckily for me I’m a bit too organized to have faced big problems while in travel, probably because I don’t exit enough from my comfort zone. Once while in San Francisco, in winter, I rented a car and I started to drive north. My plan was to go to Las Vegas passing through the desert instead of on the highway as most people, but being winter almost all the passes to Nevada were closed, so I found myself moving too north with a car never driven before, without winter tires and without chains swearing until, in a empty motel, a guy told me where I had to go. I arrived in Las Vegas at my host’s house quite late, after driving like a crazy person. I don’t know how long and how fast I was in the empty desert. I was so tired that when I got out of the car I forgot to use the hand brake and had to jump on the moving car just in time to stop it. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/523e9567-54f3-4920-afc1-5c034fd0b64a.jpg "523e9567-54f3-4920-afc1-5c034fd0b64a - Couchsurfing Blog")Mauro on a hike to Lago di Pilato**As soon as you said you were heading to Las Vegas from SF heading north, I thought, ‘this is going to be good!’ What is a delicacy from your area that everyone should try?** I love to eat everything, but if I should name one thing about my area I can say only “[Vincisgrassi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vincisgrassi)“, it’s a kind of lasagna so rich and tasty, very traditional in my region. **I just looked up a photo and it looks delicious. What is one thing everyone must do in your city?** My “city” – San Marcello – is a 2000 people village, and every traveler should absolutely see the bar, because it’s a 65 years old historical place which never changed and it has been owned always by the same family. It’s hard to meet there someone not from my village, and it’s a very, very Italian place. And my friend Alessandro, the bartender, can prepare you one of the best *cappuccini* in the world for 1.20€ ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/shutterstock_443023090.jpg "shutterstock_443023090 - Couchsurfing Blog")Marche Italy [zakaz86](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/zakaz86)shutterstock**Last question, what is your advice to new Couchsurfers?** If possible try to spend time with people different from you, don’t look for people you are sure you will get a long because you could be disappointed and you won’t learn anything. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-mauro/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-mauro/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Meet an Ambassador **Tags:** couchsurfing, italy, Marche --- ### [10 Questions with a CS Ambassador: Marcos](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-marcos/) **Published:** February 10, 2020 **Author:** Mike Joy **Content:** #### Name: [Marcos](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/mingoleros) City: Cordoba, Argentina Years on Couchsurfing: 8 ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/280f3cd8-fac5-4162-81ee-e7d5d22980d9.jpg "280f3cd8-fac5-4162-81ee-e7d5d22980d9 - Couchsurfing Blog")**Hey Marcos! Why did you get involved with Couchsurfing?** I decided to get involved because of the spirit of the first people I met in this community. I share the values of the community and it is beautiful to travel through the eyes of the people we stay with and get to know the city outside of tourism and being part of the local community. The social and cultural exchange that takes place is beautiful. **What was your first Couchsurfing experience?** My first experience was on a trip to the United States where I stayed at the house of a friend who hosted people from the Couchsurfing community. When I returned to Argentina, I started to surf and my first experience was spectacular, I felt as if I were part of the family. **What has been one of your most interesting experiences as a host?** I have had several. I usually host many travelers who stay for 2 days, one week, some have stayed months and I had a person who stayed 1 and a half years due to some issues that came up while he was passing through my city. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/f2733a20-053a-48bf-8551-d08fc768a5c6-1024x575.jpg "f2733a20-053a-48bf-8551-d08fc768a5c6 - Couchsurfing Blog")**And what about as a surfer?** My most interesting experience was on my visit to Ecuador, where the person who hosted me worked at an important TV channel in the city and was allowed to participate in television media and was able to tell what this community is about and this different way of traveling. **What is the coolest or most unique gift you have received from a surfer?** The best gift is not the material but the quality of person, and I have been fortunate to have people with great spirits and hearts. If you mean a material gift, then the best gift was the ticket to be part of their wedding. **Incredible! If you could host any famous person, who would it be?** Barack Obama is the most famous of all, and in the 90s he was a traveler just like us! It would be very interesting to be able to share a few days with him nad to be able to feed on his experiences ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/2159c095-318d-46f5-af55-375979606a53.jpg "2159c095-318d-46f5-af55-375979606a53 - Couchsurfing Blog")**Agreed, Obama would be an incredible surfer! What is one of the coolest experiences you’ve had while traveling?** I participated in a dinner with the former vice president of Ecuador; I participated in a reality show in Ecuador as a judge; I gave a dissertation in a university without any planning. **Wow, all incredible experiences. Have you ever met a celebrity or well-known individual?** Through the CS community I had the opportunity to meet Virginia da Cunha who is a singer of a well-known group in Argentina since her brother is a Couchsurfer. Also, Anildo Böes who is an actor and a Couchsurfer who stayed at my home. **Wow, very cool. Especially since they’re all connected with the Couchsurfing community. What is your dream vacation?** To tour the world! I am currently planning my trip from Argentina to Alaska in a Combi. I already did a similar trip from Argentina to Mexico for a year in an armored motorhome collective in which we painted the CS flags on both sides and were able to host people while traveling. The project was called “America en bus”. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/26363103_l_8b16b8ff5b17107dd24a2dcd5e8beb09.jpg "26363103_l_8b16b8ff5b17107dd24a2dcd5e8beb09 - Couchsurfing Blog")**Wow that sounds like a really cool trip! Especially hosting travelers along the way! What is your piece of advice to new Couchsurfers?** CS does not only consist of hosting and surfing but in learning and sharing, it tries to achieve that cultural exchange, which is not just a place to sleep and thus save on a hotel. It is fantastic to learn from the experiences of the people you host or surf with, their culture and many times these stories take you to places you don’t know. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-marcos/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-marcos/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Meet an Ambassador --- ### [People are good](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/people-are-good/) **Published:** February 19, 2020 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Excerpt:** Read Christine's horror story and how one Couchsurfer restored her faith in humanity. **Content:** #### By: [Christine](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/livelovelaugh87) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/BucharestTaxi.jpg "BucharestTaxi - Couchsurfing Blog")[Alexandru Nita](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Alexandru+Nita)shutterstock“I might actually die today,” kept running through my head as the large, bearded taxi driver left Bucharest behind us and threatened to do terrible things to me. Instead of dropping me off at the train station like promised, he had demanded more money, and with each of the first 5 ATMs he stopped at that denied my card, he became increasingly angry, in a quiet, unnerving sort of way. After the 6th ATM finally gave me the local currency, he stopped talking, and started driving. And driving. We were deep in the countryside now, and as I watched the miles of empty beige fields slip by under cloudless skies, I was so, so afraid, held hostage with no idea of my fate, or how my parents would cope if I never came home. If I became a statistic. A fleeting headline on the news. I flashed back to the night my Dad had me sit down on their old blue couch and watch Taken with him before the 22-year old me left for 6 months of solo backpacking, thinking naively then that bad things only ever happened to other people. Only happened on TV. A little voice inside told me I needed to play it cool if I was going to survive this. Somehow, miraculously, I felt a surreal calm wash over me. Instead of crying, I heard myself telling him that I was moving to San Francisco in the Fall. That if he ever needed a place to stay in the city, I would host and cook and be his guide. It sounds absurd to think of now, but as I slipped a piece of paper with a fake email to the front of the car, his edge started to disappear. A few miles later, a small gray building appeared in the middle of nowhere, seeming almost like a mirage. The man slowly pulled to the side of the road about a hundred yards away, and my heart seized. This was the moment. This could be the end. “Go,” he said quietly. And I did. I cried then as I walked into a tiny, dirty room near overgrown tracks, never happier to see a broken-down station in my life. I was afraid though, and knew that I’d be arriving to Sophia, Bulgaria late, and in the dark – and in a time before smartphones were mainstream, the couch surfing host who was supposed to meet me at the station would be long gone. Desperately, I asked a couple on the train if they would walk with me to a hotel, any hotel, not yet able to process what had just happened. Graciously, they agreed. Then just as we pulled into the station, I saw him. More than an hour after I was supposed to arrive, I stepped onto the platform and looked up to see my name in large letters, scrawled on a piece of paper, and a smile on the face of the brown-haired man holding it. Despite what I’d experienced that day, I remembered this: People are good. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/people-are-good/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/people-are-good/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Stories --- ### [A Couchsurfer's guide to... Banjarmasin](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-banjarmasin/) **Published:** February 20, 2020 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Excerpt:** See the capital city of the southern point of Borneo through the eyes of a local. **Content:** ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/shutterstock_685447828.jpg "shutterstock_685447828 - Couchsurfing Blog")Floating Market of Banjamarsin [Saipullah Srg](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Saipullah+Srg)shutterstockBest breakfast in town! [Warung Pondok Bahari ](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g303950-d10798305-Reviews-Warung_Pondok_Bahari-Banjarmasin_South_Kalimantan_Kalimantan.html)is a open 24 hours and is Banjar cuisine at a middle budget 1 museum not to miss! [Wasaka Museum](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g303950-d8322301-Reviews-Wasaka_Museum-Banjarmasin_South_Kalimantan_Kalimantan.html) has old Banjar artifacts and histories and is traditional architecture. Best place to grab a drink! [Taher Square](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Taher+Square/@-3.3210956,114.59471,15z/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x0:0xf3438fffbcd6bffb?sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiixPrhiN7nAhUBQkEAHXgPBLsQ_BIwCnoECBcQCA) is a crowded at night place with many kind of drinks ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/shutterstock_1447912646.jpg "shutterstock_1447912646 - Couchsurfing Blog")View of Banjarmasin [iman satria](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/iman+satria)shutterstockWhere to dance! Every weekend there are art performances like traditional dancing at [Gedung Sultan Suriansah](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Gedung+Sultan+Suriansyah/@-3.2989256,114.5904617,15z/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x0:0x75f1cc80aad78356?sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjthePKid7nAhUXHcAKHa52ALUQ_BIwFXoECBIQCA), but visitors must check the schedule. Best quick bite! Kawasan Wisata Kuliner is located near Martapura riverbed and there are many food sellers here. Best view in the city! [Menara Pandang Banjarmasin](http://www.wisatabanjarmasin.com/menara-pandang-banjarmasin/) is a tower on the river and is a great view of the city. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/shutterstock_1398799838.jpg "shutterstock_1398799838 - Couchsurfing Blog")Manara Padang Banjarmasin [onyengradar](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/onyengradar)shutterstockWhere to try the local cuisine! Pasar Terapung Siring. Its only open and crowded on the weekends, but a great place to taste local foods. The perfect picture! The [Bekantan Statue](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g303950-d8822216-Reviews-Bekantan_Statue-Banjarmasin_South_Kalimantan_Kalimantan.html) is a great place to take a picture of one of the landmarks in Banjarmasin. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/shutterstock_1553293265.jpg "shutterstock_1553293265 - Couchsurfing Blog")Bekantan Statue [ahmad denny syahputra](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/ahmad+denny+syahputra)shutterstock### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-banjarmasin/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-banjarmasin/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Guides --- ### [A Couchsurfer's Guide to... Madrid](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-madrid/) **Published:** October 12, 2019 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Excerpt:** Jean-Marc, our CS Ambassador to Madrid, gives us his tips and tricks to help you experience the best of Madrid! **Content:** #### [Jean-Marc](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/jeanmarcknoll) is a Couchsurfing Ambassador in Madrid, is here to give us his tips to help you experience the best of Madrid! ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/shutterstock_786312625.jpg "shutterstock_786312625 - Couchsurfing Blog")Cibeles Fountain [Eszter Szadeczky Kardoss](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Eszter+Szadeczky-Kardoss)shutterstock**1 Museum not to miss!** Aside from the world-beating museums of Madrid’s golden triangle of the Prado, Reina Sofia and Thyssen-Bornemisza, head to Museo Cerralbo for a tour of a 19th century CouchSurfer’s house. The old Marquis loved to travel as much as we do, and the themed rooms are filled with mementos from his escapades around the world. Samurai suits of armour, an 18th century English billiards table and some incredible Murano chandeliers are just a few of the many riches to be found. **Best Breakfast in town!** Enjoy the simple toasted pan de *tomate con aceite* (bread with crushed tomato and olive oil) and a *café con leche* (coffee with milk). Available at most cafes that serve breakfast. ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/shutterstock_131422361.jpg?fit=910%2C604&ssl=1 "shutterstock_131422361 - Couchsurfing Blog")By [nito](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/nito100)shutterstock**Best place to grab a drink!** Have the best vermouth in the city at [La Concha](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g187514-d3470895-Reviews-Taberna_la_Concha-Madrid.html) in iconic Calle Cava Baja street. But you must order it as a ‘Manuela’. for it to be served with three sprays of gin, filled with vermú and topped with a dash of Campari bitters and an olive and orange peel garnish. **Where to sweat!** Sweat out the previous night’s wine and tapas excesses by going for a run along Madrid Rio, the re-landscaped riverside area now perfect for a quiet jog or workout on the available free weights. Afterwards, enjoy some sunshine and a fruit juice at one of the many cafés. ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/shutterstock_1399241681.jpg?fit=910%2C607&ssl=1 "shutterstock_1399241681 - Couchsurfing Blog")By [Sun Shine](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/nataliamilko)shutterstock**A treat-yourself-meal!** For an upmarket foray into the world of tapas, head to Juana la Loca, one of the top 5 taperias in the city, and enjoy experimental dishes such as smoked eel & hazelnut gratin millefeuille, truffled risotto with wild mushrooms and an incredible white chocolate & mascarpone sablé. **Historic Moment!** No other city in the world, outside of its original home, has a 2,000 year old Egyptian temple in the middle of a downtown park. Stroll around the Templo de Debod in Parque del Oeste and read the fascinating history about how it came to find its new home. ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/shutterstock_521534857.jpg?fit=910%2C531&ssl=1 "shutterstock_521534857 - Couchsurfing Blog")By [Leonid Andronov](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/andronovl)shutterstock**Best Quick Bite!** For a more contemporary twist on the classic Spanish tortilla, head to Pez Tortilla and try their signature Brie, Truffle & Jámon offering. Runny in the middle and oozing onto your plate, the flavours combine phenomenally well. Wash it down with a local craft beer and you have a marriage made in heaven. **Best day-trip out of town!** Toledo, Segovia and Ávila are popular day trips from the city, but dodge the hordes of bus tourists by visiting little Chinchón and its beautiful medieval Plaza Mayor, circled by buildings with wooden balconies. Great food and great wine, and a medieval gem (almost) all to yourself. ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/shutterstock_1099303232.jpg?fit=910%2C607&ssl=1 "shutterstock_1099303232 - Couchsurfing Blog")By [Fernando Cortes](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/outsider)shutterstock**Cutest Cafe!** Cafe Ruda in hip La Latina is a wonderful place to spend a couple of mellow hours over a homemade slice of carrot cake and the best coffee in town. **The perfect picture!** There are so many great sunset spots in Madrid, but for the ultimate killer photo, head to the rooftop bar of the Circulo de las Bellas Artes and wait for the sun to dip behind the Sierra de Guadarrama: the city skyline will glow in the fading sunshine and offer you the photo that is on every postcard of the capital. ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Madrid-view.jpg?fit=910%2C607&ssl=1 "Madrid-view - Couchsurfing Blog")By [Matej Kastelic](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/kasto80)shutterstock**One experience not to miss!** Watch a movie at [Sala Equís](https://salaequis.es), Madrid’s last pornographic cinema converted into a cocktail bar and art house movie theatre. Comfortable sofas and little tables means you can get the big screen experience with a drink and tapa. **A tourist trap to avoid!** For an authentic insight into the importance of municipal markets in Madrid, avoid the tourist trap that is Mercado de San Miguel and head to [Mercado de la Cebada](https://mercadodelacebada.com) or [Mercado San Fernando](http://mercadodesanfernando.es) at weekends. You will eat, drink and mingle with locals rather than tourists. ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/shutterstock_455373481.jpg?fit=910%2C607&ssl=1 "shutterstock_455373481 - Couchsurfing Blog")By [trabantos](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/pavel+dudek)shutterstock**Anything else to add….** Madrid tip: the city is very compact, avoid the metro and walk your way around the city to get a true feel of its architecture and changing districts. What are your favorite things to do in Madrid? Comment below… ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-madrid/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-madrid/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Guides **Tags:** madrid --- ### [A Couchsurfer's guide to... Thessaloniki](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-thessaloniki/) **Published:** February 6, 2020 **Author:** Mike Joy **Excerpt:** Find out the best spots in Thessaloniki that make this historic city come alive. **Content:** #### By: [Kelly](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/kellyaslan) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/shutterstock_1038359269-1024x371.jpg "shutterstock_1038359269 - Couchsurfing Blog")Thessaloniki [joyfull](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/joyfull)shutterstock Best quick bite 1\. [Καντίνα “Ο Πόντιος](https://foursquare.com/v/%CE%BA%CE%B1%CE%BD%CF%84%CE%AF%CE%BD%CE%B1-%CE%BF-%CF%80%CF%8C%CE%BD%CF%84%CE%B9%CE%BF%CF%82/4dbb6cf9f7b1ab37dd45510f)“: All the walking up and down the waterfront will get you hungry. Grab a souvlaki ,or 3, from here and keep walking. 2\. [Γιόκ Μπαλίκ](https://www.facebook.com/giokbalik/): NOBODY does a Greek gyro like these guys… Best place to grab a drink 1\. [Ladadika District](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g189473-d5890333-Reviews-Ladadika_District-Thessaloniki_Thessaloniki_Region_Central_Macedonia.html): The old port of Thessaloniki is packed with awesome bars to crawl 2\. [Valaoritou Bar District](https://inthessaloniki.com/valaoritou-bars-district/): Old commercial area, major hot spot for young crowds. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/shutterstock_1198959883-1024x683.jpg "shutterstock_1198959883 - Couchsurfing Blog")Ladadika [SIAATH](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/SIAATH)shutterstockCute cafe 1\. [Room with a View](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g189473-d10390159-Reviews-Room_with_a_View-Thessaloniki_Thessaloniki_Region_Central_Macedonia.html): Grab a drink and enjoy panoramic views of the Aristotle Square and the Aegean. 2\. [Θερμαϊκός Μπαρ – Thermaikos Bar](https://www.facebook.com/ThermaikosBarThessaloniki/): Named after the Thessaloniki Bay, it is a staple with the locals. A historic moment [The White Tower of Thessaloniki](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/White_Tower_of_Thessaloniki): In the Ottoman times it was a prison called the Red Tower (one can imagine why) and it’s the number one tourist spot in Thessaloniki, and I can’t stress enough how important it is to get the audio guide. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/shutterstock_667346803-1024x576.jpg "shutterstock_667346803 - Couchsurfing Blog")White Tower [Lambros Kazan](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/lambroskazan)shutterstock1 Museum not to miss 1\. [The Museum of Byzantine Culture](https://mbp.gr/en/home): find the Byzantine period on full display. It will be your best chance to time travel. 2\. [Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki](https://www.amth.gr/en): Prehistoric, Archaic, Hellenistic, Classical, and Roman relics and artifacts from the broader region of Macedonia. The perfect picture Get lost in the [Ano Poli](https://theculturetrip.com/europe/greece/articles/ano-poli-thessalonikis-most-colourful-and-historic-neighbourhood/) streets, cobbled alleys, quaint taverns and ouzeri, flowerbeds galore, and kittens. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/shutterstock_1292570293-1024x683.jpg "shutterstock_1292570293 - Couchsurfing Blog")[trabantos](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/pavel+dudek)shutterstockA treat-yourself meal 1\. [B. Restaurant](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g189473-d1818726-Reviews-B_Restaurant-Thessaloniki_Thessaloniki_Region_Central_Macedonia.html): Upscale dining, but what the hell. We only live once! 2\. [Grada Nuevo](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g189473-d966066-Reviews-Grada_Nuevo-Thessaloniki_Thessaloniki_Region_Central_Macedonia.html): Phenomenal and worth every penny. 3\. [Opsopoion Maganeiai](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g189473-d7352610-Reviews-Opsopoion_Manganeiai-Thessaloniki_Thessaloniki_Region_Central_Macedonia.html): It’s impossible not to add this one. Best day-trip out of town 1\. [Mount Olympus](https://www.tripsavvy.com/mount-olympus-1526250): You gotta pay a visit to the Gods… 2\. [Halkidiki Prefecture](https://inthessaloniki.com/nearby-areas/halkidiki/): Welcome to the Greek tropics, just don’t tell anyone PLEASE! ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/shutterstock_1208250253-1024x683.jpg "shutterstock_1208250253 - Couchsurfing Blog")Halkidiki [Marjan Apostolovic](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/marre4782)shutterstockBest view in the city 1\. [Byzantio Cafe](https://www.facebook.com/ByzantioCafe/): The oldest terrace in Salonica… panoramic views of the whole city. 2\. [Allegro](http://allegro-megaro.gr/en/): Superb views of the whole bay. One experience not to miss [Meteora](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Meteora): If the Parthenon in Athens is one of the ancient wonders of the world, then Meteora is the second one. You gotta visit this place! ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/shutterstock_654116671-1024x683.jpg "shutterstock_654116671 - Couchsurfing Blog")Meteora Monastery [Feel good studio](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Shutterway)shtterstockWhere to try the local delicacy 1\. [Ουζερί Τσινάρι](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g189473-d3500714-Reviews-Ouzeri_Tsinari-Thessaloniki_Thessaloniki_Region_Central_Macedonia.html): Ever heard of [Ouzo](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ouzo)? Bet you never heard of [Tsipouro](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tsipouro) or retsina! That’s what the Greeks drink! You’re welcome! 2\. [Bit Bazar](https://inthessaloniki.com/food/bit-bazaar/): You gotta see this place to believe it! Check out the Magic Mushroom joint. Unreal. Any last tips… 1\. The Greeks are a proud people. Like all cultures that span millennia they do truly believe they are the best, and know best. Nod in agreement, say “Yamas” and drink up! They are probably right anyways. 2\. One thing to remember: they are LOUD; you might think they are about to kill each other, but then they hug and kiss and get on a bar and dance, go figure! 3\. Football is a religion; no jokes allowed! You wanna see what ultra-fans are like? Catch a game at the PAOK stadium! 3\. Don’t mess with their history or women! They fiercely respect and protect both! 4\. Go on a diet 3 months before you visit; everyone will be feeding you nonstop. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/shutterstock_366146531-1024x683.jpg "shutterstock_366146531 - Couchsurfing Blog")Mount Olympus [S F](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/bloodua)shutterstock### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-thessaloniki/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-thessaloniki/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Guides --- ### [10 Questions with a CS Ambassador: Hasan](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-hasan/) **Published:** February 17, 2020 **Author:** Mike Joy **Excerpt:** Meet Hasan and find out why he decided to get involved in Couchsurfing in Karachi, Pakistan. **Content:** #### Name: [Hasan](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/hasan-ashraf) City: Karachi, Pakistan Years on CS: 1.5 **Hi Hasan! So how did you first learn about Couchsurfing?** I learned about Couchsurfing from a girl staying in the same hostel in Baku. It was my first solo trip and I wanted to meet locals so she suggested I meet people through CS. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/CSkarachi2.jpeg "CSkarachi2 - Couchsurfing Blog")**And what made you get so involved?** I decided to get involved with CS because in CS Events I get to meet with a lot of travelers from whom I can get good information about traveling. But then as my involvement grew, I got interested in hosting people which gave me totally different experience of listening to stories and experiences. Now as an Ambassador, I organize events in my city, host travelers and do some surfing. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/CSKarachiGroup.jpeg "CSKarachiGroup - Couchsurfing Blog")Hasan at the CS Karachi Meetup**Very cool! So tell us about your first CS experience.** My first CS experience was to attend a local CS Meetup where I got introduced to the local CS Community in Karachi. With my focus on increasing local activity, I was getting personal references that lead me to have my first guest from Poland. **Meetups are great ways to get involved! Tell us about one of your most interesting experiencing hosting.** My most interesting hosting experience was with two men from Turkey. They stayed with me for 3 days. During that time, a lot of people visited my place to meet them. Everyday would convert into a small meetup. It was hella fun. **Sounds amazing! What about as a surfer?** My most interesting surfing experience was in Odigram, Swat Valley. The host had already prepared a great local dinner for me and the next morning after breakfast, he took me on his car to a nearby town to show me a Buddhist Stupa! I had a great time with him and got to hear lots of stories! ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/CSLahore.jpeg "CSLahore - Couchsurfing Blog")Meetup in Lahore Pakistan**Wow. Sounds incredible. What is a unique gift you’ve received from a surfer?** Matryoshka doll by a surfer from Russia **Cute! Is there any quote that inspires you?** > Travel makes one modest, you see what a tiny place you occupy in the world. > > Gustave Flaubert ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/HasanOleg.jpeg "HasanOleg - Couchsurfing Blog")Hasan with his surfer Oleg**Very true words. What is one food everyone needs to try when they come to Pakistan?** Biryani **And what about one place they need to go?** Empress Market is a place where every traveler should go because that tells a lot about our history from the colonial era. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/shutterstock_1500482240.jpg "shutterstock_1500482240 - Couchsurfing Blog")Empress Market [Aleem Zahid Khan](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Aleem+Zahid+Khan)shutterstock**And lastly, what is your one piece of advice to new Couchsurfers?** Don’t rush, keep it slow. Things look good at a steady pace. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-hasan/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-hasan/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Meet an Ambassador --- ### [A Couchsurfer's guide to... Hanover, New Hampshire](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-hanover-new-hampshire/) **Published:** February 13, 2020 **Author:** Mike Joy **Excerpt:** Find out what to do in Hanover, New Hampshire, home to Dartmouth University. **Content:** Best breakfast in town! I would definitely recommend The Skinny Pancake just off the main street. You can actually find these throughout Vermont and New Hampshire. Best View in the City! If it is warm, bring a blanket and enjoy a picnic on the Dartmouth green or just a stroll through Main Street window shopping. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/Hanoverdowntownpic-1.jpg "Hanoverdowntownpic - Couchsurfing Blog")Hanover Main Street [caniaphotography](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/caniaphotography)shutterstock1 museum not to miss! If you are visiting with kids then you really must stop at the Montshire Science Museum but I would also recommend the Hood Art Museum which is located on the Dartmouth college campus. Best Quick Bite! We don’t really have street food or food trucks here but we do have a really good gelato place called Morano. Historic moment! Aside from the historic Dartmouth college, in the basement of the Baker Library you can find the mural painted by José Orozco in the 1930s that is now considered a historic landmark. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/Dartmouth.jpg "Dartmouth - Couchsurfing Blog")Dartmouth Green [Dan Lewis](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Dan+Lewis)shutterstockBest place to grab a drink! Another local favorite is Salt Hill Pub. You can go in and enjoy a nice pint and frequent live music. A treat-yourself-meal! For a more expensive meal I would recommend crossing the river into Hanover’s sister city, Norwich, and stopping in at the Norwich inn. For some really fantastic food you must visit Base Camp Cafe. It is run by a family from Nepal and they serve wonderful Nepali dishes including momos. The perfect picture! In the fall, as the leaves catch fire with infinitely many shades of red, orange, and yellow you can take a beautiful photo from Dartmouth green of the surrounding halls filled with newly arrived students. In the winter you may find the green filled with newly fallen snow and people cutting on blocks of ice in preparation for the yearly ice sculpture contest. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/shutterstock_685959433.jpg "shutterstock_685959433 - Couchsurfing Blog")Hanover in the fall [Dan Lewis](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Dan+Lewis)shutterstockWhere to sweat! While there are some gyms near by I would really recommend that getting outside is so much better. Just a little outside of town you can find places to downhill-ski such as Dartmouth skiway. You can also try cross country skiing if you prefer. During spring, summer, and fall there are countless hikes and walks you can find. Cute Cafe! The Dirt Cowboy cafe is located just across from the Dartmouth green and is a nice place to grab a coffee or tea when walking through downtown. Best day-trip out of town! If you are interested in skiing then a day trip to Killington or Stowe would be perfect for you. However, if you prefer a hike then head up to the White Mountains and climb one of the peaks in the presidential range. Our Mount Washington, the highest peak in New England, also is known to have the worst weather in the world. If you want to swim, Franconia Notch contains numerous swimming holes with natural water slides and cliffs for jumping. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/Stowe.jpg "Stowe - Couchsurfing Blog")Stowe [Don Landwehrle](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/donlandwehrle)shutterstockWhere to try the local delicacy! Just outside of Hanover is an excellent claim to fame: King Arthur Flour. Here you will find some of the best pastries and bread around. King Arthur distributes nation wide but the flag ship store is a must visit. Family fun! I already mentioned it but I highly recommend a visit to the Montshire Science Museum. During the warmer months you can even get out in play in the small water park area. One experience not to miss! Come see Hanover during the peak leaf changing season. You can feel fall in the air with a scarf around your neck and a cup of hot cider in your hand. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/shutterstock_685959145.jpg "shutterstock_685959145 - Couchsurfing Blog")Hanover in the fall [Dan Lewis](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Dan+Lewis)shutterstockAnything else to add… Just across the river in Norwich you will find Dan & Whits General store. Their motto is, “If we don’t have it, you don’t need it.” Vermont and New Hampshire are somewhat unique in that they still have the ability to sustain locally owned general stores because they consistently refuse to allow large mega-stores to set up shop and put the smaller stores out of business. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-hanover-new-hampshire/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-hanover-new-hampshire/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Guides --- ### [8 tips to traveling with friends (and actually remaining friends)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/8-tips-to-traveling-with-friends-and-actually-remaining-friends/) **Published:** February 11, 2020 **Author:** Mike Joy **Excerpt:** You're ready to take a trip, but not alone. Here are our tips to surviving and thriving on a trip with friends **Content:** You and your friends are ready to hit the open road and make some memories! Great! Traveling with friends can be an amazing adventure that deepens bonds and creates lasting memories; but it can also be extremely trying on relationships. Here are our tips to making it out of your trip with your friendships intact (and hopefully stronger!) 1\. Pick your battles ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/shutterstock_1175569747-1024x683.jpg "shutterstock_1175569747 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Antonio Guillem](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/antonioguillem)shutterstockWe will start with the most obvious: **Compromise**. Meet in the middle on things, and choose your battles wisely. Little things that you don’t actually care that much about aren’t worth your energy, things like restaurant choices, what size dorm you sleep in, and what departure time may matter to someone more than the other. You’ve made it off the plane and into your first foreign country, allow for give and take and understand when something is really important to someone or if you are just having an opinion to have one. 2\. Take a time out ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/shutterstock_563845342-1024x683.jpg "shutterstock_563845342 - Couchsurfing Blog")[soft light](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Andrei_A)shutterstockNo one, and I mean no one, likes to be around another person as much as you will be when backpacking together. Plan to take side trips solo (or with new friends), go to dinner alone, take a day to lay on the beach and read by yourself. Not only will it give you a much needed break, but it will give you some new things to talk about when you meet back up. Trust me, after a week together non-stop you will have exhausted far more conversation topics than you thought possible. 3\. Choose wisely (or not at all) ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/shutterstock_651937891-1024x599.jpg "shutterstock_651937891 - Couchsurfing Blog")[nd3000](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/nd3000)shutterstockPiggybacking off of #2, one of my mother’s favorite sayings is, ‘there are worse things than being alone.’ Which may sound depressing, but is also very true. Consider who (if at all) you travel with before you leave. Make sure your intentions and expectations for the trip are the same, because if one of you is trying to have a spiritual experience full of personal growth and the other is trying to party their way through Eastern Europe, you will clash. Traveling alone is challenging, but believe me, you are capable of it – so choose your travel companions wisely and if you don’t align, go at it alone or split up and find people you click with along the way. 4\. Group size matters ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/shutterstock_1059887825-1024x683.jpg "shutterstock_1059887825 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Dmitry Molchanov](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/cppzone)shutterstockThe more the merrier does not apply to travel groups. Sure in a group of 8, it’s easy to break apart and pursue niche interests – but have you ever tried to coral 7 of your closest friends out of the house and into a restaurant you haven’t made a dinner reservation at? It will test the strongest of bonds. My sweet spot is 2 friends. If you want to go off solo, you easily can without leaving the other person high and dry. It’s enough people to hang out with at a bar or restaurant, but not so big that solo travelers will be too intimidated to talk to you. 5\. Have one navigator ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/shutterstock_195507533-1024x683.jpg "shutterstock_195507533 - Couchsurfing Blog")[zeljkodan](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/zeljkodan)shutterstockYou’ve heard the saying ‘too many cooks in the kitchen’; well the same goes for navigation when traveling. Let one person, preferably the person with data and a good sense of direction, take the lead and everyone else just sit back and enjoy the ride. If you really think about it, you probably already know which of your travel buddies would love this role. 6\. The great money debate ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/shutterstock_715742962-1024x683.jpg "shutterstock_715742962 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Syda Productions](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/dolgachov)shutterstockThere are two drastically different trains of thought on this: 1\) There is a saying in Spanish “cuentas claras amistades largas.” Basically, friendships lasts when money isn’t involved. I have friends who swear by the, ‘pay for yourself and do not share expenses’ mindset and under NO CIRCUMSTANCES would share expenses. However, (2) if you and your friends are equivalent spenders, and no one is likely to go on a bender with your money for the week, I say just split expenses evenly and make paying bills and buying tickets as simple as possible. If you differ drastically in spending, like you order 1 beer with dinner and they have 3 tequila shots and a margarita, then under no circumstances should you pool your money. But, I went on a 4 month trip with a friend and we just pooled our funds and divided everything 50/50. Sure she bought a scarf in Nepal, but I continued eating when she had food poisoning – so it all evened out. 7\. Play games ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/shutterstock_435992236-1024x418.jpg "shutterstock_435992236 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Rawpixelcom](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Rawpixel)shutterstockYou will need to pass A LOT of time. Have your go-to games that neither of you tire of. “Would you rather”, “Kiss, Marry, Kill”, “21 Questions” are some of my favorites and provide a much needed laugh when your train is delayed 3 hours. 8\. Kindness is king ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/shutterstock_491924332-1024x681.jpg "shutterstock_491924332 - Couchsurfing Blog")[DavideAngelini](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Davide+Angelini)shutterstockPeople go through a range of emotions and experiences while traveling, and as their (maybe only) friend you need to be there for them. That means when they suddenly get a full body rash while in Dubai, you don’t roll your eyes at them and tell them to get over it. Something I have done and deeply regret. ***What are your tips to traveling with friends? Tell us in the comments!*** ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/8-tips-to-traveling-with-friends-and-actually-remaining-friends/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/8-tips-to-traveling-with-friends-and-actually-remaining-friends/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Advice --- ### [10 Books that inspired our travels](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-books-that-inspired-our-travels/) **Published:** February 4, 2020 **Author:** Mike Joy **Content:** ## This post is a collection of submissions of books that have inspired our Couchsurfing Ambassador’s travels. Posts have been edited for length and clarity. ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/shutterstock_589889846-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "shutterstock_589889846 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Matteo Provendola](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/MatteoProvendola)shutterstockThe Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/shutterstock_1445480231-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C628&ssl=1 "shutterstock_1445480231 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Natasha Chetkova](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Natasha_Chetkova)shutterstock> Moral allegory and spiritual autobiography, The Little Prince is the most translated book in the French language. With a timeless charm it tells the story of a little boy who leaves the safety of his own tiny planet to travel the universe, learning the vagaries of adult behaviour through a series of extraordinary encounters. His personal odyssey culminates in a voyage to Earth and further adventures. > > [Goodreads](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/157993.The_Little_Prince) A friend gave me this when I was living in Toulouse, the pink city, where I saw many beautiful sunsets. The connection between the rose and the sunsets in the book was very significant to me in my last few months in Toulouse. (submitted by Carlos) The N°1 Ladies’ Detective Agency by Alexander McCall Smith ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/7061._SY475_.jpg "7061._SY475_ - Couchsurfing Blog")Published by Penguin Random House image via [goodreads](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/7061.The_No_1_Ladies_Detective_Agency) > Precious Ramotswe has only just set up shop as Botswana’s No.1 (and only) lady detective when she is hired to track down a missing husband, uncover a con man, and follow a wayward daughter. However, the case that tugs at her heart, and lands her in danger, is a missing eleven-year-old boy, who may have been snatched by witch doctors. > > [Goodreads](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/7061.The_No_1_Ladies_Detective_Agency?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=PHI5izHlbu&rank=1) It’s written in a simple but effective way that insidiously teaches readers a lot about how things are done in the country the book is set in, Botswana. It matches the CS philosophy in the way that it doesn’t tell you about the touristic stuff, doesn’t bother with statistics, it just interests you in how people live and how they behave. (submitted by Emily) Into the Wild by Jon Krakauer ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/shutterstock_1267195927-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "shutterstock_1267195927 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Olga Khrustaleva](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/OlgaKhrustaleva)shutterstock> In April, 1992, a young man from a well-to-do family hitchhiked to Alaska and walked alone into the wilderness north of Mt. McKinley. His name was Christopher Johnson McCandless. He had given $25,000 in savings to charity, abandoned his car and most of his possessions, burned all the cash in his wallet, and invented a new life for himself. Four months later, a party of moose hunters found his decomposed body. How McCandless came to die is the unforgettable story of *Into the Wild*. > > [Goodreads](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1845.Into_the_Wild?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=iFztOXJqtO&rank=1) Both the book & the movie! It was a crossroad in my life! (submitted by Baderkhan) The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/18144590._SY475_.jpg "18144590._SY475_ - Couchsurfing Blog")Published by HarperCollins image via [goodreads](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/865.The_Alchemist) > Paulo Coelho’s enchanting novel has inspired a devoted following around the world. This story, dazzling in its powerful simplicity and soul-stirring wisdom, is about an Andalusian shepherd boy named Santiago who travels from his homeland in Spain to the Egyptian desert in search of a treasure buried near the Pyramids. Along the way he meets a Gypsy woman, a man who calls himself king, and an alchemist, all of whom point Santiago in the direction of his quest. No one knows what the treasure is, or if Santiago will be able to surmount the obstacles in his path. But what starts out as a journey to find worldly goods turns into a discovery of the treasure found within. Lush, evocative, and deeply humane, the story of Santiago is an eternal testament to the transforming power of our dreams and the importance of listening to our hearts. > > [Goodreads](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18144590-the-alchemist) There is a short chapter saying something like, ‘if you do not do things you enjoy and like most, why do you live?’ So I enjoy traveling and this sentence encouraged me to travel more and get more pleasure from it. (submitted by Dato) Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind by Yuval Noah Harari ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/shutterstock_1311762650-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "shutterstock_1311762650 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Hadrian](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/adrianhancu)shutterstock> In *Sapiens*, Dr Yuval Noah Harari spans the whole of human history, from the very first humans to walk the earth to the radical – and sometimes devastating – breakthroughs of the Cognitive, Agricultural and Scientific Revolutions. Drawing on insights from biology, anthropology, paleontology and economics, he explores how the currents of history have shaped our human societies, the animals and plants around us, and even our personalities. Have we become happier as history has unfolded? Can we ever free our behaviour from the heritage of our ancestors? And what, if anything, can we do to influence the course of the centuries to come? > > [Goodreads](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/23692271-sapiens?from_search=true&qid=RYIWxBbyNm&rank=1) I love it because it shows us that we all are the same, we are equal, racism and fascism and all those dirty low standards shouldn’t exist because we are one. (submitted by Mohd) How to Travel the World on 50 Dollars a Day by Matt Kepnes ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/15808859.jpg "15808859 - Couchsurfing Blog")Published by TarcherPerigee image via [goodreads](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/15808859-how-to-travel-the-world-on-50-a-day?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=hd0KkF3s9K&rank=1) > No money? No problem. You can start packing your bags for that trip you’ve been dreaming a lifetime about. For more than half a decade, Matt Kepnes (aka Nomadic Matt) has been showing readers of his enormously popular travel blog that traveling isn’t expensive and that it’s affordable to all. He proves that as long as you think out of the box and travel like locals, your trip doesn’t have to break your bank, nor do you need to give up luxury. > > [Goodreads](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/15808859-how-to-travel-the-world-on-50-a-day?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=Vq65CcItYm&rank=1) It was this book that taught me about Couchsurfing. I wanted to find a way that would be affordable and give me the opportunity to live my dreams of world travel. I was also looking for “my tribe” of travelers. I have found that in CS, and this has become my family. (submitted by Jason) Angels and Demons by Dan Brown ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/960.jpg "960 - Couchsurfing Blog")Published by Pocket Books image via [goodreads](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/960.Angels_Demons?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=T5FxRHEVXc&rank=3) > World-renowned Harvard symbologist Robert Langdon is summoned to a Swiss research facility to analyze a cryptic symbol seared into the chest of a murdered physicist. What he discovers is unimaginable: a deadly vendetta against the Catholic Church by a centuries-old underground organization — the Illuminati. In a desperate race to save the Vatican from a powerful time bomb, Langdon joins forces in Rome with the beautiful and mysterious scientist Vittoria Vetra. Together they embark on a frantic hunt through sealed crypts, dangerous catacombs, and deserted cathedrals, and into the depths of the most secretive vault on earth…the long-forgotten Illuminati lair. > > [Goodreads](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/960.Angels_Demons?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=HJ5F0KV78s&rank=3) via Angels & Demons backcover I was in Rome when I read this so I had the chance to follow the route of the characters and visit the places from the book. It was a completely different impression and experience of the famous sights. (submitted by Kateryna) The Phantom of the Opera by Gaston Leroux ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/shutterstock_1145186774-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "shutterstock_1145186774 - Couchsurfing Blog")[BW Press](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/bwpressfoto)shutterstock> First published in French as a serial in 1909, *The Phantom of the Opera* is a riveting story that revolves around the young, Swedish Christine Daaé. Her father, a famous musician, dies, and she is raised in the Paris Opera House with his dying promise of a protective angel of music to guide her. After a time at the opera house, she begins hearing a voice, who eventually teaches her how to sing beautifully. All goes well until Christine’s childhood friend Raoul comes to visit his parents, who are patrons of the opera, and he sees Christine when she begins successfully singing on the stage. The voice, who is the deformed, murderous ‘ghost’ of the opera house named Erik, however, grows violent in his terrible jealousy, until Christine suddenly disappears. The phantom is in love, but it can only spell disaster. > > [Goodreads](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/480204.The_Phantom_of_the_Opera) The Phantom of the Opera made me go crazy over Garnier Opera House ([Palais Garnier](https://www.operadeparis.fr/en/visits/palais-garnier)), the catacombs and just Paris in general! (Submitted by Maria) Original Wisdom: Stories of an Ancient Way of Knowing by Robert Wolff ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/328149.jpg "328149 - Couchsurfing Blog")Published by Inner Traditions image via [goodreads](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/328149.Original_Wisdom?from_search=true&qid=xojltMWHie&rank=1) > Deep in the mountainous jungle of Malaysia the aboriginal Sng’oi exist on the edge of extinction, though their way of living may ultimately be the kind of existence that will allow us all to survive. The Sng’oi–pre-industrial, pre-agricultural, semi-nomadic–live without cars or cell phones, without clocks or schedules in a lush green place where worry and hurry, competition and suspicion are not known. Yet these indigenous people–as do many other aboriginal groups–possess an acute and uncanny sense of the energies, emotions, and intentions of their place and the living beings who populate it, and trustingly follow this intuition, using it to make decisions about their actions each day. > > [Goodreads](https://www.goodreads.com/en/book/show/328149.Original_Wisdom) This short and simple autobiographical book is the amazing story of how through contact with native Malay and Sng’oi people the author discovered “heart consciousness” within himself, an awareness of profound empathy and connection with those he meets. It’s a beautiful journey about simply being human. A quick yet profound read I cannot recommend highly enough. (submitted by Nathan) The Brooklyn Follies by Paul Auster ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/446.jpg "446 - Couchsurfing Blog")Published by Picador image via [goodreads](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/328149.Original_Wisdom?from_search=true&qid=xojltMWHie&rank=1) > Nathan Glass has come to Brooklyn to die. Divorced, retired, estranged from his only daughter, the former life insurance salesman seeks only solitude and anonymity. Then Glass encounters his long-lost nephew, Tom Wood, who is working in a local bookstore—a far cry from the brilliant academic career Tom had begun when Nathan saw him last. Tom’s boss is the colorful and charismatic Harry Brightman—a.k.a. Harry Dunkel—once the owner of a Chicago art gallery, whom fate has also brought to the “ancient kingdom of Brooklyn, New York.” Through Tom and Harry, Nathan’s world gradually broadens to include a new circle of acquaintances. He soon finds himself drawn into a scam involving a forged page of *The Scarlet Letter*, and begins to undertake his own literary venture, *The Book of Human Folly*, an account of “every blunder, every pratfall, every embarrassment, every idiocy, every foible, and every inane act I have committed during my long and checkered career as a man.” > > [Goodreads](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/446.The_Brooklyn_Follies?from_search=true&qid=R8BL8NfVg4&rank=1) I am a very visual person and always play a movie in my head when I am reading a book. So when I read a book where the author describes a city (especially if I have visited it) I instantly want to go there, see it again or discover new parts. “The Brooklyn Follies” was one such book. (submitted by Niko) Are there any books that have inspired your travels? Comment below! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-books-that-inspired-our-travels/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-books-that-inspired-our-travels/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Advice --- ### [10 Questions with a CS Ambassador: Richard](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-richard/) **Published:** February 3, 2020 **Author:** Mike Joy **Excerpt:** Meet Richard, our CS Ambassador in Seattle! **Content:** #### Name: [Richard](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/richard-velazquez) City: Seattle Years on Couchsurfing: 5 ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/6d53b155-73fa-4aa0-a917-c51a9afdbf8a.jpg?fit=1024%2C768&ssl=1 "6d53b155-73fa-4aa0-a917-c51a9afdbf8a - Couchsurfing Blog")**Hey Richard! So tell us why you got involved with Couchsurfing.** At the time that I found about about CS, I had already visited about 80 countries. As I reflected back at all my travels, I realized that in almost all of those travels, I stayed at hotels with little direct contact with locals. I saw a lot of sites, but didn’t really get the flavor of each place from a local perspective. I also calculated that I spent tens of thousands of dollars on hotels. CS sounded like a great way to truly get to know each new city and to save some money while doing so. My initial attempts at surfing weren’t successful, so I gave up on CS for a short time. Then, after I had an accident that injured my back and kept me bed-ridden for more than a month, I decided to look into CS again, but as a host in New York City. Hosting surfers forced me to get out of bed and take them on short trips near my home, and as I continued hosting more and more, I was able to build up my strength and go an walking tours further and further from my apartment. The act of hosting actually helped heal me. In the end, I turned out hosting way more than I surfed – having only stayed with about 5 hosts in 5 years, but hosting more than 60 surfers/groups in NYC and then later in Seattle. **Wow amazing! Glad to hear CS helped you heal. What was your first Couchsurfing experience like?** My first surfer was a young woman from Indiana who was traveling for the first time through New York to Europe and on to visit her family in Vietnam. She had zero experience surfing and I had zero experience hosting, but we had a great time. As mentioned earlier, I could not show her too many places because of my back injury, but I was able to take her on some motorcycle tours through NYC and ended up visiting places that I myself hadn’t see, like the Metropolitan Museum of Art. **Two first timers! Very cute. What has been one of your most interesting hosting experiences?** I hosted a great surfer from Australia, Kelly, in NYC and we ended up doing a bunch of things that I hadn’t done at all, including walking across the George Washington Bridge and taking some great pictures on the NJ side. She was also very kind to treat us to dinner at “The Hudson”, a scenic restaurant right on the River with great views and food. ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/ed6e5d96-263e-4891-ac0f-dc996b8aca8b.jpg?fit=1024%2C819&ssl=1 "ed6e5d96-263e-4891-ac0f-dc996b8aca8b - Couchsurfing Blog")**Great. What about surfing?** I had a business trip to Buenos Aires, and I tacked on some time to visit Uruguay and Paraguay for the first time. On my way in, I took a picture of the soccer stadium in Buenos Aires and posted it on Instagram. I had a one night layover in Buenos Aires when I returned from Uruguay, and I received a message from Lola, a surfer that I hosted from Argentina. I had hosted her in NYC and we celebrated her first birthday away from home while she was there. She saw my Instagram post and offered to host me in Buenos Aires. She and her mother hosted me for an evening, provided a home cooked meal, and helped me get back to the airport the next day. Her mother was very appreciative that I took care of her in NYC and cooked a wonderful meal to celebrate. The whole experience was completely unexpected and serendipitous and highlighted what a great network CS can be. **Amazing. Sounds like a great trip. What is a cool gift you’ve received from a surfer?** I had a pair of surfers from Russia who brought me an entire bag full of specialty Russian chocolates, which was great since I have a sweet tooth. I also had a surfer from Australia bring me some of my favorite Australian chocolates – Tim Tams, in multiple flavors. **Delicious. I have a sweet tooth too. If you could surf with any celebrity or historical figure, who would it be and why?** I’d want to surf with Peter Jackson in New Zealand. I’ve traveled to 100 countries, and NZ is at the top of my list. I made a special month-long trip there to see many of the filming locations for The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit. I’d love to talk with him about his childhood in NZ, his visionary film-making, and our mutual love for J.R.R. Tolkien’s books. ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/b157b9ec-b6c3-4bcd-bcf7-a755883e9f60.jpg?fit=1024%2C768&ssl=1 "b157b9ec-b6c3-4bcd-bcf7-a755883e9f60 - Couchsurfing Blog")Richard in The Shire**I’d love to visit New Zealand, and I’m sure Peter Jackson would have the best spots! What book has inspired your travels?** I would say the Traveler’s Century Club website inspired my travels more than any book. https://travelerscenturyclub.org/ It is an social club for travelers that have visited at least 100 countries/territories in the world. Whenever I travel, I refer to their list of countries and territories to discover new places. That’s how I ended up visiting the Chatham Islands off the eastern coast of New Zealand. **Very cool. I had never heard of the club before. What is one thing everyone should do in Seattle?** For the picture-perfect postcard views of Seattle (and on a clear day, Mount Rainier), there’s no better place than starting a walking tour of Seattle from Kerry Park in the morning, making a big circuit around the city, and coming back to Kerry Park at Sunset to see the city transform. ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/shutterstock_278270483-1-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "shutterstock_278270483-1 - Couchsurfing Blog")Kerry Park [ESB Professional](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/ESB+Professional)shutterstock**Sounds beautiful! What is your dream vacation?** After cruising through islands of the South Pacific, such as Bora Bora, Tahiti, and Fiji, I’d work my way down to Antarctica, round the southern tip of South America to the Falkland Islands, working my way up north to the remote island of Tristan da Cunha, back down to Cape Town, around to Madagascar, and end up in my favorite country, New Zealand. **Wow. That sounds like an incredible (and already planned) trip. I very well may steal it someday! Last question, what is your advice to new Couchsurfers?** Take your time to read the profile of a potential host, CS isn’t just a free hotel room, and most mistakes from new members happen when they treat it as such. Additionally, be honest in your reviews. As is the case for most online communities, there will be those that take advantage or aren’t here for appropriate reasons. To keep the community safe and ensure a positive experience for everyone, it’s better to be honest so we can identify and remove them than to stay quiet and let them continue on the platform. In addition to honest reviews, make sure to write a reference period. This community is built on being able to trust strangers, and the way to measure that is through references. A host generally saves you a lot of money on accommodations, the very least you can do is take a few minutes to write about your experience. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-richard/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-richard/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Meet an Ambassador --- ### [5 must-see spots in the Dominican Republic](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/5-must-see-spots-in-the-dominican-republic/) **Published:** January 30, 2020 **Author:** Mike Joy **Excerpt:** The Dominican Republic is so much more than the all-inclusive resorts of Punta Cana and Puerto Plata. Find out our top picks for your next Caribbean escape! **Content:** When people think Dominican Republic they may think all-inclusive resorts and dismiss the island as a resort-filled tourist trap; but nothing could be further from the truth. Beyond the popular resorts of Punta Cana and Puerto Plata, the Dominican Republic is full of picturesque beaches, warm people, and incredible food. With a recent focus on infrastructure it has never been easier or more comfortable to get around the DR and experience a trust Caribbean paradise. Here are our picks for the 5 places to add to your list for your next trip to the Dominican Republic. ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/shutterstock_605534786-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C682&ssl=1 "shutterstock_605534786 - Couchsurfing Blog")Lighthouse of Santo Domingo [leoamartinez](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/drfromskyphotos)shutterstock1\. [Santo Domingo](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Santo_Domingo) Admittedly, I first visited the Dominican Republic 10 years ago while my cousin was working there. I stayed 5 days with his family and other than the Aquarium and having a beer in [Parque Colon](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parque_Colon), I remember very little of the city. On my most recent trip to Santo Domingo, I was completely blown away by the city. The food scene is fantastic, the [Zona Colonial](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g147289-d4699562-Reviews-Zona_Colonial-Santo_Domingo_Santo_Domingo_Province_Dominican_Republic.html) is beautifully preserved, and on Sundays, they set up a band and locals dance the night away amongst monastery ruins. Do not skip Santo Domingo on your DR trip! Where to stay if you can’t Couchsurf? I can not say enough great things about [Island Life Hostel](https://islandlifehostel.com/). It has a pool, a bar, free breakfast and the exact kind of vibe you’re looking for in a hostel. ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/shutterstock_104475815-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C682&ssl=1 "shutterstock_104475815 - Couchsurfing Blog")Statue of Cristopher Columbus and the Cathedral of Santo Domingo [Becker Stefan](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/stefanbecker)shutterstock2\. [Las Terrenas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Las_Terrenas) 2 hours directly north of Santo Domingo lies this small peninsula with the perfect-picture beaches you crave. There is a road running along the coast with many hotels, hostels, restaurants and shops, as well as a larger town a little bit inland – but the real reason you will love Las Terrenas are the endless beaches. If you want to be the only person in sight lounging in the shade of a palm tree, you can do that. If you want to eat fresh ceviche surrounded by the fisherman who caught it, you can do that. If you want to sip passion fruit mojitos and watch the sunset, you can definitely do that too. Las Terrenas is a beautifully tranquil getaway which will be exact escape from city life that you need. ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/shutterstock_139069088-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C673&ssl=1 "shutterstock_139069088 - Couchsurfing Blog")Las Terrenas [Don Mammoser](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Donya+Nedomam)shutterstock3\. [Cabarete](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cabarete) If you are looking to do water sports, look no further than the beach town of Cabarete. Calm waters mixed with windy conditions make it the perfect place to kitesurf, windsurf, wakeboard, and scuba dive. If you’re looking for a calm backpacker vibe with plenty of outdoor activities to keep you busy, then Cabarete is your place. Best part? It is only 20km from the Puerto Plata airport, so if you only have a few days and a direct flight to Puerto Plata, you won’t waste any time getting there. 4\. [Jarabacoa](https://www.visitdominicanrepublic.org/jarabacoa) If you need a break from beach life and are ready for a little more adventure, then Jarabacoa is your place. Practically in the center of the island, this town is located in the Valle de la Vega in the Central Mountain Range and will be the break you need from sun and sand. Surrounded by rivers, this town is the perfect jumping off point for white water rafting, canyoning and waterfall chasing. ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/shutterstock_534580711-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "shutterstock_534580711 - Couchsurfing Blog")Jarabacoa [Pass Tral](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/VictoriaFeliz)shutterstock5\. [Isla Catalina](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Catalina_Island_(Dominican_Republic)) A little less than 3km off the southern coast of the DR is this small island with crystal clear water and white sand beaches. Hop on a boat from La Romana and enjoy the endless beaches, scuba dive amongst the coral reef or just get a tan on a sun bed. Isla Catalina may be the most ‘touristy’ of the places on our list, but it is truly a gorgeous stretch of beach if you are in the southeast part of the island. ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/shutterstock_536423686-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "shutterstock_536423686 - Couchsurfing Blog")Isla Catalina [JC Roman](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/JC+Roman)shutterstockNo matter where you go in the DR, you will be captivated by the white sand, clear water and hanging palm trees. No matter what you’re looking for, the DR has it. From all-inclusive resorts to colonial architecture to tranquil eco lodges – the DR is a perfect winter getaway for every type of traveler. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/5-must-see-spots-in-the-dominican-republic/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/5-must-see-spots-in-the-dominican-republic/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Advice --- ### [A Couchsurfer's guide to... Seoul](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-seoul/) **Published:** January 29, 2020 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Excerpt:** Seoul, where delicious street food meets gorgeous traditional architecture. Find out what makes Seoul so magical! **Content:** #### By: [Kelly](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/kellyaslan) ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/shutterstock_1019002960-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C695&ssl=1 "shutterstock_1019002960 - Couchsurfing Blog")Seoul in spring [Kampon](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/kampon+warit)shutterstockBest Breakfast in town! [Migabon Restaurant](https://maps.app.goo.gl/ivDjfnz1FUQKdmLo6): You gotta do congee for breakfast, it will set the tone for the day️. Don’t let the lines intimidate you, this place is also famous for their bimbimpap dish. The perfect picture! At any of the five royal palaces ([Gyeongbokgung Palace](https://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/ATR/SI_EN_3_1_1_1.jsp?cid=264337), [Changdeokgung Palace](https://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/ATR/SI_EN_3_1_1_1.jsp?cid=264348), [Deoksugung Palace](https://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/ATR/SI_EN_3_1_1_1.jsp?cid=264316), [Changgyeonggung Palace](https://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/ATR/SI_EN_3_1_1_1.jsp?cid=264350), and [Gyeonghuigung Palace](https://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/ATR/SI_EN_3_1_1_1.jsp?cid=264308)) all year round! If you don’t want to wear a [hanbok](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hanbok), you will still get to see hundreds of people strolling the palaces in Korean traditional costumes. Surreal! ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/shutterstock_1573110769-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "shutterstock_1573110769 - Couchsurfing Blog")Gyeongbokgung Palace [Obs70](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Obs70)shutterstock1 Museum not to miss! 1\. [Agricultural Museum](https://maps.app.goo.gl/HzNpRA8gHnSgrXHu8): I have never seen anything like it in my life, I keep going back! 2\. [National Museum of Korea](https://maps.app.goo.gl/Gv4bcrE1wWCQPGSu9): Right up there with the British Museum and the Louvre. Best place to grab a drink! 1\. [Common Ground](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g294197-d9796664-Reviews-Common_Ground-Seoul.html): With Konkuk Univeristy nearby, this complex of bars and popup shops is becoming Instagramable fast.. 2\. [Mr. Ahn´s Magkeolli](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g294197-d15015469-Reviews-Mr_Ahn_s_Craft_Makgeolli-Seoul.html) In Itaewon: Soju is great, but magkeolli is even better. It has an excellent range of this delectable rice wine from all over South Korea with gourmet accompaniments. For a more reasonably priced Magkeolli night and more traditional sides walk a bit up the street to [Damotori](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g294197-d12347811-Reviews-Damotori-Seoul.html). 3\. Another great place to crash in the center from 7pm to 12am is the famous [dried pollack area](https://goo.gl/maps/sjsxR22gtH8PdkpP7). Here, 3-4 alleys transform to a night market serving dried pollack, BBQ calamari, sea snail stew and soju to office workers, young crowds and the odd lost tourist. ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/shutterstock_1330709597-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "shutterstock_1330709597 - Couchsurfing Blog")Common Ground Seoul [DerekTeo](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/DerekTeo)shutterstockWhere to dance! 1\. [Soap Seoul](https://soapseoul.com/): My favorite club in Itaewon! 2\. [Club Cream](https://www.trazy.com/spot/3141/club-cream-%ED%81%B4%EB%9F%BD-%ED%81%AC%EB%A6%BC-nightlife-bar): I am a huge fan of k-hip-hop, and I swear by this club in Mapo area! 3\. [Dokkaebi Party House](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g294197-d15132787-Reviews-Dokkaebi_Party_House_Hongdae-Seoul.html): Hongdae area…never disappoints! Best street food! A quick google search will yield the top markets in the center and they are worth checking out, but my favorite markets are: 1\. [Garak Market](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g294197-d7891956-Reviews-Garak_Market-Seoul.html): You can feast on seafood, king crab, sashimi and dowse it all with soju to your heart’s content for affordable prices! And zero tourists. 2\. [Tongin Market](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g294197-d5287781-Reviews-Tongin_Market-Seoul.html): This is my fave not because it’s better from the main touristy ones, but again because there aren’t as many tourists as the more central ones. ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/shutterstock_574774693-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C684&ssl=1 "shutterstock_574774693 - Couchsurfing Blog")Seoul streets full of delicacies [DiegoMariottini](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/DiegoMariottini)shutterstockWhere to sweat! I have only trained in one place and apparently, I struck gold: [So Fit Gym](https://www.facebook.com/pages/So-Fit-Gym/1887501418162624). Unless you need to follow a strict workout regiment, there’s no point enrolling at a gym in SK. Seoul is full of parks and public workout areas, not to mention free sports clubs you can join like jogging groups! Best view in the city! 1\. [Lotte Tower](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lotte_World_Tower), totally worth the 20-buck ticket!! Enjoy a glass of wine or drink at the sky bar and take in a 360 view of the sunset in this gorgeous city. Just make sure you check the weather first! 2\. [Namsan Tower](https://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/ATR/SI_EN_3_1_1_1.jsp?cid=264550), great location, enjoy the hike down; take the teleferic up! ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/shutterstock_1135965866-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C684&ssl=1 "shutterstock_1135965866 - Couchsurfing Blog")Lotte Tower [sayan uranan](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/sayan+uranan)shutterstockCute Cafe! South Koreans are coffee crazed, so this isn’t easy at all! There’s coffee stands, quirky cafes, coffee bars everywhere. My personal recommendations are: 1\. [Hanyakbang Coffee](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g294197-d12871134-Reviews-Coffee_Hanyakbang-Seoul.html): If you enjoy a blast from the past, check out this place. 2\. [The Moonbird Does Thinks Only of the Moon](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g294197-d4033145-Reviews-The_Moonbird_Does_Think_Only_of_the_Moon-Seoul.html) – Dalsaeneun Dal Man Saenggak Handa: It’s sooo worth looking for this tea house. The tea sets with traditional Korean sweets and the shaved ice dessert are to die for, and the place itself is simply magical. 3\. [Carnaby Street](https://www.facebook.com/pages/Carnaby-Street/277224022772000): A great coffee bar to relax, or get some work done in the area of Ttukseom. 4\. [Suffle Pancake](https://www.google.es/maps/place/19%ED%8B%B0+%EA%B0%95%EB%82%A8%EC%97%AD%EC%A0%90/@37.5010126,127.0268731,20.3z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x0:0x6c6c6cf2eebea0f5!8m2!3d37.5008232!4d127.026844) Where to try the local cuisine 1\. For tonkatsu, go [here](https://www.google.es/maps/place/%EC%8B%A0%EC%98%A8%EB%88%84%EB%A6%AC%EC%97%90%EC%83%9D%EB%8F%88%EA%B9%8C%EC%8A%A4/@37.4990185,126.9258248,21z/data=!4m12!1m6!3m5!1s0x0:0xcd21d05a34222ab9!2z7Iug7Jio64iE66as7JeQ7IOd64-I6rmM7Iqk!8m2!3d37.4991038!4d126.9259501!3m4!1s0x0:0xcd21d05a34222ab9!8m2!3d37.4991038!4d126.9259501). Go for the challenge if you can, and if you don’t like spicy food, do not accept the taster they will offer. There’s thousands of amazing tonkatsu places. 2\. For traditional Korean roasted chicken, the likes of which you have never seen or tasted before, go [here](https://goo.gl/maps/HDRrRmiFh8Upfw6W6). I haven’t been able to find a place like this elsewhere in Seoul. 3\. For affordable authentic traditional Korean cuisine, especially samgyetang, go [here](https://goo.gl/maps/p8zvQbE6uLYnHCKR8). 4\. For mandu soup, go [here](https://goo.gl/maps/GKx3uwSPxPeH9tF18). There’s great street mandu places everywhere. Just look around for grandmas. Outside of markets, where you can sample all south Korean staple dishes even the famous hangover (tripe) soup, it’s worth tracking down these places for these dishes. ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/shutterstock_238733386-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "shutterstock_238733386 - Couchsurfing Blog")Gwangjang Market [KYTan](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/KYTan)shutterstockA treat-yourself-meal! This is Asia we are talking about! You could have a culinary feast in street markets! That being said, if you are a fan of kobe or wagyu then you have to try Hanwoo meat. If you want a formal dining experience, I would recommend: 1\. [Woo Tender](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g294197-d17602382-Reviews-Wootender-Seoul.html) in Sinsa 2\. [Born and Bred](http://seoulfoodpatrol.com/born-bred/) in Majang But you can get same quality and an authentic experience at markets! At a better price, too! The meat and fish markets in SK double up, as usually they have dining halls adjacent or upstairs. You pick your produce and they escort you to the dining hall where they prep, cut, cook and serve you everything on the spot! Best day trip out of town! 1\. [Nami Island](https://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/ATR/SI_EN_3_1_1_1.jsp?cid=264244) 2\. [Andong Hahoe Village](https://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/ATR/SI_EN_3_1_1_1.jsp?cid=264148) 3\. [Bukhansan National park](http://english.knps.or.kr/Knp/Bukhansan/Intro/Introduction.aspx) ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/shutterstock_746330185-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C370&ssl=1 "shutterstock_746330185 - Couchsurfing Blog")Nami Island [CJ Nattanai](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/CJ+Nattanai)shutterstockOne experience not to miss! 1\. Get yourself some fried chicken and beer/soju and have a picnic at [Banpo Bridge Moonlight Rainbow Fountain](https://goo.gl/maps/Q8qbbQ6CviW48Z6Q7). 2\. You have to spend the night at a Korean sauna! [Here’s](https://goo.gl/maps/6NYXFjbgSMkXNGtU8) my fave: 3\. Go to a 7-eleven, CU, e-mart or GS25 and make yourself a cup ramen! Follow [this link](https://youtu.be/dlezSiH_1KY) for instructions! 4\. You must finish your evenings at a noraebang (karaoke bar) 5\. Experience a [temple stay](http://koreantemples.com/?page_id=6554) Historic moment! 1\. [Hwaseong Fortress](https://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/ATR/SI_EN_3_1_1_1.jsp?cid=264204), worth the day trip to Suwon 2\. [Bukchon Hanok Village](https://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/ATR/SI_EN_3_1_1_1.jsp?cid=561382) 3\. [Gwanghwamun Gate & King Sejong Statue ](https://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/ATR/SI_EN_3_1_1_1.jsp?cid=264329) ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/shutterstock_718460350-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C638&ssl=1 "shutterstock_718460350 - Couchsurfing Blog")Bukchon Village [FenlioQ](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Fenlio+Kao)shutterstockA tourist trap to avoid! Stay away from Insa-dong and Myeong-Dong when it comes to quality Korean artifacts; prices are steep. For k-pop paraphernalia and the like, you will be fine there. Final tips… 1\. Google maps doesn’t work well in SK. Make sure you download the [kakao](https://www.kakaocorp.com/service/KakaoMap?lang=en) apps. 2\. There are free restrooms everywhere, even in the metro stations. 3\. Don’t order a lot of food; everything comes with side dishes. 4\. Taxi drivers do not speak English. 5\. There is no pickpocketing or theft in South Korea. Even if you forget your bag on a park bench, chances are you will find it exactly where you left it even if you go back after 6 hours. Unless a tourist gets to it first. 6\. Carry proof of ID with you, or else you won’t be able to party. And don’t get upset with age profiling. For example, to be refused entry at a club if you are over 35. Just go on to the next club. 7\. Learn basic Korean etiquette and don’t be loud in public spaces. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-seoul/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-seoul/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Guides --- ### [A Couchsurfer's guide to... Malaga](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-malaga/) **Published:** January 23, 2020 **Author:** Mike Joy **Excerpt:** 300 days of sunshine, gorgeous beaches, and incredible architecture make Malaga the perfect choice year round. **Content:** By: [Walter](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/walterwide) ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/shutterstock_464464871-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "shutterstock_464464871 - Couchsurfing Blog")Malaga City Hall Cathedral and Alcazaba at sunset by [Sean Pavone](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/sepavo)shutterstock**Best breakfast in town!** In Andalusia people start the day with the typical “pan con tomate” – fresh tomato with olive oil on a crispy toasted bread. To spice it up a little bit you should check out the cakes and scones at [Julia Bakery](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g187438-d3452613-Reviews-Julia_Bakery_Malaga-Malaga_Costa_del_Sol_Province_of_Malaga_Andalucia.html) where you will find delicious pastry to and the traditional Andalusian style as well. Definitely one of the best and cozy place to spend a lazy morning. **Best view in the city!** The best view in the city at [Gibralfaro](http://www.malagaturismo.com/en/tourist-resources/detail/castillo-de-gibralfaro/12), a short hike from the city center will lift you to the top of the hill of Málaga, you will be immersed in nature with a breathtaking view of the sea. Sunset is magic there! ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/shutterstock_551454280-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "shutterstock_551454280 - Couchsurfing Blog")View from Gibralfaro by [Romas Photo](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Romas_Photo)shutterstock**1 museum not to miss!** The city offers an endless cultural scene and is hard to pick one, ideally for an adventures traveller who wants to combine hiking and lounging on the beach you might combine a bit of culture by visiting the [Contemporary Art Museum of Málaga](http://cacmalaga.eu/). The CAC Museum is absolutely beautiful and displays local and international artists in rotating exhibitions throughout the year. This lovely museum is located in the city center, is free to enter, and is just 10 minutes from the famous [Malagueta Beach](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g187438-d1191631-Reviews-Playa_de_La_Malagueta-Malaga_Costa_del_Sol_Province_of_Malaga_Andalucia.html). **Where to try the local cuisine!** The best authentic food you will find at [Mercado Atarazanas](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g187438-d2441445-Reviews-Mercado_Central_de_Atarazanas-Malaga_Costa_del_Sol_Province_of_Malaga_Andalucia.html), the historical market of Málaga in the heart of the city. ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/mercadoalcazaba.jpg?fit=1024%2C736&ssl=1 "mercadoalcazaba - Couchsurfing Blog")Arabic marble arch of Mercado Atarazanas by [elRoce](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/elroce)shutterstock**Best place to grab a drink!** [Recyclo Bar](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g187438-d7304460-Reviews-Recyclo_Bike_Cafe-Malaga_Costa_del_Sol_Province_of_Malaga_Andalucia.html) is the coolest bar in town, the perfect place to chill out, have tasty drinks, and indulge on tapas! **A historic moment!** The most famous historic site is the [Alcazaba](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g187438-d243997-Reviews-Alcazaba-Malaga_Costa_del_Sol_Province_of_Malaga_Andalucia.html), an Arabic castle lush with nature and orange trees, an amazing place to spend your morning. ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/shutterstock_1221600385-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C566&ssl=1 "shutterstock_1221600385 - Couchsurfing Blog")Roman amphitheater in the Alcazaba of Malaga by [BAHDANOVICH ALENA](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/BAHDANOVICH+ALENA)shutterstock**Where to dance!** Start your night at [Chiquita Cruz](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g187438-d7004303-Reviews-Chiquita_Cruz-Malaga_Costa_del_Sol_Province_of_Malaga_Andalucia.html), the perfect place to dance salsa and on Wednesday you can join the free dancing class, it is a great place to have a drink and dive into latin music. After that if you want to really party hard then head to the [Anden Club](https://discotecaanden.com/en/), the biggest one in the city, located in heart of the city. **Best day trip!** One day out to [Nerja Beach](https://www.nerja-turismo.com/en/beaches/), the best place that is just a short ride from Málaga. It is a wonderful coast line village with amazing crystal-clear water. ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/shutterstock_1020497014-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "shutterstock_1020497014 - Couchsurfing Blog")Nerja Beach by [AlbertoOrtega](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/AlbertoOrtega)shutterstock**A treat-yourself meal!** The best place to treat yourself and enjoy the excellent cuisine in Málaga is [La Sociedad Herbivora](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g187438-d15601967-Reviews-La_Sociedad_Herbivora-Malaga_Costa_del_Sol_Province_of_Malaga_Andalucia.html), a wonderful restaurant in the historical city center. This restaurant is gluten free and 100% organic, offering sophisticated dishes, both Spanish and international cuisine, with the freshest local products. **The perfect picture!** The best shot will be at [Malagueta Bech](http://www.visitcostadelsol.com/explore/the-best-beaches-on-the-costa-del-sol/la-malagueta-beach-p20471), the sign is so unique and rocky, climb on the letters with your friends and shoot the perfect picture surrounded by palm trees and the sea. ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/shutterstock_1570228033-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C446&ssl=1 "shutterstock_1570228033 - Couchsurfing Blog")Malagueta Beach by [eFesenko](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/eFesenko)shutterstock**Cute cafe!** The cutest cafe for a coffee and a tea will definitely be [Teteria San Agustin](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g187438-d2210865-Reviews-La_teteria-Malaga_Costa_del_Sol_Province_of_Malaga_Andalucia.html). On the weekend it is going to be a little crowed but during the week, it is calm and the perfect place to read a book and relax. **Best quick bite!** Grab churros with hot chocolate and fresh bread with olive oil and tomato all over the city, the cheapest and most filling food you can find around. ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/shutterstock_451021114.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "shutterstock_451021114 - Couchsurfing Blog")Malaga Cafes by [trabantos](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/pavel+dudek)shutterstock**Where to sweat!** Málaga, with her 300 sunny days year round, offers great facilities for exercise. Along the beach you will see many work out spot, perfect places to enjoy the breeze and sweat out the wine and tapas from the night before. **Family fun!** Easy hike in the [Mijas Pueblo](http://www.andalucia.com/mijas/pueblo.htm), a lovely village next to malaga with whitewashed houses, the typical essence of Andalusia. Living in a postcard for a few hours, and yes, do not forget to watch the sunset from there. ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/shutterstock_593554367-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "shutterstock_593554367 - Couchsurfing Blog")Mijas by [Valery Bareta](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/bareta)shutterstock**A tourist trap to avoid!** Please to not eat at the restaurants the promoters try to drag you into while you walk and avoid the super expensive touristy red bus that is driving along the coast. If you want to enjoy the beachside on a bus, take the number 3 toward El Palo and you will get the same view for 1,30 instead of 20 euros. **One experience not to miss!** Go to a typical patio to watch a [Flamenco Show](https://malagatravelguide.net/tourism/7-authentic-flamenco-shows-andalucia/), definitely a must do in Málaga. The clap of the hands will stay with you all night long. ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Flamencodresses-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C717&ssl=1 "Flamencodresses - Couchsurfing Blog")Traditional Flamenco dresses by [jorisvo](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/jorisvo)shutterstock### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-malaga/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-malaga/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Guides --- ### [10 Questions with a CS Ambassador: Emily](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-emily/) **Published:** January 20, 2020 **Author:** Mike Joy **Excerpt:** Meet Emily, Couchsurfing host, Ambassador in Lille and proud cat lady. **Content:** #### Name: [Emily](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/figaroquette) City: Lille, France Years on Couchsurfing: 6 ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/27269429_l_97ecb0f457998498cd9b148a71ce95a5-1.jpg "27269429_l_97ecb0f457998498cd9b148a71ce95a5-1 - Couchsurfing Blog")**Hey Emily! How did you learn about Couchsurfing?** I had a boyfriend at the time who was always hosting. As in: I could never get the guy on his own. If I suggested a walk on the beach, he’d ask if he could bring his two Brazilian surfers. If we wanted to go out for Valentine’s dinner, he’d say that he had an Italian girl at home currently and could she come? So I got interested in why on earth he would do that, what he got out of it, and what he thought of the system. He also set me up with my first surfer, a girl he was supposed to host but couldn’t as he’d got his dates mixed up! **Sounds like a great guy! So what made you get involved?** I was curious to understand why the aforementioned boyfriend liked hosting so much, so I gave it a try. I hosted the girl he set me up with, then I surfed in Réunion Island with a girl called Amélie… who was hosting the party of the year! I met so many interesting people, something like 50 people when I was only expecting one! Unfortunately, her theme for the party was white, and if there’s one thing a traveller does not have, it’s white clothes, so she lent me a jumper and a skirt and we chatted the night away while playing local games. I mostly participate by hosting others – it’s fun to open my home and let the world come to me! ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/4d2c073d-b378-4992-a2a5-4c759e61158c-1-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C768&ssl=1 "4d2c073d-b378-4992-a2a5-4c759e61158c-1 - Couchsurfing Blog")**Oh yah, white clothing is asking for trouble. Sounds like an amazing time though! What was your very first hosting experience like?** I hosted the girl my ex-boyfriend sent to me for a couple of nights. It was my first CS hosting, so I did everything I could to make her comfortable, including giving her my bedroom so that she wouldn’t have to sleep with my cats walking around. She ended up taking my boyfriend too about a week later, so I thought: oh dear, is THIS Couchsurfing? before deciding that I didn’t have anything else to lose, so let’s go for it! **Ok, I take that back. He does not sound like a great guy! What has been your favorite hosting memory?** There isn’t really one that sticks out, but what I love about hosting is the variety of weird and wonderful people who walk through my doors. Circus artists, would-be skippers aiming for the Caribbean, students heading to Greenland for two years to study sociology, people who are looking for a flat and who end up becoming my neighbours, people at the very beginning of a 5-year trip around the world, street musicians – I’ve had so many private concerts! -, twins I took to a folk ball and who surprised everyone by being so physically identical that all the ladies at the dance had a case of déjà-vu, trusting surfers who met up with me in the middle of nowhere at impossible hours but knew they would be safe, LGBT activists, climate change activists, permaculture fiends, city poets… all sorts of colourful and fun people! ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/145cf07f-db2d-48d6-89cf-b6eac2931302-1-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C768&ssl=1 "145cf07f-db2d-48d6-89cf-b6eac2931302-1 - Couchsurfing Blog")Emily with some surfers **They all sound incredible. I can see why you have a hard time choosing with so much experience! What about your most memorable surfing experience?** I really don’t surf much – I’ve probably surfed 20 times in 6 years, compared to 300-something hostings – so there are fewer people to choose from, that helps! Without a doubt, my most interesting experience was with a lady I surfed with in Bern, Switzerland. She was in her 80s, but wrote on her profile that she was only 60 because “if people know I’m 80, when I ask to stay with them, they’ll think I’m going to die on the stairs up to their apartment, whereas if they think I’m only 60, they’ll think ‘oh, it’s fine, she’s my mum’s age'”! When I arrived, she had just started an English lesson for two young’uns in their 50s, which she immediately roped me in to help with, saying that she wasn’t sure whether she should take it as a compliment that after 10 years, they were still coming to her to learn English, or a criticism that after 10 years, they still couldn’t speak English :D. I loved her, she was great! **She sounds like a firecracker! What is a unique gift you have received from one of your surfers?** A little wooden cat from a young lad called Sofiane. Most people bring magnets or postcards, but he had really taken the time to study my profile and to think of something that suited my personality and interests, it was a really thoughtful gift. ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/878e7e83-f88d-41a7-bc9a-67e235d23df1.jpg?fit=1024%2C902&ssl=1 "878e7e83-f88d-41a7-bc9a-67e235d23df1 - Couchsurfing Blog")Emilys adorable cat**Aw, that is cute! If you could surf (or host) anyone, alive or dead, who would it be?** Hmmmm… Probably Rosa Parks. She doesn’t strike me as one to give up after a few declined requests, and I think she’d be happy to host as well as to surf. Plus, I think she’d make an interesting traveling companion and we’d have plenty to talk about! **She would be an excellent host – or surfer, that is for sure! Do you have any crazy travel stories you want to share with us?** I was riding solo down Madagascar on a motorbike when I hit a pothole, lost control and crashed into the ditch. Maybe it was because I was female (still am, if you’re wondering), but when I stood on the side of the road (in floods of tears because I’d just broken my rental bike and was panicking about how to get it repaired without losing my deposit), three Malagasy bikers stopped about five minutes later, pulled the most enormous screwdrivers from their pockets and got both the bike and me up and running again, then rode with me peloton-style to the next town where I could buy a replacement mirror for the one that I had irreversibly damaged. That saved my trip and my faith in humanity :). ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/f24ea7c8-ac42-41e3-bb59-eb9a59835bdf-2.jpg "f24ea7c8-ac42-41e3-bb59-eb9a59835bdf-2 - Couchsurfing Blog")Emily on her motorbike in Madagascar **What an amazing story! There are good people still out there! What is a local cuisine you love?** I like [carbonnade flamande](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carbonade_flamande), a sweet beef stew made with gingerbread. I’ve never tasted anything quite like it, and if you eat meat, it’s a cheap and easily-accessible dish in the area! **Sounds delicious. What is your dream vacation?** I’d love to go to Botswana and Mali to see the settings for my favorite books, and I’d like to go to Greenland because I never see it on anyone’s travel lists but it looks like an extremely cool (even cold? sorry, bad pun) place. ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/225f34b2-6b80-44ff-b184-4fc454808f24.jpg?fit=1024%2C576&ssl=1 "225f34b2-6b80-44ff-b184-4fc454808f24 - Couchsurfing Blog")**Greenland is definitely on my to-visit list! Last question, what is your advice to a new Couchsurfer?** Host before you surf! It’ll get you free Verification for 3 months, it’ll teach you what it’s like to have a stranger in your house who will see you in your pajamas, and it’ll make it much easier to find a host down the line! And you never know, you might even enjoy it :). ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-emily/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-emily/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Meet an Ambassador --- ### [Nacional: The history of Mexico's National Meeting](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/nacional-the-history-of-mexicos-national-meeting/) **Published:** January 21, 2020 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Excerpt:** Find out the history, and future, of la nacional -Mexico's annual national meeting. **Content:** #### By: [Gabriela](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/gabanana) ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/fj8s31mxdc6XJkMAExx01MjL2WY0AxVW661tW-TRr_KvHuIvmg6h63ZpbCU7719rflPKDt-fBfVxS2IDxcv4sZKv_DWiiV2J3cm4uZ4YY11OLfa670_lkqxImLzes9maCFiH6Eo)*Driving on a VW Combi to the 1st National. (By* [*Gabriela Velázquez*](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/gabanana)*)*Though it had been less than 2 years since I had joined Couchsurfing, I still considered myself a newbie when I decided to attend the 1st National Couchsurfing Meeting in Mexico. It was a wild experience for me; I lived in [Querétaro](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quer%C3%A9taro) at the time, and the community there was very strong, they had become like a family to me and the idea of a National Meeting was a great opportunity to meet those “long-distance relatives” who I had heard so many great stories about. Ever since that November in 2012 there have been 8 different “Nacionales” across Mexico but where did all come from? Whose idea was it? Who determines where the next event will be held? Personally I’ve only attended 5 events, so I’ve started digging a bit into what “La Nacional de Couchsurfing” was for some of the organizers in order to get a better understanding of what can be expected of this. Some couchsurfers were visiting “[Los Azufres](http://michoacan.travel/en/experiences/mud-baths-in-los-azufres.html)” in [Michoacán](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Michoac%C3%A1n) in 2011. They were from all over Mexico, friends for some years who had an idea to start an annual meeting in Mexico. Somehow simultaneously, Marcela was walking with her host and talking about what a great idea could be to have a Crash in Mexico like they had in other countries, so when the word started to spread on where to host the Nacional, she proposed it to be [León](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Le%C3%B3n,_Guanajuato), her hometown, during the [Festival del Globo](https://festivaldelglobo.com.mx/en/). She had the help of other members like Agus, who happened to hear about the event and is now part of the history of “Nacionales” in Mexico. ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/4Sm18WolDGZVBKc65fG6YpHrn6bsuH814B_xguT2xQVEfqVfsMClri9lwM13zTIbTySDlbfoQ3EztJ5eBxT8yYRo8X7-hhrbNS9obqcOmXZqW9oO_PzJDTSIHR_1hhTJRkjDTUg)*The pioneers at Los Azufres. (By )*> The whole weekend was super fun. We had several activities planned, including watching the hot air balloons lift into the air at sunrise. As the newbie I was, I felt very integrated into Couchsurfing. I got to make new friends from different parts of Mexico and a few international ones as well. **A trip down memory lane… the development of “La Nacional”** It was during that meeting that the next city was elected. Omar, or Blue as his friends call him, offered to host the second edition in Tulúm. It would be perfect so we could get some warm weather in November. The main obstacle was that it was only him organizing; so the [CouchCrash ](http://10.9.0.204/how-to-plan-a-couch-crash/)felt more like an invasion where friends from all around Mexico and some internationals explored the nearby places and got together at night to party. ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/zRrUtbNQSw2S42_bp-ev39EYcJncgdgQkrQD3zQZmaWO-cq1mA_9uYMfY3P4UhSHR-ljsC6dXYE31AqBVT_1jCkQLsUwLHoXcVX4JX_4aEoQ2YQylsBYUcWwKBV_569nt08stAE)*2nd National in Tulum. (By* [*Cesar García*](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/cesar_mx)*)*For the third edition there was an eagerness from different local communities to host the event. Having learnt the importance of a group of people organizing an event of such magnitude, in order to “submit” your city for the third National, you had to have a strong group of organizers. We went back to the voting process and [Durango](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Durango_City) was the winner. If you haven’t visited Mexico, and even if you have, it is unlikely you’ve heard about this state/city. It is one of the great states in Mexico, however being in the north, with warm weather and not much tourism, it is not a destination one would have thought of when thinking about where the next meeting would be. However this was what motivated Omar to get together with other local surfers and organize it there. It was a success! One of the key points was that they got back up from the city tourist office and offered a great event. Everyone was so happy with it; and in a way became the guide of what was expected for future meetings. Organizing a “Nacional” was no longer just proposing a place and making it happen; it became a whole process. There needed to be a group of organizers, a proposal needed to be drafted with places to visit, an agenda to follow with detailed prices for tourist attractions or bus rides. This is where I got involved in the voting process; I raised my hand to organize the voting and ever since I’ve helped with this process. Selecting the next location became a bit more elaborate and the next meeting was held in [Oaxaca](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oaxaca). Luis was excited about people enjoying the ways, food and views of his state. From Luis’ point of view: > a Reunión Nacional” is a gathering of national and international Couchsurfing community who share the traveling bug and like to share tips on this. > > Luis, CSer in Oaxaca Traveling back from the [Baja Weekend](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/baja-weekend-2020-tijuana) (a CouchCrash in Tijuana), Oziel and his friends were talking about sending a proposal to host the 5th Reunión Nacional in Hermosillo. He thought that it was the best opportunity to get together with friends from different parts of the world in one place and it would be the ideal time to make new friends and meet the local couchsurfers. His experience as an organizer was like a roller coaster where you go from happiness to stress but with shared responsibility and with a great feeling towards the end to see all your effort translated in people having a great time. ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/mLfJpJmSNqVgaozON3fTfxflQXkrisOW6p-PxiTi_KseIdclX6UkI-2KyARi3Xdub_j0YhmXn6hcfchfjqKUn1yx4nQCRFsVM1pli8QzV868hgJhksER1JzMu0tKtUPMSJASJOY)*Everyone in Hermosillo. (By* [*Cesar García*](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/cesar_mx)*)*Morelia was the host for the 6th Reunión Nacional. Josue, Erika and Yani were there from the proposal drafting and Puki joined them afterwards. They all agreed that it was important to work together as a team. So the meeting was no longer about showing others their city but creating bonds between their local community. The 8th edition was a bit of a surprise. The community in Merida was a bit of a dormant one; however Juan saw it as an opportunity to reinforce the Couchsurfing values bringing their members together. Daniel, who joined Juan with other members in the organization, saw this as an opportunity to awaken the local community. ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/ePSLOnYqQp5xRNHyjeo4ip3Qo0n4PHXjtsL8Id4FD5BExZ-OFbh5KPJFilrHFxgZu40YMqQWofLaeishMlOvRI-TYFavKVHHt1Tznx2qzIOpLXHaAj9uj1jurKn099kDdXajmiA)*Group photo for the 7th National Meeting. (By* [*Cesar García*](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/cesar_mx)*)*The most recent Reunión Nacional, 2019, was also held on the beach; this time in Puerto Vallarta, where we also got a chance to meet a lovely town called San Sebastián del Oeste. The community there was as welcoming as could be; they showed us around the amazing places they have nearby and even had a cultural activity where we learnt how to make an [Eye of God](http://www.albertmccarthy.co.nz/featured/gods-eyes-are-always-watching/). We’ve had such great times in all the Meetings, and we’ll keep having them thanks to the hospitality of the Couchsurfers who are willing to put in so much time and effort into making things possible. **To sum up…** 2011 – “Nacional 0” Los Azufres 2012 – 1er Reunión Nacional Couchsurfing México León, Guanajuato 2013 – 2da Reunión Nacional Couchsurfing México Tulúm, Quintana Roo 2014 – 3ra Reunión Nacional Couchsurfing México Durango, Durango 2015 – 4ta Reunión Nacional Couchsurfing México Oaxaca, Oaxaca 2016 – 5ta Reunión Nacional Couchsurfing México Hermosillo, Sonora 2017 – 6ta Reunión Nacional Couchsurfing México Morelia, Michoacán 2018 – 7ma Reunión Nacional Couchsurfing México Mérida, Yucatán 2019 – 8va Reunión Nacional Couchsurfing México Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/IMG_1853.jpg?fit=1024%2C682&ssl=1 "IMG_1853 - Couchsurfing Blog")*Last day official picture with the Couchsurfers in Morelia By* [*Cesar García*](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/cesar_mx)> “Buckle up, Dorothy, cause Kansas is going bye-bye!” – > > **Agustín, León 2012** Organizing a Reunión Nacional has become a great deal. There are many communities eager to show couchsurfing members what their city and surroundings have to offer. Each year the hosting community surprises us; however as you’ve read the process has been polished over the years and certain criteria need to be considered in order to be considered in the voting process. ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/5WluS_ocBeLo7WH0kANtBWHNyXtjaNrsoJJozqxCwIColQrwiDINpqkpRqZnj8LVUkyGMbleaMOp2CMLbPTmiXKZoYwoSCyx7pE_Q8AI_H6g4bwSLK4YSN5ikuuzRKrsgSGEpI0)*Couchsurfers in Morelia for the 6th National Meeting. (By )***Drafting a proposal** It all sounds so professional, but it’s important that the organizers are committed to using some of their free time for this. It’s not easy but it’s very rewarding. All members of Couchsurfing are welcome to vote for their favorite proposal, it could be because they think they have a great activity agenda, they have friends organizing it or they want to visit that place; so we want them to have all relevant information to decide for themselves. 1. **Venue**. Where to next? Is it a city, forest, beach? Does it have an easy access, airports, bus stations? How will the people move around? 2. **Agenda**. What will the activities for all 3 days will be? 3. **Accommodation**. We know there are many cities with limited hosts; so what are the alternatives? Camping? Cheap hotels? It is also deeply encouraged to grow the hosting community. 4. **Costs**. Events in Couchsurfing are not for profit; however there are transportation costs or some venues for parties need to be booked and paid so what are the costs of this? 5. **Organizing team**. Names and profiles of the team, who are they? The latest proposals sent had an amazing format; pictures that invited you to want to go to that place. ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/HW3DZHz1OXdCRgDMYpqnNST8RNBADD7mrlcXUOtLupQclTUZSCyYGjHOUwzt7KlmCOfuomsPF6BvfocrJKto3rRnfJ6G7_9XBeOi8cicsHaLERYIMCt5mM6jpOq7VRKQmwpz4DA)*Picture with Couchsurfers in Puerto Vallarta. (By* [*Israel Andalon*](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/iandalon)*)***Where to next?** The proposals haven’t been submitted yet, but local communities have started to get together to come up with the proposed agenda. We’re looking forward to reactivate the “[Annual Meeting Project](https://www.couchsurfing.com/groups/annual-mexico-meeting-project)” Couchsurfing group. The period to send out the proposals is usually during January, with 2-3 weeks for members to vote for their favorite place and having the results before the cheap airlines anniversary (we need to find the best deals!). So stay tuned to find out where the next Reunión Nacional will be. I won’t lie to you; it’s been quite a ride. All organizers will tell you it has been a challenge. There has been drama, from the sending of the proposals, voting trolls, friends having certain differences. But in the end it all works out and we all have a great time. The idea is to keep on encouraging ourselves to have an annual meeting where you can see friends from far away or can make new friends. It’s all about sharing your life, cuz that’s what Couchsurfing is all about. So pack up your bags and whichever local community wins the next voting; you’re welcome to join us this November 2020 for the 9th National Meeting in Mexico! ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/shutterstock_521559409-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C541&ssl=1 "shutterstock_521559409 - Couchsurfing Blog")By [Diego Grandi](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/diegograndi)shutterstock### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/nacional-the-history-of-mexicos-national-meeting/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/nacional-the-history-of-mexicos-national-meeting/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Community, Events --- ### [A Couchsurfer's guide to... Belgrade](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-belgrade/) **Published:** January 16, 2020 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Excerpt:** Vladimir, our Ambassador in Belgrade, gives us his top pics for your next trip to the gorgeous Serbian capital. **Content:** #### By: [Vladimir](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/vladimir74) ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/shutterstock_220992322-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "shutterstock_220992322 - Couchsurfing Blog")Belgrade By [Vladimir Nenezic](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Vladimir+Nenezic)shutterstock**Best breakfast in town!** In everyday hurry, most of locals do the breakfast in local bakery. You can find them on frequent crossroads, suburban areas, and main streets. Famous breakfast meal is [burek](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/B%C3%B6rek) – cheese pie. The best one you can find in a few bakeries from early morning called “[Trpkovic](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g294472-d7352920-Reviews-Pekara_Trpkovic-Belgrade.html)” (Slavija square, Djeram open market and Dusanovac suburban area). If you prefer sandwiches, bakeries “[Lebovski](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g294472-d12229006-Reviews-Lebovski-Belgrade.html)” offer very good choice. **1 museum not to miss!** The worldwide famous inventor [Nikola Tesla](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nikola_Tesla) was great man. He gave us light. Learn about charismatic personality of this visionary, and be a part some of his experiments. “[Museum Nikola Tesla](https://nikolateslamuseum.org/en/)” is open every day except Monday. Guided tours run every hour. ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/shutterstock_430379356-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "shutterstock_430379356 - Couchsurfing Blog")Nikola Tesla Museum in Belgrade By [saiko3p](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/saiko3p)shutterstock**Best place to grab a drink!** One of the most popular alcoholic drinks in Serbia is [rakija](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rakia). Try fruit brandy – distilled beverage produced from juice! Famous flavors are from plum, apricot and quince. In “[Rakia bar](http://www.rakiabar.com/rakia-bar-serbia/belgrade.25.html)” you can find aver 100 different types of rakija. **Where to dance!** Night life in Belgrade starts after midnight. Best places to dance are on the floating nightclubs on the [Sava River](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sava). You can’t miss them – shiny lights and good vibes. A famous one is “[Freestyler](https://freestyler.rs/en/homepage/)“. ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/shutterstock_744489871-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C718&ssl=1 "shutterstock_744489871 - Couchsurfing Blog")The Sava River floating nightclubs By [e2dan](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/e2dan)shutterstock**A treat-yourself meal!** Not far from city center – restaurant “[Lorenzo & Kakalamba](https://www.lk.rs/en/)“. It is a charming mixture of traditional cuisine from the south of Serbia, and Italian culture. If you don’t trip up at the entrance to one of the clumsily hidden cables, or fall through the hole in the floor directly to the kitchen into the pot with delicious delicacies, you will find your way to one of the unusual chairs and order some of divine specialties. **Where to sweat!** Belgrade’s sea, or “[Ada Ciganlija](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ada_Ciganlija)” is a river island that has artificially been turned into a peninsula in Sava river. And, between the island and mainland is a long lake. It is a popular recreational zone. There is a 7 kilometer-long gravel beach, kayaking clubs, marina for small boats, tennis, basketball and volleyball courts, many bike and rollerskating paths, bungee jumping platform etc. ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/shutterstock_685595194-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C747&ssl=1 "shutterstock_685595194 - Couchsurfing Blog")Beach on Ada Ciganlija By [MarkPelf](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Mark.Pelf)shutterstock**Best quick bite!** In the city center: find a small street window and a bunch of people standing ahead. It is fast food called “[Bucko](http://belgrademyway.com/bucko-pizza/)” (Chubby) that offers cheap pizzas with additional toppings that gives you new taste of this traditional meal. If you are in New Belgrade, don’t miss “The valley of hungry” (“Dolina gladi”). Many fast foods on this street with excellent Serbian barbecue. The name of street is “Bulevar maršala Tolbuhina” (former Goce Delceva street). **Best view in the city!** The most popular panoramic view of Belgrade that you can experience is at [Belgrade Fortress](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g294472-d550626-Reviews-The_Belgrade_Fortress-Belgrade.html) (“Kalemegdan”). In the same place is the biggest city park and zoo. From the upper part of the fortress there is a scenic view of the meeting of the River Sava and the Danube. ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/shutterstock_685778341-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C332&ssl=1 "shutterstock_685778341 - Couchsurfing Blog")Belgrade Fortress By [Predrag Mladenovic](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/pedjafoto)shutterstock**Cute cafe!** There are a few locations in city with calm atmosphere where you can enjoy in the garden paved with bricks, tables placed under trees with colorful shade; it is the caffe house chain name is “[Smokvica](http://smokvica.rs/en/about-us/)” (“The small Fig”) **Best day trip out of town!** The best place to spend a whole day is a traditional picnic resort called “[Avala](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Avala)“. It is located 16km south-east of downtown Belgrade. This protected green area outside Belgrade offers possibilities for biking, hiking, visiting mountaineering camps, enjoying landscapes, breathtaking views from TV tower and from the Monument to the Unknown Hero. ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/shutterstock_679125541-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C516&ssl=1 "shutterstock_679125541 - Couchsurfing Blog")Avala By [Boky](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/jbokyphotography)shutterstock**Where to try the cuisine!** Restaurant chain “[Zavičaj](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g294472-d3202918-Reviews-Zavicaj_Restaurant-Belgrade.html)” offers specialties of the Balkan cuisine which are also typical food for Belgrade. An ethnic environment gives you pleasant feeling of [kafana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kafana) – traditional restaurants in Serbia. There are three locations in Belgrade. **One experience not to miss**! Visit the “[Roman Well](https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/roman-well-of-belgrade-fortress)” of the Belgrade Fortress. There is no direct connection to the Romans, who were old inhabitants in this region. The name came after. Dare to go inside, and find why Alfred Hitchcock was here. ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/shutterstock_1076211791-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "shutterstock_1076211791 - Couchsurfing Blog")The Roman Well By [serato](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/serato)shutterstock**Family fun!** One of most popular places for the whole family is [Belgrade Zoo](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Belgrade_Zoo) (“Beo ZOO vrt”). It is the oldest zoo in Serbia and is located in Kalemegdan park, in the city center. There are about 300 species from all over the world. Visit this place and find why it is called “Garden of good hope”. **The perfect picture**! On the main pedestrian street, there is a new shopping center called “[Rajiceva](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g294472-d12906144-Reviews-Rajiceva_Shopping_Center-Belgrade.html)“. Climb to the last floor. There is roof restaurant, but you can enter and take selfie with a panoramic view on Belgrade. **A historic moment!** In Serbia, the most important figure in history doesn’t have a grave. His remains was burned on a place which is called “[Vračar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vra%C4%8Dar)“. [Saint Sava](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Sava) was the Enlightener, Serbian prince, Orthodox monk, the first Archbishop of the autocephalous Serbian Church, diplomat, and the founder of Serbian law. Visit the big plateau on Vračar hill, and the monumental [Church of Saint Sava](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Church_of_Saint_Sava). ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/shutterstock_197930654-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "shutterstock_197930654 - Couchsurfing Blog")Church of Saint Sava by [Vladimir Nenezic](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Vladimir+Nenezic)shutterstock**A tourist trap to avoid!** Belgrade is big city. But, most of the touristic places you can visit by walking. Don’t use taxis. It will cost you a lot, especially if there is traffic. **Anything else…** Unfortunately, Belgrade has a dark tourism route. Take the chance to visit any number of large buildings that still bear the unmistakable signs of damage inflicted by [bombing campaign in 1999](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/NATO_bombing_of_Yugoslavia). Maybe you will get the answer to the question which Serbians are still asking themselves – Why? ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/shutterstock_1577913145-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "shutterstock_1577913145 - Couchsurfing Blog")Yugoslav Ministry of Defense one of the buildings bombed by NATO in 1999 By [EQRoy](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/EQRoy)shutterstock### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-belgrade/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-belgrade/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Guides **Tags:** Belgrade --- ### [10 Questions with a CS Ambassador: Alle](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-alle/) **Published:** December 29, 2019 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** #### Name: [Alle](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/alle.herso) City: Quito Years on Couchsurfing: 8 **Hey Alle! Tell us why you got involved in Couchsurfing and how you stay involved…** Because it is the way I love to travel and discovering many people around the world share the same thought about it, it was awesome. At the beginning I was attending most events in my city and trips. Then, organizing events and being part of them as an organizer with the local community for bigger events. And of course, hosting and surfing with friends. ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/8802ea14-9dd9-4548-b1de-dec565e6064d.jpg?fit=1024%2C678&ssl=1 "8802ea14-9dd9-4548-b1de-dec565e6064d - Couchsurfing Blog")**Great. And why did you decide to get involved in the Ambassador program?** After being living abroad I landed in Quito, Ecuador and the community was totally offline. No events, no local people trying to make something. So, as a personal goal, I decided to do it. I organized several events; weekly, monthly or couch crashes as We did in Mexico. So it was not easy but I think a lot of Couchsurfers and new members in Quito are more involved day by day. Now we are bigger group with some of them doing their best for the city. **And we’re so glad you are involved! What has been your most interesting hosting experience?** As I was helping a surfer from Colombia, she was sick her first day in Quito. So, she asked me for help to stay for a couple of days at the same time she contacted me with more surfers. At some point we were 5 people and for more than 20 days these 4 girls were hanging out, going and coming back together or solo. The funniest thing was we were sick with different things; stomachache, back pain, flu, etc… really good moments with these friends. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/4405aa2a-7c6c-4bd5-83ff-334c6a691c30.jpg "4405aa2a-7c6c-4bd5-83ff-334c6a691c30 - Couchsurfing Blog")**Wow. You were running a mini-clinic! What about as a surfer?** All of them are pretty cool but I remember one of the first ones when Constanza was waiting for me in the airport to take me to her place. That feeling is indescribable!!! **I’ve had a host pick me up from the airport as well, and it’s so nice! Is there any book that has inspired your travels?** This is a good book I read in my time in my new city: “Viajera.” She describes the places in her first time she visited them as a young woman and then as a older woman. To see the big differences 20 or 30 years later is very impressive. In the past it was not as easy as present day. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/c9a70d55-7429-4d54-990c-a5c0c76f51c1.jpg "c9a70d55-7429-4d54-990c-a5c0c76f51c1 - Couchsurfing Blog")**Sounds amazing! If you could host or surf with any celebrity, who would it be?** It’s not a celebrity but a doll: Chucky doll from Child’s play. Because It is a doll I really like it and most of people don’t know it. So it would be a funny reaction of people when I tell this story and the reason I’m traveling with him. ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/shutterstock_1430519420-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C684&ssl=1 "shutterstock_1430519420 - Couchsurfing Blog")Chucky by [Michael San Diego](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/MikeSD)shutterstock**I am familiar with the doll and it is very creepy! What is a crazy thing that has happened to you while traveling?** I asked a man if he knew any place to stay. All the options he said were full. And suddenly, he said “tú no te preocupes, hoy se quedan en mi casa” (don’t worry, tonight, you guys will stay at my home). I was traveling Mexico with a girlfriend hitchhiking. His wife opened the door and she looked at us with a “what’s going on here…” face but by the end of the night she was telling us all their adventures and the good places to visit in her city and a fantastic dinner! **What is your favorite food from your city?** Tacos de Canasta **Love tacos! What’s a place in Quito with the same values as Couchsurfing?** Café en señas. It is a coffee shop with deaf and mute people as barman and waitresses. We organized language exchanges here to give the people a new experience. **Sounds amazing! And last question, what is your go-to karaoke song?** “Don’t Stop Me Now” by Queen ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/18147664_l_ba3a1d759537fb16edb42b22a757d4f5.jpg "18147664_l_ba3a1d759537fb16edb42b22a757d4f5 - Couchsurfing Blog")### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-alle/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-alle/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Meet an Ambassador --- ### [Things to consider if you're traveling to Australia](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/things-to-consider-if-youre-traveling-to-australia/) **Published:** January 14, 2020 **Author:** Mike Joy **Content:** ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/shutterstock_403779934-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C680&ssl=1 "shutterstock_403779934 - Couchsurfing Blog")Bush fires in Australia By [John Crux](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/John+Crux)shutterstockAs has been reported in the news, there are large bush fires burning throughout Australia, notably in the states of Victoria, New South Wales and South Australia. It is important to stay up to date with news and the evacuation zones prior and during your trips. Below is our advice if you have a trip planned to Australia coming up soon. > As one of the worst fire seasons in Australia’s history continues to engulf parts of the country, authorities asked thousands of residents and tourists to evacuate affected areas, and the government announced the large-scale [use of military assets](https://www.nytimes.com/2020/01/04/world/australia/fires-military.html) to try and tame the fires, leaving some people stranded and those with upcoming trips to the country unsure of whether to visit or not. > > Currently, fires are largely burning across the states of Victoria, where Melbourne is; New South Wales, where Sydney is; and South Australia, where Adelaide is. Military ships and aircraft have been deployed to deliver water, food and fuel to towns cut off by the fires, as well as to rescue those who are stranded. > > New York Times, “[What You Need to Know About Traveling to Australia During This Fire Season](https://www.nytimes.com/2020/01/06/travel/australia-fires-travel-questions.html)“ Beyond keeping an eye out on official news sources, here are some tips to consider regarding a trip to Australia. ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/shutterstock_363166727-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "shutterstock_363166727 - Couchsurfing Blog")Smoke coming from the Australian bush fires By [Federherz](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Federherz)shutterstockRead the news Keeping an eye on local news will be the best way to stay informed of the state of the fires and the areas that are under evacuation. [Victoria](https://www.cfa.vic.gov.au/warnings-restrictions/warnings-and-incidents), [New South Wales](https://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/fire-information) and [South Australia](https://www.cfs.sa.gov.au/site/home.jsp) all have pages dedicated to the state of the bush fires and being aware is incredibly important. The state operated fire services in Australia are called “Royal Fire Services” and they have active twitter’s with live updates on the state of the fires ([Victoria RFS](https://twitter.com/cfa_updates) and [New South Wales RFS](https://twitter.com/nswrfs?lang=en)). If you are planning on camping, check the camp sites or national parks websites directly and be mindful of the rapid changes that occur with uncontrolled wildfires. If you do camp, make sure you are extremely cautious and take a look at these tips for [responsible camping during fire season](https://www.outsideonline.com/2317701/eight-tips-responsibly-camping-fire-season). Contact your host People who live in Australia are most likely up-to-date on the state of the fires and whether their area is affected or not. Get in touch and offer to make alternate arrangements if your visit would add any additional stress or take away accommodation from someone in need. It is very possible your host may still be excited for your stay or be in an area that is not threatened by the fires, but being understanding of the potential impact of your stay will be appreciated and may allow them to help someone who is directly affected by the fires. Changing or Canceling the trip Consider changing or canceling your trip. Even if your host is not in an affected area or has not asked you to cancel your trip you may still be adding extra stress to both the environment and local community. Many areas throughout Australia are still open and welcoming tourists but do your research ahead of time to ensure you aren’t putting yourself in danger. If you have travel insurance, see if canceling your trip is covered, or contact your airlines and accommodations directly to see if they will allow cancelations or reschedules. Keep in mind that even if fires are not directly where you’re going, it can affect air-quality and trigger respiratory issues like asthma. Donate If you are financially able, consider [donating to charities and organizations](https://www.pbs.org/newshour/world/how-to-help-the-victims-of-australias-wildfires) that are helping combat the wild fires. There are charities dedicated to local firefighters, animals, and those who have been directly affected. Every dollar helps. Host Are you in Australia and able to host? It may be worth while posting a thread or discussion letting people know that if they need to travel you have space for them. An extra room, sofa, or even land to camp on could be incredibly helpful to people in evacuation zones. ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/shutterstock_1607079880-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C983&ssl=1 "shutterstock_1607079880 - Couchsurfing Blog")By [Liudmyla Shcherbyna](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Liudmyla+Shcherbyna)shutterstock### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/things-to-consider-if-youre-traveling-to-australia/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/things-to-consider-if-youre-traveling-to-australia/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Community **Tags:** Australia, bush fires, new south wales, south australia, victoria --- ### [How Couchsurfers saved my partner's life](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/how-2-couchsurfers-saved-my-partners-life/) **Published:** January 13, 2020 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** #### By: [Philipp](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/the-guncles-philipp-hugh) ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/shutterstock_791317669-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C669&ssl=1 "shutterstock_791317669 - Couchsurfing Blog")By [OgnjenO](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/OgnjenO)shutterstockA few years ago, I saw a small post in my local Couchsurfer group from a member in Singapore. She had suffered injuries during an adventure holiday and been put in our city hospital for a month. Imagine the boredom and loneliness! I enjoy chatting and meeting people. So I put aside time to go and see her in hospital regularly. They say, what goes around, comes around. A few months ago, my partner Hugh was run over at a pedestrian crossing by a government owned commercial grass cutter. The driver wasn’t paying attention and failed to give way. Hugh’s injuries were grave which meant hospital for him. I was in charge of getting things right in the background. One part of that was to mobilise a support group of good people. That can mean using social media effectively. As soon as I could, I posted Hugh’s story on a Couchsurfing group I help moderate. The 60+ traveller group. It is a lovely group of nice Couchsurfers of mature years. I also posted his story on Facebook. It wasn’t long and I was getting get well wishes to pass on to him in hospital. Most valuable was the advice I received from 2 Couchsurfer members . Both former nurses, both full of compassion. One in Denmark , one in the UK. They prefer to remain a little bit anonymous, but in the 60+ Travellers Couchsurfing group, they are well known. Hugh was allowed home after the first few surgical procedures. A nurse came every day. But something wasn’t right. I posted photos on Couchsurfing and Facebook of what was happening at one wound site. I know that’s pretty gory, but we were perplexed, as that wound wasn’t responding. Immediately the Couchsurfers from Denmark and UK told me what it could be. I knew I had to act fast and rush Hugh back to hospital. Of course Hugh didn’t want to go. He tried tried to tell me, as it is a Sunday, surely the hospital will be closed. Hours count in this sort of emergency. It turned out to be an anaerobic bacterial infection that eats the flesh and bone. It was a race against time before toxic shock set in . The bacteria were antibiotic resistant, so it was crucial to find out exactly what they were. There was repeated surgery to clean the dead tissue. During this time, both Denmark and UK kept in touch, telling me what to expect to happen and why. Their timely advice and warnings helped save his leg and helped save his life. By the way, it seems the bacteria were on the grass cutter as it cuts not only grass, but also animal poo and other nasties. Dirty grass-cutter to open bone contact. Thanks Couchsurfing! You helped us live to have another adventure. For those who have a medical interest. When I took Hugh back to hospital the second time, the wound was only showing as about 15mm x 15mm. (about the size of the top of your thumb) . The damage was happening underneath. Eventually a large piece of flesh had to be taken from his thigh to replace the flesh lost on his shin. A new titanium pin had to be installed in his tibia to bond the bone together again as parts of the bone were eaten away also. Fortunately Hugh responded to treatment better than Santa Claus and his elf! #### (Disclaimer: The third photo shows the wound. If you are uncomfortable with medical photos or photos of injuries please do not click through.) - ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/image-1.png "image-1 - Couchsurfing Blog") - ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/image.png "image - Couchsurfing Blog") - ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/image-2.png "image-2 - Couchsurfing Blog") ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/how-2-couchsurfers-saved-my-partners-life/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/how-2-couchsurfers-saved-my-partners-life/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Community --- ### [Costa Brava: The best beach for every traveler](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/costa-brava-barcelonas-best-beaches/) **Published:** January 7, 2020 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Excerpt:** Costa Brava is 214 km of gorgeous coastline just north of Barcelona. Whether you have 1 day or 1 week, there is a perfect spot for you to enjoy the sun, sand and gorgeous Catalonian nature. **Content:** ## By: [Ana Mañas](https://www.couchsurfing.com/users/1005722798) ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/shutterstock_785442694-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C461&ssl=1 "shutterstock_785442694 - Couchsurfing Blog")Barcelona by [basiczto](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/basiczto)shutterstockWhen you think ‘Barcelona’ you think Sagrada Familia, tapas and sangria, and beautiful beaches that go on for miles. The Costa Brava, (Catalan for ‘Wild Coast’) is the 214km coastline that extends throughout Catalonia and has some of Spain’s most beautiful beaches, not to mention beach towns. But how do you choose where to go? Our Ambassador in Barcelona, Ana, has provided her tips to choosing the best beach to compliment your next trip to Barcelona. 1\. The “I Only Have One Day” Traveler: Tossa de Mar ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/shutterstock_122068792-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "shutterstock_122068792 - Couchsurfing Blog")Tossa de Mar By [Denis Mironov](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/silenttiger)shutterstockIf you only have one day to check out what Costa Brava has to offer, Tossa de Mar will give you a good idea of the beauty of Costa Brava without having to spend hours traveling from Barcelona. You can enjoy a beach with crystal clear waters and you can also visit the ancient part of the town behind the medieval wall that surrounds the old village. If you want to avoid the crowds, consider taking a one hour hike to one of the nearest bays like Cala Pola. **How to get there:** Train R1 to Blanes + bus to Tossa **Pros:** quality of water; nature; plenty of services; easily accessible from Barcelona **Con**: It is quite touristy and can be very crowded. 2\. The “Party” Traveler: Platja d’Aro ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Platjadaro-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "Platjadaro - Couchsurfing Blog")Cala Rovira at Platja dAro By [marlee](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/marlee)shutterstock If you are looking to enjoy a great beach during the day and a party at night, Platja d’Aro is your destination. Platja d’Aro has several beaches but we recommend Sa Conca because of its beauty and smaller crowds. That’s because you have to walk longer to get there, but we promise it is worth the effort! There is a gorgeous path starting from Sa Conca beach that will take you to incredible rocky bays and beaches. It’s called “Camí de Ronda” (follow the red and white signs). Don’t expect silence, though, as the area is quite popular and it’s full of tourists. But don’t complain, you’re the “party” traveler! At night, the town of Platja d’Aro comes to life. You will find, pubs, bars, restaurants, discos, and everything else needed to enjoy a perfect night out! **How to get ther**e: Bus to Platja d’Aro **Pros**: quality of water; plenty of services; wide range of accommodations; near Barcelona **Cons**: expensive in high season; quite crowded 3\. The “Not in a Hurry” Traveler: Begur ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/shutterstock_1459290785-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C768&ssl=1 "shutterstock_1459290785 - Couchsurfing Blog")Begur By [juancajuarez](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/juancajuarez)shutterstockIf you choose this option, congratulations! This means you can spend more than one day visiting and Begur would be the perfect otption. Begur is a medieval town but it doesn’t have a beach! Why go there then? This is the town where you can get accommodation and from which you can walk to some of the most amazing beaches you’ve ever seen. Also, public transportation from Barcelona drops you off in Begur, so it’s the best jumping off point. We know you came for the beaches, but don’t forget to visit Begur’s castle! The beaches: Tamariu is only one hour on foot from Begur. It is one of the top rated beaches in Costa Brava, but it’s still unknown because it’s no that close to Barcelona. The quality of the water is excellent and the nature around is breathtaking. The Water is always calm as it’s a closed bay. Theres also a trampoline if you want to take a dive. From Tamariu there is a path to get to some other incredible beaches, and the path is clearly marked so you shouldn’t get lost. Don’t miss Aigua Xelida beach, to the north of Tamariu, or Llafranc, to the south. The path to Llafranc is easier, and there are beautiful bays in between. Going to Aigua Xelida may be harder as you need to cross woods, but it’s very secluded and not at all touristy so will be a great break from crowds. **How to get there**: Bus to Begur, then by foot **Pro**: quality of water; nature; plenty of services around; many cheap accommodations nearby (campsites); many activities and places to visit **Con**: services at the beach are very expensive 4\. The “Adventurous” Traveler. El Port de la Selva ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/shutterstock_133621637-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "shutterstock_133621637 - Couchsurfing Blog")El Port de la Selva By [funkyfrogstock](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/funkyfrogstock)shutterstock El Port de la Selva is a charming town right next to the Cap de Creus, a natural protected area. As you swim inside its beach, you will feel like you’re floating inside a pool because of the enclosed bay lack of waves. No need to go snorkeling to see its variety of fish swimming near the shore. Don’t forget to visit the town either, it’s cute, cheap as not very touristy. If you love hiking, this will turn out to be your best seaside choice in Costa Brava. You must not miss the historical town of Cadaqués, where the famous artist Dalí lived, and where you can visit his house, now converted into a museum. Follow the signs of GR 92 (red and white stripes), and enjoy the three hour walk through the natural park. Also, you can go the other direction starting from El Port and visit Sant Pere de Rodes, a huge monastery from where you will enjoy astounding views of the seaside. Finally, if you are a real adventurer craving to get off the beaten track, you can even walk to the Pyrenees from here! **How to get there**: Train to Llançà (line R11) + bus (or walk) **Pro**: not touristy; nature; Pyrenees Mountains are close-by **Con**: three hour trip from Barcelona ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/shutterstock_384434215-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "shutterstock_384434215 - Couchsurfing Blog")Traditional fishing village at Calella de Palafrugell by [Boris Stroujko](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/xantana)shututerstockNo matter how much time you have, there is a piece of Costa Brava that fits you. Whether it’s taking a day trip to Tossa de Mar, hiking from Begur to the coast or exploring the incredible Pyrenees from El Port de la Seleva, Costa Brava will be an unforgettable addition to your next Catalonian adventure. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/costa-brava-barcelonas-best-beaches/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/costa-brava-barcelonas-best-beaches/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Advice **Tags:** Barcelona, Begur, costa brava, El Port de la Selva, Platja d’Aro, spain, Tossa de Mar --- ### [Chile's secret sunburn remedy...](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/chiles-secret-sunburn-remedy/) **Published:** December 31, 2019 **Author:** Mike Joy **Excerpt:** Sunburn cure or lunch for flies? Why tomatoes may help your next sunburn! **Content:** ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/shutterstock_61751989-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C680&ssl=1 "shutterstock_61751989 - Couchsurfing Blog")With beaches like this its easy to see why you get sunburnt By [Alberto Loyo](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/alber)shutterstockHave you ever been in a foreign country when disaster suddenly strikes? By disaster, I don’t mean catastrophic injury or tragic accident – but completely avoidable inconvenience that just makes you slightly uncomfortable. I’m talking mosquito bites, a sunburn, nausea, or just being plain cold. Everywhere in the world has a ‘local remedy’ which promises to cure these pains in the traditions of their ancestors. Peruvians swear by [Coca Leaves](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Coca) to fight altitude sickness, and [science](http://culturelocker.com/story/2013/Peru-coca.html) (and millions of travelers) agree. My grandmother was a firm believer in ‘draw an X over your mosquito bite and it will stop itching.’ Which, apparently may [temporarily work](https://www.jcehrlich.com/blog/how-to-treat-mosquito-bites/), but is far from the best method available to us. And, as I recently learned, the Chileans have a ‘local secret’ for curing a sunburn. I had just crossed from Peru into Chile, Arica to be exact, and my skin was not ready for the amount of sun I was about to expose it to. After exactly one beach day (in which I did apply a modest amount of sunscreen) my skin was burnt. And by burnt, I mean the kind of burnt where strangers stop you to comment on how red you are. I was staying at surf lodge pretty far from the town, so obviously no Aloe Vera was available. I asked around the hostel and no one had any creams, but the woman who runs the hostel said “just use tomatoes.” ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/shutterstock_171360029-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C662&ssl=1 "shutterstock_171360029 - Couchsurfing Blog")Arica where the burn happened by [Inga Locmele](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Inga+Locmele)shutterstock“What?” I asked confused at how exactly I should be using tomatoes to cure a sunburn. She explained that her family has always soothed skin rashes, including sun burns, by cutting a tomatoes in half and rubbing it on the skin, letting it soak in, then washing it off. The vitamins in the tomato, she claimed, would help soothe the skin just like Aloe Vera does. A Chilean couple at the hostel confirmed that their grandparents also said to do this, but they themselves had never done it. As I had no other options, but I did have a market with fresh produce nearby, I headed over. Once at the market I grabbed their freshest tomatoes and asked the man working there if he had ever heard of tomatoes being used for a sunburn. He said absolutely! And to just pick the ripest ones and squeeze the juice on the burn. As someone who is a huge fan of natural remedies, and relatively well traveled, I was shocked I had never heard of this method before. ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/shutterstock_435440344-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "shutterstock_435440344 - Couchsurfing Blog")By [Dobo Kristian](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Dobo+Kristian)shutterstockI took my 3 ripe tomatoes, cut them in half, and lathered myself in tomatoes juice. Much to the delight of everyone watching. I’m not here to tell you whether or not this reduced the burn, I am not a scientist, but it definitely didn’t make it worse! And it was a cooling sensation. The biggest downside to this natural remedies is flies are also a big fan of tomatoes juice. So for the next 20 minutes as the juice hardened and became a sticky coat, I was ground zero for all flies living in or around Arica. I did some research and the results are split. There seems to be some science behind it. The [Beekman 1802](https://beekman1802.com/blogs/almanac/how-to-soothe-a-sunburn-using-ingredients-from-your-kitchen) blog explains the befits of Tomatoes this way: > Why does this work for sunburns? It’s the one-two punch of lycopene and lactic acid. Lycopene from the tomato juice is an important nutrient that helps your skin protect itself from ultraviolet rays and helps alleviate redness. > > [Beekman 1802](https://beekman1802.com/blogs/almanac/how-to-soothe-a-sunburn-using-ingredients-from-your-kitchen) But the Daily Telegraph had this to say in an article listing Tomatoes as one of the [5 biggest sunburn remedy myths](https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/lifestyle/health/what-are-the-5-biggest-sunburn-remedy-myths/news-story/55e89cc7af2128bed534a227cc33b291?sv=2a1023b626139bc3b529e2b9c4d8264): > Ever heard the one about squeezing the juice from a [tomato](http://www.bodyandsoul.com.au/nutrition/health+foods+az/5+reasons+to+eat+tomatoes,24073) on your skin or applying tomato slices? Apparently the juice is supposed to relieve any redness… Er, sorry peeps, but don’t try this at home! “Tomatoes would potentially sting the skin because they’re quite acidic,” says Dr Cook. She advises to take your hand out of the fruit basket and pop an anti-inflammatory (like Nurofen) instead. > > [Daily Telegraph](https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/lifestyle/health/what-are-the-5-biggest-sunburn-remedy-myths/news-story/55e89cc7af2128bed534a227cc33b291?sv=2a1023b626139bc3b529e2b9c4d8264) All I can tell you is this, if you are far from a pharmacy and there is no Aloe Vera (or Nurofen for that matter) you could do a lot worse than some tomato juice on your skin. Even with the addition of flies. And if it was good enough for that Chilean woman’s grandma, it is good enough for me! ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/IMG_8126-scaled.jpg?fit=742%2C1024&ssl=1 "IMG_8126 - Couchsurfing Blog")Actual selfie I took during the tomato slathering seeds and all ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/chiles-secret-sunburn-remedy/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/chiles-secret-sunburn-remedy/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Stories **Tags:** chile, santiago, tomato --- ### [New Years Eve around the globe](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/new-years-eve-around-the-globe/) **Published:** December 24, 2019 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Excerpt:** Many traditions for one magical night! **Content:** Our Ambassadors from all over the globe have shared with us how they ring in the New Year… Salvador, Brazil > In Brazil, we celebrate by the beach (if you live by the coast)! In Bahia, we dress in white and give flowers to yemanja (the African goddess of the ocean – orixa). By midnight, the tradition is to be by the beach and jump 7 times into waves (pular ondas), like making seven wishes. Fireworks are everywhere and we don’t usually dress formal.. basically shorts and dresses, it is summer time!!! > > [Sayuri](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/sy1903) ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/shutterstock_436687270-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "shutterstock_436687270 - Couchsurfing Blog")Salvador Bahia by [RM Nunes](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/RMNunes)shutterstockItaly > In Italy (where I was born) we eat lentils at New Year’s eve because they are supposed to bring money (they look like little coins) and luck. > Another tradition is to throw some old objects out of the window (like old plates or glasses) to “get rid of old weights and move forward”. > And we always drink sparkling wine opened at midnight to celebrate. The cork popping sound is alike the fireworks, also used to celebrate with the noise which should chase away the evil spirits. > > [Stefano](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/joliet_jake) Finland > In Finland (where I live) there is a funny tradition. We melt a small horseshoe made of tin over the fire/stove. Then we pour the melted metal in a bucket full of water. The metal cools down and form a clump with weird shapes. Some people can “read” the shape and tell about your future (money, love, etc). > > [Stefano](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/joliet_jake) ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/shutterstock_1418089289-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C575&ssl=1 "shutterstock_1418089289 - Couchsurfing Blog")Iconic Times Square New Years by [Simon Dux Media](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Simon+Dux)shutterstockUSA > In America it is all about the midnight kiss. Ever since I was in high school, my friends and I would go to a house party (with a date if I was lucky… which I rarely was) and with a glass of champagne in hand we would watch the ball drop in Times Square on TV. At midnight, we would scream happy new year and have a-not-at-all-romantic midnight kiss. I suggest the episode of “Friends” where Joey orchestrates Monica and Chandler’s New Years’ kiss if you have any follow up questions! > > [Mike](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/iammikejoy) Mexico > There are no 100% Mexican traditions when it comes to the NYE. However, there are a couple of rituals everybody is aware of: > – Wear red underwear for good luck in love next year, or yellow for money. You can find lots of shops and street vendors selling and over advertising these clothes the day before. > – Go around the block with your trolley/backpack/hobo bindle to have lots of trips during the incoming year. SPOILER: It doesn’t matter how many laps you do or how hard you wish it, it doesn’t work until you have a decent job and have made some savings > > [Alberto](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/agent_spider) ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/shutterstock_735436777-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C711&ssl=1 "shutterstock_735436777 - Couchsurfing Blog")By [Larisa Blinova](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/lblinova)shutterstockSpain > In Spain at midnight people eat doce uvas (twelve grapes), one at each stroke of the clock. This is supposed to bring good luck, prosperity, and happiness in el Año Nuevo (the New Year). > > [Annarita](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/annarital) Crete, Greece > In my city Heraklion, the capital of Crete, we have a party in the main square and after that we buy local cheese piep or cream piep (bogatsa) and bring it back home! > > [Konstantinos](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/kostas_vfrrbf) ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/shutterstock_542069506-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C650&ssl=1 "shutterstock_542069506 - Couchsurfing Blog")Beach fireworks celebrating the new year by [Ilya Sviridenko](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/sviridenko)shutterstockNew Orleans, USA > Here in New Orleans, it is very common to have food traditions for almost every holiday. As a kid, my father always slow-cooked corned beef and cabbage with boiled potatoes on New Years Day. Sure, we celebrated the night before with fireworks, champagne, and a peck on the cheek at midnight. But, January 1 has always been about family time, food, and watching the Rose Bowl Parade on television. > > Many families in the South also prepare black-eyed peas—a symbol of prosperity—for the new year. > > [Charles](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/charles-french-quarter) United Kingdom > While Scotland is still a member of the UK there is, of course, the tradition of ‘first foot’ – marking the first new person who enters the house. (Going out at 11 pm on New Year’s Eve and coming in at 4 am on NY’s day doesn’t cut it I’m afraid.) They say it is desirable for the first-foot to be a tall, dark-haired male (no problems there) but sadly relate that a female or fair-haired male are in some places regarded as unlucky. In Worcestershire, luck is ensured by stopping the first carol singer who appears and leading him through the house. Hopefully all Xmas muzac has already been curtailed. In Yorkshire, it must always be a male who enters the house first, but his fairness is no objection. Myself I’ve always had a passion for Yorkshire 🙂 > > [Bruce](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/meunier) ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/shutterstock_358632173-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "shutterstock_358632173 - Couchsurfing Blog")Scottish Highlands by [Kanuman](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/kanuman)shutterstockScotland (continued) > First-footing can’t happen until the New Year has begun; because it literally is about the first footstep in homes of others, neighbors, families etc. We don’t call it NYE – it is HOGMANAY. > > Traditionally people celebrate Hogmanay with a big fire at home or in the pub making soup and drinking hot drinks (hot toddies – whisky with spices, mulled, wine/ cider or n in recent times also offered hot juice, or hot chocolate, tea, coffee – it’s going to be along night until the sun is up around 7am! Usually at the pub and also at home there will also be some ceilidh dancing on Hogmanay and this continues into New Year’s day after the first footing in others’ homes/ pubs. Ceilidh dancing is in homes, pubs and in the streets. When stepping into someone’s home with a first foot a gift should always be taken be it a hot drink, soup or other food, peat/ coal for the fire etc. LANG MAY YER LUM REEK is the phrase to offer good fortune to all! 🙂 > > New Year’s night is also really important because families have a large important family dinner or perhaps a community meal in the pub – usually invite only. > > Whilst most of the world finishes celebrating in early hours of the 1st day of a New Year, Scotland continues into the 2nd. Normal schedules don’t resume until 5/6th January. Then on the 11th January the old Celtic New Year (from before the Gregorian calendar) is celebrated with the burning of Clavie, a community outside event and with more hot drinks. > > [Nikki](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/nikki.jones) ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/shutterstock_350495285-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C488&ssl=1 "shutterstock_350495285 - Couchsurfing Blog")By [Pirina](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Pirina)shutterstock### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/new-years-eve-around-the-globe/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/new-years-eve-around-the-globe/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Community, Stories --- ### [10 Questions with a CS Ambassador: Gejza](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-gejza/) **Published:** December 22, 2019 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Excerpt:** Meet Gejza, our Ambassador in Kosice, Slovakia! **Content:** #### Name: [Gejza](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/gejzalegen) City: Kosice, Slovakia Years on Couchsurfing: 6 ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/6b3d76cb-f020-4f6c-9340-945b1d54d394.jpg "6b3d76cb-f020-4f6c-9340-945b1d54d394 - Couchsurfing Blog")Gejza skiing in Georgia**Hi Gejza! Why did you get involved with Couchsurfing?** I realized that CS is a great way to meet people around the globe – share what is worth to share and learn more about various cultures, ways of life, opinions, values, fears and hopes. I try to balance my hosting with surfing, trying to organize exciting events or happenings. **Very cool! And what was your first Couchsurfing experience?** Some 38 years ago when I decided to “break” the idiotic rules of the communistic government and went illegally to Greece (you know: climbing Olympos, Parnassos, visit Delphi, Meteora, Crete…) because of rain I spent a night in the stairs of the building which proved to be an office building of a local construction company. When the cleaner found my backpack and guitar the manager offered me a couch in his office :). Later I planned a “dream come true” trip to Madagascar and searched for a couch in Mauritius so I registered and communicated heavily. In the end, I failed as the local host stopped answering.It did not discourage me however, so I am still here… ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/20065122_l_e4501601417ba938291e777eafc5647b.jpg "20065122_l_e4501601417ba938291e777eafc5647b - Couchsurfing Blog")Gejza in Madagascar **Wow! 38 years ago! Long-time couchsurfer I see. What has been your most interesting surfing experience, apart from that stairwell?** When I surfed with a guy (living in one room of the shared apartment) who did not tell that we would share his only single bed. We “fought” all night for a single blanket (I did not have my sleeping bag nor pad with me..) so this taught me to better communicate and check well in advance the couch quality. **Yes! Communication is definitely key! What is the coolest gift you’ve gotten from a surfer?** Their home made Hungarian plumb brandy! A really strong one. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/19242768_l_15d16ef305174a09cd39e8fa1e21d020.jpg "19242768_l_15d16ef305174a09cd39e8fa1e21d020 - Couchsurfing Blog")**Sounds delicious. Has there been any book that has inspired your travels?** Jack London’s “Call of the Wild”. Because of pure adventure, survival and wilderness. **Amazing book. What is a crazy thing that has happened to you while traveling?** Playing water polo in Santa Rosa, Bolivia with pink dolphins and black caymans (assisted by piranhas…)! ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/19279293_l_60fa33f1203b39ef648016cb35ba3714.jpg "19279293_l_60fa33f1203b39ef648016cb35ba3714 - Couchsurfing Blog")Gejza in Bolivia with a very friendly Cayman**Sounds dangerous! What is your favorite food from your home?** A well done potato/flour gnocchi with smoked sheep cottage cheese and roasted bacon. **My mouth is watering. What is your go-to karaoke song?** John Denver’s “Country Roads” – which I successfully roared in Finland some years ago… **I’m sure you were excellent! Have you ever met a celebrity?** Yuri Gorbachov… in the lift in Rio in 1997. Despite having been forced to learn Russian for 9 years I was not able to say him “Hello” so used Croatian “Dobar Dan” instead. **I’m sure he appreciated the effort! And lastly, what is your dream vacation?** The “Seven seas” on board of the three mast sailing ship …like the Cutty Sark! ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/a836047e-3fd2-4fff-9f0e-7b9af7e8b21d.jpg?fit=1024%2C690&ssl=1 "a836047e-3fd2-4fff-9f0e-7b9af7e8b21d - Couchsurfing Blog")Gejza ready for his sailing adventure ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-gejza/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-gejza/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Meet an Ambassador --- ### [A Couchsurfer's guide to... Kosice](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-kosice/) **Published:** January 2, 2020 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Excerpt:** Our CS Ambassador in Kosice, Gejza, gives us his tips to have the perfect trip to Kosice, Slovakia! **Content:** **Best Breakfast in town** I would recommend to visit the shopping mall AUPARK in city centre. On the second floor there are a couple of food carts, eat-as-much you want restaurants and cosy cafes! **Best place to grab a drink!** The main street is pretty short so one can find several fresh fruit cocktail bars or popular summer garden places for frappé or lemonade. Within the city centre (between Kovacska and Mäsiarska streets) there are several various places (coffee bars, beer houses, even Port wine bar or real Italian coffee, chocolate coffees). For beer lovers the Red Nose, Dobre casy, Smelly cat and Corbus are the recommended pubs. ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/shutterstock_1099517732-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C684&ssl=1 "shutterstock_1099517732 - Couchsurfing Blog")Historic center of Kosice by [Roxana Bashyrova](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/roxichka25)shutterstock**Cute cafe!** Cafe Trieste in Ursulinska street. This is where I take my guests. A cappuccino for 1,15 EUR. **One museum not to miss** Definitely the [Executioner’s Flat in the East Slovak Museum](http://www.vsmuzeum.sk/). It has nice video about history in several languages, dark dungeons and several interesting artifacts. ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/shutterstock_635768549-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "shutterstock_635768549 - Couchsurfing Blog")East Slovak Museum By [Ungvari Attila](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Ungvari+Attila)shutterstock **Best day trip out of town!** I would recommend to hike 3 hours from Cermel or Bankov or Jahodna to [lajoska cottage](https://www.flickr.com/photos/53113704@N03/31868527167) where you can have a nice soup and cold beer. During the summer it is also a good bike trip and during winter it is an excellent long distance ski trail. Another hike is to Vysoký vrch (over Hresna hill above zoo) with nice stay in start/ziel cottage for hot meal and excellent plum scented non-alcoholic beer! **Best view in the city!** From three sightseeing towers – the [Cathedral](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/St_Elisabeth_Cathedral) north tower (1,5 EUR), The official sightseeing tower over Podhradova hill combined with castle ruin (1,5 EUR) and the adrenalin abandoned Magnesite ore transport tower over Cermel valley (only for adventure hearted and “immortal” souls ) ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/shutterstock_1416399500-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "shutterstock_1416399500 - Couchsurfing Blog")View from the Cathedral by [Uhryn Larysa](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/UhrynLarysa)shutterstock**Where to try the local cuisine!** One of the best “cottage cheese with nokkies and bacon” is in Salas near entrance to Barca from KVP city ward. Moderate quality place is “Haluskaren” near the cathedral in the very center. Visit Lamparen restaurant during “Autumn Duck and Goose days or Villa Regia near market place in Dominikan Square. **Family fun!** Definitely the zoo combined with Dino park. Last time I was there, there were dino eggs falling from the sky! ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/shutterstock_1399996739-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "shutterstock_1399996739 - Couchsurfing Blog")Dino park in the zoo by [Jaroslav Moravcik](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/JaroslavMoravcik)shutterstock**One experience not to miss!** For adrenaline lovers for sure the magnesite mine transport tower (if it is still standing!) or during the summer, the castle with historical theatre, music and medieval fights. **The perfect picture!** If you want panorama go to sightseeing tower near [Kosice castle](https://spectator.sme.sk/c/22036549/the-mysterious-castle-near-kosice-used-to-be-bigger-than-spis.html) or cathedral tower. If you can’t climb, then stay in front of the singing/music and light fountain in front of the [state theatre](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/State_Theatre_Ko%C5%A1ice) in the very center – the favorite place to take memorial family photo! ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/shutterstock_1400513762-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "shutterstock_1400513762 - Couchsurfing Blog")Theatre fountain by [Lubos K](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/lubos_kovalik)shutterstock**Historic moment!** However dull, probably the Cathedral with a guide. Ask for Mr. Kolcun, he is the best knowledgeable and funny guy… **Advice from a local!** For Kosice center, if there is not any exciting event (including museums) then 2-3 hours is enough. If you wanna enjoy bars, beer, or hipster places and pub food you can stay in Beer pubs mentioned or in Tabacka. Otherwise I recommend to organize day hikes (Sives 14km, Jasov cave 28 km, Zadiel 40km, Spiss Castle 45 km). ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-kosice/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-kosice/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Guides **Tags:** Kosice, Slovakia --- ### [A Couchsurfer's Guide to... Almería](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-almeria/) **Published:** December 19, 2019 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Excerpt:** Get to know the beautiful region of Almeria through the eyes of Ana, a Couchsurfing Ambassador in Spain. **Content:** ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/san-jose.jpg?fit=1024%2C684&ssl=1 "san-jose - Couchsurfing Blog")The white town of San Jose in Almeria Spain By [h3c7orC](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/OSSOBUKO)shutterstock**Best breakfast in town!** Locals in Almería never have breakfast at home. It’s typical to go out for breakfast because it’s ridiculously cheap there. They usually eat a “tostada” and the most popular ones are “tostada con jamón y tomate” or “tostada con atún y queso”. Remember that you must order “media tostada” if you want only one because if you say “a tostada” they serve you two pieces of bread which is actually too much for one person. ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/shutterstock_502248841-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "shutterstock_502248841 - Couchsurfing Blog")Tostada con jamon y tomate by [Isaphoto2016](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Isaphoto2016)shutterstock**Cute cafe!** The cutest café for me is located in an oasis in the middle of the desert. It’s a one hour drive from the city. You need to go to the town Los Molinos del Río Aguas. In there you can find an [Eco Village](https://ecovillage.org/project/los-molinos-del-rio-aguas/), a very interesting place to visit and there is an eco-bar also. This place is special because the owners of the café live there with no water or electricity. Ask them how to go to La Poza and they will show you how to arrive to a natural lake that they have in town (it provides water for them). This is the only natural lake of water that comes from the inside of the Earth in that area, a real oasis in the middle of the desert. You can swim there but don’t get scared of the turtles who live inside. **Where to sweat!** If you want to run, El Paseo goes along the beach and is the best place. From May to October it’s quite hot there so you can go for a swim after running. After that, you can relax in “[Parque de la Familia](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g187429-d10770915-Reviews-Parque_de_las_Familias-Almeria_Province_of_Almeria_Andalucia.html)”, the most popular park in Almería full of curious attractions and performances. ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/shutterstock_688700047-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "shutterstock_688700047 - Couchsurfing Blog")El Paseo in Almería by [chrupka](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/chrupka)shutterstock**A museum not to miss!** The region of Almería was once part of the sea and it has a lot of remains that show how the water shaped the Earth in the area. A good example to learn about this is [Museo de las Cuevas de Sorbas](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1078262-d2352429-Reviews-Cuevas_de_Sorbas-Sorbas_Province_of_Almeria_Andalucia.html). It’s a one hour drive from the city but it’s totally worth it because if you are the adventurous kind you won’t only visit the museum, but will be allowed to join an expedition to the inside of a real cave, and you can choose your own difficulty level! **Best day trip!** The best day trip is to *[Cabo de Gata](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cabo_de_Gata-N%C3%ADjar_Natural_Park)* on the coast. Cabo de Gata is a natural reserve where you can visit old volcanoes, nature and some of the most beautiful beaches in the area. You can drive to San José and visit the village or have a swim and then move on to [La Isleta del Moro](https://www.cabogataalmeria.com/en/Gata-Nature-Reserve/Village-Town/Isleta-Moro-Spain.html) and walk the natural paths available there until you arrive to the old volcanoes. The views are stunning because there are no plants and you will feel as if you are completely alone there. Please, be very careful because the area is a desert and you need to be ready for the heat and the lack of water. ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/Cabadegato.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "Cabadegato - Couchsurfing Blog")Cabo de Gata by [lunamarina](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/lunamarina)shutterstock**Best quick bite!** Go for tapas at any bar but out of the centre. There they serve you a free tapa with your drink (usually beer). Tapas are very typical in this region and it is recommended you also try places in little towns on the outskirts of Almería. In towns is where they serve the biggest amount of food per drink. Avoid towns near the seaside, they are tourist traps. **One experience not to miss!** One of the most important attractions near Almería is the Mini Hollywood located in [Tabernas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tabernas), in the middle of the desert. It is a reserve of animals and it’s also famous because it’s a film studio, now almost abandoned. Many Spanish western films were recorded here and you can still see performances at certain hours. If you want, you can also apply for the guided tour inside the western village. The landscape is amazing, you are really in the middle of the desert. It’s a bit expensive to enter though (20€), so make sure you are a real fan of it before going. ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/Tabernas-2.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "Tabernas-2 - Couchsurfing Blog")Old Spaghetti Westerns film set in Tabernas by [StevanZZ](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/stevanzz)shutterstock**The perfect picture!** You can get the best view of the city from the [Alcazaba](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alcazaba_of_Almer%C3%ADa) which is the highest point in the city. Alcazaba is an old Arabic castle that you can visit for free or you can ask for a guided visit. They also recorded some parts of the series Game of Thrones here in case you are a fan! ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/Alcazaba.jpg?fit=1024%2C680&ssl=1 "Alcazaba - Couchsurfing Blog")The Alcazaba of Almeria By [nito](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/nito100)shutterstock**A tourist-trap to avoid!** In tourist guides they highlight the town of [Aguadulce](http://www.andalucia.com/province/almeria/roquetas/aguadulce/home.htm) as one of the places you must visit, but the truth is that you will find a town full of hotels with nothing to offer besides the beach and restaurants. You can find those elsewhere with better quality and lower prices. Another place to avoid is [Mojacar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moj%C3%A1car). The town on top of the mountain is beautiful and really worth a visit, but there is the so-called “Mojacar playa” where I wouldn’t go. You can find lots of beaches with better quality and less crowds. Also you will skip the traffic jams there (they are terrible as the town is not ready to welcome so many people.) ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/mojacar.jpg?fit=1024%2C702&ssl=1 "mojacar - Couchsurfing Blog")The mountain town of Mojacar by [Fotomicar](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/escondrijo)shutterstock**Local advice to travelers!** The truth is Almería city has little to offer if you are a traveller. The hidden gems are out of the city so you’d better hire a car if you don’t have one. Buses don’t go everywhere you should visit, but they are also a good option for day trips. Always make sure you know their schedule or you will be left stranded in the middle of nowhere. Almería region is quite an isolated place but everyone will be willing to help and people are extremely friendly. Don’t hesitate to ask locals any questions. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-almeria/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-almeria/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Guides **Tags:** alcazaba, Almeria, cabo de gata, la isleta del moro, la poza, los molinos del rio, mojacar, san jose, spain, tabernas --- ### [10 Questions with a CS Ambassador: Trisha](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-trisha/) **Published:** December 16, 2019 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Excerpt:** Meet Trisha! Our Ambassador in Durham, North Carolina. **Content:** Name: [Trisha](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/raccoonlover) City: Durham, North Carolina, USA Years on Couchsurfing: 10 **Hey Trisha! So what was your first Couchsurfing experience?** I used the Wants to Meet-Up when I had a summer internship in a new city. I was in South Africa and would work 7 days and then have 2 days off. I would message people asking if they could help pick me up and explore the cities since I didn’t have a car nor public transport. For 3 months, someone came EVERY day off. I never would have seen or experienced this country had it not been for this amazing community. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/IMG_0318.jpg "IMG_0318 - Couchsurfing Blog")**Best way to see a city is through local eyes! And what has been an interesting hosting experience you’ve had?** I had a surfer come and insist on making me dinner. It was that time of the month when we really needed to go grocery shopping but I hadn’t yet been, so there wasn’t much to work with. But he threw things together that included orzo, canned tuna, and half the jar of pickle juice (plus more). Not the worst meal I’d ever eaten, but certainly one of the most memorable ones and so appreciated to not have to cook but also with the appreciation from him for the host/surfer experience. **Lovely gesture. The ingredients (especially the pickle juice mixed with tuna) isn’t something I would normally mix! What about an interesting surfing experience?** I have been to 8 different [Couch Crashes](http://10.9.0.204/how-to-plan-a-couch-crash/). These are likely the most fun way I’ve traveled of all my experiences. Going to a city, participating in events that the local community wants to show off, and hanging out with loads of locals and travelers for a whole weekend is AMAZING and really invigorates the CS spirit 🙂 ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/IMG_0313.jpg?fit=1024%2C576&ssl=1 "IMG_0313 - Couchsurfing Blog")**I too love Couch Crashes! Just attended the NYC Holiday Crash this weekend! What’s the coolest gift you’ve received from a surfer?** I personally love locally-inspired consumables. I love candies or honey or whatever from home countries/ cities. Knick-knacks collect dust over time but trying things from other parts of the world can be an experience and want you wanting more! **Ah! You must have a sweet tooth like me! What is your favorite travel quote?** > Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness, and many of our people need it sorely on these accounts. Broad, wholesome, charitable views of men and things cannot be acquired by vegetating in one little corner of the earth all one’s lifetime. > > Mark Twain ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/IMG_0315.jpg "IMG_0315 - Couchsurfing Blog")**Very wise words from a very wise man. What is a crazy thing that has happened to you while traveling?** Not while CouchSurfing, but in April 2007, my cruise ship sank in Greece. **What!? We will have to get that story another time! What is something everyone should see in Durham?** [Eno River State Park](https://www.ncparks.gov/eno-river-state-park/home) is my favorite. It is part of the Mountains-to-Sea trail that stretches across North Carolina. It has wonderful hiking trails and even a quarry you can go swimming in. Such a natural wonder to escape the city and spend as little or much time as you want. ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/enostatepark.jpg?fit=1024%2C684&ssl=1 "enostatepark - Couchsurfing Blog")Eno River State Park by [CeGe](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/cege)shutterstock**Sounds beautiful! What is one thing you never go on a trip without?** My phone and international data. I realize that lots of people do this regularly, but I am addicted to Pokémon Go (the mobile game), and whenever I go internationally, I want to meet other players and get the locally-exclusive Pokémon. Go ahead and laugh but I love it 🙂 **Couchsurfing is a judgment free zone! What is your dream vacation?** My bucket-list includes making it to all 6 of the inhabited continents. I only have Australia left, so making it there (and hopefully including New Zealand too) is definitely a dream. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/E3297B78-9BB8-4A1F-B55E-3BCA6F72CCD4.jpg "E3297B78-9BB8-4A1F-B55E-3BCA6F72CCD4 - Couchsurfing Blog")Trisha in Dubai **And I’m sure theres Pokemon in both! Last question, what is your advice to new Couchsurfers?** Take time to build yourself up. Include multiple pictures, one of which someone could identify you. Fill out your profile. And build up references, even from attending events or hangouts. You can find hosts who don’t require references, but they’re harder to find. This is more about cultural exchange and community than about the free Couch, and that’s going to take some intentional efforts and not just passive happen-chance. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/IMG_0312.jpg "IMG_0312 - Couchsurfing Blog")Connecticouch### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-trisha/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-trisha/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Meet an Ambassador **Tags:** eno river state park --- ### [Film-makers meet Film-lovers at VOID Film Festival in Copenhagen](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/film-makers-meet-film-lovers-at-void-film-festival-in-copenhagen/) **Published:** December 13, 2019 **Author:** Mike Joy **Excerpt:** In Copenhagen? Check out VOID Animated Film Festival and the filmmakers who make them come to life. **Content:** ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/VOID_WEBBANNER_CINEMATEKET_1800X1013PX_09122019.jpg?fit=1024%2C576&ssl=1 "VOID_WEBBANNER_CINEMATEKET_1800X1013PX_09122019 - Couchsurfing Blog")Are you ready to experience quirky short films? Are you curious to dive into the superb universe of animated features? Do you just want to hangout with some filmmakers? Then [VOID Animation Film Festival](https://voidfilmfestival.com/en/) is your chance! The festival runs from January 30th to February 8th at [Cinemateket](https://www.dfi.dk/cinemateket) in Copenhagen, Denmark and is hoping to connect local hosts with some visiting filmmakers (and hopefully get some couch requests accepted in the process!) There are film screenings everyday, starting in the afternoon. Additionally, during the festival, international artists and upcoming stars in the animation industry are giving more than 10 masterclasses throughout the festival! ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/shutterstock_787660261-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "shutterstock_787660261 - Couchsurfing Blog")A great reason to visit the always gorgeous Copenhagen by [Oleksiy Mark](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/scanrail)shutterstockIf you want to know more about the festival, check out their [Facebook](http://www.facebook.com/voidfilmfestival) and [Instagram](http://www.instagram.com/voidfilmfestival) and make sure not to miss a post. Or head to their Spotify: [VOID Animation Film Festival](https://spoti.fi/2OkLTpu). Want to check out the festival? You can head to their [website](http://www.voidfilmfestival.com) for tickets. The price is 90DKK for a ticket, but if you’re a student you can get a 55DKK student ticket! ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/blackpng_large.png?fit=1024%2C277&ssl=1 "blackpng_large - Couchsurfing Blog")Are you a filmmaker looking for a place to stay during VOID on a budget? Are you a local living in the Danish capital looking to meet new people from all over the world? We have partnered with VOID to help connect local film lovers with those who make them! Check out the Couchsurfing group and post if you can host (or need one!) and get ready to make some truly unique memories! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/film-makers-meet-film-lovers-at-void-film-festival-in-copenhagen/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/film-makers-meet-film-lovers-at-void-film-festival-in-copenhagen/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Events **Tags:** animated film festival, void, void film festival --- ### [10 Questions with a CS Ambassador: Viktor](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-viktor/) **Published:** November 17, 2019 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Excerpt:** Meet Viktor. A long time Couchsurfer and Ambassador in Chemnitz, Germany. **Content:** ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/00-Viktor-alias-HVA-on-Couchsurfing-by-DF.gif "00-Viktor-alias-HVA-on-Couchsurfing-by-DF - Couchsurfing Blog") #### Name: [Viktor](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/hva) City: [Chemnitz](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chemnitz), Germany Years on Couchsurfing: 10 **Hi Viktor! So, how did you learn about Couchsurfing?** That’s a long time ago. At that time Couchsurfing was not on everyone’s lips yet and more of an insider tip. As someone who has always been interested in distant countries, other people and cultures, I heard about it and it immediately aroused my great interest. **Ah! An early adopter! And what made you get so involved?** The then acting Germany Country Ambassador Josh really inspired me when we got to know each other at one of the first CS meetings in my city. I gladly made it my mission to grow Couchsurfing in Germany and especially in our city. Over the years, I have worked on many fronts, contributing locally, nationally and internationally. Now I am active as a German Country Ambassador myself and take care of the communities in the cities of Germany, have an open ear for our City Ambassadors and all members. I help, where I can and do all types of Couchsurfing in my free time. ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/01-In-the-beginings.png?fit=1024%2C585&ssl=1 "01-In-the-beginings - Couchsurfing Blog")Vintage Couchsurfing flyer made by Viktor**Cool! And what was your first Couchsurfing experience?** Um, that’s a good question … My first key experience was meeting Sully on a skyscraper roof in Beijing at a CS party. This tall, bearded guy with a brown hat, who used to work as a crab fisherman in Alaska and now taught English in China, was something of a legend in town. Everyone knew Sully and he stood out very well with his size and style. – A lovable person and the best example of how great it is to meet characters who can be very different than you. Years later, we met again in Nanjing and it will not be the last time. **Why did you get involved in the Ambassador program?** Couchsurfing was always a matter of the heart for me. The countless wonderful moments and grateful friendships… I wanted to give back as much as possible and officially pledge allegiance to the community. Since then, I’ve always tried to give a good example for others, to help with big and small difficulties, to organize monthly meetings (now well over 100) and to stay active with Couchsurfing in different phases of my life. The more I did, the more joy and satisfaction it gave me. ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/02-With-Sully-and-my-wife-Yue-in-Nanjng-2014.jpg?fit=1024%2C663&ssl=1 "02-With-Sully-and-my-wife-Yue-in-Nanjng-2014 - Couchsurfing Blog")Viktor with the legendary Sully**And we deeply appreciate that allegiance! What has been your most interesting hosting experience?** Superlatives are always difficult to name, as there were several. Definitively a highlight was a five-headed Swedish metalcore band. Furious looking guys in dark clothes with big tattoos standing in front of my door with a half empty bottle of Jägermeister at midnight. – They were among the friendliest and most grateful Couchsurfers I have met. Later I discovered a number of their MTV clips from Scandinavia. The boys are big there, but were totally down to earth and appreciative for the hospitality in my small two bedroom apartment. **Wow! A metal band from Sweden is quite the experience! And surfing?** There have been several too. Anyway, those are great, where you do a lot with your host … Once I was staying with an over-60 year old gentleman, who described himself as a young hippie, lived in a dreamlike coastal house on the Gulf of Mexico and spontaneously took us on a boat trip with his speedboat. Of course he knew the beautiful places and showed us where the locals like to anchor. After he made a delicious omelette with avocado and cheese for us. – A recipe that I still like to cook after today or as a travel friend of mine said: “I finally know where such an avocado belongs!” ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/04-Couchsurfing-pavillon-at-100th-Jubilee-by-qlnites.jpg?fit=1024%2C577&ssl=1 "04-Couchsurfing-pavillon-at-100th-Jubilee-by-qlnites - Couchsurfing Blog")Viktor at a Couchsurfing event**It’s true! The best avocados come from Mexico! Has there been any book that has inspired you or your travels?** I should actually write a travel book myself… I really liked the books of Stephan Orth and Christoph Rehage. Both are Couchsurfers too, globetrotters and my friends as well. – One walks on foot from East China to Germany and the other visits far away countries for months to write down his Couchsurfing impressions. The great thing is that through Couchsurfing you can get to know all sorts of people and there are no barriers, hierarchies or the like. Behind every celebrity is a person like you and me. And everyone has its interesting story to tell the world, worth listening to. **Very true! And a great point, there are so many Couchsurfers who have written incredible books about their travels! So what is one of the craziest things that has happened to you while traveling – give us a preview of your future book!** I was at a Couchsurfing party in a capital city abroad, where I met the son of the Indian ambassador. His excellency traveled to a Nobel Prize giving ceremony over the weekend, and the son, who was also a couch surfer, invited a dozen Couchsurfers to a really cool party at the ambassador’s house in the middle of a mansion neighborhood, past a gatehouse and our own police patrols. The bar was full of the most expensive drinks and in the basement there was a large pool where we jumped in with drinks in hand and clothes on! It seemed like one of those Hollywood movies. Cheers! **Wow! Ok. That is definitely a great story. You’ve convinced me, I’m ready for your book! Moving on, when people come to your city, what is one thing they must see?** During the GDR (German Democratic Republic) era our city was called Karl-Marx-Stadt for 40 years. After the reunification of Germany – the wall fell on my birthday by the way – my birthplace was changed back to Chemnitz. However, the head of Karl Marx has remained – a more than 7-meter-tall bronze sculpture! And behind it is an impressive excerpt from his manifesto. I would slightly modify it and say: “People of all countries, join in couchsurfing!” ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/03-Fun-with-Karl-Marx.jpg "03-Fun-with-Karl-Marx - Couchsurfing Blog")The Karl Marx Head**The intro to your future book? The Viktor Manifesto! Lastly, what is one piece of advice you would give to new Couchsurfers?** Take time to get to know the site. Check out the help pages (FAQ), which are packed with tips and tricks on all possible Couchsurfing topics. And just visit an event for the beginning. There you can easily make first contacts, complete your profile through new friends and references and feel the spirit. If you want to surf or host someone, check out the profiles and write personal messages. To increase the likelihood of answering, you could filter your search by the last logins. And do not hesitate, if it does not work all right away. Work on your profile and try to empathize with your counterpart. Oh, that was more than one … Sorry and “Happy Surfing”, dear friends! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-viktor/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-viktor/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Meet an Ambassador **Tags:** chemnitz, germany --- ### [10 Questions with a CS Ambassador: Niko](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-niko/) **Published:** November 24, 2019 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Excerpt:** Meet Niko! Couchsurfer of 12 years and our current Ambassador in Celje, Slovenia! **Content:** #### Name: [Niko](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/nikoko) City: [Celje, Slovenia](http://10.9.0.204/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-celje/) Years on Couchsurfing: 12 ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/NikoBucharest.jpg?fit=1024%2C794&ssl=1 "NikoBucharest - Couchsurfing Blog")Niko visiting Bucharest Romania**Hey Niko! Tell us why you got involved with Couchsurfing.** I like meeting people, I believe every person brings something new to your life. And I really liked the idea of CS. So I started. I mostly host, I only surfed twice so far. **Well we love a good Couchsurfing host! What as your first CS experience like?** My first experience was hosting two Hungarian athletes who competed in a karate competition camp in my town. Very positive and it proved me that I made a good decision by joining CS community. Still in touch with one of them. **Very cool! I hope they won! What was one of your most interesting hosting experience?** There were many unforgettable experiences so far, but if I had to put in spotlight one, it would be from 2012, when I hosted Amie and Olli, two cyclist on their way from Portugal to Vietnam. They really blended with community and stayed for 23 days. We became good friends, did all sorts of things together and still keep in touch. **23 days! Wow! They were practically roommates! And what about surfing experience?** Well, I only surfed twice so far ( NYC and Krakow) and they say you never forget your first one :-). Surfing in Brooklyn, NYC in 2009 was an unforgettable experience, I visited the city before quite a few times, but never saw any other part than Manhattan. My time with Baila and Sam was great, I could use their bike, they showed me places I would probably never visit myself and were overall extremely kind. I even participated in AIDS walk as member of “Target” group, where Baila worked at the time. I saw the city through totally different perspective, felt like local the second day :-). That stay in Brooklyn gave me even further confirmation that joining CS was one of the best decisions in my life. **As a fellow Brooklyn resident I am very glad you had such a great experience in our borough! What is the coolest gift you’ve received from a Couchsurfer?** I got a lovely (unfortunately too small) traditional piece of clothing from Couchsurfer from India. Was really touched by it. **Very sweet. Has there been any book that has inspired your travels?** There are many books that, when I read them, I get an instant itch to go traveling, especially if the author is describing cities in details. One such book was “[Brooklyn Follies](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Brooklyn_Follies)” by Paul Auster. I am a very visual type of person and always play a movie in my head when reading a book. So when I read a book where author describes a city (especially if I visited it) I instantly want to go there, see it again or discover new parts. And “Brooklyn Follies” is one such book. **I’ll look it up! What is something crazy that has happened to you while traveling?** Hmmm….it didn’t “happen,” I did it. I took a Greyhound bus ride from Flint, Michigan to NYC, spent two days there, returned to Michigan to spend 36 hours with girl I was crazy in love with, then drove back to NYC with Greyhound and flew home the next day. Well worth it, though. **Aw. That is a long bus ride for love! What is a food everyone needs to try when they come to Slovenia?** [Cheese Burek](http://www.balkanfoodrecipes.com/recipe/traditional-cheese-pie/), although it’s not authentic Slovene. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/shutterstock_575270731-1024x683.jpg "shutterstock_575270731 - Couchsurfing Blog")Cheese Burek by [Filip Koric](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/filip+koric) shutterstock**Sounds delicious! Is there any place in your city that embodies the same ideals as Couchsurfing?** That would be art quarter with its “base,” pub [TamKoUčiri](https://www.facebook.com/krcmatamkouciri/). A community of artists, who always accepts my surfers, sometimes even offer studios for sleeping or safekeeping bikes and luggage. **Amazing! Sounds like a special place. Last question for you, what is your dream vacation?** Combined hiking and sailing. For example; hiking in wilderness of British Columbia, fly over to Australia and do sailing in Polynesia. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-niko/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-niko/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Meet an Ambassador --- ### [A Couchsurfer's Guide to... Phnom Penh](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-phnom-penh/) **Published:** November 28, 2019 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Excerpt:** Steve, our Ambassador in Phnom Penh has given us his recommendations for you to have the perfect experience on your next trip to Cambodia's exciting capital city! **Content:** ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/shutterstock_142484584.jpg?fit=1024%2C340&ssl=1 "shutterstock_142484584 - Couchsurfing Blog")Cambodian Royal Palace by [PlusONE](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/plusone)shutterstock**Best breakfast in town!** There are many options for breakfast/brunch in Phnom Penh and whatever your tastes are, you will not be disappointed! For a French touch, try [Khema La Poste](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g293940-d12896027-Reviews-Khema_La_Poste-Phnom_Penh.html), they offer an unlimited buffet for only $11 everyday! **A historic moment!** [The National Museum](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Museum_of_Cambodia) if you did NOT visit [Angkor Wat](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Angkor_Wat). Otherwise, visit [The Genocide Museum](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tuol_Sleng_Genocide_Museum). I would advise you to visit [PSE](https://www.pse.ngo/visit-cambodia) (Pour un Sourire d’Enfant) on the same day you will visit the Genocide museum, it will help you to keep hope in the world! For PSE you need to book in advance through [their website](https://www.pse.ngo/visit-cambodia-0). The visits are in English and French, it is an amazing place (if you have kids, you should definitely visit!) ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/shutterstock_1242954367.jpg?fit=1024%2C680&ssl=1 "shutterstock_1242954367 - Couchsurfing Blog")Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum by [Gabor Kovacs Photography](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/gaborkovacs)shutterstock**Cute cafe!** [The Shop](http://theshop-cambodia.com/) is a good place to go! It has a few locations throughout the city. You will find many cafes on street 268 as well. **Best quick bite!** In [Bassac Lane](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g293940-d10791662-Reviews-Bassac_Lane-Phnom_Penh.html) you will find the last Khmer cantine of the street, which is really good! Or, [Katy Peri’s Pizza](https://www.facebook.com/pg/KatyPerisChicken/posts/) in the Center close the nightclubs is great and cheap. ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/shutterstock_724250725.jpg?fit=1024%2C645&ssl=1 "shutterstock_724250725 - Couchsurfing Blog")Khmer street food by [Pon Viro](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/pvrphotographer)shutterstock**Where to sweat!** [Good Time Fitness Club](https://www.facebook.com/goodtimeclub/), in [Tuol Kork](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tuol_Kouk_Section), is the best and cheapest! It is a $4 entrance and has everything you need. It is designed for middle class khmer and you will be almost the only barangue (*foreigner*). **Best view in the city!** [Sora Sky Bar](https://www.rosewoodhotels.com/en/phnom-penh/dining/sora) in the Rosewood [Vattanac tower](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vattanac_Capital) is a must-do (please be well dressed, flip-flops are forbidden for men!) ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/shutterstock_1386608450.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "shutterstock_1386608450 - Couchsurfing Blog")Vattanac Tower by [Oskar Hellebaut](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/oskar+hellebaut)shutterstock**Family fun!** On[ Koh Pich Island](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g293940-d14789650-Reviews-Diamond_Island_Park-Phnom_Penh.html) (Diamond Island) you will find a fun fair which is opened almost every evening. For the kids – above 10 years olds – during the day, Pour un Sourire d’Enfant ([PSE](https://www.pse.ngo/visit-cambodia)) is probably a memorable experience for them. **Best day trip!** [Silk island](https://theculturetrip.com/asia/cambodia/articles/koh-dach-exploring-cambodias-silk-island/), few kilometers up from Phnom Penh, it will give you a glimpse of Cambodian country side and you will discover the silk tradition by visiting the museum or simply meeting people sewing in their own homes. ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/shutterstock_1464806537.jpg?fit=1024%2C681&ssl=1 "shutterstock_1464806537 - Couchsurfing Blog")By [Tayfun Yaman](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/tayfun+yaman)shutterstock**Anything else…** Phnom Penh is a really exciting city, always changing, influenced by diverse cultures (such as Chinese and French), a mix that will not leave you indifferent! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-phnom-penh/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-phnom-penh/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Guides --- ### [10 Questions with a CS Ambassador: Abdulaziz](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-abdulaziz/) **Published:** December 1, 2019 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Excerpt:** Abdulaziz is our Ambassador in Alexandria and an extremely active Couchsurfer. Find out what made him get so involved! **Content:** #### Name: [Abdulaziz](https://www.couchsurfing.com/users/2002126098) City: [Alexandria, Egypt](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alexandria) Years on Couchsurfing: 4 ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/IMG-20170306-WA0005.jpg?fit=1024%2C768&ssl=1 "IMG-20170306-WA0005 - Couchsurfing Blog")Abdulaziz visiting his former surfers in the Philippines **Hi Abdulaziz! So, how did you learn about Couchsurfing?** By my friend. She wrote a Facebook post explaining that she used CouchSurfing during her trip to France and she met many friends there who helped her a lot and hosted her. From there, I began to search for Couchsurfing and read more about it until I became a member. **Incredible! Why did you get involved with the Ambassador program?** CouchSurfing is my life! I wanted to be an ambassador because I have visions and goals and I want to share it with the Couchsurfing community. ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/IMG-20190109-WA0003.jpg?fit=1024%2C768&ssl=1 "IMG-20190109-WA0003 - Couchsurfing Blog")Abdulaziz and Couchsurfers at a weekly meeting**Very cool! And what was your first Couchsurfing experience?** The first experience was with a couple from the United States. I was very worried, as it was the first time I spoke English! They encouraged me a lot and I made them a dinner of meat and okra. We talked a lot about dreams and ambitions and they helped me a lot to understand Couchsurfing better. We are still in touch until now! **Well we are very glad to have you! What was one of your most memorable hosting experiences?** My favorite experience hosing was one of the best pianists in Belgium. I helped her organize a concert at the Roman Theater in Alexandria. Many young people attended and she was very happy! I still remember the brightness in her eyes after the concert. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/IMG-20171213-WA0012.jpg "IMG-20171213-WA0012 - Couchsurfing Blog")Abdulaziz and his Belgian Couchsurfer**Wow, what an incredible experience for you both. What about as a surfer?** My favorite surfing experience was an invitation from my friends from the Philippines to visit them for a month! I had met them in Alexandria and we spent a week together here, then I went to see them! **Visiting former surfers is always the best! Has there been any book that has inspired your travels?** It was a book called *[Around the World in 200 Days](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/21408875-around-the-world-in-200-days)*. **Sounds great. What about a quote that inspires you?** > We travel not to escape life, but for life not to escape us. > > Robyn Yong **Beautiful quote! So what is one place in Alexandria that every traveler must visit?** Bahri – where the old city of Alexandria is. And [Qaitbay Citadel](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Citadel_of_Qaitbay) and Yacht Club. ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/shutterstock_1015001992.jpg?fit=1024%2C681&ssl=1 "shutterstock_1015001992 - Couchsurfing Blog")Qaitbay Citadel by [Cherkashin Denis](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/cherkashindenis)shutterstock**A must see for sure! What is your dream vacation?** Have lunch in London and dinner in Paris in one day! **A completely possible dream! Last question, what is your advice to new Couchsurfers?** Love Couchsurfing loves you ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/IMG_20190826_020228_550.jpg?fit=1024%2C537&ssl=1 "IMG_20190826_020228_550 - Couchsurfing Blog")Showing the CS love### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-abdulaziz/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-abdulaziz/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Meet an Ambassador --- ### [A Couchsurfer's Guide to... Madison](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-madison/) **Published:** December 5, 2019 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Excerpt:** Check out what our Couchsurfing Ambassador Cate recommends for your next trip to the beautiful midwestern city of Madison, Wisconsin! **Content:** [Cate’s](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/cateurbas) guide to [Madison, Wisconsin](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Madison,_Wisconsin) – *or to a local Madtown, Madcity, People’s Republic of Madison, Athens of the Midwest, Berkeley of the Midwest, Lake City, and the City of Four Lakes, along with several others…* ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/shutterstock_1096734185-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "shutterstock_1096734185 - Couchsurfing Blog")Madison Skyline by [Sean Pavone](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/sepavo)**Best breakfast in town!** Madison is a brunch haven, and there are no shortages when it comes to finding a great breakfast spot! For me, brunch is done best at local spots like [Mickey’s Tavern](https://www.facebook.com/MickeysTavern) – a cozy place on the [Yahara River](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yahara_River) known for their *[Bloody Marys](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bloody_Mary_(cocktail))*, outdoor patio, and their *scramble du jour*. Otherwise, you can opt for an all-day breakfast spot in downtown Madison like [Short Stack Eatery](https://shortstackeats.com/) and order “The Blind” a sweet or savory breakfast special that comes as a surprise for just $7. **A museum not to miss!** Madisonians are very lucky as there are tons of local free museums to visit from the [Chazen Museum of Art](https://www.chazen.wisc.edu/), the [UW-Madison Geology Museum](http://geoscience.wisc.edu/museum/about/visit/), and the [Wisconsin Historical Museum](https://historicalmuseum.wisconsinhistory.org/). But, the museum not to miss is definitely the [National Mustard Museum](https://mustardmuseum.com/) – yes, no joke, a mustard museum. With a collection of over 6,000 mustards from all over the world, the short trip to [Middleton](https://www.cityofmiddleton.us/) is well worth it. You can even visit their gift shop and taste all their gourmet goodies. Best of all, admission is free! ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/shutterstock_1502048666-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C730&ssl=1 "shutterstock_1502048666 - Couchsurfing Blog")Mustard Museum in Middleton by [Raymond Deleon](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/fadedphotoshop)**Best place to grab a drink!** There are soooo many options when it comes to finding a drink in Madison, so my best piece of advice is to stay local! Madison has about 20 WI craft breweries within the city and a growing number of wineries, [meaderies](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Meadery), and distilleries that all pride themselves on their local ingredients and craft. My current favorites are: Brewery – [Delta Beer Lab](https://www.delta.beer/): Delta is pretty new to the craft scene in Madison, but they are all about crafting beer & change! Stop by to sip on my favorite BRN.01, a coffee brown ale, while spending time in their swanky laboratory themed taproom. Brewery Honorable Mention – [Funk Factory Geuzeria](http://www.funkfactorygeuzeria.com/): So technically they aren’t brewing beer at Funk Factory, but their delicious sours are making national lists and for good reason! Meadery – [BOS](https://www.bosmeadery.com/): BOS is a super chill mead hall where you can sample their growing number of offerings! They pride themselves on using locally & regionally sourced ingredients, but the cool factor about this spot is that you’ll more than likely happen upon live music or a comedy show while you’re there! Winery – [Drumlin Ridge](https://drumlinridgewinery.com/): This little spot just north of Madison will make you feel like you’ve left the state and are sitting in a vineyard in northern California. If it’s your first visit, the flights are the best way to try a few of their varietals! Distillery – [Stateline Distillery](https://www.statelinedistillery.com/): In their first year, this swanky spot was making some excellent sage forward gin among other spirits. Their cocktail lounge boasts knowledgeable bartenders and an incredible craft cocktail list not to be missed! **Where to sweat!** Outside – Madison is all about outdoor recreation! We are surrounded by two beautiful lakes where you can rent paddle boards, kayaks, and canoes! You’ll commonly see people running and biking on one of our many bike paths even in the winter months. If a snowy run isn’t for you, check out [Tenney Park](https://www.cityofmadison.com/parks/facilities/iceRink.cfm?id=11) during the colder season. The lagoon transforms into a beautiful natural ice rink where you can rent skates or warm up with some hot coco! ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/shutterstock_1088461568-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "shutterstock_1088461568 - Couchsurfing Blog")Tenney Park by [MarynaG](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/marynag)**Best quick bite!** A favorite among the university students and locals alike, Madison has a growing number of food carts serving up some delicious food! My personal favorite is [Buraka](https://www.buraka-madison.com/), an Ethiopian food cart with some of the best food in Madison. Otherwise, you can’t go wrong with [Curd Girl](http://www.curdgirl.com/) – a food cart dedicated to serving up one of Wisconsin’s favorites, the fried cheese curd! **Best day-trip!** If I’m getting away for the day, [Devil’s Lake](https://dnr.wi.gov/topic/parks/name/devilslake/) has it all! You can hike, swim, rent kayaks, and cook-out – all with amazing rock formations and the incredible views of this endorheic lake. It is just over an hour’s drive northwest of Madison, which makes it the perfect day trip. Make sure to check out the [East Bluff Trail](https://www.devilslakewisconsin.com/activities/hiking/devils-lake-trail-details-descriptions/east-bluff-ice-age-trail/) (3-4 hour hike) which has great vistas and amazing rock formations including the iconic Devil’s Doorway! Make sure to pack a lunch or snacks – concessions are available, but can be pricey. It does cost admission into the park without a WI State Park sticker, last checked $14-16 (dependent on residency). ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/shutterstock_1086953804-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "shutterstock_1086953804 - Couchsurfing Blog")Devils Lake by [MarynaG](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/marynag)**Where to try the local cuisine!** In Madison, local cuisine means “farm-fresh” and there is no better place to find local produce than the [Dane County Farmers’ Market](https://dcfm.org/). This market is located on the tree-lined grounds surrounding the Wisconsin State Capitol building – or to the locals, “the Square.” As the largest producer-only farmers’ market in the US, this is a must-see. If you’re visiting in the summer, make sure to pick up Stella’s spicy cheese bread, some local cherries, and fresh cheese curds (you’ll know they are fresh if they squeak when you eat them)! **One experience not to miss!** Don’t miss the [Madison Couch Crash](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/2019-madison-couch-crash-11th-annual)!! Madison has been hosting a yearly couch crash for the past 11 years! It is an incredible way to get a taste of the city over the weekend, with friendly Madisonian Couchsurfers to be your guides. This last year we planned day trips, local tours, a pub crawl, and even organized logrolling and airplane rides over our beautiful city! Jason Griffing’s Video from Madison’s Couch Crash 2019!**Historic moment!** The [Wisconsin State Capitol](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wisconsin_State_Capitol) building is the centerpiece of the Madison skyline. It really is one of a kind and sits on the isthmus (the narrow strip of land between Madison’s two lakes). You know you’re downtown once you’ve seen it’s white marble and tall columns rise above the rest of the downtown buildings. Local laws prohibit other buildings being built taller than the capitol building, which means no skyscrapers, and they light up the exterior at night! The best ways to see the capitol building: – From afar – drive John Nolan (going North) for a quick, but spectacular view of the Madison skyline over [Lake Monona](https://dnr.wi.gov/lakes/lakepages/LakeDetail.aspx?wbic=804600). *Insider’s Tip – the [Capital City Bike Trail](https://dnr.wi.gov/topic/parks/name/capcity/) runs along this major road and can be walked or cycled!* -Close up – take a [FREE capitol building tour](http://tours.wisconsin.gov/pub/Reservations/Default.aspx), daily on the hour (except Sundays). This is one of the most underrated attractions in Madison. You get to see the different rooms of the building and learn some history! In the summer, check out the outdoor balcony, around the holidays, the huge decorated indoor Christmas tree. *Insider’s tip – make sure to look out for the fossils! There are naturally occurring fossils found throughout the building – look for the starfish in the North wing, left grand stairs, 1st to 2nd floor, fourth step from the bottom.* ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/shutterstock_1221104446-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "shutterstock_1221104446 - Couchsurfing Blog")Wisconsin State Capitol Building by [Sean Pavone](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/sepavo)**A tourist trap to avoid!** The malls… Madison has a mall on each side of the city that looks like any other mall in America, so don’t waste your time! Instead, if you’re looking for local gifts or goodies, hit up [State Street](https://www.theedgewater.com/the-madison-experience/5-great-things-state-street-downtown-madisons-forever-street/). State Street is the link between Madison’s [Capitol Square](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g60859-d282451-Reviews-Capitol_Square-Madison_Wisconsin.html) and the UW – Madison campus. Since the 1970’s the street itself has been closed to vehicles, which makes it a great place to stroll and window shop. It is only about a 12 minute walk or (4 min bike ride) end-to-end, but plan on at least two to four hours to allow for all the cool stuff you’ll need to stop and look at, buy, eat, and drink. Many of the shops are locally owned and have items you won’t see anywhere else! My favorites include Little Luxuries, Soap Opera, Jazzman, and Anthology. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-madison/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-madison/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Guides **Tags:** BOS, buraka, chazen museum of art, curd girl, dane country farmers market, delta beer lab, devil's lake, drumlin ridge, east bluff trail, funk factory geuzeria, lake monona, madison, Mickeys tavern, Middleton, National Mustard Museum, Short Stack Eatery, state street, stateline distillery, tenney park, UW Madison Geology Museum, wisconsin, Wisconsin Historical Museum, wisconsin state capitol building, Yahara River --- ### [10 Questions with a CS Ambassador: Taylor](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-taylor/) **Published:** December 9, 2019 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Excerpt:** Meet Taylor, a nomadic Ambassador in Tbilisi, Georgia. **Content:** #### Name: [Taylor](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/taybf) City: Tbilisi, Georgia Years on Couchsurfing: 5 ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/41CE472F-9671-4677-8C77-4F133B4972FE.jpg "41CE472F-9671-4677-8C77-4F133B4972FE - Couchsurfing Blog")Taylor doing what he does best hitchhiking**Why did you get involved with Couchsurfing?** At first, to find a free place to sleep. Once I did it a few times I realized that it made my trip much more interesting to stay with locals rather than in hostels. Now I mainly host but in the past I was mainly surfing for several years. I like to host several groups at a time because it’s more fun. **What was your first Couchsurfing experience?** Being hosted with 2 friends by a guy with a tiny apartment in Romania. I never knew people could be so kind. He took us out to dinner and bars and we had a great time. **What was one of your most interesting hosting experience?** I hosted a couchsurfer who was traveling by bicycle and then decided to buy a bike and continue with her for the next 4 months cycling around Central Asia. It the craziest trip of my life. ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/IMG_1663-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C768&ssl=1 "IMG_1663 - Couchsurfing Blog")**Wow! Quite an impulsive trip I see! And what about surfing?** There are a lot… Sleeping in an old caravanserai in Uzbekistan with a host who didn’t care that couchsurfing was illegal there and just wanted to meet interesting travelers, staying in a small village in Norway and taking my host’s boat to go dumpster diving at the supermarket across the fjord and coming back with a full boat of food, staying in a house near Moscow that’s basically a squat for all hitchhikers to hang out and live as long as they contribute to the positive atmosphere. **Incredible. Has there been any book that has inspired your travels?** Hitchwiki. It’s not a book but has more information than most books. It is the world’s best resource to learn how to travel independently. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/b985fb3d-0b9c-4077-8393-ffa020c28f13.jpg "b985fb3d-0b9c-4077-8393-ffa020c28f13 - Couchsurfing Blog")Taylor setting up camp in Pamir Mountains Kyrgyzstan**I’ll have to check it out! So as an experienced solo-traveler, what is a crazy thing that has happened to you on the road?** I was hitchhiking in Kyrgyzstan and was invited for dinner with the governor of that region, he asked me to bribe the American embassy to get him a visa, and then drunk drove me to my hostel. **While I don’t endorse drunk driving, that is a great story! Is there any place in Tbilisi that shares the same values as Couchsurfing?** Velo Cafe. They’re very welcoming for cyclists and all sorts of travelers. ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/78414469_10220838531939070_4310658873116590080_o.jpg?fit=1024%2C769&ssl=1 "78414469_10220838531939070_4310658873116590080_o - Couchsurfing Blog")Taylor with a family of hitch hiker couchsurfers**I’ll definitely check it out. What about a place or experience that people should have in Georgia?** Buy fresh fruits and vegetables and raw milk and homemade cheese from the babushkas on the little residential side street because it’s so much better than a supermarket. **And fresher! Have you ever met anyone famous?** Anton Krotov. He’s a famous hitchhiker. Definitely more interesting than a movie star. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/21616337_10155836306892110_8585823233523416715_n.jpg "21616337_10155836306892110_8585823233523416715_n - Couchsurfing Blog")Taylor hitch hiking in snow**Very cool! As you’ve traveled so much, do you have a dream vacation?** Cycling and ski touring in Pakistan. **Awesome. And last question, what is your advice to new Couchsurfers?** Don’t make plans. Just go. ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/6b9d9bbf-1e3f-4b0a-947c-48a3b61c9d46.jpg?fit=1024%2C768&ssl=1 "6b9d9bbf-1e3f-4b0a-947c-48a3b61c9d46 - Couchsurfing Blog")Temple Crag### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-taylor/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-taylor/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Meet an Ambassador --- ### [7 Winter Wonderlands not to miss!](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/7-winter-wonderlands-not-to-miss/) **Published:** December 12, 2019 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Excerpt:** From Germany to New Orleans, our Ambassadors share their local holiday celebrations. **Content:** For us in the Northern Hemisphere, winter has arrived with full force and the holiday season is well upon us. Whether it is Christmas Markets in Germany or the Rockefeller Tree in New York City – the winter season is an especially magical time around the world. So grab a cup of gluhwein, dress in your heaviest winter coat, put peppermint in everything, and enjoy the season while it lasts! Here are our Ambassador’s tips for 10 seasonal events to check out this (or any) winter! **1. [Dresden Christmas Market](http://www.germany-christmas-market.org.uk/dresden_christmas_market.php) (Dresden, Germany)** ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/shutterstock_729198616-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C531&ssl=1 "shutterstock_729198616 - Couchsurfing Blog")Dresden Christmas Market by [Mapics](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/mapics)shutterstockDresden has one of the oldest (585th this year) and most beautiful Christmas Markets in Germany where you can buy the traditional [Christstollen](https://www.travelsignposts.com/Germany/food/dresden-christmas-stollen) that was first mentioned and baked in the 15th century. Dresden is in the Guinness book of world records for the largest [stollen](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stollen), called ‘The Dresden Giant Stollen’, which weighs in at 4.2 tonnes! It will be cut on December 7th at the world famous [Stollenfest](https://www.dresdnerstollen.com/en/events/details/id-25th-dresdner-stollenfest). The worlds largest Christmas pyramid (14.62 meters), also found in Dresden, has been in the Guinness Book of World Records since 1999. There are also other smaller Christmas Markets in the center like the Historical Christmas Market near the famous Church of our Lady, as well as the Medieval Christmas Market where one can enjoy a 1.5 hour long bath in 40°C water. Being naked in a hot bath while freezing people walk by is something not to miss! *-submitted by [Nicky](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/smilingboy)* **2. [Oh Bej! Oh Bej!](http://www.turismo.milano.it/wps/portal/tur/en/scoprilacitta/milanoatema/fiera_obej_ohbej) (Milan, Italy)** ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/shutterstock_1501177616-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "shutterstock_1501177616 - Couchsurfing Blog")Milan streets decked for the holidays by [ajborges](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/ajborges)shutterstockA translation of ‘oh so nice!’ in Milanese, this gorgeous Christmas Market is the most important in Milan. The market, now located near Sforza Castle, sells sweets, Christmas decorations, gifts and much more. It is said it has been celebrated since 1510, making this a 500 year old tradition! *-submitted by [Carlo](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/ghostcat)* **3. [The Rockefeller Center Tree](https://www.rockefellercenter.com/holidays/rockefeller-center-christmas-tree-lighting/) and [Ice Skating](https://therinkatrockcenter.com/) (New York City, USA)** ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/shutterstock_540122254-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C681&ssl=1 "shutterstock_540122254 - Couchsurfing Blog")The Rock Center Ice Rink and Christmas Tree by [lazyllama](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/lazyllama)shutterstockAlthough some New Yorker’s may dismiss the entire area of mid-town as over-rated and too touristy, this New York transplant is an adament supporter of Rockefeller Center during the Christmas season. The plaza in front of Rock Center is transformed into an ice rink straight from the movies (literally, numerous movies have had scenes in this rink!) and the lit tree in night is the perfect back drop to your Merry Christmas from New York City card! *-submitted by [Mike](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/iammikejoy?action=legacy_link&controller=user_profiles)* **4. [Cabalgata de los Reyes Magos](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cavalcade_of_Magi) (Catalonia)** ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/shutterstock_180592559-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C756&ssl=1 "shutterstock_180592559 - Couchsurfing Blog")Los Reyes Magos in Barcelona by [Iakov Filimonov](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/jackf)shutterstockOn the 5th of January the three kings are paraded on huge thrones around towns. They throw sweets to the children and people go dead crazy to grab the sweets. This festival can be found throughout Spain in almost all cities and villages. A unique tradition we have in Catalonia is that children hit a log ([Tió de Nadal](https://www.naturaki.com/en/tio-christmas-caganer/)) with sticks to make it poo their presents. The story goes like this: Parents hide Tió around the house. Children get a letter saying “a strange creature arrived home”. They have to run and be first to find it around the house. Once they find their Tió, they have to feed it, and look after Tió to please him. If they are doing fine, Tió will grow (meaning the parents change the first Tió into a bigger one). On Christmas night children sing a son and hit Tió. Under the blanket they will find their presents because they “looked after” Tió very well. See it in action [here](https://youtu.be/iBsnLk0bGKA)! *-submitted by [Ana](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/ana-manas)* **5. [Yule Lads](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Icelandic_Christmas_folklore) (Reykjavik, Iceland)** ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/shutterstock_745571857-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "shutterstock_745571857 - Couchsurfing Blog")Reykjavik in Winter by [Heiti Paves](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/heitipaves)shutterstockIn definitely one of the more unique stories I have heard this holiday season, Iceland has quite an interesting folklore including monsters and beings that descend from monsters to wreak havoc on children. The Yule Lads specifically are 13 children who come each night, one at a time, leaving gifts for good children in shoes. To me, potato is a trade up from the coal Santa supposedly leaves, but if you happen to be in Reykjavik check out the [festivities at city hall](https://www.thjodminjasafn.is/english/for-visitors/whats-on/upcoming-events/the-yule-lads)! *-submitted by [Marco](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/marco.pizzolato)* **6. [Celebration in the Oaks](https://neworleanscitypark.com/celebration-in-the-oaks) (New Orleans, USA)** ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/shutterstock_91776362-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C701&ssl=1 "shutterstock_91776362 - Couchsurfing Blog")Christmas in the French Quarter By [Colin D Young](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/lightphoto)shutterstockA majestic outdoor display featuring over a million lights and light sculptures in City Park, home to two and three hundred-year old moss-draped live oak trees. It is conveniently located at the end of a streetcar line in the Mid-City area. –*submitted by [Charles](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/charles-french-quarter)* **7. [Hyde Park Winter Wonderland](https://hydeparkwinterwonderland.com/) (London, England)** ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/HydeParkxmas.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "HydeParkxmas - Couchsurfing Blog")Winter Wonderland by [Alexey Fedorenko](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/alexey+fedorenko)shutterstockA massive, kinda touristy, but very very fun market! It’s open from early December until just after New Years. They had a mulled wine merry-go-round last time I was there. A pint will run you about £6 and rides between £5-10. Consider going to Cafe Bavaria and sitting by one of the open fires and chat to people. There’s live music most evenings there. Go at the weekend if you love crowds, Sunday is usually quieter in the evening. Tuesday is quietest. *-submitted by [Sarah](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/sarah.kaye) and [Giles](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/gwendes)* For a change of pace, London has a few winter light festivals and events throughout the city. Check out the [schedule](https://secretldn.com/winter-light-festivals-london/) of the various events. Photos don’t do it justice! *-submitted by [John](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/skyehiker)* #### (This post was written with contributions from the [Couchsurfing Ambassadors](http://10.9.0.204/couchsurfing-ambassadors/)) ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/7-winter-wonderlands-not-to-miss/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/7-winter-wonderlands-not-to-miss/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Advice, Community **Tags:** Cabalgata de los Reyes Magos, celebration in the oaks, christmas market, christstollen, dresden, hyde park, Ice skating, New Orleans, oh bej oh bej, stollen, stollenfest, Yule Lads --- ### [5 picture-perfect places in Puerto Vallarta](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/5-picture-perfect-places-in-puerto-vallarta/) **Published:** December 10, 2019 **Author:** Mike Joy **Excerpt:** Discover the known (and unknown) beauty that makes Puerto Vallarta a true paradise. **Content:** ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/shutterstock_514945831-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C653&ssl=1 "shutterstock_514945831 - Couchsurfing Blog")Every year, one city in Mexico hosts the *Reunión Nacional* (National Meeting) and invites Couchsurfers from all over the world to visit and discover their city and local community. Local communities nominate their city to the [Mexican Ambassadors](http://10.9.0.204/couchsurfing-ambassadors/), and if chosen, put together a weekend-long event that showcases their city, culture and community. This year was the [8th National Meeting](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/reunion-nacional-puerto-vallarta-2019) in Mexico and Puerto Vallarta, in the state of Jalisco, was chosen. The Couchsurfing community in Puerto Vallarta went above and beyond and organized a weekend of events that not only introduced us to the known and loved Puerto Vallarta, but to many hidden treasures the region has to offer. Here are a few of the special places we discovered during the [Reunión Nacional Puerto Vallarta](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/reunion-nacional-puerto-vallarta-2019) in and around the paradise of Puerto Vallarta. 1\. [Mirador Cerro de la Cruz](https://www.puertovallarta.net/what_to_do/cerro-de-la-cruz-lookout) ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/shutterstock_1218786649-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "shutterstock_1218786649 - Couchsurfing Blog")The new lookout offers plenty of space to get the perfect picture of Puerto Vallarta By [eskystudio](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/eskystudio)shutterstockPerched on a hill, very close to the Malecón district of Puerto Vallarta, is this viewpoint which offers the most incredible views of the city and coast. The hike is definitely challenging, but manageable as it is mostly stairs. Make sure you have a good pair of shoes, water and sunscreen! 2\. [Playa los Caballos](https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g150793-i46-k12420159-Boat_ride_to_Playa_Los_Caballos-Puerto_Vallarta.html) ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/shutterstock_95856781-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C680&ssl=1 "shutterstock_95856781 - Couchsurfing Blog")Secluded beaches are just a short boat ride away from Puerto Vallarta By [Elena Elisseeva](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/elenathewise)shutterstockThis secluded beach is only reachable by water taxi and is a beautiful spot to lay out and tan. It does have a couple resorts around it, but this beach is not one to go to for food and drinks – as it is mostly just sand and foliage. There is a path to Las Animas (our #3!) where you can order food! Take a bus out of Puerto Vallarta heading to “[Boca de Tomatlan](https://www.google.com/search?q=boca+de+tomatlan&oq=boca+de+tomatlan&aqs=chrome..69i57j0l5.1827j0j9&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8)” a town with it’s own set of restaurants and bars, head to the pier and catch a shared water taxi to this beautiful beach. 3\. [Las Animas](https://www.puertovallarta.net/what_to_do/las-animas-jalisco) ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/shutterstock_122863243.jpg?fit=1024%2C678&ssl=1 "shutterstock_122863243 - Couchsurfing Blog")Yelapa a beach and town a further south from Las Animas but equally as beautiful By [karamysh](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/karamysh)shutterstockIf you want a beach that is hugged by the jungle, has beach bars, and men walking around holding iguanas – then this is your beach. It is a short boat ride from Boca de Tomatlan and is the perfect half-day trip out of Puerto Vallarta. Pick a spot in front of one of the numerous beach bars and you will be set for the day as far as food, drink and sun are concerned! 4\. [San Sebastián del Oeste](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/San_Sebasti%C3%A1n_del_Oeste) ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/shutterstock_1484227904-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "shutterstock_1484227904 - Couchsurfing Blog")San Sebastian del Oeste by [Carlos Ivan Palacios](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/carlos+ivan+palacios)shutterstockFor a break from the beach, San Sebastián del Oeste is the perfect addition to your Puerto Vallarta trip. This town in the hills is about one hour from Puerto Vallarta but feels hundreds of years away. The town is full of beautiful haciendas and views of the mountains to die for. Are you a coffee lover? Then make sure you add a stop to [Cafe de Altura la Quinta Mary](https://www.facebook.com/cafe.laquinta.5grcion/) Make sure you have some room in your suitcase for all the beans you will buy! 5\. [Sayulita](https://www.sayulita.com/) ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/shutterstock_646375135-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C668&ssl=1 "shutterstock_646375135 - Couchsurfing Blog")Sayulitas Main beach by [Ahturner](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/ahturner)shutterstockThey call it the next ‘Tulum’ but after visiting I have a hard time believing Sayulita is in anyway ‘undiscovered’. The town is beautiful, a couple curved streets hugging the beach, and has the beach town vibe that Puerto Vallarta grew out of decades ago. The town has a strong backpacker vibe and is full of shops, bars, hostels, and restaurants. Many people choose to stay in Sayulita as it is much smaller and manageable than it’s much larger sister to the south. There are numerous gorgeous beaches within a few kilometers of the town and it is well worth a visit! Maybe even add a night or two for some true rest and relaxation! ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/arcsofPV-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "arcsofPV - Couchsurfing Blog")Sunset at Los Arcos in Puerto Vallarta by [Barna Tanko](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/csikidam)Puerto Vallarta has grown into a popular tourist destination due to its beauty, international airport and incredibly friendly people. It is not hard to understand why the locals call it *paraís*o. In spite of its size, there are still many remote places that allow tranquility to set in. The Couchsurfing community in Puerto Vallarta put together an excellent weekend for the National Meeting which truly allowed the community to connect and discover the beauty of this area. I know I will definitely be back, if nothing else, then to get a photo holding those iguanas! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/5-picture-perfect-places-in-puerto-vallarta/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/5-picture-perfect-places-in-puerto-vallarta/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Community, Crashes, Invasions and More! **Tags:** las animas, malecon, mexico, mirador cerro de la cruz, playa los caballos, puerto vallarta, sayulita, yelapa --- ### [The 7 Deadly Sins of Couchsurfing](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-7-deadly-sins-of-couchsurfing/) **Published:** November 19, 2019 **Author:** Mike Joy **Excerpt:** Whether you are a long time Couchsurfer, or new to the community, take a look at our advice for how to positively contribute and avoid the common mistakes that plague Couchsurfers. **Content:** ### This post was created with the assistance of the [Couchsurfing Ambassadors](http://10.9.0.204/couchsurfing-ambassadors/) and their years of experience both as hosts and surfers. In the teachings of the Catholic Church, the *[7 Deadly Sins](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seven_deadly_sins)* are the 7 “evil thoughts or or spirits that one needed to overcome.” In Couchsurfing, they are far less serious, however they are sure-fire ways to offend or upset your host or surfer. If you’re new to Couchsurfing, or just want a refresher on Couchsurfing tips for a successful stay, keep an eye out for these behaviors and follow our advice to avoid falling into these traps! **Envy: Choose the person, not the place.** ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/shutterstock_275521547.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "shutterstock_275521547 - Couchsurfing Blog")By [Monkey Business Images](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/stockbroker)shutterstockYou are choosing the person, not the place. Couchsurfing is about connecting travelers and locals. Read the profile, choose a surfer or host you think you will connect with. Be open to what that connection can provide for you on your trip or in your home. If it were about where you sleep, you would choose a hotel. It’s about the person you will be sharing your time and space with. What we have does not compare to how we spend our time. Appreciate what is being given, whether it is a great conversation or a unique experience. Be open to differences and discomfort, you’re only with that person for a few days but what may remain is a lifelong friendship. **Anger: Communication is key, but your safety is most important**. ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/shutterstock_727757209.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "shutterstock_727757209 - Couchsurfing Blog")By [Dean Drobot](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/deandrobot)shutterstockBe patient with each other. Language barriers, cultural differences or personal logic could be dictating actions and behavior. Communicate through it. Don’t let the anger simmer in your mind. Address it immediately and leave it in the past. As a host, communicate your rules, expectations and values. As a surfer, listen to those and be respectful. Be vocal if something makes you uncomfortable and always know that you can leave. The safety of both the host and surfer is Couchsurfing’s highest priority and if any situation seems unsafe, remove yourself from it and find a safe place. Contact our safety team, local authorities or another CS community member or Ambassador if you need immediate assistance. **Greed: Give as much as you take**. ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/shutterstock_1515623003.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "shutterstock_1515623003 - Couchsurfing Blog")By [wavebreakmedia](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/4774344sean)shutterstockAs a surfer, give back. make dinner, buy drinks, bring a gift for your host. Give your time to your host. They are making space in their home for you but they may also be making time in their schedule. Be conscious of that and communicate your plans and expectations with them. As a host don’t expect your surfer to pay for everything or to pay at all. Don’t expect the surfer to spend all of their time with you but rather encourage them to pursue their own interests while allowing them to take part in your life if they so choose. **Gluttony: The opposite of gratitude.** ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/shutterstock_547233985.jpg?fit=1024%2C671&ssl=1 "shutterstock_547233985 - Couchsurfing Blog")By [KieferPix](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/kiefer+pix)shutterstockBe grateful for what is being offered. If it is time, conversation, housing, or meals; people give and receive in different ways. Be aware of that and make sure you appreciate and reciprocate. Hosts are giving you their space. Surfers are giving you their time. Make sure you both have similar expectations for the host-surf relationship and be prepared to be gracious. In your plans, in what you share, and in forgiveness if differences may arise. **Pride: Listen more than you speak.** ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/shutterstock_661377859.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "shutterstock_661377859 - Couchsurfing Blog")By [Jacob Lund](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/jacoblund)shutterstockYour host or surfer has experiences and info that will build on yours. Ask questions. Even the ones you think are stupid. Swallow your pride is one of the greatest life lessons for us all to learn. There are no dumb questions and sharing how you feel about something will only remove the weight of it from your shoulders. Be proud of what you know and do not know. Laugh at mistakes and misunderstanding, accept differences, and be open to what every person can teach you. Boasting isn’t attractive in any language and pride will keep you from learning. For hosts, you don’t need to be a guidebook, but allow your experience and knowledge to guide the surfer if they wish – if they don’t, let them be independent. When showing your surfer the cool, even touristy, spots of your city – stop & enjoy the view. Let their awe and wonder at your city remind you of what you can so easily take for granted. **Sloth: Laziness is the opposite of adventure**. ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/shutterstock_299382308.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "shutterstock_299382308 - Couchsurfing Blog")By [Dragon Images](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/dragon+images)shutterstockBe responsive to messages and texts. Both the surfer and host are making plans around the trip, be respectful of that and keep people informed on changes and plans as they are made. After the stay, leave a reference. References are what keep Couchsurfing alive and safe. Let the community know about your experience within the 2-week reference period. As a surfer, if you are tired from traveling and need time to relax and rest, then communicate this with your host. But don’t expect your host to be comfortable with you spending all day in their home. If you are sick or in need of extended rest time, a hostel may be a better option for your needs. If you made it to a new city, go see it! Ask for advice if you don’t know what to do – but be aware that your host has a life and duties and may not be available to you 24/7 and their home may not be either. **Lust: Couchsurfing is not for dating**. ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/shutterstock_250102144.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "shutterstock_250102144 - Couchsurfing Blog")By [wavebreakmedia](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/4774344sean)shutterstockThere are many apps that can be used to find a romantic connection. Couchsurfing is not one of them. Find a new friend, go on an adventure, attend some cool events – just don’t look for a date here. Always respect physical boundaries and do not assume that everyone has the same level of comfort regarding physical touch or conversation topics. As a surfer, if you feel that a line is being crossed or may be, remove yourself from the situation. Contact the safety team, go to a safe place, contact other members who can help you retrieve your belongings. Never stay in a situation that may put you in harms way. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-7-deadly-sins-of-couchsurfing/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-7-deadly-sins-of-couchsurfing/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Community, Community Updates, News --- ### [10 Questions with a CS Ambassador: Nathan](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-nathan/) **Published:** November 3, 2019 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/12112500_l_b6c5d5c08c58bf74124a69cfbbbb73a8.jpg "12112500_l_b6c5d5c08c58bf74124a69cfbbbb73a8 - Couchsurfing Blog") #### Name: [Nathan](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/nathaninja) City: Detroit, Michigan Years on Couchsurfing: 15 **How did you first hear of Couchsurfing, way back in 2004?** My long time friend, Jeannine, told me about Couchsurfing and encouraged me to make a profile – what a life changer! **Wow! And what made you get so involved?** Having recently divorced, I was free to host travelers, something my ex felt nervous about. I stayed up late having a great conversation with the first surfer I hosted on my own, a guy from Germany fresh out of gymnasium hitchhiking across the northern US – in February. I dropped him off on a freeway ramp in a foot of snow and wished him good luck. Later I learned he was on his way to Chicago in 5 minutes. I was hooked. I hosted as often as I could, and got involved with attending then hosting local CS meet-ups. Many years, guests, and Couch Crashes later, I became Detroit’s first AirBnB host and continue to host Couchsurfers whenever possible between reservations. Because of this unusual arrangement I often get to host people on short notice, like those whose hosts cancelled last minute. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/Hosting-at-home-serving-Couchsurfer-cocktails.jpg "Hosting-at-home-serving-Couchsurfer-cocktails - Couchsurfing Blog")Nathan serving his guests some home made cocktails**Wow! That guy is lucky, as we both know hitchhiking in the USA isn’t as commonplace as other parts of the world! What has been your most interesting experience hosting?** Sooo many…! But one that sticks out was Jason who was motorcycling through Detroit and interested in exploring our famous ruins. (This was some years ago, near “peak ruin.”) At the famously mammoth abandoned Packard Plant we discovered an old underground steam tunnel flooded by a water main break that was endlessly gushing untold thousands of gallons of city water into oblivion. We couldn’t see around the nearby corner. Adventure beckoned. Jason was leaving the next morning but insisted that we return with waders to explore the turn in the tunnel before he took off. With trash bags strapped on as jury rigged waders, we cautiously advanced toward the turn, walking an underwater plank across a deeper submarine pit…. We turned the corner and our headlamps revealed… a cave-in. Dead end. Ha! Jason wasn’t very late getting on the road, and we both felt great having explored the tunnel to its premature end. He left me with one of Detroit’s famous “Stop Halloween Arson” posters he’d obtained, but couldn’t safely transport on his bike. It still hangs in the entryway of my ‘Detroit Loves You’ Guest Home. **What a great story! The anti-climactic ending makes it even more fulfilling in some way. What about your most interesting experience as a surfer?** Most is a strong word! Though this one’s certainly a contender…. My friend, Jeannine (who, you’ll remember, turned me on to Couchsurfing) and I surfed with an awesomely quirky couple in Ottawa on our road trip to Quebec City. Together we played Morton’s List, a game that gives you random real life missions to do. That July night ours was to dance, which we interpreted as holding a dance-off. Even though it was sprinkling outside, we relocated to a nearby park and drew dance styles out of a hat. Jeannine and I got Bollywood, they got Ballet. We practiced our routines in private then performed for each other in the rain, to everyone’s soaking delight. ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/Ottawa-dance-off-trip-Jeannine-and-I.jpg?fit=1024%2C766 "Ottawa-dance-off-trip-Jeannine-and-I - Couchsurfing Blog")The Ottawa Dance Off**Haha! I’m sure you were an excellent Bollywood dancer. If you could Couchsurf with any celebrity (alive or dead), would would it be?** Tough…. María Sabina, the Mazatec healer and shaman from southern Mexico **Very cool. What is one book that has inspired your travels?** Original Wisdom: Stories of an Ancient Way of Knowing by Robert Wolff. This short and simple autobiographical book is the amazing story of how through contact with native Malay and Sng’oi people the author discovered “heart consciousness” within himself, an awareness of profound empathy and connection with those he meets. It’s a beautiful journey about simply being human. A quick yet profound read I cannot recommend highly enough. ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/Gift-Roger-left.jpg?fit=1024%2C547 "Gift-Roger-left - Couchsurfing Blog")Roger a companion of a last minute Couchsurfer Nathan hosted who demonstrated beyond any doubt what Nathan describes as psychic abilities resulting from a heightened awareness and consciousness cultivated from traveling and living without a safety net **What is your favorite travel quote?** > In a mad world, only the mad are sane! > > Ran (1985), Arika Kurosawa (director) **What is the craziest thing that has ever happened to you while traveling?** Guatemala City, December 2012. I had a gun pulled on me by a guy who’d been attempting to hot-wire our van, and who I’d chased around said van and into the passenger seat of his big black getaway truck parked right behind it. That’s when ‘fight’ should have pivoted to ‘flight’. Instead, that’s when I flung the passenger side door open to find the guy tumbled inside, fumbling for his pistol. As close as I am to my laptop screen, the barrel was to my chest. Slow motion kicked in, right on queue. Simultaneously, my hands go up, I say “WHHOOOAAA”, slowly, and my torso twists flat, Matrix style. I’m free falling to my left, away from the car door and firing arc. No bullet whizzes slowly past me. He wasn’t trying to shoot anyone. The car door slams shut and the truck speeds off, leaving me unscathed – and with an indelible memory! ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/Guatemala-trip-me-in-red-shortly-after-attempted-auto-theft.jpg "Guatemala-trip-me-in-red-shortly-after-attempted-auto-theft - Couchsurfing Blog")The van shortly after the attempted theft no photos of the actual theft unfortunately**Oh. My. God. That sounds terrifying. I would have immediately just ran. There is no ‘fight’ in my fight or flight! Ok, so transitioning away from life-threatening memories, what is your recommendation for a ‘Must Eat’ when someone is in Detroit?** My favorite of Detroit’s two most renown culinary innovations is Detroit-style pizza. I don’t often eat pizza, but when I do, I often wish it was Detroit-style. The other being the Coney dog, a hot dog with chili, mustard, and onions. **Wow. Those both sound amazing. Of dubious nutritional value, but delicious nonetheless! Lastly, what is your go-go Karaoke song?** I’ve only ever Karaoked once. In Japan, for what it’s worth. To Material Girl, for what that’s worth. Madonna’s a Michigan native. Circle gets the square. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-nathan/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-nathan/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Meet an Ambassador --- ### [It's a Mad Mad Mad(ison) Crash 2019](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/its-a-mad-mad-madison-crash-2019/) **Published:** November 2, 2019 **Author:** Mike Joy **Content:** On September 5th-8th, 2019, Madison, Wisconsin held their [11th Couch Crash](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/2019-madison-couch-crash-11th-annual)! That is 11 years of the Wisconsin Couchsurfing Community coming together to show their CS pride and display Madison to travelers and locals alike. Check out [Jason’s](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/jhg) video from this years event and mark the Calendar for 2020! [Jason Griffing / Youtube](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/jhg)### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/its-a-mad-mad-madison-crash-2019/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/its-a-mad-mad-madison-crash-2019/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Community, Crashes, Invasions and More! --- ### [10 Tips for Sustainable Travel](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-tips-for-sustainable-travel/) **Published:** November 26, 2019 **Author:** Mike Joy **Excerpt:** It's everyone's responsibility to reduce our carbon footprint. Take a look at these tips before you plan your next trip to see how you can make a difference and still see the world. **Content:** ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/shutterstock_1503847718.jpg?fit=1024%2C529&ssl=1 "shutterstock_1503847718 - Couchsurfing Blog")By [Krailath](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/krailath)shutterstockSustainable travel should be on everyone’s mind when it comes to planning a trip. Unfortunately, the environmental impact of many of the traditional ways of traveling are enormous. From airplanes to hotels, the traditional ways of traveling are not always so kind to mother earth. However, there are some easy things that you can do that will lighten your trips carbon footprint, and maybe even give you a unique experience at the same time. For a complete list of green travel suggestions, check out Bed and Tree’s [Green Travel Guide](https://bedandtree.com/green-travel-guide/) and Charlie on Travel’s [What is Sustainable Travel?](https://charlieontravel.com/what-is-sustainable-travel/). Below are our picks for 10 easy ways you can be mindful of your carbon footprint while traveling. 1\. [Couchsurf](http://www.couchsurfing.com): Obviously! Staying at a home where you are aware of the water and electricity consumption will help you reduce the amount you use. Stay with friends, family, use Couchsurfing or plan a home-stay! ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/shutterstock_604416260.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "shutterstock_604416260 - Couchsurfing Blog")By [Africa Studio](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/belchonock)shutterstock2\. [Small, Local, Eco-Friendly](https://greensuitcasetravel.com/2018/08/eco-friendly-hotel/): If you have to stay in a hotel, the smaller the better. And check their eco-friendly credentials! The smaller the property, generally the less electricity used! 3\. [Do Not Disturb](https://www.verdemode.com/2012/06/environmental-impact-hotels-future-green-infographic/): You don’t wash your towel after every use at home, why do you when you travel? If you are staying at a hotel, throw on a ‘do not disturb’ sign on your door and let the housekeeping staff know you don’t need the daily room clean. ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/shutterstock_710053702.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "shutterstock_710053702 - Couchsurfing Blog")By [Makistock](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/makistock)shutterstock4\. [Avoid Flying](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Environmental_impact_of_aviation): Traveling over land is much better for the environment than by air. Sometimes it’s unavoidable but if there is a train or bus option – consider taking it! 5\. [Fly direct](https://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/advice/reduce-carbon-footprint-flying/) (and [economy](https://www.travelandleisure.com/articles/tips-eco-friendly-flights)!): If you can’t avoid it, try to cut out layovers as take off and landing are the worst for emissions. Economy class is the most eco-friendly of the flight classes. ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/shutterstock_600719180.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "shutterstock_600719180 - Couchsurfing Blog")By [Have a nice day Photo](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/asawin+klabma)shutterstock6\. [Pack light, and sustainably](https://passionpassport.com/how-to-pack-sustainably/)! The heavier your bag, the heavier your footprint. Keep in mind how much you bring and how sustainable, reusable and wasteful each item may be. 7\. [Use your legs!](http://www.energysavingsecrets.co.uk/walking.html) Walk, hike, run, bike, unicycle, rollerblade. Anything that uses your personal energy is the best transportation of the environment! ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/shutterstock_477933703.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "shutterstock_477933703 - Couchsurfing Blog")By [lzf](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/lzf)shutterstock8\. [Public Transportation is your friend](https://www.nationalexpresstransit.com/blog/why-is-public-transportation-good-for-the-environment/): If walking (or roller blading) isn’t an option, try to utilize public transportation rather than a car. 9\. [Buy second hand](https://www.planetaid.org/blog/benefits-of-the-second-hand-clothing-industry): We all love shopping when we travel, but the fashion industry has a huge carbon impact. Break the cycle! and next trip, head to a used clothing store, thrift shops, vintage and second-hand to get a taste of the local fashion there. Save money and the environment. ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/shutterstock_333236654.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "shutterstock_333236654 - Couchsurfing Blog")By [SpeedKingz](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/speedkingz)shutterstock10\. [Eat in – don’t take out](https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2017/11/takeaway-food-boxes-are-destroying-our-environment): The paper, the plastic, the styrofoam! Cut it all out by simply dining in and enjoying the ambiance. Now, with these tips in mind, go forth and plan your next trip! Seeing the world is great, but lets be mindful of our footprint so that it’s around for the next generation to explore as well. ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/shutterstock_1033846405.jpg?fit=1024%2C725&ssl=1 "shutterstock_1033846405 - Couchsurfing Blog")By [Maksym Dykha](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/xdialmax)shutterstock### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-tips-for-sustainable-travel/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-tips-for-sustainable-travel/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Advice, Featured, News **Tags:** carbon footprint, eco-friendly, sustainable --- ### [A Couchsurfer's Guide to... Sydney](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-too-sydney/) **Published:** October 10, 2019 **Author:** Mike Joy **Excerpt:** Sarah, a long-time resident of Sydney, Australia and Couchsurfing Ambassador, is here to give us her tips and tricks to help you have the best experience in Australia's largest city! **Content:** #### [Sarah](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/sarah.kaye), a long-time resident of Sydney, Australia and Couchsurfing Ambassador, is here to give us her tips and tricks to help you have the best experience in Australia’s largest city! ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/SydneyHarbor.jpg?fit=910%2C307&ssl=1 "SydneyHarbor - Couchsurfing Blog")By [Ingus Kruklitis](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/inguskruklitis)shutterstock**Best breakfast in town…** Start your day right – the favourite breakfast of all Sydneysiders is the humble avocado on toast, although each cafe will happily put their own flair on it. Give it a go in one of the many cafes along Crown Street in Surry Hills, teamed with a perfectly brewed flat white. Follow the Aussies: skip the Starbucks and enjoy an amazing brunch from one of the hundreds of independent cafes across the city. **Cutest cafe…** The Grounds of Alexandria on a weekday is a perfect green oasis of relaxation, surrounded by some of the best food and coffee in the country. Famous for being one of the most Instagrammed spots in the country, they focus on highlighting local ingredients across their market-style stalls. ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/shutterstock_1178992570.jpg?fit=910%2C607&ssl=1 "shutterstock_1178992570 - Couchsurfing Blog")By [GillianVann](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/vannphotography)shutterstock**Best place to grab a drink…** Sydney isn’t a cheap place for drinking, but they make up for the price by upping the quality. Sydney is full of incredible cocktail bars, tucked away into alleyways in the city – try some new takes on rum at Lobo Plantation in the CBD (Central Business District), the wide array of whiskeys at Shady Pines on Oxford Street, or the rooftop cocktail bars tucked away along King Street in Newtown. Also, check out any of the plentiful Happy Hour specials around Darling Harbour. This newly revitalised area has so many choices for enjoying a fantastic local craft beer or glass of wine in the heart of the city to suit a backpacker’s budget. If you’re around on a Friday, feel free to pop in and say hello at our weekly meetup at Helm Bar afterwards! Or, strap on the walking shoes and have a stroll between the [numerous craft breweries](https://thebeerpilgrim.com.au/2018/03/29/sydneys-inner-west-beer-trail) around the [Inner West](https://thecitylane.com/sydneys-inner-west-breweries-walking-tour), from the well-known Young Henry’s in Newtown to local secrets like Wayward in Camperdown, Batch in Marrickville, The Rocks in Alexandria… ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/shutterstock_1194286933.jpg?fit=910%2C683&ssl=1 "shutterstock_1194286933 - Couchsurfing Blog")By [kasarp studio](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/kasarp)shutterstock**Where to dance…** The Ivy in the CBD is our biggest nightclub, with several floors ranging from mainstream hits, to 90s R&B, to chill beats or EDM on the open-air pool deck. Entry is free on Thursdays – the pool deck is well worth it on a warm evening (take your swimsuit!). Or if you’re more of a rock-and-roll fan, Frankies will be your haven – their fantastic pizza is freshly made all night long. **Where to sweat…** No question, the Bondi to Coogee walk is the most spectacular workout spot imaginable. The 7km walk is full of twists, turns, stairs and public workout equipment, skirted by spectacular views over the ocean and beaches. Start or finish with a dip in the Bondi Icebergs pool, or the free Coogee rockpools! ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/shutterstock_1250608159.jpg?fit=910%2C607&ssl=1 "shutterstock_1250608159 - Couchsurfing Blog")By [samanthainalaohlsen](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/samanthainalaohlsen)shutterstock**1 museum not to miss…** Sydney has a fantastic array of free museums – the Museum of Contemporary Art in Circular Quay always has something new and thought-provoking on offer. But if you’re lucky enough to be in town when it’s open (roughly every other month), I’d highly recommend making a trip to the White Rabbit Gallery, an excellently curated private gallery of Chinese art, free to the public – make sure to leave time for a pot of the self-blooming tea in the lobby. **Best view in the city…** Within the city, you can’t fault the O Bar in the Sydney Tower. You’ll get the same view as the paid Sydney Tower viewing platform with purchase of a drink (dress code applies). Or for a more sweeping landscape view, the Dudley Page Reserve in Dover Heights, just north of Bondi Beach, will showcase the true majesty of our Harbour City. ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/shutterstock_1033697965.jpg?fit=910%2C566&ssl=1 "shutterstock_1033697965 - Couchsurfing Blog")By [GagliardiPhotography](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/gagliardig)shutterstock**Where is the best local cuisine…** The best thing about Sydney is that we’ve adopted so many great types of food from around the world, and we pride ourselves on their authenticity. Across the CBD you’ll find amazing food from across East and Southeast Asia. Ashfield has some incredible Shanghaiese food, or check out Lakemba for the best Middle Eastern and South Asian food in the southern hemisphere. Aussies like their meat, and any good pub will be able to serve a fantastic steak with a glass of red wine. For the vegans, check out Lentils as Anything in Newtown for an incredible menu and pay-as-you-feel ethos, and support a great cause while you’re there – all of the staff are volunteers either hoping to get some on-the-job work experience, or just happy to help out. **Best day trip out of town…** The Blue Mountains, about two hours west of the city centre, is very accessible on public transport and is truly a place where you can choose your own adventure. Check out the Echo Point Lookout with its sweeping views, or clamber around (or even rappel down) Wentworth Falls – from strenuous cliffside treks to the family-friendly Scenic World, there’s something for every fitness and ability level. ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/shutterstock_184967273.jpg?fit=910%2C607&ssl=1 "shutterstock_184967273 - Couchsurfing Blog")By [Ian woolcock](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/ianwoolcock)shutterstock**Where to have some family fun…** If you want to get to know our Australian wildlife but don’t have the time to get out into the bush, Featherdale Wildlife Park will be just the ticket. Lounge around with kangaroos, stroke a koala or get get chased around the paddock by an emu at this all-Australian free-roaming animal sanctuary. **The perfect picture…** The most famous viewpoint of our Sydney icons is from Mrs Macquaries Chair, the northernmost point of the Botanical Gardens. But for a truly incredible view, especially at sunset, you can’t go wrong with the Mary Booth Lookout Reserve just over the harbour in Kirribilli. Bring a picnic and enjoy the show! ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/shutterstock_791813311.jpg?fit=910%2C512&ssl=1 "shutterstock_791813311 - Couchsurfing Blog")By [robin91](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/robin91)shutterstock**A tourist trap to skip…** Don’t bother paying top-dollar for a cruise around Sydney Harbour – our plentiful public ferry services will happily do the exact same thing for a fraction of the price. Take the ferry round-trip to Manly for some incredible harbour views, or up the river all the way to Parramatta! **One experience not to miss…** Kayaking or stand-up-paddleboarding on the harbour, especially at sunrise, is a magical experience. Combine the serenity of a city starting to wake up, with the majesty of the Harbour Bridge looming above you, and you’ll be in awe of this wonderful place. As well, if you happen to be in Sydney from the end of May to the middle of June, don’t miss Vivid Sydney – a three-week long festival of lights, with intricate light projections on all of the major buildings including the Opera House, as well as pop-up experiences across the city. ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/shutterstock_1163654206.jpg?fit=910%2C607&ssl=1 "shutterstock_1163654206 - Couchsurfing Blog")By [RugliG](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/ruglig)shutterstock### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-too-sydney/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-too-sydney/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Guides **Tags:** Australia, couchsurfing, couchsurfing australia, couchsurfing sydney, Sydney, Travel Guides --- ### [Backpacking as a Coffee Addict](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/backpacking-as-a-coffee-addict/) **Published:** September 27, 2018 **Author:** Mike Joy **Excerpt:** Do you go to sleep dreaming of your first cup of coffee in the morning? Have you been described as a coffee addict? Do you research the coolest cafes when you travel? Does your blood run brown? If so, this article is for you! **Content:** by Mike Joy, Community Manager at Couchsurfing If you’re like me, then no day can start without a decent cup of coffee. It honestly doesn’t even have to be decent, it just must be caffeinated. I am the biggest supporter of trying the local coffee scene, finding the cutest corner cafe and sipping on the local specialty; but sometimes you wake up at 5am for an early flight (or ascent of Kilimanjaro) and the chic cafe doesn’t open for hours. Luckily, there are plenty of travel-friendly coffee makers that will fit in your backpack and brew you that little pick-me-up you need oh so badly. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/just-a-casual-shot-of-me-drinking-coffee-in-the-himalayas-294x300.jpg "- Couchsurfing Blog")Just a casual shot of the author drinking coffee in the Himalayas Photo credit Mike Joy## [**Cafetiere**](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0000CF3Q6/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=couchsurfing-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B0000CF3Q6&linkId=2af38bd8302c2e3952bde711220995f0) You know the old adage, ‘if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it!’ With that in mind, the first spot on our list goes to the preferred way of the inventors of the espresso to take their morning caffe. Everyone remembers the first time they saw how a [Cafetiere](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0000CF3Q6/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=couchsurfing-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B0000CF3Q6&linkId=2af38bd8302c2e3952bde711220995f0) works – it seems so simple, unscrew the three parts, put water in the bottom, put the middle piece over it with grounds, then screw it together and put it over the fire. A few minutes later you have a steaming cup of espresso that will definitely perk up your morning. Are you in Milan fashion week or the jungle of Guatemala – you won’t know! Ok you probably will…. Step 1. Add water in the bottom piece. Step 2. Insert the middle piece with espresso grounds. Step 3. Screw the top section on (tight!) and place over a flame! Once it begins boiling it’s done! Pro: You don’t need to boil water separately! Con: You need an open flame ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Eric-BARBEAU-@ericbarbeau-200x300.jpg "- Couchsurfing Blog")Stovetop espresso maker Photo credit Eric Barbeau## [**Aero-Press**](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000GXZ2GS/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=couchsurfing-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B000GXZ2GS&linkId=034b18a2879927894aea4ab51e3ad3d4) I have many friends who swear by the [Aero-Press](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000GXZ2GS/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=couchsurfing-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B000GXZ2GS&linkId=034b18a2879927894aea4ab51e3ad3d4) even in their daily lives. If you haven’t used an Aero-Press, the coffee it makes is incredibly rich but it does require a little bit of arm muscle – but hey, you’re probably looking to stay fit on your trip too! We suggest you buy the mesh filter as well so you don’t need to worry about the paper ones, but this compact little number will be a game changer on your next backpacking trip. Step 1. Add grounds into the top section the aero-press. Step 2. Add hot water and let sit. Step 3. Carefully flipping the Aero-Press over, apply pressure slowly (it will be difficult, so the slowness will come naturally) and allow the coffee to be pushed through the mesh and into a cup you have waiting for it. Pro: Makes a quick cup of coffee and very easy to pack Con: Many parts that need to be kept track of ## [**French Press**](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000KEM4TQ/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=couchsurfing-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B000KEM4TQ&linkId=ed93b4e20aabd3163b8bfd5631d4a1c6) There is nothing better than waking up in your Parisian hotel, with a view of La Tour Eiffel, and pouring yourself a steaming cup of coffee from your [French press](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000KEM4TQ/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=couchsurfing-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B000KEM4TQ&linkId=ed93b4e20aabd3163b8bfd5631d4a1c6) as you munch on a croissant. But for the rest of us that do not live that reality, there is a French press travel mug hybrid that can be brewing as we run to catch the local bus. Step 1. Pour grounds into the mug. Step 2. Pour hot water into the mug. Step 3. Screw on the top and let sit for ~5 minutes. When you’re ready, just push that lever down and as the grounds are pushed to the bottom, pure-sweet coffee will be left for you to sip out of the top. Pro: No cup needed! Con: Some complain of grounds at the bottom of the cup ## [**Portable K-Cup Coffee Brewer**](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B079MCVN13/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=couchsurfing-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B079MCVN13&linkId=eaa08bd9f0755dd16882df6fbb54c099) This is the only one of the list I have not personally used, but when I saw it I could not resist including it. [The K-Cup](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B079MCVN13/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=couchsurfing-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B079MCVN13&linkId=eaa08bd9f0755dd16882df6fbb54c099) is reusable, so you just add grounds to it like a normal coffee maker, then add the hot water and the machine does everything else for you. Step 1. Add grounds to the K-Cup. Step 2. Add hot water to the bottom section. Step 3, screw together and let sit. After a few minutes, press the button and coffee will be pushed into the removable cup! Pro: No cup needed! Con: Battery powered, so make sure you bring extras! ## [**Pour-Over**](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001S353EQ/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=couchsurfing-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B001S353EQ&linkId=5c774a3c57107b6cfe5528ff96f72c35) ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Najib-Kalil-@nkalil-200x300.jpg "- Couchsurfing Blog")Pour over Photo credit Najib KalilFor anyone who loves a good old cup of American coffee, the [pour-over](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001S353EQ/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=couchsurfing-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B001S353EQ&linkId=5c774a3c57107b6cfe5528ff96f72c35) is the choice for you. It’s one piece, a metal filter, that can be put over literally anything, and lets your hot water slowly drip through a mass of coffee grounds. Did I mention, you can use anything? An old water bottle? A hollowed out coconut? Your hands? Ok, don’t use your hands but I have seriously used my pour-over with a blender. Desperate times. Step 1. Put the pour-over filter over a vessel of any sort – preferably a cup Step 2. Slowly pour hot water over the grounds and allow it to seep into the cup. Pro: Probably the smallest to pack. Con: American-style coffee is not for everyone, and if you are an espresso lover, this may not do it for you. Not down to make your own coffee? No room in your bag for any of these toys? I get it. I have been you. When in need of caffeine and abroad, never underestimate the power of TripAdvisor to lead you to the cutest local gem serving a delicious brew. Sure you technically won’t be the first tourist to step foot inside, but you can always pretend you are, and your friends back home never need to know how you found it. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/backpacking-as-a-coffee-addict/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/backpacking-as-a-coffee-addict/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Featured, News, Stories **Tags:** aero-press, Cafetiere, coffee, coffee addict, espresso, french press, Portable K-Cup Coffee Brewer, pour-over, travel, travel advice --- ### [The Tattoo Connecting Travelers](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-tattoo-connecting-travelers/) **Published:** September 3, 2019 **Author:** Mike Joy **Excerpt:** Can you imagine showing up on a beach in Iceland in 2040 and meeting dozens (or hundreds or thousands!) of travelers who have the same tattoo as you? Well it is happening... Will you be there? **Content:** ##### By: Mike Joy, Couchsurfing Community Manager Top Photo by [Creative Travel Projects](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/leonidtit)/shutterstock On July 28, 2040, dozens (or hundreds? or thousands?) of travelers will all meet on a remote Icelandic beach. Why? Because of a tattoo. ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/tattoo.jpg?fit=960%2C653&ssl=1 "tattoo - Couchsurfing Blog")By [Microgen](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/stevicam)Shutterstock Having coordinates tattooed on you is not necessarily revolutionary. However, these specific coordinates don’t refer to somewhere you’ve been, but instead to somewhere you will go. Not anytime soon, but on a distant date more than 20 years from now. And who will you meet there? A group of like-minded travelers with the same tattoo. The origin of the tattoo is unclear, as it is passed by word of mouth and sight. You meet someone with the tattoo, inquire about it, and they explain. If the story excites and intrigues you, maybe you’ll get the same tattoo and continue the chain. [Jason](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/jhg), a Couchsurfing Ambassador from Connecticut, first learned of the tattoo while traveling in Astana, Kazakhstan. After noticing a fellow Couchsurfer’s tattoo, he asked what the coordinates and date referred to. This was the first time Jason had heard of the Icelandic beach. > *The goal is to form bonds with travelers and others and have them get the tattoo and all meet at that beach on that date! I thought it was such a dope concept to REALLY commit yourself to a goal so far in the future and give you something to keep you motivated through life. Well I wasn’t sure if I wanted to commit that to my skin forever so I told him if I was still thinking about it in 3 months I would get it. Needless to say I just couldn’t get it out of my head and 3 months later for my birthday I got the tattoo!* ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/IMG_3124-1-e1566681004595-1024x768.jpg "IMG_3124-1 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Jason](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/jhg) after getting the tattoo on his right calf By [Jason](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/jhg) There is no way to know how many people now have the tattoo, but Jason has continued to spread the story to Couchsurfers, and really anyone he meets. He has even had a few travelers get the tattoo and make the permanent mark in their calendar. The beach may be the first time he sees some of these people again. Something tells me this beach is going to have the coolest collection of people in the world on that July 28th. And I know exactly where I’ll be on that day… ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/Iceland-1.jpg?fit=960%2C640&ssl=1 "Iceland-1 - Couchsurfing Blog")By [Kristina Ponomareva](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/kristina+ponomareva)ShutterstockCan’t get the tattoo out of your head? Contact [Jason](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/jhg) to find out more! (and maybe get a PDF of the tattoo design….) ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-tattoo-connecting-travelers/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-tattoo-connecting-travelers/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Featured, News, Stories **Tags:** backpackers, beach, iceland, tattoo, tattoos, travel stories, travelers --- ### [6 Must-Pack Items For Your Next Adventure](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/6-must-pack-items-for-your-next-adventure/) **Published:** September 10, 2019 **Author:** Mike Joy **Excerpt:** There is no worse feeling than sitting on the plane and realizing you forgot something. Take our advice, and makes sure these 6 things are in your backpack before you leave. **Content:** #### By, Mike Joy. [Mike Joy](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/iammikejoy) is a prolific traveler, expert packer, and Community Manager at Couchsurfing. (Top photo by [Rawpixel.com](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/rawpixel)/shutterstock) “But they’re so cute! And I may need to dress up for dinner sometime!” No. You won’t. They take up too much space and you will rarely (read: never) need those boots. Leave ’em home. ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/Backpack.jpg?fit=960%2C674&ssl=1 "Backpack - Couchsurfing Blog")[Mike](http://instagram.com/iammikejoy) and his backpack on their 4 month South American adventure After a few multi-month backpacking trips where space is a premium in the backpack, I have isolated a few extras which are completely worth the space they take up. They may not be the most *necessary* items (no walking shoes on this list) but they will make your trip just a little bit easier. It is inevitable that you will need to make some *tough* cuts while packing, but we would make a strong argument to include the following in your pack — trust me — your trip will be better for it. 1\. **Towel** ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/99aacccb6cf945c9b85e5a728a40ef47_2048x2048.jpg?fit=960%2C960&ssl=1 "99aacccb6cf945c9b85e5a728a40ef47_2048x2048 - Couchsurfing Blog")For example our Polycotton Towel on [our store](https://store.couchsurfing.com) Does it take up a lot of room relative to other items of clothing? Yes. Do you often get towels at your accommodation? Also yes. Until you don’t. And I know you’re thinking you can use a T-shirt or sheet or just air dry, but trust me. You can not. Cut out something more expendable like underwear and pack a towel. A quick dry one is even better! (Shameless plug for [a Couchsurfing towel!](https://store.couchsurfing.com/collections/gifts/products/polycotton-towel)) 2\. **Flip-flops** ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/flipflops.jpg "flipflops - Couchsurfing Blog")By [Merydolla](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/merydolla)shutterstock I remember a trip in which I thought that flip-flops were unnecessary as I would be hiking and in pretty cold weather. I was wrong. I bought a pair within the first two weeks. Let me paint you a picture. You arrive late in a hostel after a long trip – you just want to take a relaxing shower before crawling into your dorm bed. You pull out your toiletries bag, your Couchsurfing towel, and wander to the bathroom. You switch on the light and your eyes immediately focus on the shower drain not doing it’s one and only job. Flip-flops may not keep any of that from touching your feet, but it will keep enough of the grime below your precious foot pads that you will be able to take the quickest army shower the world has ever known. 3\. **A lock** Admittedly, I still do not own one of these. And I think I am an idiot for not. The number of times I have left valuables in an insecure location (read: locker) because I don’t have a small key or padlock is. Have I ever had something stolen? No. Does it only take once to completely ruin your trip? Yes. I suggest a combination lock — probably costs five dollars, but the peace of mind is priceless. The [Master Lock on Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/Master-Lock-4688D-Combination-Accepted/dp/B000WO84Z2/ref=sxin_8_ac_d_rm?ac_md=3-3-c21hbGwgcGFkbG9jaw%3D%3D-ac_d_rm&keywords=padlock&pd_rd_i=B000WO84Z2&pd_rd_r=a4c45d4d-8388-44f5-afbc-059c9c2594e3&pd_rd_w=VIUSl&pd_rd_wg=fbrgh&pf_rd_p=404c4843-2c96-4d0d-a5fe-2b0598693e61&pf_rd_r=4ADZWYZ494R6KYGVNW91&qid=1567260500&s=gateway) is a great choice as the top loop is pliable so it will fit all sorts of lockers. **4. A comfy sweatshirt** ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/IMG_0945.jpg?fit=794%2C1024&ssl=1 "IMG_0945 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Mike](http://instagram.com/iammikejoy) and his $20 sheep sweatshirt from HM Buenos Aires This is an item that has taken me a A LONG time to come around to bringing. My reasoning is this. Travel is hard. Travel is tough. Travel is long. There is nothing better to throw on when you are tired and over everything than a soft fuzzy hoodie. Plus, as every traveler knows, if a bus has air conditioning — it will be set to FREEZING. 5\. **Portable charger** Will it be dead at the worst possible time? Of course. But the chance of this little battery pack saving your life when your bus arrives two hours late and you watched the entire last season of *Stranger Things* on the eight hour journey, is still pretty high 6\. **Water filter** ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/WaterFilter.jpg "WaterFilter - Couchsurfing Blog")Get a [portable filter](https://www.amazon.com/Sawyer-Products-SP128-Filtration-System/dp/B00FA2RLX2/ref=sxin_3_ac_d_pm?ac_md=1-0-VW5kZXIgJDUw-ac_d_pm&keywords=portable+water+filter&pd_rd_i=B00FA2RLX2&pd_rd_r=9f10e056-5d8c-4038-9856-2041bcba5d4d&pd_rd_w=ZFQhK&pd_rd_wg=YCyKB&pf_rd_p=aed08533-d0f3-456a-bfcd-3ec60fc417c9&pf_rd_r=SK53CTEA30SAWEHNXXMX&psc=1&qid=1567261056&s=gateway) or a [water bottle](https://www.amazon.com/Brita-Premium-Filtering-Bottle-Filter/dp/B07H1F6N2F/ref=sxin_3_ac_d_pm?ac_md=2-0-VW5kZXIgJDI1-ac_d_pm&keywords=water+bottle+filter&pd_rd_i=B07H1F6N2F&pd_rd_r=044a6163-8ab8-47f7-81ec-be46a6761a05&pd_rd_w=g19Z5&pd_rd_wg=R2jF6&pf_rd_p=aed08533-d0f3-456a-bfcd-3ec60fc417c9&pf_rd_r=ACDQ3AZJYJCAJC9S87ZE&psc=1&qid=1567261034&s=gateway) that has one built in By [makasana photo](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/makasana+photo)shutterstock Although the ad will show you sticking this straight into a pond — I would suggest you only use this with the slightly less risky tap water on your trip. Many countries have water that is relatively safe, and this may just give you that extra piece of comfort that you won’t wake up in the middle of the night feeling like your stomach has knives in it. Check out the [Life Straw](https://www.amazon.com/stores/page/76B73B45-1E8D-4ED6-8562-DF4762F7D424?store_ref=SB_A08114375847D89SOJVY&pf_rd_p=9420597b-7dad-4cbd-a28d-7d676ac67378&hsa_cr_id=8462722790101&lp_slot=auto-sparkle-hsa-tetris&lp_asins=B006QF3TW4,B01G7SQBPQ,B074WJDZYK&lp_mat_key=filter%20bottle&lp_query=water%20bottle%20filter&sb-ci-n=headline&sb-ci-v=LifeStraw%20Makes%20Contaminated%20Water%20Safe%20to%20Drink) if you really want to go wild. Trust us. Put these in your backpack now, whether or not you have a trip planned. Just leave them there and let the universe work its magic. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/6-must-pack-items-for-your-next-adventure/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/6-must-pack-items-for-your-next-adventure/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Advice **Tags:** How to pack, must pack, newsletter, travel advice, what to pack --- ### [South America Travel Hack: Take a Flight](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/take-a-flight/) **Published:** October 1, 2019 **Author:** Mike Joy **Excerpt:** If you are planning your trip through South America, take a look at this article to get some tips on how to save money, see the most, and avoid 24 hour busses! **Content:** #### About the author: [Mike Joy](http://instagram.com/iammikejoy) is a prolific traveler, expert avoider of long-haul busses, and Community Manager at Couchsurfing. ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/shutterstock_553131187.jpg?fit=910%2C615&ssl=1 "shutterstock_553131187 - Couchsurfing Blog") By [Jag cz](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/jagcz)shutterstockIf you are starting to plan your next backpacking trip, and South America is calling your name *(¡Tú! ¡Sí tú! ¡Ven aca!)*, you will soon realize that the distances between some of your *must-sees* is quite a bit longer than you may have imagined. This is not Europe, where a three-hour train ride gets you between two capitals of culture. In South America three hours in a train, if there even is one, will take you around 100km, if you’re lucky. South America has many things going for it, but high speed trains is not one of them. ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/busrideovernight.jpg?fit=910%2C683&ssl=1 "busrideovernight - Couchsurfing Blog") By [duangphorn wiriya](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/duangphorn)shutterstock The majority of backpackers opt for the long-distance bus rides of 20+ hours; but if you don’t have that kind of time you’ll need to throw in an international flight or two. Unfortunately, that is when prices start to rise and puts the backpackers paradise of South America out of reach. Fortunately, for those who have just a little bit of flexibility in their schedule, there is a neat trick to make flights cheaper. It is going to seem so obvious but is still often overlooked. **Domestic flights are FAR cheaper than international flights.** I know, you are thinking ‘I already know that…’ but did you? When I flew into Quito, I hadn’t planned anything, I just needed to be in Rio two months later and had no idea where I would go. After bumming around Ecuador for two weeks it was time for me to get to Peru, at which point the cheapest flight I could find was well over US$300. And Ecuador is one of the countries blessed with TWO international airports with regular services to Lima. Of course, I was doing this last minute, but take a quick search of flights between Ecuador and Lima and you will find that they are well into the hundreds. As I began looking into a dreaded 18 hour bus ride to Lima, I happened to open Google Flights and was surprised to see the flight from Mancora, right over the border in Perú, to Lima was US$80. Still more than the bus, but saving me US$200 dollars. The bus from Guayaquil to Mancora is six hours, you get a couple days on one of the most beautiful beaches in Peru, and you get to Lima in far less time than that bus ride. This isn’t a one-off either. ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/IMG_7864.jpg?fit=910%2C748&ssl=1 "IMG_7864 - Couchsurfing Blog")I Mike ended up having to walk part of the Arequipa Chile route due to a protest on the highway But that is a story for another day After exploring Perú for a few weeks, I ended up in Arequipa and all the flights had me stopping in Lima to continue to Chilé for a few hundred bucks. But again, a six-hour bus ride has you at the Chile/Peru border, and 30 minutes after you are in the gorgeous beach town of Arica, complete with hiking, nightlife and beaches galore. Flight from Arica to Santiago, again under US$100. As anyone who has backpacked before can tell you, planning too much ahead will cause you to miss out on some of the greatest experiences you only find by talking to others on the road. If you can’t (or won’t) budget in multi-hour bus trips, but are still flexible enough to add in a city or two, bussing across borders and flying to the next major city is an excellent, underrated alternative. Here are a few of the most affordable connections with a simple bus crossing: *Bus* **Guayaquil**, Ecuador to **Mancora**, Perú. *Fly* on to **Lima**. *Bus* **Arequipa**, Perú to **Arica**, Chilé. *Fly* on to **Santiago**. *Bus* **Santiago**, Chile to **Mendoza**, Argentina. *Fly* on to **Buenos Aires**. *Bus* **Foz du Iguazu**, Brazil to **Iguazu Falls**, Argentina. *Fly* on to **Buenos Aires**. *Bus* **Uyuni**, Bolivia to **San Pedro de Atacama**, Chile (via Calama). *Fly* to **Santiago**. ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/shutterstock_363724796.jpg?fit=910%2C607&ssl=1 "shutterstock_363724796 - Couchsurfing Blog") By [Wollertz](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/wollertz)shutterstockOf course with these flights you are missing some gorgeous spots. The north of Perú has some of the most incredible hikes you’ll find in the Andes. Arica to Santiago bypasses the Atacama Desert, but when you only have a limited amount of time you have to make some cuts, and domestic flights can help you cram as much as possible most into your trip while not draining your savings account. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/take-a-flight/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/take-a-flight/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Advice **Tags:** air flights, air travel, flights, newsletter, South America, travel advice, travel tips --- ### [A Couchsurfer's Guide to... Irkutsk](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-irkutsk/) **Published:** November 21, 2019 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Excerpt:** Dmitriy, our CS Ambassador in Irkutsk, Russia is here to give us his top recommendations for your trip to the Siberian metropolis! **Content:** ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/shutterstock_778092139.jpg?fit=1024%2C666&ssl=1 "shutterstock_778092139 - Couchsurfing Blog")Monument of Irkutsks Founders and the Cathedral of the Epiphany by [ALEKSANDR RIUTIN](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/aleksandr+riutin)**Best breakfast in town!** The most important meal of the day for city explorers must be taken seriously! There’s plenty of breakfast places for any taste and budget around the city center, but my favorite is [Belaya Vorona](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g298527-d4502884-Reviews-Belaya_Vorona-Irkutsk_Irkutsk_Oblast_Siberian_District.html) (White Crow), Carl Marx street, 39. It’s a big cafe with a pleasant atmosphere and very reasonable prices that offers a variety of breakfast choices, try their pâté plate, pancakes and drip coffee for a good morning boost! This is also a great place to read a book and relax during the day, or warm up with a cup of [sea-buckthorn tea](https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-765/sea-buckthorn) on those Siberian winter evenings. **Best view in the city!** For those not afraid of heights the best view on the city opens from the observation wheel located on the [Yunost Island](https://www.itinari.com/location/yunost-island-in-irkutsk). ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/shutterstock_1011647845.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "shutterstock_1011647845 - Couchsurfing Blog")Bridge to Yunost Island By [Tilpunov Mikhail](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/tilpunov+mikhail)shutterstock**One museum not to miss!** One of the craziest and at the same time not well-known, even among locals, is for sure the [Trash Museum](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298527-d11797299-Reviews-Landfill_Museum-Irkutsk_Irkutsk_Oblast_Siberian_District.html) (Rus. Музей на свалке). Located slightly outside the city on a real city dump site it offers an enormous collection of whatever people throw in the garbage. Starting with old family photos to that old AK-47 that kids did not play with anymore, you’ll see (and touch) real Irkutsk and Russian history. But that’s not all, they also have hundreds of figurines made of scrap metal parts, real scary orcs, a huge field with WWII historical reenactment and a real bear! This is also a great option if you’re traveling with kids! **A historic moment!** To better understand local history make a visit to the [Decembrists museum](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298527-d2578979-Reviews-Irkutsk_Regional_Memorial_Decembrists_Museum_Volkonsky_House-Irkutsk_Irkutsk_Obla.html), which consists of two beautiful old buildings located near each other, single ticket for both: Trubetskich manor (Rus: Усадьба Трубецких), Dzerzhinskogo st., 64 and Volkonskich manor (Rus: Дом-музей Волконских), Volkonskogo lane, 10. ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/shutterstock_1350315116.jpg?fit=1024%2C684&ssl=1 "shutterstock_1350315116 - Couchsurfing Blog")Decembrists Museum by [volkova natalia](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/volkova+natalia)shutterstock**Best place to grab a drink!** Traditionally Russia’s famous for vodka, but Irkutsk can also take pride in its craft beer and cocktail places. Try [Smorrebrod](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g298527-d13375099-Reviews-Smorrebrod-Irkutsk_Irkutsk_Oblast_Siberian_District.html), Bogdana Khmelnitskogo st., 3 for a good choice of local craft beer, tasty snacks, vibrant atmosphere and live music closer to midnight, the [Library Bar](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g298527-d9459411-Reviews-The_Library_Bar-Irkutsk_Irkutsk_Oblast_Siberian_District.html), Carl Marx st., 41 for one of the best cocktails in town and DJs coming at night. And then my favorite hidden gem – [One More Bar](https://www.facebook.com/OneMoreBarirk/), Litvinova st., 1, can be tricky to find but absolutely worth it! **A tourist-trap to avoid!** Unless you have very limited time to sea [Baikal](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lake_Baikal), skip going to [Listvyanka](https://www.lonelyplanet.com/russia/siberia/listvyanka), which is overly touristic and ugly, and go to [Bolshoe Goloustnoe](https://www.uvisitrussia.com/bolshoe-goloustnoe/) instead (2 hours one way, much less tourists, beautiful ice in winter, nice nature) or [Olkhon Island ](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Olkhon_Island)(picturesque Baikal views, 6 hours one way, so dedicate at least 3 days). ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/shutterstock_701553574.jpg?fit=1024%2C678&ssl=1 "shutterstock_701553574 - Couchsurfing Blog")Okhon Island By [Julia Kuzenkova](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/juliakuzenkova)shutterstock**Best quick bite!** Best doner and shwarma place in town – Pita bar, Carl Marx st., 30. Also serve delicious smoothies to accompany the snack (my favorite is mango one). Can be busy sometimes, but you can always order to go. **One last piece of advice!** Dedicating around 2-3 days for Irkutsk and 3-4 days for the Baikal area is a good idea. ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/shutterstock_1208248744.jpg?fit=1024%2C655&ssl=1 "shutterstock_1208248744 - Couchsurfing Blog")Frozen Lake Baikal in the winter by [Katvic](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/katyanova+victoria)shutterstock### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-irkutsk/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-irkutsk/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Guides **Tags:** Baikal, Decembrists museum, irkutsk, olkhon island, russia, Yunost island --- ### [A Couchsurfer's Guide to... Mexico City](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-cs-guide-to-mexico-city/) **Published:** November 14, 2019 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Excerpt:** Our community in Mexico City gives you their tips and tricks to have the most incredible visit to this stunning, historic and energetic capital city! **Content:** ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/shutterstock_1114380725.jpg?fit=1024%2C317&ssl=1 "shutterstock_1114380725 - Couchsurfing Blog")CDMX Skyline By [Marianna Ianovska](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/mysokol)shutterstock**Best street food!** If you’re looking for an authentic taco stand that’s always busy with lots of options head to [El Rey del Taco](https://www.bloomberg.com/features/2017-mexico-city-best-tacos/) in Roma Norte. Enjoy tacos, quesadillas, tortas, alhambras, or gringas with almost ten different types of meat options. When you’ve had your fill head just two blocks down the street to for some of Mexico City’s best *cerveza artesanal* at [Falling Piano Brewing](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g150800-d17353621-Reviews-Falling_Piano_Brewing_Co-Mexico_City_Central_Mexico_and_Gulf_Coast.html). If you’re looking for vegan pastor-style tacos head to the popular [Por Siempre Vegana](https://www.facebook.com/porsiempreveganataqueria) also on Calle Coahuila. ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/shutterstock_1342665338.jpg?fit=1024%2C681&ssl=1 "shutterstock_1342665338 - Couchsurfing Blog")Street tacos By [Bran M](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/bran+m)shutterstock**Best breakfast in town!** If you’re looking for an authentic breakfast head to any of the neighborhood *mercados* around town such as [Mercado de Coyoacán](https://centrodecoyoacan.mx/que-hacer/mercados-artesanias/Mercado-de-Coyoacan) or [Mercado Medellin](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g150800-d12442220-Reviews-Mercado_de_Medellin-Mexico_City_Central_Mexico_and_Gulf_Coast.html) in Roma. If you’re looking for a great place with a view and amazing breakfast you can go to the terrace at [Don Toribio](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g150800-d2195652-Reviews-Don_Toribio-Mexico_City_Central_Mexico_and_Gulf_Coast.html) in Centro Histórico. Very traditional breakfast. Another typical breakfast is “[Torta de Chilaquiles](http://www.nibblesandfeasts.com/2017/05/torta-chilaquil/)” at the intersection of Alfonso Reyes and Av Tamaulipas; it’s typical Mexican street food typical. You might find a long waiting line but it’s worth it. **One museum not to miss!** If you’re looking for some of the best museums in the city head to [Chapultepec Park](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chapultepec). The [Anthropology Museum](https://www.lonelyplanet.com/mexico/mexico-city/attractions/museo-nacional-de-antropologia/a/poi-sig/375915/361544) is the crown jewel of the city’s 150+ museums and has 12 halls exhibiting many of the ancient civilizations of Mexico up until today. Also, be sure to check out the [Castillo de Chapultepec](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chapultepec_Castle), the only castle from which a monarch ([Maximilliano](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maximilian_I_of_Mexico)) has ruled in the Americas. Finally, check out [Los Pinos](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Los_Pinos), the former presidential residence that the current president refuses to live in because it’s too opulent. He claims it belongs to the Mexican people and has opened it to the public for free. At [Coyoacán](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Coyoac%C3%A1n) you can visit the [Frida Kahlo museum](https://www.museofridakahlo.org.mx/en/the-blue-house/), AKA “La casa Azul”. While being in the south, you can go to [Anahuacalli Museum](http://museoanahuacalli.org.mx/en/frontpage/) (a museum by [Diego Rivera](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diego_Rivera)). ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/shutterstock_519739114.jpg?fit=1024%2C682&ssl=1 "shutterstock_519739114 - Couchsurfing Blog")La Casa Azul Frida Kahlos house By [Anton Ivanov](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/siempreverde22)shutterstock**Best place to grab a drink!** Check out [Bosforo](https://local.mx/musica/clubs-y-bares/bosforo/) a discreet hole-in-the-wall bar downtown not far from the Alameda Central. From the street it’s a nondescript entryway with a big red curtain covering the doorway. Pull back the curtain and you’ll find a bustling mezcal bar with a lively crowd swaying to the music, where you can try more than ten different types of mezcal. You’ll find it just to the right of La Vitrina on Calle Luis Moya downtown. **Where to sweat!** [Viveros de Coyoacán](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Viveros_de_Coyoac%C3%A1n) is an excellent place to go for a run or enjoy a nice afternoon in one of the larger green spaces in the city. It’s a combination of a tree nursery and public park and has many well landscaped trails to get away from the concrete jungle of the city. Running in [Chapultepec](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chapultepec) 2nd section is also a good idea; there is a track called “El Sope” where you can run in a 2k track or also go for a run through all the park and have a great view of the city. ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/shutterstock_1146760256-1.jpg?fit=1024%2C768&ssl=1 "shutterstock_1146760256-1 - Couchsurfing Blog")Chapultepec Park with the castle in the background By [Suriel Ramzal](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/surielramzal)shutterstock**A treat-yourself-meal!** If you’re looking for an excellent upmarket Mexican meal in a beautiful building in the Centro Historico look no further than *[Azul Historico](http://azul.rest/azul-historico/)*. It’s known for highlighting specialties from various states and regions in Mexico. The adventurous eater might enjoy starting off with the Oaxacan speciality *Guacamole con [Chapulines](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chapulines)*. Then enjoy one of the *platos fuertes* for the main course. **Historic Moment!** Don’t forget to check out the [Zocalo](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Z%C3%B3calo), the principal square in the city and the third largest in the world (after the Red Square and Tiananmen Square). In the Zocalo metro station (Blue, Line 2) you can find replicas of the square under the rule of the Aztecs in 1524, just after independence from the Spanish in 1824, and also in 1900. Also be sure to check out the [Templo Mayor](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Templo_Mayor) an archaeological treasure trove of artifacts from the main pyramid that stood on the square at the height of the Aztec Empire. ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/shutterstock_1433966687.jpg?fit=1024%2C678&ssl=1 "shutterstock_1433966687 - Couchsurfing Blog")Metropolitan Cathedral of Mexico City in Zocalo Square By [marketa1982](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/marketa1982)shutterstock**Cutest Cafe!** You can go to the top of [Sanborns](https://www.tripadvisor.com.mx/Restaurant_Review-g150800-d2403129-Reviews-Cafe_de_la_Gran_Ciudad-Mexico_City_Central_Mexico_and_Gulf_Coast.html) building in front of Bellas Artes; apart from taking some coffee, you can take a great picture of Bellas Artes. There are also several cafes at Condesa, you could go to [Rococo Cafe](https://www.timeoutmexico.mx/ciudad-de-mexico/restaurantes-cafes/rococo-cafe-espresso) near Parque España; or [Bocca](https://www.facebook.com/BOCAPasteleria/), a nice cafe in Roma where you’ll find delicious desserts. The cafe at [Biblioteca Porrúa](https://www.facebook.com/LibreriaPorrua/) downtown will also be a good choice. **Best day-trip out of town!** The Pyramids of [Teotihuacan](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Teotihuacan) and the pyramid on top of a mountain in [Tepoztlan](https://www.visitmexico.com/en/main-destinations/morelos/tepoztlan) are both excellent choices for amazing places to check out within a couple hours of the city. Teotihuacan can be reached by bus from the city and is one of the most famous temple complexes in the world. Be sure not to mix it with the similarly named Tepozotlán, which is also a great day-trip. ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/shutterstock_623845142.jpg?fit=1024%2C563&ssl=1 "shutterstock_623845142 - Couchsurfing Blog")View of Teotihuacan and Pyramid of the Sun By [Vadim Petrakov](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/valon)shutterstock**The perfect picture!** Go early on a clear day and get an excellent picture of [Paseo de Reforma](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paseo_de_la_Reforma) from [Chapultepec Castle](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chapultepec_Castle). Reforma was designed to imitate the Champ de Elysee in Paris to connect the castle to the Centro Historico. It’s now home to the majority of Mexico City’s skyscrapers. Another option for an amazing picture inside a building head to the architectural marvel that is [Biblioteca Vasconcelos](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Biblioteca_Vasconcelos). You can also take an amazing picture from the top of the [Torre Latino](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g150800-d184497-Reviews-Torre_Latino-Mexico_City_Central_Mexico_and_Gulf_Coast.html). You could go to the restaurant or bar on top of the building if you prefer to get a drink instead of doing the tourist sightseeing. **One experience not to miss!** Go on a weekend to the canals of [Xochimilco](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Xochimilco), to either the Cuemanco or Nativitas embarcadero. For five hundred pesos you can rent a [Trajinera](https://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trajinera) as you explore the way ancient canals that used to define the city with a [michelada](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Michelada) in hand and listening to some Mariachi music. Most of the ancient lake has been gradually filled in by the city over the last five hundred years. ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/shutterstock_1348227467.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "shutterstock_1348227467 - Couchsurfing Blog")Boats on the canals of Xochimilco By [BoPhotoAdventures](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/bophotoadventures)shutterstock**A tourist trap to avoid!** At [Zocalo](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Z%C3%B3calo) there’s a street where you can find several terraced restaurants that might not get you the best view of the Zocalo nor great food and most likely will be a bit overpriced, particularly on the pedestrian mall of Calle Francisco I. Madera. If you want to go to a terrace with a great view of [Templo Mayor](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Templo_Mayor) you can go to [Biblioteca Porrúa](https://www.facebook.com/LibreriaPorrua/), where at the top of the building you can find a nice restaurant not so crowded and where you can enjoy just a nice cup of coffee for a decent price. **Anything else to add….** Mexico City is within a one to four hour flight of the entire country. It’s an ideal time to fly in Mexico and take advantage of the competition of the three low cost airlines (Interjet, Volaris, and VivaAerobus). It’s also within a seven hour bus ride of all of central Mexico. Popular trips beyond the city include the obvious [Guanajuato](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/guanajuato), [Querétaro](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quer%C3%A9taro), [Puebla](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Puebla), and [Oaxaca](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oaxaca). However, more underrated destinations include [Taxco](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Taxco), [Orizaba](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/orizaba), [Tolantong](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tolantong), [Peña de Bernal](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pe%C3%B1a_de_Bernal), [Zacatecas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/zacatecas), [Patzcuaro](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/patzcuaro) and [Janitzio](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Janitzio). ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/shutterstock_1467955724.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1 "shutterstock_1467955724 - Couchsurfing Blog")Oaxaca By [Bill Perry](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/bpperry)### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-cs-guide-to-mexico-city/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-cs-guide-to-mexico-city/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Guides **Tags:** Anahuacalli Museum, bellas artes, blue house, cathedral, cdmx, chapultepec, frida kahlo, mexico city, michelada, oaxaca, paseo de reforma, street tacos, tacos, temple of the moon, temple of the sun, teotihuacan, Torta de Chilaquiles, xochimilco, zocalo --- ### [6 tips to stay fit while on the road](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/6-tips-to-stay-fit-while-on-the-road/) **Published:** November 12, 2019 **Author:** Mike Joy **Excerpt:** If you are coming from a 5 day-a-week workout schedule, and the idea of not exercising for weeks is holding you back from taking a long-term trip. I'm here to say, you have PLENTY of options to stay fit on the road and still have an amazing trip. **Content:** ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/shutterstock_521663452.jpg?fit=1024%2C683 "shutterstock_521663452 - Couchsurfing Blog")You tell me that walking around with that luggage isnt a workout By [Bignai](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/bignai)shutterstockLet me start by saying that walking around a city with a 15kg backpack strapped to you, in 30°C weather, is a workout! You will sweat, your legs will burn, your back will ache – you will definitely be strengthening both your mind and your core. But, some of you, may be coming from a 5 day-a-week workout schedule, and the idea of not exercising for weeks may be holding you back from taking the plunge on a long-term trip. I’m here to say, you have PLENTY of options to stay fit. When I’m home, I workout 5-6 days a week. When I would travel, I would work out zero days a week. For me, this drop in dedication and strength was a mental strain and made me question taking long term trips for fear that I would slip out of my healthy lifestyle. Over the years, I’ve grown to find a happy medium in my fitness while on the road. Here’s what I’ve learned and happily recommend to you: **Manage Expectations!** ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/shutterstock_1125770258.jpg?fit=1024%2C683 "shutterstock_1125770258 - Couchsurfing Blog")Youre on vacation Enjoy it By [Klever LeveL](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/eyecan)shutterstockThe most important thing to accept is that no, you will not workout as often. And that is ok! You have busses to catch, sites to see, food to eat, people to meet, experiences to have. Fitness is not going to be your #1 goal, and that’s ok! I try to workout 3 days a week while traveling (and not 3 gym days!) I combine at-home yoga, hikes, runs in parks, classes, and give myself a break if I’m tired, sick, or just plain don’t wanna do it! I bring things that are packable and light and then adjust to where I am and what is feasible. **Use the outdoors!** ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/shutterstock_662738233.jpg?fit=1024%2C683 "shutterstock_662738233 - Couchsurfing Blog")A jog in the city park is an easy and free way to get a little morning workout in By [Halfpoint](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/halfpoint)shutterstockIn every “[A Couchsurfer’s Guide to…](http://10.9.0.204/category/all/couchsurfing-travel/travel-guides/)” I ask our Ambassadors ‘Where to sweat!” And 9 out of 10 times they give a beautiful park with running trails or a gorgeous local hike. You will kill two birds with one stone, see something incredible and unique and break a sweat. So skip the cable car, raise the pace to a jog, find a viewpoint to climb – many cities have plenty of outdoor space for you to take advantage of. Or, just explore the city! Walking around for hours is still exercise! So if one day you walk from Trastevere to the Roman Forum, don’t downplay how much exercise you are getting! **Take a class!** ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/shutterstock_565483831.jpg?fit=1024%2C683 "shutterstock_565483831 - Couchsurfing Blog")Spin is a great option if you dont know the local language By [vectorfusionart](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/vectorfusionart)shutterstockWe are truly in the age of the class. In most major cities, you can find a spin class, yoga studio, Crossfit gym or other group fitness class to fit any desire. They range in price and are varied enough to fit most interests. Spend a little time on google or maps looking up local classes – or post in a [Couchsurfing thread or group](https://www.couchsurfing.com/groups) and see if some locals can recommend one! As someone who has done yoga in 4 languages, while only speaking 1.5, I can tell you it is a workout for your body and your mind! **Pack the basics!** ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/shutterstock_452378956.jpg?fit=1024%2C683 "shutterstock_452378956 - Couchsurfing Blog")Resistance bands are light easy to pack and a great resistance training tool By [InnerVisionPRO](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/innervisionpro)shutterstockI travel with a yoga mat and resistance bands. That’s it. The yoga mat I spread out in the living room, the park, the roof, wherever I can find the space. The resistance bands can be done literally anywhere. Looped under your foot, to a tree, or to a bunk bed pole. These two things, and a little self-dedication will get you the burn you crave and are a great start to the day! **Find a gym (and workout buddy)**! ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/shutterstock_329554343.jpg?fit=1024%2C683 "shutterstock_329554343 - Couchsurfing Blog")Google fitness center or gym and see what your options are By [wavebreakmedia](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/4774344sean)shutterstockI have been to hundreds of cities, and have always been able to find a gym that sells a one day pass. In Jaisalmer, India, it was ‘pay what you want’. In Kathmandu we had to take off our shoes and workout in the dark during power outages. In Buenos Aires, well that gym was the same as my gym back home. Point being, google ‘gym’ or ‘fitness center’ ([or ask on CS](https://www.couchsurfing.com/groups)) and ask for the day rate. Get on ‘[hangouts](https://www.couchsurfing.com/mobile-hangouts)‘ and look for a workout buddy. I’ve had hosts give me day passes to their gym, and I’ve done the same when back home. Couchsurfing is all about finding people who share your interests, and guess what, many Couchsurfers share your interest in fitness! **Download classes**! ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/shutterstock_614753918.jpg?fit=1024%2C683 "shutterstock_614753918 - Couchsurfing Blog")Letting the professionals teach you in the comfort of your home by [Pindyurin Vasily](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/pvm)shutterstockFor the amount of time I spend working out, I have no self-motivation. I need something to tell me what to do, how long to do it, and when to stop. I rely on apps. [Youtube](http://Youtube.com) has a great selection of classes. [ClassPass Go](https://help.classpass.com/hc/en-us/articles/360009686932-What-is-Go-) is $8 a month and connects you to audio classes. [Alo Moves](https://www.aloyoga.com/pages/alo-moves) is my choice for yoga and core classes on the go ($20 a month). [Shred](https://www.shred.app/) is what I use for all of my workouts, and they have plenty of options for those who hate the gym. Jump in the comments to share your favorite app. Whatever your travel plans are, there is a way for you to fit fitness in. Not only can it be used to explore the city, but many studios revolve around community and you may just make a friend or two at the smoothie bar after yoga. And there is no better way to bond with your host or new hangout-buddy than breaking a sweat! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/6-tips-to-stay-fit-while-on-the-road/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/6-tips-to-stay-fit-while-on-the-road/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Advice **Tags:** fitness, fitness studio, gym, running, spin class, work out, yoga --- ### [A Couchsurfer's Guide to... Barcelona](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-barcelona/) **Published:** November 7, 2019 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Excerpt:** Sagrada Familia! Beach! Art! Parc Guell! Gaudi! Barcelona is famous for its beauty, weather and activities. Check out our CS Ambassador's guide to Barcelona to get her tips to see the real Barcelona! **Content:** #### [Ana](https://www.couchsurfing.com/users/1005722798) is an Ambassador in Barcelona, Spain. Here she gives her suggestions for the must-sees in Barcelona so you can get the most out of your trip to the gorgeous Barcelona! ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/shutterstock_407568172.jpg?fit=1024%2C630 "shutterstock_407568172 - Couchsurfing Blog")Barcelona from Parc Guell by [Georgios Tsichlis](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/georgios+tsichlis) shutterstock**Best breakfast in town** There are two good options, sweet or salty: –*Sweet:* Enjoy the typical “[Chocolate con churros](https://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chocolate_con_churros)” that they serve in most cafés that offer breakfast. –*Salty*: Taste our “baguetines” with anything you choose on top. The ones with tuna and olives or jamón are very tasty. **Museum not to miss!** It’s difficult to recommend a museum because it depends on what you’re into: Into Art? Don’t miss the [Museum of Art of Catalonia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Museu_Nacional_d%27Art_de_Catalunya). You will see all kinds of art you can imagine from church paintings, photography to sculptures. You can spend the whole day visiting, it’s quite big. Prefer History? Then the old [Roman City museum](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Museum_of_the_History_of_Barcelona) will help you understand how Barcelona was founded. You will visit real Roman baths, mosaics and workshops under the ground! *Tip: These museums are free to enter on Sunday afternoons after 3 PM.* ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/shutterstock_1528158350.jpg?fit=1024%2C683 "shutterstock_1528158350 - Couchsurfing Blog")The Cathedral Nope The National Museum of Art by [Zubkov Igor](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/zubkov+igor) shutterstock**A treat-yourself-meal** It’s really difficult to find a good option in Barcelona centre, but not impossible. Near metro Barcelona and in front of the sea you can also enjoy the typical tapas at a reasonable price. Go to [La Maquinista street](https://www.barcelona-metropolitan.com/in-the-city/streetlife-barceloneta-maquinista/#page=1) and taste tapas in places where locals still go for a meal. Don’t miss the seafood tapas and the “[bombas picantes](https://cookpad.com/es/recetas/136961-bombas-picantes)” – they are delicious! **Best place to grab a drink** One of the best places to grab a drink that tourists miss is in Barrio de Gràcia. Take a walk through its little streets and its tiny bars and feel the atmosphere during the evening. Any place near [Plaça del Sol](https://www.bcn.travel/guide/placa-del-sol/) would be a good option. You can go for a [Tinto de Verano](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tinto_de_verano), [Clara](https://www.thespruceeats.com/lemon-beer-recipe-clara-or-shandy-3083124) (beer with lemon) or taste the typical [Catalan beers](https://www.shbarcelona.com/blog/en/a-class-in-catalan-beers/). ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/shutterstock_1077150302.jpg?fit=1024%2C768 "shutterstock_1077150302 - Couchsurfing Blog")Revolution Square in Barrio de Gracia by [Sergio TB](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/sergio+tb) shutterstock**Best quick bite** Try the “[pinchos](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pincho)” at [Blai street](https://www.shbarcelona.com/blog/en/tapas/) near metro [Poble Sec](http://nymag.com/urbanist/the-best-of-poble-sec-barcelonas-liveliest-neighborhood.html). Each pincho is €1-€2 and you can try many different ones. Don’t forget to move from one bar to the next to taste all specialities and find your favorite one! In these kinds of bars you have to serve yourself from the trays displayed. Each tray has a variety of “pincho”, and each one has a stick in it. You don’t have to pay each time you take food, but don’t forget to keep all your “sticks” on your plate in order to pay afterwards! The waiters will count the sticks and that’s how they know the total price of the bill. **Where to sweat** Take a walk uphill to the [Montjuic Castle](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Montju%C3%AFc_Castle) where you can lose all the weight you put on after the tapas and pinchos. Tavel by metro to [Paral·lel](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paral%C2%B7lel_(Barcelona_Metro)) station and then take the [Funicular](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Funicular) that will drop you at the base of the hill. Go up the steep path enjoying the view of the surrounding gardens. If you feel exhausted, you can also take the cable car ([Teleferic de Montjuic](https://www.telefericdemontjuic.cat/en)) and tell yourself that you wanted to try it because of the views 🙂 Once on top, you can enjoy the view of the city from there and walk around the castle. ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/shutterstock_249458710.jpg?fit=1024%2C683 "shutterstock_249458710 - Couchsurfing Blog")Teleferic de Montjuic by [Iakov Filimonov](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/jackf) shutterstock**Historic moment** Have you ever wondered why [Catalonia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Catalonia) wants its independence? In 1714 Catalonia was forced to become part of Spain [through a war](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/War_of_the_Spanish_Succession). Do you want to see the remains of the medieval city after the war? Go to [El Born cultural centre](http://elbornculturaimemoria.barcelona.cat/en/the-center/) and you will see how the city was in that area after the [Borbons invaded Barcelona](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Siege_of_Barcelona_(1713%E2%80%9314)). There are guided tours through the medieval city. You will see real canyon bullets still lying on the floor and will discover how those people lived in the city 300 hundreds years ago. **Best day-trips out of town** Summer: Take a day-trip to [Costa Brava](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Costa_Brava), to the town [Tossa de Mar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tossa_de_Mar). Have a swim in its amazing beaches and visit the old town and [castle](https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g230087-d3676520-r156143815-Castillo_de_Tossa_de_Mar-Tossa_de_Mar_Costa_Brava_Province_of_Girona_Catalonia.html) there. You can also walk to some bays nearby, that’s really recommended to see breathtaking cliffs. You need to take a train to the town [Blanes](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blanes) and then a bus (about 1 hour 30 min). Winter: Try [Montserrat](https://wikitravel.org/en/Montserrat_(Spain)), a spectacular mountain with strange shapes. There is an old monastery there, but don’t waste your time visiting it because it’s not worth it. Instead, take one of many hikes available through the mountain, the one called “[Sant Geroni de Murtra](https://barcelonanavigator.com/sant-jeroni-de-la-murtra-hike/)” is recommended if you want to enjoy an amazing view from the top of Montserrat. Also, you can visit the real statue of the [Virgin of Montserrat](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Virgin_of_Montserrat) and discover why she is a black woman (there is a story about it 🙂 ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/shutterstock_320209667.jpg?fit=1024%2C683 "shutterstock_320209667 - Couchsurfing Blog")Tossa de Mar by [kavalenkau](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/nikov) shutterstock**Cutest café** You can visit “[Café dels Quatre Gats](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Els_Quatre_Gats)”, very near the [Cathedral](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barcelona_Cathedral) which is also a historical place where many artists from the modernist period got together to talk about their projects. Its façade is modernist and the inside is also a little piece of art. The prices are really good taking into account it’s in the centre and that it is a popular place. **The perfect picture** Go up the hill in [Bunkers del Carmel](https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/bunkers-del-carmel). Not only you will find the perfect view of the city from all angles, but a perpetual party on the top! There are always people having fun and drinking or lying on the sun. The place is historical as well, as its name points out, there were bunkers from the Spanish civil war and also the remains of war machines placed on the ground. ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/shutterstock_1160110255.jpg?fit=1024%2C768 "shutterstock_1160110255 - Couchsurfing Blog")Views of Barcelona from Bunkers del Carmel by [Pat Santos](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/pat_santos) shutterstock**A tourist trap to avoid** Never buy any goods at “[manteros](https://www.thevisigoth.com/single-post/2017/03/23/A-Real-Market-for-Barcelonas-Manteros)”, they are illegal sellers. They exist because of the tourists, and they take advantage that Barcelona is expensive to offer products at half price. What tourists don’t know is that if the authorities see you purchasing there, you will have to pay a fine of €300-€500. That can ruin your whole stay in the city. So avoid them. **An experience (or two!) not to miss** 1. Don’t leave the city without going to a [Castellers](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Castell) performance. These are groups who compete building human towers. 2\. I guess that visiting [Sagrada Familia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sagrada_Fam%C3%ADlia) is in your mind when you think of Barcelona. You can go in for free if you attend the service on Sunday mornings. But you must be an early bird for that and go and line up at the door at 8:30am at the latest. ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/shutterstock_1158971479.jpg?fit=1024%2C684 "shutterstock_1158971479 - Couchsurfing Blog")Castellers By [Beka31](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/beka31)shutterstock**Any other advice…** 1\. Don’t waste your precious time while in Barcelona walking up and down [La Rambla](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/La_Rambla,_Barcelona). There is absolutely nothing to see there and it’s plagued of pickpockets and you can easily become a target. 2. Don’t believe what the news say about Barcelona and that is dangerous because of the protests. It’s all political crap to destroy the reputation of an amazing city. Just use your common sense and don’t get in the middle of the chaos and you’ll be perfectly safe. ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/shutterstock_631992773.jpg?fit=1024%2C684 "shutterstock_631992773 - Couchsurfing Blog")Sagrada Familia by [krivinis](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/krivinis) shutterstock### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-barcelona/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-barcelona/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Guides **Tags:** Barcelona, barrio de gracia, bunkers of carmel, Catalonia, couchsurfing, Montjuic Hill, Montserrat, national museum of art, parc guell, pinchos, spain, teleferic --- ### [10 Questions with a Couchsurfing Ambassador: Gabriela](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-couchsurfing-ambassador-gabriela/) **Published:** November 10, 2019 **Author:** Mike Joy **Excerpt:** Meet Gabriela. Our Country Ambassador for Mexico, resident of Mexico City, and world traveler! **Content:** #### Name: [Gabriela](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/gabanana) City: Mexico City, Mexico Years on Couchsurfing: 8 **What made you start using Couchsurfing?** I read about the site at a blog on “How to travel cheap” and it reminded me of a conversation two friends had. I reached out to my friend and asked her more about it and she told me great stories about it, being a community and it’s like staying with a distant friend or relative. I was very curious about it and tried to attend a few local events however there was always something holding me back. I finally decided to go on a CS camping trip. After that trip, I started hosting but living with my parents and siblings complicated the logistics a bit so I attended meetings, crashes, and whatever we could think of. After studying abroad, I came back to Mexico and started hosting in my own place. I loved the vibe and everything about CS that I started organizing meetings and trips. I’m always happy to make new friends in CouchSurfing, they are like a family to me. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/First-CS-meeting.jpg "First-CS-meeting - Couchsurfing Blog")Gabriela at her first CS meeting Vintage sign and all **Wow! So you have done it all! What were your first experiences like as a host and as a surfer?** As a host, it was a girl from Singapore studying in NYC and visiting Mexico. I was her second host so it was great that we were each others somehow first experiences. She stayed with me at my parents’ house. She cooked some Japanese food and I cooked some Mexican food. My mom loved her and couldn’t wait to host more people. Sadly my brother wasn’t on board with the idea of hosting strangers so in order to keep the peace and not make anyone uncomfortable I paused my hosting while staying there. And, as a surfer I did a massive first-surfer experience. I joined the ‘invasion’ of [Puebla](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Puebla_(city)) with the CS community from [Queretaro](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quer%C3%A9taro) and we were hosted by Ray. We still keep in touch and he’s a good friend and we now live in the same city. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/CS-Ambassadors.jpg "CS-Ambassadors - Couchsurfing Blog")Gabriela and some Ambassadors at Teotihuacán**Amazing! That’s so cute your mom was so excited about hosting! So what has been your most interesting experience on CS?** [Oaxaca](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oaxaca) for sure! I went there with a friend and we decided to couchsurf. We stayed with a guy who had a TreeHouse!!! I had never even seen one before. His place was a bit far from downtown and there was no running water. We had to shower “*a* *jicarazos*” this is a Mexican term to refer to a shower where you grab water with a small bowl and pour it on you since there is no shower. This was a very different experience for me (even though my mom had grown up with this showering system) and I loved being able to do it. Our host was very cool and took us to one of his favorite places in the city. **I have definitely showered like that on camping trips. What a special experience! What is the coolest gift a surfer has given you?** Wow! This is a difficult one. I’ve gotten all sorts of gifts, from local liquors and wine to sweets to house appliances (those are the more random ones)! But one surfer (and now friend) sent me a postcard and a video of the [Marathon du Medoc](https://www.marathondumedoc.com/en/). When I got the package I was really exited at having something delivered by mail (especially given that the Mexican mail is not the greatest). He wanted me to see what I could expect from the marathon and get my hopes up of one day participating in it. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/After-running-a-marathon.jpg "After-running-a-marathon - Couchsurfing Blog")Gabriela FINISHER **What great inspiration for you to run the marathon! Speaking of inspiration, are there any books that have inspired your travels?** [Wanderlust](https://www.amazon.com/Wanderlust-History-Walking-Rebecca-Solnit/dp/0140286012)! Maybe it’s a thriller among travelers but it was a really good book about a girl who needed to get away and experience life in a different way; getting to know different cultures and get the most out of life. She didn’t stay in her “comfort zone” and even though it was difficult for her to let go of her family, she understood it was what she needed to grow and be herself. **What a great lesson to take with you! What is something unexpected or exciting that has happened to you while traveling?** Going to a [Maroon 5](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maroon_5) concert in Morocco for free! It was so random, I was visiting Morocco and hanging out with a Couchsurfer when he mentioned that there was this free festival in the city. I was at the right place and right time to be part of that. Some months later they actually came to Mexico, but I was glad I got to see them somewhere else. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Morocco1.jpg "Morocco1 - Couchsurfing Blog")Gabriela in Morocco pre concert**Oh, I have been a Maroon 5 fan since I was 14 so I completely understand and share your excitement! So what is a food from Mexico City that you think people must try? And as I will be in Mexico in 2 weeks, I will be trying this!** [Enchiladas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Enchilada) and [Chilaquiles](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chilaquiles)!! I’m not sure if you can say they are from my city, but they are Mexican cuisine in general. I don’t really like cuisine from my city since most of it it’s too greasy and fried. But [tamales](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tamale) that aren’t fried are really good, again, not sure if they started here but it’s also general Mexican cuisine. **It all sounds delicious, I will be eating it all. I’m sorry to now be making this all about my upcoming trip, but hey! What is one place in Mexico City you think everyone should visit?** [Chapultepec](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chapultepec) Forest. I find it really cool to have a forest inside the city, and it’s really big. Maybe it doesn’t have as many attractions as Central Park, but it’s great for picnics, running, museums, etc. There are a lot of things to do and it’s great to get a break from the city. ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/shutterstock_1146760256.jpg?fit=1024%2C768 "shutterstock_1146760256 - Couchsurfing Blog")Chapultepec Forest in Mexico City by [Suriel Ramzal](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/surielramzal) shutterstock**Amazing, as resident of New York I understand the need to take a break from the city in some nature – and anything that have the vibe of Central Park, I’m sure I’ll love. What is one thing you never go on a trip without?** I always try to carry Ana with me. She’s my traveling companion. When I started my one-year trip I decided to create a blog and speak through Ana von Reisen; she’s a Mexican doll from a place call [Amealco](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amealco_de_Bonfil) (my grandparents’ hometown) who I take on almost all my trips. It was a great way of keeping my family in the loop of my travels and my thoughts along the way. Now she’s the model for my pictures. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Anna-von-reisen.jpg "Anna-von-reisen - Couchsurfing Blog")Ana on a camping trip**That is so cute! Lastly, what is one piece of advice you would give new Couchsurfers?** Keep the [Values of CS](https://www.couchsurfing.com/about/values/) in mind; they interconnect and sum up what Couchsurfing is about. Share your life, while hosting and being hosted; remember it’s like staying with friends/family. Your host/surfer has a lot to share so try to spend some time with them and get to know them. It’s not free accommodation, it’s being part of someone’s life; create connections with people you interact with. Be kind with everyone but also be true to yourself and avoid difficult situations. Remember to keep yourself safe and if you don’t like something, stay away; learn to say NO when you feel uncomfortable. Stay curious about others; find out where people are coming from. This is the best way to grow and be a better person. And last but not least, leave it better than you found it: this symbolizes the growth we have as a community. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-couchsurfing-ambassador-gabriela/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-couchsurfing-ambassador-gabriela/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Meet an Ambassador --- ### [10 Backpacker Styles That Should Stay On The Road](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-backpacker-styles-that-should-stay-on-the-road/) **Published:** September 18, 2018 **Author:** Mike Joy **Content:** by Mike Joy, Community Manager at Couchsurfing When you’re backpacking, style goes out the window. You may be Anna Wintour in normal life, but while on the road, the only thing separating you from a homeless person is a giant backpack and smartphone. It can be tough to look back at your pictures from your 6 month trip and not zoom in on your clothing. Fashion choices that seemed so chic and ‘in’ at the time now make you cringe. That is because backpacking style, bred in hostels and local clothing markets, is a world unto its own. One where 16 hour buses and hundreds of mosquito bites are rites of passage. Below we highlight the top styles you thought were rockin’ on that gap year, but now realize should not have boarded the plane home with you. **1. Elephant Pants** The king of the backpacker style. Were you even in South East Asia if you don’t have colorful printed pants that cinch at the ankle and made from the lightest cotton to ever be woven? There have been nights I have looked around a hostel room and realized every single person is wearing a different version of these—and TBH we all looked cool as hell. So cool that I posted a picture to Instagram. My friends back home were not quite as enthusiastic about my style choice. *They don’t understand!* I thought. I was wrong. After flying 14 hours back home, making sure they were carefully packed, I have yet to wear them in my own apartment, much less in public. **2. Neon** Nobody loves a good neon more than me. It brings out your tan, it grabs the attention of the cute guy across the bar, it screams ‘I have nowhere to be!’ YES! Let loose! Wear crazy colors! Are you a traffic cone? Are you a highlighter during final exams? You are whatever you want to be! But listen up, that color will bleed when wet and wash out after 2 washes. Cherish it for the photo op it is—but do not expect this to be a permanent fixture in your beachwear wardrobe. **3. Liquor & Beer T-shirts** Flor de Caña in Nicaragua. Chang in Thailand. Budweiser in America. You came, you saw, you drank. We get it. We love it. We rocked the same tank. We had so many good nights playing drinking games with Singhas, or Coronas, or PBRs. How better to remember your time in a country then wear a shirt featuring the reason you don’t remember your time in the country? Wear it loud and proud. But. Like. Maybe just as a sleep shirt… **4. Headbands (in all forms)** Makes sense, hold your hair back and catch the sweat when you walk 3 miles from the bus station to wherever the hell you are sleeping that night. Even if your hair is, I don’t know, half an inch long. I too have rocked the headband-with-buzz-cut-lewk; and I’m not saying there is NO place for a tasteful headband in your normal life, but you all know the headbands I am referring to are not the ones you would wear to that job interview next Tuesday. **5. Bracelets** Oh the bracelets. Every place I have ever been on my travels has sold a bracelet. Maybe it’s twine. Maybe it’s beaded. Maybe it’s human hair. I don’t know what it is. But it seems like such a great memento. And once you have one, why not buy a second. And a third. One for each country you go to! By the end of the trip you have a tan line the size of a yoga mat up your arm and a mess of yarn that never fully seems to dry. They have emotional significance. Cool. They remind you of your one true love from that one beach bar in that one town you can’t remember. Amazing. Pack ’em in your memory book with the love note you wrote them your last night together. That’s where they belong. And if you are trying to think that this doesn’t apply to you because you put them on your ankle and called it an anklet…think again. Same same. **6. Crazy Piercings** You go away for a year and pierce your ears. And your nose. And your belly button. Then you pierce your ear a second time. Then your eyebrow. Then that middle part of your ear. And how about the septum for good measure? Do it, you can always take them out. Sure they may leave a little scar. Or get infected. But you’re young, you’re dumb, you’re a new-age hippie. Just before getting the 4th piercing, think about whether the gauge is really worth it or you’re just trying to pass time. **7. Cut-offs** Repurposing is necessary. You started in Nepal and ended in Thailand. Those jeans can totally become cute shorts! That T-shirt with the neck tear? Make it a tank! Sure, save money, use what you have! But keep in mind your friends back home will not be as indifferent to your style as the 12 other people in your hostel room. **8. Pub Crawl Paraphernalia** No one should be proud of having been on a pub crawl. There. I said it. I do not think I am too good for a pub crawl. I have had MANY amazing nights on pub crawls. Met some amazing people. Took some not-so-amazing shots. I have the photos (and hangovers) to prove it. What I don’t need is the ‘I came. I saw. I crawled’ shirt. Or the ‘Ladies Night Pub Crawl!’ tank. Or whatever hideous color wristband I was forced to wear and kept on out of solidarity with my fallen comrades. It was a great night. It will be remembered (read: not remembered). But don’t keep the free swag. It takes up room and screams ‘I’m 19 and studying abroad!’ **9. Swimsuits** When you are at the beach? Yes! Wading through a river? Absolutely. Your hotel pool? Go for it! Walking the streets of Ubud – think twice. Sure, most backpacker destinations have no specific dress-code, but visiting a restaurant in a bikini top or speedo is still not the most culturally appropriate thing to do, really in any culture. And more than a block from a large amount of sand, is probably down right rude. **10. Inappropriate Footwear** I have struggled the most with this one. Hiking boots in Nepal…necessary. Hiking boots in Gili T…lol. Teva sandals on any Island…get it! Teva sandals anywhere else…ew. What are you to do? Buy new footwear wherever you go? Throw away a $90 pair of shoes? Somehow stuff them into your backpack so you can look more ‘in place’ for that judgmental guy in your hostel writing this article? No. That’s not what I want. But what I do want is for us to remember that although anything is allowed off the beaten path. When you have a layover in Paris on your way home, have some sort of middle of the road footwear to throw on so you don’t get kicked out of the Louvre. At the end of the day though, you’re hot, you’re tired, you’re seeing the world. Wear whatever you want! Help the local economy! Just maybe dress the most—not backpacker—for that trip to the Taj Mahal. You know your grandma is gonna see the picture! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-backpacker-styles-that-should-stay-on-the-road/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-backpacker-styles-that-should-stay-on-the-road/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Featured, Stories **Tags:** adventure, backpacker, backpacker style, backpacking, fashion, hostels, travel, travel fashion, traveltips, world travel --- ### [The Maltese Spritz](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-maltese-spritz/) **Published:** September 17, 2019 **Author:** Mike Joy **Content:** #### About the author: [Mike Joy](http://instagram.com/mikejoyboy) is a prolific traveler, summer cocktail specialist, and Community Manager at Couchsurfing. Move over Aperol, there is a new spritz in town. And it is about to change the game! On a recent trip to Malta, a friend and I were walking in the hot September sun when she suddenly said, “Do you know what I could go for? An Aperol spritz!” ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/IMG_7307-e1568719057997-1024x414.jpg "IMG_7307 - Couchsurfing Blog")Valletta as seen from Sliema iammikejoyAs someone who could drink an Aperol spritz at any time, day or night. Hot, cold or frozen. Awake, asleep or jet-lagged, it took me about 30 seconds to find a cute Maltese restaurant where we could get some local cuisine and a spritz. Upon ordering we noticed ‘Maltese Spritz’ on the menu and instantly asked the waiter how it was made. The bartender explained: “It is our local ‘cactus liqueur’ with sparkling rose. It is much sweeter than an Aperol spritz but it is just as delicious!” ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/IMG_7739.jpg?fit=651%2C1024&ssl=1 "IMG_7739 - Couchsurfing Blog")A small bottle of Bajtra We ordered one and it came out as pink as the first sunburn of summer. We were wary of how sweet it would be, but upon us both tasting it we immediately ordered a second so we wouldn’t have to share. The base, *Bajtra* (Prickly Pear Liqueur), is not bitter, but it is not a sugary drink and mixed with sparkling rose it is very light and refreshing. It was the perfect spin on an Aperol spritz for people who would prefer something a little bit sweeter without being loaded with sugar. ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/IMG_7827.jpg?fit=801%2C1024&ssl=1 "IMG_7827 - Couchsurfing Blog")Maltese Spritz part 2 made with Prosecco A few days later, after a few hours on Golden Bay Beach, we headed to the bar above the beach. The bartender had not heard of a Maltese spritz, but after I explained the recipe, he made us two. He used prosecco as he didn’t have sparkling rose, and we both decided that it may be even better than the original, as it cuts the sweetness but keeps the delicious cactus flavor – which we then found out is actually prickly pear. Keep the same proportions as an Aperol spritz, but switch out Aperol for Bajtra. ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/IMG_7675.jpg?fit=768%2C1024&ssl=1 "IMG_7675 - Couchsurfing Blog")Shauna taking her first sip of the Maltese Spritz with sparkling rosé Recipe: 1 oz Bajtra (prickly pear) liqueur 2 oz prosecco (sparkling rose for a sweeter and pinker option!) A splash of soda An orange for garnish (although I think a maraschino cherry would be quite visually appealing!) And voila! You have your new fave drink of summer! Disclaimer: we have not verified this is actually a traditional drink of Malta! BUT we did have it in Malta, it uses a traditional Maltese liqueur and it is delicious. ## Top photo courtesy of shutterstock/By [Tennessee Witney](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/tennessee+witney) ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-maltese-spritz/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-maltese-spritz/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Stories **Tags:** alcohol, bajtra, cocktails, malta, must see Malta, travel, travel advice, travel stories, travel tips --- ### [Romance Scammers on Couchsurfing](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/romance-scammers-on-couchsurfing/) **Published:** October 30, 2019 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Excerpt:** A romance scammer is someone who creates a fake online persona in order to gain your trust with the goal of asking you for money. Florian, CS Trust & Safety manager, gives his advice for how to be vigilant and avoid these types of scams. **Content:** In 2019, the Couchsurfing Trust and Safety team is putting a strong focus on what’s commonly known as a *“[Romance Scam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Romance_scam)”*. It’s a well-known scam, but unfortunately, we find that there are still people who fall victims to these scams. This encourages them to continue and work harder to find new victims. Romance scammers typically target people who are vulnerable and often at a difficult time in their life. They abuse the trust of honest people, like Couchsurfers, in order to enrich themselves with their victim’s money. It’s no surprise that the Couchsurfing platform is not immune to these scammers but there is a lot that can be done to stop them. ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/shutterstock_1194339238.jpg?fit=1024%2C735 "shutterstock_1194339238 - Couchsurfing Blog")By [Pixel Shot](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/pixel-shot)shutterstockBelow is a Q&A with Couchsurfing’s Trust and Safety Manager, Florian, on what Couchsurfing does to keep you safe as well as how you can help Couchsurfing’s mission of beating the scammers. **Florian, what is a romance scam exactly?** A romance scammer is someone who creates a fake online persona in order to gain your trust with the goal of asking you for money. The scammers’ fake persona can be male or female, they often present themselves as middle-aged western (Caucasian) males and often claim that they are recently divorced, or sometimes widowed, looking for a new long-term partner. They’ll initially engage in a normal conversation with you and you’ll find that their language skills are quite strong. This is something that we observed has changed over time. A few years ago, you could easily tell that it was a scammer just after reading a couple of sentences. Nowadays we observe that romance scammers not only improved their English skills but they even started contacting our members in multiple languages. I’ve seen them use Korean, Dutch, German and Spanish, just to name a few. Once a romance scammer has gained your trust, they’ll usually find some type of excuse for you to send them money. Initially they might only ask for a small amount but they’ll come back and ask for more and more. Reasons that they make up may be a sick family member, the need for a travel visa, flight tickets, you name it. We often see that they impersonate doctors or army officers in order to appear more trustworthy and to make up excuses for their different time zones. They’d tell you that they are on an assignment in Africa or in the Middle East which is why they message you during unusual hours. The way they ask you to transfer money for their bills/flights/visas etc. are typically via wire transfer, visa gift cards and other forms of gift cards (iTunes, Amazon, Google Play, etc.) We observe that they often target profiles in their own age range. So, if they impersonate a middle-aged white male, they’ll most likely only target middle-aged females. If you are in a busy city and within that group of people then, unfortunately, chances are you know what I’m talking about. ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/RomanceScam.jpg?fit=1024%2C1024 "RomanceScam - Couchsurfing Blog")By [Yana tasha](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/yana_tasha)shutterstock**How often do you see those romance scammers online?** Florian: The reason why we are making this a priority in 2019 is that we have noticed an increased activity in these scams. As mentioned before, some of our members have unfortunately received messages from those scammers and it’s important to us that we spread the word. In the US, the FTC says that in 2018 they received reports from people who have lost a total of $143 million to romance scams, and that’s only the officially reported figure. The median loss is only reported at $2,600 which shows that the scammers specifically go for lower amounts as you’ll be more likely to make such a transfer. Imagine being asked to pay someone $20k… you’d be a lot less likely to be able to afford that compared to a couple of thousand. ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/shutterstock_659843752.jpg?fit=1024%2C683 "shutterstock_659843752 - Couchsurfing Blog")By [karen roach](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/karenr)shutterstock**So, this number is across the entire United States. How about Couchsurfing?** We can’t disclose specific incidents in order to protect the privacy of our members but we do get reports from people who either identified an account as a scam or had interactions with them. Couchsurfing has a very active user base with a lot of people across all ages and cultures and this is something the fraudsters are aware which is why we are making a specific effort in 2019 to fight back. **What can be done about the scammers?** The most important things that anyone can do is spread awareness. It’s all about education. The more people know what a romance scam is, the harder it will be for the scammers to find victims. We always make a point of telling everyone to keep their interactions within our system. This is the best way to stay protected and it also gives us the chance to intervene when something goes wrong. This rule, by the way, doesn’t only apply to romance scammers. This is a good rule to abide by for any type of situation – even when setting up a genuine hosting/surfing arrangement. Now we don’t only rely on reports from our users. We have a number of very smart tools that we utilize in the background to track down those scammers. We’ve recently made some significant changes to the way these tools are configured which allows us to react even faster and ideally catch the fraudsters before they manage to reach out to any of our members. In the meantime, though, I’d encourage anyone who sees a suspicious message or profile on our platform to please contact the [Trust and Safety team](https://support.couchsurfing.com/hc/en-us/requests/new?category=safety). ***Find out more about what the FTC says about Romance Scams*** [***here***](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/what-you-need-know-about-romance-scams)***.*** ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/romance-scammers-on-couchsurfing/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/romance-scammers-on-couchsurfing/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Community Updates **Tags:** couchsurfing, ftc, romance scam, romance scammers, scammers --- ### [10 Tips to Stay Safe When Traveling Solo](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-tips-to-stay-safe-when-traveling-solo/) **Published:** June 13, 2018 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** It doesn’t take more than three minutes of scrolling Instagram to notice that #wanderlust is a full blown *thing* right now. It doesn’t take much longer than that to realize that wanderlust is an equal opportunity desire, with just as many—if not more—women wanting to see the world as men. But whether you’re a man or woman, safety while traveling solo should be a top priority. While journeying on your own can be an amazing way to scratch that wanderlust itch without having to argue with anyone about the right metro route, traveling solo requires a little extra precaution to ensure an epic but safe adventure. Here are ten things solo wanderers can do to hedge their bets for happy travels. 1\. Stalk your destination like a lion hunting an antelope on the African savannah. Get to know your travel destination thoroughly; understanding cultural differences, customs, social norms, gender roles, and acceptable attire standards can be the difference between being perceived as a welcomed visitor versus a clueless tourist. [2. Listen to your intuition](https://www.bemytravelmuse.com/solo-female-travel-advice/). One of the best things about traveling alone is the ability to change plans on a whim. Sometimes that whim may mean that you wind up in a situation that feels sketchy or “off.” If you start feeling uncomfortable or on edge, stop, assess your options, and make a choice that feels better. ![solo trave, travel, safety tips, travel tips](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/Solo-Travel-3-@punttim-300x201.jpg "- Couchsurfing Blog")Always listen to your intuition when traveling solo Photo credit punttim3\. Go easy on the booze when you’re out solo. Enjoying the local food and drink should be on any savvy travelers to-do list, but always be sure to stay in a frame of mind where you can easily find your way back to your host’s house and stay aware of your surroundings. Making plans with locals that you trust (like your Couchsurfing host, for example) is the perfect chance to let the bartender whip you up the local specialty you can’t pronounce. 4\. Get to know your host—and their Couchsurfing ratings—and other people you’ll be meeting up with before you meet them. Safety is paramount when traveling alone, so make sure to thoroughly [read reviews about your hosts](https://www.forbes.com/sites/johnnyjet/2017/10/23/ten-tips-for-traveling-alone/#4c228dae7c49). It’s not rude to ask your hosts questions about themselves or to cancel your plans if you start to feel uncomfortable. For peace of mind, meet people in a public place before going off the beaten path or to someone’s home.” 5\. Treat anything valuable like you’d treat your phone. That is to say, keep it on your person pretty much at all times. [Losing something valuable in a foreign place can put a damper on your trip real quick](https://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/advice/2018/02/22/travel-safety-tips/359636002/), and in some cases can derail your itinerary altogether. Trust us, it’s no fun to spend days getting a new passport at the Embassy. Think twice before packing anything you cherish, and keep the valuables you can’t leave home without on your body whenever possible. The good news? Fanny packs are totally back in style. [6. Check in regularly](http://www.adventurouskate.com/top-10-travel-safety-tips-for-women/) with someone who knows your travel itinerary. Although one of the perks of solo travel is going off the grid, it’s a good idea to schedule some regular check-ins with someone who is expecting to hear from you and has a general idea of how to reach you. It’s okay to turn off communications for a couple days while you get weird at the local music festival, but going off the grid without warning should raise some red flags. Assemble a #SafetyFirst itinerary before you depart and use it wisely while you wander. [7. Walk with confidence](https://solotravelerworld.com/travel-safety/) and be aware of your surroundings. Most crimes are crimes of opportunity, and nothing creates an opportunity to be taken advantage of like being distracted by your music, your phone, or your super hot bartender. Have a sense of who’s around you, [who’s paying attention to you](https://solotravelerworld.com/keep-your-cash-10-ways-to-protect-yourself-from-pickpockets/), and what the general mood of your environment seems to be at all times. What’s going on around you is probably more interesting than what’s going on in your phone anyway. ![travel, safety tips, travel tips, solo travel](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/Solo-Travel-5-@jamesgenchi-300x200.jpg "- Couchsurfing Blog")When walking home alone at night remember to take well lit streets whenever possible Photo credit jamesgenchi8\. Always remember: [The freaks come out at night](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X_zDEEQoHOw). If you find yourself walking home alone at night, [choose the most populated and/or well-lit route available](https://solotravelerworld.com/solo-travel-stranger-danger-part-iibrcaught-con-game/), stay hyper-aware of your surroundings, and consider holding your keys in your hand just in case you find yourself in a situation where a makeshift weapon is necessary (or where the appearance of one is a valuable deterrent). [9. Have a backup plan](https://theblondeabroad.com/2015/11/18/10-tips-for-taking-your-first-solo-trip/). Seasoned solo traveler and blogger at The Blonde Abroad says, “My biggest tip is to make sure you keep the address to your hotel somewhere on your person, in case you get lost, need directions or need a taxi to bring you back.” We’d also recommend [being aware of local emergency numbers](https://solotravelerworld.com/travel-safety/) so you can access help quickly and easily if you need it. The Boy Scouts may have coined the ‘Always Be Prepared’ motto, but solo women travelers should use it as their own. 10\. Take only what you need. Save the heavy baggage for your therapist’s office. Traveling light is not only a lesson in contentment and simplicity, but it means fewer things to keep track of and a luggage load that you’re able to manage nimbly on your own, no matter how many modes of transportation it takes to get to the next couch. ![travel, travel solo, solo travel, travel tips, safety tips](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/Solo-Travel-4-@joshuaearle-300x198.jpg "- Couchsurfing Blog")Travel fast far and safely by packing only what you need Photo credit joshuaearle### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-tips-to-stay-safe-when-traveling-solo/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-tips-to-stay-safe-when-traveling-solo/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** Community, Guides **Tags:** safety, solo travel, travel, Travel Guides, travel safety tips, traveling alone --- ### [10 Questions with a CS Ambassador: Jailton](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-jailton/) **Published:** October 27, 2019 **Author:** Mike Joy **Excerpt:** Meet Jailton, A CS Ambassador in Katowice, Poland! **Content:** #### Name: [Jailton](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/jailtonjr) City: Katowice, Poland Years on Couchsurfing: 11 ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/e3b8f4c6-a14f-43a1-84a2-c8a8ba07c09e.jpg?fit=1024%2C1024 "e3b8f4c6-a14f-43a1-84a2-c8a8ba07c09e - Couchsurfing Blog")Jailton at Cachoeira da Fumaça Chapada Diamantina Bahia**Hi Jailton! So how did you hear about Couchsurfing?** A friend recommend it to me about this and I decide to become a part of this crazy community! **That’s a great friend! And what made you want to get involved?** Since I was a kid, In my family we are used to sharing and hosting our guests with abundance. When I heard about CS for the first time I knew it was for me and nowadays I support the community hosting travelers, going to events and supporting in Couch Crash organization. **What was your first experience on Couchsurfing?** My father’s dream was see Machu Picchu on his own. I decided to buy our tickets and fly from Brazil to Peru, and in Cuzco *we* did our first Couchsurfing experience! It was so amazing and up until now we are still friends and years after I went back to Cuzco to see my friend (and first host) again. ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/mapi-cs.jpg?fit=1024%2C768 "mapi-cs - Couchsurfing Blog")Jailton at Machu Picchu**That’s so sweet. I’m still friend with many of my hosts as well! So why did you get involved with the Ambassador program?** As a CouchSurfer I’m always trying to spread the real CouchSurfing values and provide (and have) the best experiences ever. As an Ambassador I think I can make it easier and make CS an amazing community. **Perfect answer! And what has been your coolest experience on Couchsurfing so far?** I was traveling with my friend to Easter Island and we couldn’t find a place to stay together and then we decided to split up and stay in different places, it was the best thing ever! From our hosts, we could learn about Rapa Nui culture and make our experience way more fun! In one of those days I caught a tuna fish and we cooked and ate it with some locals… One real wonderful experience. ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/20160605_121626.jpg?fit=1024%2C576 "20160605_121626 - Couchsurfing Blog")Jailton in Easter Island**Incredible. Easter Island is high on my list of places to visit! I’ll get the name of your host later! And what has been the coolest gift you’ve received from a surfer?** I would say that best gifts are always the friendships. CouchSurfing always provides me, real good friends. Other than this, I don’t know why but people normally gift me alcohol. I would try to list them all here and say thank you to all my guests, but the list is huge…. **That’s the sign of an excellent host – a long lest of surfers to thank! Speaking of surfers, if you could surf with any celebrity, who would it be and why?** I heard that Elon Musk is planning to go to Mars… Is he on CouchSurfing? **Ha! If he’s not, we should definitely try to get him on. Other than Mars, what is your dream vacation?** Antarctica is on my dream list! If you are reading this and want take me with you or even if you know a less expensive way to get there, let me know. =D **I have linked your profile, so if any of our readers and looking for a travel buddy they can reach out! I heard that if you just roll up to Ushuaia you can find deals on last minute cruises. But that requires you to hang around Ushuaia until something comes along! Lastly, what is one piece of Advice you would give to a new Couchsurfer?** 1\. Read the profile – If you are planning to stay in peoples place for free at least take some time to read their profile! If someone is hosting you it’s the least you can do, CouchSurfing is to share experiences not free place to stay. 2\. Be yourself – No matter if you are host or guest just do what you normally like to do! 3\. Follow the rules – Always follow the house rules, if you are not comfortable with them, find another place. 4\. Ask before you do – Just because you usually do something in your home, doesn’t mean you should do it in someone else’s home. ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/20160606_174956-1.jpg?fit=1024%2C558 "20160606_174956-1 - Couchsurfing Blog")Jailton and his hosts in Easter Island and the tuna### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-jailton/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-jailton/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Community, Meet an Ambassador --- ### [WinterCamps: The annual New Years Eve event you can't miss!](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wintercamps-the-annual-new-years-eve-event-you-cant-miss/) **Published:** October 29, 2019 **Author:** Mike Joy **Content:** For 15 years, the Couchsurfing Community has been organizing an multi-day event, that travels from city to city. It has become a staple of the CS community in Europe, with many Couchsurfers planning their winter holiday specifically to attend this event. It is called the “[WinterCamp](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/the-cs-wintercamp-malaga)” and it has been around for longer than I have been able to vote. ![](https://i2.wp.com/travellingmonkeys.org/assets/gallery/couchsurfing/wintercamp/10_2014.jpg?resize=910%2C613)Krakow Wintercamp 2014 © Eerik KiskonenDuring the recent [MadCrash](http://10.9.0.204/mad-crash-2019/) I met [Marga](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/margarita1), who is one of the organizers of this year’s WinterCamp. She told me the history of WinterCamps and the incredible experiences she has had at the 6 WinterCamps she has been to: > I have been to 6 WinterCamps! Every year is different. The thing that remains the same is that a lot of the same people from all over Europe/the world come together and spend New Years together. My personal favorite moment was at Krakow Wintercamp in 2014 where we did the New year around the world. Our friends stayed awake and cheered every New Year throughout the day! 24 hours is a lot though, so me and a good friend put our alarm and went to cheers the last country celebrating the New Year. This same group of people organized a cross dress party at a cabin, which was very fun. > Every year the organizers do an amazing job with organizing a unique Wintercamp. Events are held all over – in the city, at a nature cabin/summer camp place, at venues, hostels, hotels, sauna’s and public buildings. > This year, we hope to organize just as unique and a maybe a little new way of organizing! More in a invasion way! It takes place over the New Years weekend and is never in the same city twice (or at least hasn’t been up until now.) Over the years it has traveled from the Baltics, to the Balkans to the Iberian Peninsula, and many places in between. The organization is decentralized, so it is organized by different (but equally dedicated) Couchsurfers, and can be held in any city. It follows the same format as a Couch Crash, spread over multiple day filled with events getting to know the city through tours and museums, eating delicious food, meeting other Couchsurfers, and exploring the night-life. ![](https://i2.wp.com/travellingmonkeys.org/assets/gallery/couchsurfing/wintercamp/14_Vangelis.jpg?resize=910%2C683)Spa Day at Sofia Wintercamp 2014 © Vangelis KamanPrevious WinterCamps have been: 2004 Vilnius, Lithuania2009 Budapest, Hungary2014 Krakow, Poland2005 Riga, Latvia2010 Târgu Mureș, Romania2015 Sofia, Bulgaria2006 Warsaw, Poland2011 Prague, Czech Republic2016 Leipzig, Germany2007 Istanbul, Turkey2012 Thessaloniki, Greece2017 Brno, Czech Republic2008 Berlin, Germany2013 Girona, Spain2018 Naples, Italy![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/1011217_10152224508759714_1738487028_n.jpg "1011217_10152224508759714_1738487028_n - Couchsurfing Blog")A day trip during Girona Winter Camp by [Guido Todarello](https://www.facebook.com/guido.tod)As if the sheer scale and length of this event is not enough to get you excited (and mark your calendar), this year’s WinterCamp is in [Malaga, Spain](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/the-cs-wintercamp-malaga). That’s right, ring in the New Year in a Spanish Beach town, surrounded by a loving Couchsurfing community. The event is taking place December 28-January 2nd. So if you are still looking for New Years Eve plans, set a price alert for Malaga RIGHT NOW and join the CS Community at one of the longest running events on Couchsurfing! ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/1520796_10152224090999714_1335839226_n.jpg "1520796_10152224090999714_1335839226_n - Couchsurfing Blog")A Winter Camp group picture at sunset by [Guido Todarello](https://www.facebook.com/guido.tod)For more on the history of WinterCamps, check out [Floh’s Community Post](http://10.9.0.204/the-story-of-wintercamps/)! ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/774748_10151454426404714_332064070_o.jpg?fit=1024%2C683 "774748_10151454426404714_332064070_o - Couchsurfing Blog")Thessaloniki Winter Camp by [Guido Todarello](https://www.facebook.com/guido.tod)### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wintercamps-the-annual-new-years-eve-event-you-cant-miss/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wintercamps-the-annual-new-years-eve-event-you-cant-miss/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Community, Crashes, Invasions and More! **Tags:** thessaloniki, winter camp --- ### [A Couchsurfer's Guide to... Orlando](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-orlando/) **Published:** October 31, 2019 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** #### [Tiffany](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/tiffany-gaffney) is a Couchsurfing Ambassador in [Orlando, Florida](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Orlando,_Florida). Tiffany and her team ([Paul](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/paul-walsh-11), [Thassio](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/tmendes), [Brittany](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/brittanywalrath) and [Giovanni](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/gyiry)) have provided their tips to help you experience the best of Orlando on your next trip to Florida! Maybe even for the [Orlando Couch Crash](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/orlando-couch-crash-2019) this December! ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/shutterstock_781913848.jpg?fit=1024%2C683 "shutterstock_781913848 - Couchsurfing Blog")A Great Blue Heron at Orlando Wetlands Park by [Jeff Holcombe](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/jeff+holcombe) shutterstock**Best breakfast in town!** [Nick’s Family Diner](https://www.yelp.com/biz/nicks-family-diner-orlando) is the best breakfast spot in Orlando. It’s a family owned diner and they care about every customer that comes through the door. The staff is so friendly and the food is awesome and is so consistent every-time. People may not know about this hidden gem, as it is on the outskirts of town. I recommend a corn beef hash omelette or a meat lovers omelette (BYO up to 5 ingredients) and the hashbrowns are amazing. Friends of mine recommend sausage biscuits and gravy as well. It’s a small diner so there might be a wait but it’s well worth it! **Where to sweat!** Sunday mornings downtown at 11am you’ll find a big group doing Yoga near [Lake Eola](https://www.facebook.com/YogaInLakeEolaPark/), feel free to join them for just $5! While you are there you can check out the huge farmer’s market, live music, or take a swan boat ride on the lake! ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/shutterstock_713647798.jpg?fit=1024%2C384 "shutterstock_713647798 - Couchsurfing Blog")Lake Eola by [Zhukova Valentyna](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/aiisha) Shutterstock**Best place to grab a drink!** [Orlando Brewing](http://www.orlandobrewing.com) is the oldest brewery in the city of Orlando, and it is an all-organic brewery. There are less than 20 all-organic breweries in our country. They have 35 of their own crafts, ciders, organic wine and craft soda. They offer a free brewery tour Monday-Saturday at 6pm and this place is kid and dog friendly. All the beer is delicious and I highly recommend stopping by! **The perfect picture!** [Orlando Wetlands Park](https://www.orlando.gov/Parks-the-Environment/Directory/Wetlands-Park). The last time we were there we spotted 24 wild alligators and hundreds of interesting birds. AND it’s FREE. You can walk or bike, or there is a trolley tour you can take around. The pictures you take will be stunning and look unreal. ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/shutterstock_1474925843.jpg?fit=1024%2C656 "shutterstock_1474925843 - Couchsurfing Blog")A wild alligator at Orlando Wetlands Park by [Deborah Ferrin](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/deborah+ferrin) shutterstock**Best place to dance!** [Cowboys](https://cowboysorlando.com/) is a bit of a culture shock for most Floridians, let alone travelers from abroad, but the all-night line dancing and country vibe makes it a fun escape and different from other nightclubs in Orlando. They offer free line-dancing lessons from 8:30 to 9:30 p.m. on Thursdays and Fridays, so boot-scoot your way over to Cowboys for some home-town fun! **Best day trip!** Visit numerous natural springs nearby! At [DeLeon Springs](https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/de-leon-springs-state-park) you’ll find The Old Spanish Sugar Mill where you can make your own pancakes on a griddle at the table, all you can eat! There are two different types of batter and they also have a gluten free option. It costs about $5/person and then if you want you can add toppings like blueberries or chocolate chips, eggs, coffee, breakfast meats, etc. You can swim in the springs or take a boat ride while you are there! Nearby, [Blue Springs](https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/blue-spring-state-park) is great for seeing manatees in the winter! For tubing and crystal clear water, you’ll want to visit [Kelley Springs.](http://www.floridasprings.org/visit/map/kelly-park-rock-springs-run/) ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/shutterstock_1041765154.jpg?fit=1024%2C683 "shutterstock_1041765154 - Couchsurfing Blog")The Sugar Mill at DeLeon Springs by [carlty94](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/carlty94) shutterstock**Best quick bite!** [King Bao](https://www.kingbaowow.com/) is a quick counter style restaurant featuring fluffy steamed buns filled with unique flavor combinations, tots with toppings, and dessert baos as well. King Bao is located in the unique Mills 50 District, a haven for artists, foodies and young professionals. This neighborhood has gained a particular reputation for being as good as it gets when it comes to Asian Fusion. You can also check out [Tako Cheena](http://mytakocheena.com/) for tacos, burritos & empanadas with Pan-Asian fillings. **One experience not to miss!** [At Congo River Golf](https://www.congoriver.com/), you can hold and feed baby ALLIGATORS! There are 8 locations of Congo River Golf around the Orlando area. You can hold one for $10, or you can feed them with fishing poles. I’ve never had to wait, it’s always a quick stop. It’s a very unique Florida experience and everyone I take there really enjoys it. ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/shutterstock_1106979902.jpg?fit=1024%2C683 "shutterstock_1106979902 - Couchsurfing Blog")By [Kristina Bessolova](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/bessolova) shutterstock**Cute cafe!** [Stardust Video and Coffee](https://stardustvideoandcoffee.wordpress.com/). They may not have the best coffee in town, but the atmosphere is similar to a dive bar mixed with an art gallery. They also have a bar, delicious and bizarre food, and frequent events hosting comics, musicians, spoken word, and more. **Historic moment!** Located at the site at one of the deadliest shootings in America, the [Pulse Memorial](https://onepulsefoundation.org/onepulse-foundation-memorial/) is a sanctuary of quiet reflection and love dedicated to honoring the senseless loss of innocent life and remembering the horrible attack that occurred on June 12, 2016. It’s open daily from 7:30 a.m. – 9 p.m. ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/shutterstock_1362176921.jpg?fit=1024%2C680 "shutterstock_1362176921 - Couchsurfing Blog")Pulse Memorial at the site of the deadly shooting at Pulse Nightclub By [Anthony Constantine](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/anthony+constantine) shutterstock### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-orlando/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-orlando/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Guides **Tags:** alligators, blue springs, congo river golf, couchsurfing, couchsurfing orlando, deleon springs, Florida, kelley springs, king bao, lake eola, Orlando, orlando wetlands park, pulse memorial, stardust video and coffee, tako cheena, the sugar mill --- ### [10 Questions with a CS Ambassador: Niccolo](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-niccolo/) **Published:** September 29, 2019 **Author:** Mike Joy **Content:** ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/17399520_l_bc5ec1185a8115cf5ca7944879f303f5.jpg "17399520_l_bc5ec1185a8115cf5ca7944879f303f5 - Couchsurfing Blog") Name: [Niccolò Kojo Ferrarese](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/niccolokojoferrarese) City: Milan, Italy Years on Couchsurfing: 11 **What was your first Couchsurfing experience?** Well, I started host people on 2001 (yep, right before any travel website) and right now, September 2019, I hosted roundly 1500 surfers and travelers… no relevant negative experience at all. Anyway the first was hosting an Austrian guy, Klaus, for 7 months: something unforgettable **Wow. So you started CouchSurfing before there was CouchSurfing! So what made you get involved with CouchSurfing the site?** CS is Freedom and I’m a free spirit: travel and meeting people all over the world, is there something better? . After traveling, I always come home with me some new friendship and new experiences… something i enjoy most is catching sunsets, living postcards, getting chance to meet diversity and accepting people the way they are. I don’t like to judge others, surfers are those kinds of people who don’t care for material things, who give equal chance to everyone, who enjoy present being happy with the best thing they have and that is called FREEDOM! I am the one who is trying to live without borders. Since now i met many people who became my friends, people from all over the world. I like to see & hear positive attitudes about life, life with smile, life with open minds, with will to fight for life ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/CSOnTheRoad_Riga-CouchCrash2015.jpg "CSOnTheRoad_Riga-CouchCrash2015 - Couchsurfing Blog")Niccolò and some Couchsurfers in Riga**What is your most unforgettable memory of hosting?** After hosting bunch of 23 couchsurfers at same time I’ve learned on how to develop space in vertical way fitting all of them in my previous cosy little flat… that actually was not a castle (that is not a fairy question to ask) Lyon – France for the FOL (Festival of Lights) many years ago and absolutely the MontRoyal CouchCrash in Germany! **Incredible. What is the best gift you have received?** Invitations and travel tickets to visit them and… Words, words and words by letters postcards or by voice. One above all a letter left by one of my surfers, Rohan from Australia: “Today is my last day in Milano with these boys… and the thought of leaving their home brings upon me a sadness which I normally experience when going away from family. They have treated me like their brother, cooked for me, taken me out to parties, chatted away till the wee hours of the morning and the entire experience has only reinforced my belief that couchsurfing is the next best thing after sex. Any community that brings the world closer and to your door step can only be a good thing. Whether you have a family or not, feel like you do not have time or might be uncomfortable with hosting strangers in your house, my only words of advice to you would be let do it and marvel at how such a simple act of humanity will change your life! People make the world and your world will only be enriched when you open the doors of your life to them…”.. I was crying when I was reading these words. **If you could surf with any historical or famous person, who would it be?** Banksy to be more inspired ![](blob:http://10.9.0.204/b4535a02-edeb-4e3c-ad52-d97631c7464e)By [Ryan Rodrick Beiler](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/rrodrickbeiler)/shutterstock**Ah, great answer! And what is your favorite travel quote?** > The only people for me are the mad ones, the ones who are mad to live, mad to talk, mad to be saved, desirous of everything at the same time, the ones who never yawn or say a commonplace thing, but burn, burn, burn, like fabulous yellow roman candles exploding like spiders across the stars and in the middle you see the blue centerlight pop and everybody goes…Awwwooowww > > On The Road, Jack Kerouac **I love ‘On The Road’! Great book! So what has been your craziest moment…. On the road…** Going to the airport with one of my fellow traveler and being blocked… both almost naked because all of our clothes were dirty. The whole airport was amused, even the security **Incredible! That takes quite a bit of condience. Speaking of, what is your go-to Karaoke song?** “Don’t Stop Me Now” and “Got My Mind Set On You” **I’d love to see your Queen rendition! What is one trip that is on your bucket list?** 5 years break to dedicate to the World and his cultures ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Event-CS_FridayWeeklyMeeting2.jpg?fit=910%2C824&ssl=1 "Event-CS_FridayWeeklyMeeting2 - Couchsurfing Blog")Niccolò at a CS meeting in Milan **And lastly, what is your one piece of advice to a new Couchsurfer?** Never forget that happiness is complete when shared and that the more you know about yourself the less you need. No matter who you are, where you are from, what you do. Life is yours, Enjoy It as much as you can, you will never regret so don’t wait and live as if you were die tomorrow and learn as you were to live forever, “life is what happens to you while you’re busy making other plans” \[John Lennon\] ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-niccolo/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-niccolo/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Community, Meet an Ambassador **Tags:** Couchsurfing Ambassador, Couchsurfing Community, CS Ambassador, CS Community, italy, Meet an Ambassador, Milan --- ### [10 Questions with a CS Ambassador: Sarah](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-sarah/) **Published:** October 6, 2019 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Excerpt:** Meet Sarah! A member of Couchsurfing since 2010 and current Couchsurfing Ambassador in Abuja, Nigeria! **Content:** ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/sarahabuja.jpg?fit=784%2C1024&ssl=1 "sarahabuja - Couchsurfing Blog") Name: [Sarah Idris Madaki](https://www.couchsurfing.com/users/1733379) City: Abuja, Nigeria Years on Couchsurfing: 9 **Hi Sarah! So, tell us how you heard about Couchsurfing…** Funny enough I was introduced to couchsurfing in 2010 by a very close friend from Tanzania when I was in university in Malaysia. She made me register and I never surfed nor hosted or even attend any CS meetup in Malaysia. **Amazing! And how did you get involved with Couchsurfing?** So when I got back to my country in Nigeria I was seriously looking for a fun group to join as I am very adventurous. So after I found a global hiking group (Abuja Hash House Harriers) I made some good friends and they told me about the Abuja couchsurfers group. I was so excited I told him I knew about and even registered on the platform but I barely ever checked my profile. So he invited me to my first Abuja CS meetup. After that day I attend every other meetups except when I am not in town. And I made a lot of local and foreign friends that we became very close like brothers and sisters now. Special thanks to Moh for connecting and introducing me to Abuja CS family! ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/CSABujaPic.jpg "CSABujaPic - Couchsurfing Blog")**So what was your first experiences hosting?** The first person I hosted was a guy from Denmark, at first when I received a host request from him I was kind of reluctant because he is a guy and a total stranger. It was a little bit weird having a stranger show up at my place to stay but it turned out to be a life changing experience that I will forever be grateful for (the second time he came back to Nigeria he still contacted me to host him which I did). And now I have even linked him with my close friend in Denmark and he goes to their house to chill! Actually, recently he even told me he got a job in Nigeria and he will be relocating this October. Since then I have hosted Nigerians and other nationalities and I have surfed in Benin, Togo, Ghana, Egypt, Dubai and Morocco. The experience can never be explained because it is priceless. It can only be encountered. **Incredible! And why did you join the CS Ambassador program?** ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/AbujaMeetup.jpg "AbujaMeetup - Couchsurfing Blog") Basically, a friend I hosted recently from Sierra Leone recommended me to Couchsurfing (he did that without even informing me!) Whenever I host I try my best to make them feel at home by going the extra miles and am always happy to do what I do. I try to post on our group that Couchsurfer is in town and other CSers gather to meet them. I plan events and meetups every month and hangout whenever a traveller is town. I just preach CS to everyone that loves traveling or is adventurous and curious to know the outside world. Couchsurfing has really thought me so much about life and people and how to be selfless. How life is simple but people sometimes makes it complicated for themselves. **That is such an amazing mindset to have toward CS. What has been your most interesting experience hosting on CS?** I’m not sure. Every person I host is different and unique. Because individuals differ, cultures, beliefs and backgrounds are all different. Every experience feels unique and different to me. **So true! What is the coolest gift you have received from a surfer?** A Scandinavian cook book I got from the very first person I hosted from Denmark about 3 years ago.I really loved it because I am a food explorer/enthusiasts. That was so thoughtful of him. ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/CSAbujaSarahEgypt.jpg?fit=910%2C683&ssl=1 "CSAbujaSarahEgypt - Couchsurfing Blog")**How thoughtful! Do you have a favorite travel quote?** > “Traveling is the university of life that you can never graduate from.” **What is the craziest thing that has ever happened to you while traveling?** I think the craziest thing is using CS platform to look for a host! Being put up in a strangers house is the most craziest/adventurous ever for me. Only crazy adventurers can do such. **We are an adventurous group, that is for sure! So what is one thing everyone should check out in Abuja?** The Art and Craft market. Because that is where you get the real African souvenirs. ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/shutterstock_1278322417.jpg?fit=910%2C512&ssl=1 "shutterstock_1278322417 - Couchsurfing Blog")**And lastly, what is your dream vacation right now?** The Maldives or Seychelles! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-sarah/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-sarah/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Community, Meet an Ambassador **Tags:** abuja, nigeria --- ### [10 Questions with a CS Ambassador: Kateryna](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-kateryna/) **Published:** October 20, 2019 **Author:** Mike Joy **Content:** #### Name: [Kateryna](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/kateryna-yegorova) City: Zaporizhzhia, Ukraine Years on Couchsurfing: 5 ![](https://couchsurfing.zendesk.com/attachments/token/hwfw36saL6ephTsa2nX1ia0se/?name=copenhagen.jpg)Kateryna in Copenhagen**Hi Kateryna! Let’s get started. What made you start using Coucshurfing?** Well, I bought very cheap flights without checking the average price of accommodation in advance and needed a place to stay! But after my first CS experience I understood that it’s much more then just a free stay. After my 1st surfing experience, I stayed with locals in almost every trip and they introduce me to country traditions and their lives so it’s priceless. Mainly I surf because these last years I haven’t lived in just one place but sometimes I also host and meet travelers and locals through CS hangouts. **Amazing. And tell us about your first time Couchsurfing?** It was amazing! My host in Milan was so nice – gave me the key and everything I needed, we cooked risotto together, he gave me useful tips about the city and we had very interesting conversations so it was a great start. ![https://p14.zdusercontent.com/attachment/23615/T6ZNVtFKfOnIxNm91uumppRXS?token=eyJhbGciOiJkaXIiLCJlbmMiOiJBMTI4Q0JDLUhTMjU2In0..uH-8V3YJfpMZGEb-8OjgaQ.L4k-z4KnxGJJP1r6O4M56qXFjqjOw_7XLZZOwYLaWPHXu3AqR6JPObMnCJ54cJD10yfsbkhOpXkahY1mP6gOWxZkqQTRAUibiMMfrAroBOQnoZFedrkDOSFGncy6zWi66Q1IbM6TZ4n3cXNboiAR8xQFYJCNY3sdBckYrf_tGUT95rIQ_ytOuEeQts36KA4dsAs_7mTR9cBIvzaGS2uXNO16E2bMpevARhO4jMTBMQQY6t43XE3dFj08yVpJ-kPWGLUhA0LmtgJ3wF9LnVDwLwBmohuCsRTa6kkYIeDVQKY.wV4U5zxSw_Ap4LsGKAc9kg](https://p14.zdusercontent.com/attachment/23615/T6ZNVtFKfOnIxNm91uumppRXS?token=eyJhbGciOiJkaXIiLCJlbmMiOiJBMTI4Q0JDLUhTMjU2In0..uH-8V3YJfpMZGEb-8OjgaQ.L4k-z4KnxGJJP1r6O4M56qXFjqjOw_7XLZZOwYLaWPHXu3AqR6JPObMnCJ54cJD10yfsbkhOpXkahY1mP6gOWxZkqQTRAUibiMMfrAroBOQnoZFedrkDOSFGncy6zWi66Q1IbM6TZ4n3cXNboiAR8xQFYJCNY3sdBckYrf_tGUT95rIQ_ytOuEeQts36KA4dsAs_7mTR9cBIvzaGS2uXNO16E2bMpevARhO4jMTBMQQY6t43XE3dFj08yVpJ-kPWGLUhA0LmtgJ3wF9LnVDwLwBmohuCsRTa6kkYIeDVQKY.wV4U5zxSw_Ap4LsGKAc9kg)Kateryna and her surfer from Turkey, Mert! **And what about your first time hosting?** My first guest was a pilot student from Turkey. At first I was a little bit worried about how it would be but we spent a few awesome days walking around the city and speaking about everything. This experience made me more open-minded about other cultures. **Amazing! That’s what CS is all about! And what is the coolest gift a surfer has ever brought you?** A piece of real Camembert cheese from France. Even after I ate it, my fridge smelled for another week or two 🙂 **As a cheese lover, I would LOVE that gift! If you could host any celebrity who would it be and why?** Ed Sheeran! Because I love his songs! **Hoping for a sing-along I see! Has there been any book that has inspired your travels?** “*Angel and Demons”* by Dan Brown. While reading it, I was in Rome so had the chance to follow the route of characters and visit places from the book – totally another impression of famous sights. ![](https://couchsurfing.zendesk.com/attachments/token/4pNFgLwNESxlU8sUrnWPHzOkc/?name=Rome.jpg)**Funny enough, my mom did the same thing in Rome! What is one travel quote that inspires you?** > “Travel is never a matter of money, but of courage.” > > Paulo Coelho ![](https://couchsurfing.zendesk.com/attachments/token/hA0Ba3DjkKkt3oeKYIeWvYNBM/?name=Sleeping+mask+always+with+me.JPG) **Great quote, could be a Couchsurfing slogan! What is one thing you never go on a trip without?** A sleeping mask where is written “If you give me 5 more minutes, I’ll cook you breakfast”. **Wow. I really love that sleep mask. Both a necessary travel accessory and an important message to your host! So what is a crazy thing that has happened to you while traveling?** Once I didn’t find a host because I decided to visit Siena (Italy) last minute and I didn’t know it was a public holiday and many people were out of the city and hostels were fully booked. At 10 PM I didn’t have a place to stay and just asked to use WiFi in a cafe, started to talk to the waitress, after I went out with her and her friends and they offered for me to stay secretly in their dormitory (because it wasn’t allowed). I ended up staying there for 3 days instead of one and met many cool locals. **Incredible! Off-app Couchsurfing at its finest! And lastly, what is one piece of advice you’d give to new Couchsurfers?** Just start! Hosting, surfing or simply meeting other travelers and locals – CS will change your life! ![](https://couchsurfing.zendesk.com/attachments/token/LJ0VBsMAjhmTLXgptQ7XxkWME/?name=With+Casey+Fenton.jpg)Kateryna with Casey Fenton in Kiev in 2017!### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-kateryna/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-kateryna/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Community, Meet an Ambassador **Tags:** ambassador, Couchsurfing Ambassador, CS Ambassador, ukraine --- ### [A Couchsurfer's Guide to... Williamsburg (NYC)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-williamsburg-nyc/) **Published:** October 24, 2019 **Author:** Mike Joy **Excerpt:** Take a break from the traffic and stress of Manhattan and spend some time in neighboring Brooklyn. Williamsburg is the first stop in Brooklyn and has many worthwhile sites and eateries! **Content:** #### [Mike](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/iammikejoy?action=legacy_link&controller=user_profiles) is the Community Manager at Couchsurfing and has lived in Williamsburg (Brooklyn, not Virginia) for 3 years. He is here to give you his hot tips so you can finally relax now that you’re out of the stress of Manhattan! ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/shutterstock_1006699795.jpg?fit=1024%2C656 "shutterstock_1006699795 - Couchsurfing Blog")Williamsburg Bridge by [Ryan DeBerardinis](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/deberarr) shutterstock**Best breakfast in town!** In New York City we take brunch (and breakfast by extension) very seriously. So most restaurants will have a kick-ass breakfast. I love [Egg](https://www.eggrestaurant.com/menu) and [Sundays in Brooklyn](https://www.sundayinbrooklyn.com/) for a sit-down moment, but if you’re on the run, [Bedford Cheese Shop](https://bedfordcheeseshop.com/) does a great Lox Bagel. And have you even been to New York if you haven’t had a Lox Bagel? **An experience not to miss!** [Smorgasburg](https://www.smorgasburg.com) is a must-do if you’re here for the 6 months it’s open! A ton of food vendors all set up in this large parking lot on Saturday and you just walk from place to place getting unique foods like ramen burgers and delicious ice cream! The park is right on the water, so you sit on picnic tables (or the grass) and just eat, hang with friends and enjoy the burg! ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/shutterstock_1034471626.jpg?fit=1024%2C683 "shutterstock_1034471626 - Couchsurfing Blog")Smorgasburg by [Gregorio Koji](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/gregoriokoji) shutterstock**Best place to grab a drink!** Oh, wow. Ok. Now we’re talking. If you want cute, not-crowded, cocktail bars – you have come to the right place. [St. Mazie](https://www.stmazie.com/) has a great atmosphere and live music on Thursday and Friday. The [William Vale Rooftop](https://www.thewilliamvale.com/dining/westlight/) bar (22nd floor) is a great view of Manhattan, and my personal favorite dive bar is [Lucky Dog](https://www.facebook.com/luckydogbrooklyn) which is a dog-friendly bar with a huge backyard. [Metropolitan](https://www.metropolitanbarny.com/) is our local gay bar if you’re looking for an LGBT space with some truly terrible Karaoke (I would know, I have done it!) **Family Fun!** If you’re here with family, check out [Domino Park](https://www.dominopark.com). Recently opened on the East River in the shadow of the former Domino Sugar Factory, it is a beautiful waterfront park with a jungle gym, fountains and grass to lay in! There’s also a volleyball court and eventually the Factory is opening a museum. It’s a must-see for all, families and singles! ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/shutterstock_1135720724.jpg?fit=1024%2C683 "shutterstock_1135720724 - Couchsurfing Blog")Domino Park and factory by [solepsizm](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/solepsizm) shutterstock**Where to dance!** [The Woods](https://www.thewoodsbk.com/) and [Baby’s Alright](http://babysallright.com/) are popular dance bars but if you want to get WILD then [House of Yes](https://houseofyes.org/) and [Elsewhere](https://www.elsewherebrooklyn.com/) are what you’re looking for. **Cute cafe!** Where to begin. To get my recommendation for a cafe it must meet three expectations. 1) They serve drip coffee (I’m sorry, I’m American!) 2) They have a good vibe that is conducive for writing a memoir (I am not writing a memoir). 3) I can sit on my laptop without judgmental stares. The 4 that come to mind immediately are: [Freehold](https://www.freeholdbrooklyn.com/), [Partners](https://www.partnerscoffee.com/products/brooklyn), [Black Brick ](https://blackbrickcoffee.com/)and [Hungry Ghost](https://www.hungryghostcoffee.com/). ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/shutterstock_443209474.jpg?fit=1024%2C695 "shutterstock_443209474 - Couchsurfing Blog")Bedford Av is the main street through Williamsburg and where many great cafes and restaurants are Photo by [jumis](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/jumis) shutterstock**A treat-yourself meal!** Honestly, everything in New York is pretty expensive so everything will be a treat yourself – but I think the chicest local joint is [Maison Premiere](https://maisonpremiere.com/) if we’re talking quality and ambiance. Go early for happy hour or be prepared to wait. **Where to sweat!** You can run across the Williamsburg Bridge if you want to practice your hills (enter at Bedford and S5th St.)! If not, then take a run along the East River, start at Domino Park and head north. There are various sections that are completed and connected making a beautiful path up through Greenpoint. BUT if you want the true New Yorker sweat – you gotta take a class! [Sync](http://www.syncstudio.net/brooklyn/), [Soul Cycle](https://www.soul-cycle.com/find-a-class/studio/22/), [CorePower](https://www.corepoweryoga.com/content/try-Free-week?campaignid=972872619&adgroupid=48591000952&creative=230409343321&keyword=corepower%20yoga%20nyc&gclid=EAIaIQobChMI_o7Us4W15QIVLYNaBR1D_wgPEAAYASAAEgKAxvD_BwE) and [Alo Yoga](https://www.aloyoga.com/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMI4sD2wIW15QIVS4FaBR0-ew2nEAAYASAAEgIecfD_BwE) all have studios in Williamsburg and offer cycling, HIIT, Yoga and many others. ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/shutterstock_398330545.jpg?fit=1024%2C683 "shutterstock_398330545 - Couchsurfing Blog")Cycle and Pedestrian lane on the Williamsburg Bridge by [Nielskliim](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/nielskliim) shutterstock**A tourist-trap to avoid!** I honestly think that rooftops are very overrated. They are expensive, crowded, and after you see the view you’re just at a bar that has little character. There are so many amazing places to hang out in Williamsburg that will give you a chance to talk with locals (like any bar listed above), [Domino Park](https://www.dominopark.com/) has a taco place with margaritas and [micheladas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Michelada), and after you see the [William Vale](https://www.thewilliamvale.com/dining/westlight/), keep going and check out the VERY cool [Brooklyn Barge](https://www.thebrooklynbarge.com/) (technically in Greenpoint, but hey, it’s not like you need a passport!) **The perfect picture!** I am assuming you have enough photos of the skyline at this point, so I would say walk around and get some photos in front of the awesome street art! Although our neighbor to the east, Bushwick, has the much more famous [Bushwick Collective](http://thebushwickcollective.com/) we also have some amazing graffiti on our streets. Stop. Take a pic. Do something embarrassing. No one will judge you. (JK they will, but who cares!) ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/Screen-Shot-2019-01-23-at-10.55.16-AM.png "Screen Shot 2019-01-23 at 10.55.16 AM - Couchsurfing Blog")Me [Mike Joy](http://instagram.com/mikejoyboy) jumping in front of a [Naveen Shakil](http://www.naveenshakil.com/work) Mural in Williamsburg ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-williamsburg-nyc/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-williamsburg-nyc/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Guides **Tags:** brooklyn, couchsurfing, couchsurfing New York, domino park, New York City, smorgasburg, Travel Guides, Williamsburg --- ### [A Couchsurfer’s Guide to… Cleveland](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-cleveland/) **Published:** October 4, 2019 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Excerpt:** Josh, CS Ambassador, gives us his top recommendations for your next trip to Cleveland, Ohio! **Content:** #### *[Josh](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/joshua.galecki) is a Couchsurfing Ambassador in Cleveland, Ohio. He has been a member of Couchsurfing for 10 years and is here to give us his tips to help you experience the best of Cleveland!* ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/CSguideCleveland-1024x670.png "CSguideCleveland - Couchsurfing Blog")By Sean Pavone shutterstock****Best Breakfast in town…**** Lucky’s Cafe is a bit on the pricier side, but hands-down has the best breakfast / lunch in Cleveland. It’s located down the street from the Russian Orthodox Cathedral in Tremont. Travelers looking to save a little money should go to Red Chimney in Slavic Village, a greasy spoon diner that serves up a plate of eggs, sausage, and hash browns for US$3. **1 Museum not to miss…** My favorite is the Cleveland Museum of Art, a (free!) museum in University Circle. The museum contains an excellent collection of Egyptian and Asian art, as well as a substantial number of European masters and modern works. Cleveland is also home to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, a museum dedicated to preserving the history of the musical genre. The museum is a great look at how one of the most dominant musical genres of the 20th century has grown and evolved. Exhibits include everything from costumes and guitars to lyrics notebooks and audio listening booths. ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/shutterstock_535266562.jpg?fit=910%2C607&ssl=1 "shutterstock_535266562 - Couchsurfing Blog")By [f11photo](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/f11photo)shutterstock**Best place to grab a drink…** My favorite brewery is *Platform Brewery* in Ohio City. They’ve got a wide variety of small batch beer on tap and are always coming out with fresh new flavors. *Barrio* has an extensive draft list and excellent margaritas, but the reason to visit is for the food. They don’t have the most traditional tacos, but they do have the best tacos in Cleveland. If your only experience with tacos is from Taco Bell, you owe it to yourself to try something better. They offer US$2 tacos during happy hour, and have locations now in Tremont, downtown, Cleveland Heights, and Lakewood. **Where to sweat…** The Cuyahoga Valley National Park has great hiking trails, waterfalls, and bike paths and is located 30 minutes outside of Cleveland. Serious bikers can ride down the historic Ohio and Erie Canal Towpath Trail straight to the park. If you have a day to dedicate to biking, you can take the towpath trail all the way to Akron and ride back on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railway. Tickets only cost a few dollars for cyclists. ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/shutterstock_794491939.jpg?fit=910%2C607&ssl=1 "shutterstock_794491939 - Couchsurfing Blog")By [Ashley Marie Best](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/ashleybest)shutterstock**A treat-yourself-meal…** *Collision Bend Brewery* is located on the east bank of the Cuyahoga River in a neighborhood known as the Flats. It offers beautiful views of the river, great food, and great beer. **Best quick bite…** *The Polish Boy* is a staple of Cleveland street food and can be found at almost any hot dog vendor. A kielbasa is placed on a bun, then covered in french fries, BBQ sauce, and coleslaw. It is just as delicious as it sounds. ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/shutterstock_476032939.jpg?fit=910%2C605&ssl=1 "shutterstock_476032939 - Couchsurfing Blog")By [daisesvoice](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/daisesvoice)shutterstock**Cutest cafe…** Civilization, in Tremont, is across the street from Lincoln Park. They have delicious coffee and snacks, and Tremont is a vibrant neighborhood and great for people-watching. **Best view in the city…** Voinovich Bicentennial Park, behind the Rock Hall, has the best view of the city skyline. However, I think the prettiest views of Cleveland aren’t of the buildings but of the river. The river is really the lifeblood of the city. The best view of the river is either from Heritage Park (along the Flats) or from the Lorain-Carnegie Bridge between downtown and Tremont. ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/shutterstock_1196389177.jpg?fit=910%2C607&ssl=1 "shutterstock_1196389177 - Couchsurfing Blog")By Sean Pavone shutterstock**Where to try the local cuisine…** Clevelanders are known for their love of pierogies, and Sokolowski’s University Inn makes some of the best traditional pierogies in the city. Bring an appetite, because the portions here are not small. **The perfect picture…** There are a number of Cleveland signs throughout the city, positioned so that they have good backgrounds for photos. I think my two favorite locations are in Voinovich Bicentennial Park and on Abbey Ave, just beneath the bridge for I-90. Public Square also provides excellent photo opportunities. ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/shutterstock_1480151435.jpg?fit=910%2C607&ssl=1 "shutterstock_1480151435 - Couchsurfing Blog")By [Sean Pavone](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/sepavo)shutterstock**Historic moment…** “Cleveland used to be rich” would be a great motto for the city. It used to be a wealthy city, and people here were not afraid to flaunt it. There is some amazing architectural gems to check out inside the city. I would recommend Tower City, the Arcade on Euclid Avenue, and the Federal Reserve Bank, which has been converted into a numismatics museum (or money museum). **One experience not to miss…** The West Side Market in Ohio City has a wealth of small vendors hawking meats, cheeses, breads, vegetables, desserts, and prepared foods. It’s a great place to stop by and browse for an hour or two, sampling bites from different stalls as you go by. ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/shutterstock_1032255475.jpg?fit=910%2C607&ssl=1 "shutterstock_1032255475 - Couchsurfing Blog")By [Sean Pavone](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/sepavo)shutterstock### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-cleveland/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-cleveland/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Guides, Travel Tips **Tags:** cleveland, couchsurfing, ohio, travel, usa, what to see --- ### [A Couchsurfer's Guide to... Celje](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-celje/) **Published:** October 18, 2019 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Excerpt:** Celje is the third biggest city in Slovenia, but only has 50.000 inhabitants. It holds many great places, from hiking to history to chilling to art. Most of my couchsurfers stay longer than originally planned, some even for weeks. Come and see for yourself why. **Content:** #### [Niko](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/nikoko) is a Couchsurfing Ambassador in [Celje, Slovenia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Celje). Here he has provided his tips to help you experience the best of Celje on your next trip to Slovenia! ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/shutterstock_1512751112.jpg?fit=910%2C343&ssl=1 "shutterstock_1512751112 - Couchsurfing Blog") The Old Castle of Celje by [milosk50](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/milosk50) shutterstock**Best breakfast in town!** There are a few nice breakfast places in town. One is [Prešernova 15.](https://www.facebook.com/kavarnaPresernova15/) A nice little breakfast place that serves food from local farms. For example, you won’t find Coke, but you will get [Cockta](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cockta), which is the Slovenian answer to Coke, dating back to the time when Slovenia was still part of [Yugoslavia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yugoslavia). As the name says, it’s located on Prešernova street, four minutes walk from the train station, next to [Museum of Recent History](https://www.culture.si/en/Celje_Museum_of_Recent_History). **1 museum not to miss!** The [Museum of Recent History](https://www.culture.si/en/Celje_Museum_of_Recent_History). It hosts the only Slovenian children’s museum called *Herman’s den*, after a famous count from 15th century. Besides that, there’s a really nice *Living in Celje 1900-2000* multimedia exhibition that will take you on a history tour of Celje across 20th century. **Best quick bite!** The most famous, you can say legendary (with a reason) quick bite in Celje is [Burek Šerifi](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g274868-d12877566-Reviews-Okrepcevalnica_Burek_Serifi-Celje_Styria_Region.html). For decades their offer hasn’t changed: [burek](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/B%C3%B6rek) (traditional Bosnian pastry, although people in Turkey might have a word here), with cheese or meat, yogurt and ice cream. And that’s it. When I was a child, it was a celebration for me and my friends to get some pocket money, sit on a bike and have an ice cream at *Šerifi*. Later a burek. It’s one place I try to take each Couchsurfer to. You CANNOT leave Celje without having a burek at [Šerifi](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g274868-d12877566-Reviews-Okrepcevalnica_Burek_Serifi-Celje_Styria_Region.html)! Period! ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/shutterstock_575270731.jpg?fit=910%2C607&ssl=1 "shutterstock_575270731 - Couchsurfing Blog")Burek by [Filip Koric](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/filip+koric) shutterstock**Where to try the local cuisine!** If you are into local cusine, then [Francl](http://www.gostilnafrancl.si/) restaurant is for you. **Best place to grab a drink!** There are few bars right in the city center that locals call The Golden Triangle. One is [TamKoUčiri](https://www.facebook.com/krcmatamkouciri/), literally meaning *ThereAsYesterday*, shortly *TKU*. It’s located in the heart of the historical old town in the middle of the Art Quarter, an area that hosts different artists and has a really lively vibe. Less than two minutes away is [Špital](https://www.spital.si/), a bar, situated in the building that served as the first medieval hospital on Slovenian soil. Great atmosphere, a place where locals watch football or other matches. Also good selection of beers and regular concert venue. In the summer they put out a summer stage. And four minutes walk from Špital is *The Golden Cave*. The most underground bar from three. Open quite late in the night, it also has a small basement concert space. Situated on the former medieval corner tower of city’s defensive wall. The fourth part of the golden triangle is [Nobelplatz](https://www.facebook.com/nobelplatz/), just behind the corner of TKU, on the main square. With it’s secret cozy garden and very good wine selection is a bit (just a bit) more *chic* than the other three. **Where to sweat!** A really really popular hike is to the [Celjska koča ](https://www.celje.si/en/card/trail-celjska-ko%C4%8D)( Celje hut ), a small ski resort with a hotel and adventure park. It takes a good hour from the parking and during weekend it is quite crowded. But a really moderate and doable hike. There is also an outside gym called [Špica](https://www.celje.si/en/card/spica-outdoor-gym), a kayak/canoe club next to the summer pool by [Savinja river](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Savinja). There is also a good [pizza place](http://www.kkk-nivo.com/pizzerija-%C5%A1pica.html) there! Besides that, in a range of 10 to 30 km, you have three or four spa towns where you can sweat yourself out in sauna. ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/shutterstock_1159651192.jpg?fit=910%2C607&ssl=1 "shutterstock_1159651192 - Couchsurfing Blog")Savinja River with the Old Castle and Capuchin Church in the backgorund by [Haidamac](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/haidamac) shutterstock**Best view in the city!** There are quite a few view viewpoints of the city from above or within. The closest is from the terrace of the [Capuchin Church](https://www.lonelyplanet.com/slovenia/celje/attractions/capuchin-church-of-st-cecilia/a/poi-sig/490710/360708) (Church of St. Cecilia) next to the park. Some 85 stairs lead to it and it is 8 minutes from the main square. If you are in a hiking mood, you prolong the hike behind that same church/monastery. 15 minutes through the woods (follow the sign [Razgledni Stolp](https://www.hribi.net/izlet/celje_miklavzev_hrib_razgledni_stolp_zerdonerjeva_pot/25/2761/6278)) and you are on a small tower above the park. Wonderful view. On the other hill, just across, is the [Old Castle](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Celje_Castle), the mighty fortress of the Counts of Celje. It offers magnificent view of Celje and on a clear day, you can see the Alps in distance. And if you are in a really good hiking mood, climb up [Grmada](http://www.hribi.net/gora/grmada_nad_celjem/25/877), a hill opposite [Celjska Koča](http://celjska-koca.si/?lang=en). It takes a good hour from the parking, but it’s worth the effort. You can reach it if you follow the [Celjska Koča](http://celjska-koca.si/?lang=en) path and turn left at the sign, or just go to [Celjska Koča](http://celjska-koca.si/?lang=en) and follow the signs from there. It’s a bit longer, but not so steep and the view is incredible. **Cutest cafe!** If you are a coffee freak, there’s one and only place in Celje where your wishes will come true: [Mala Kuba](https://www.facebook.com/kofeinteater/) also known as [Kofein Teater](https://www.happycow.net/reviews/kuba-kafe-celje-111317). A small cafe on Prešernova street, 300 meters straight from train station. You can spend hours there, drinking coffee, reading, have a breakfast, try their delicious pies and cookies. They also sell and grind their various kinds of coffee they serve. It is THE place to go in Celje! **The perfect picture!** If you are looking to get a really nice photo, go to the [Old Castle](https://www.celje.si/en/card/old-castle-celje) and find a view terrace on the western most part of the fortress. ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/shutterstock_698057818.jpg?fit=910%2C607&ssl=1 "shutterstock_698057818 - Couchsurfing Blog")By [imarovich](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/imarovich) shutterstock**A tourist trap to avoid!** The beer fountain in a nearby town of [Žalec](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/%C5%BDalec) (10 km) is gaining a worldwide reputation. But people are disappointed when they see it’s really not a fountain, just a number of pipes pouring different kinds of beers (not always the best). You buy a glass (not cheap) and can pour yourself one deciliter of beer, six times. And you get to keep the glass. A classic tourist trap. A shot away is a great [hops museum](https://www.turizem-zalec.si/en/directory/148/the-eco-museum-of-hop-growing-and-brewing-industry-in-slovenia). Spend your money there and you won’t be disappointed. **Best day-trip out of town!** Since Slovenia is really small, you can make a day trip to almost any part of the country; [seaside](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Piran), [the Alps](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Julian_Alps), [Soča river valley](https://www.slovenia.info/en/places-to-go/attractions/soca-valley), [Prekmurje](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prekmurje) region… Nothing is more than three hours away. There’s far too many places to mention. ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/shutterstock_443161252.jpg?fit=910%2C512&ssl=1 "shutterstock_443161252 - Couchsurfing Blog")Julian Alps in Northern Slovenia by [Adrian am13](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/adrian_am13) shutterstock### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-celje/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-celje/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Guides **Tags:** alps, celje, cs guide to, julian alps, slovenia, travel advice --- ### [A Manuela in Taberna La Concha](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-manuela-in-taberna-la-concha/) **Published:** October 15, 2019 **Author:** Mike Joy **Excerpt:** Heading to Madrid soon? Make sure you check out La Concha in the hip neighborhood of 'La Latina' and order their signature 'Manuela'! An experience not to be missed! **Content:** ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/IMG_9508.jpg?fit=910%2C1018&ssl=1 "IMG_9508 - Couchsurfing Blog") On a lively street in the La Latina neighborhood of Madrid, sits a small bar which you may walk right past if you’re on a night of tapa-hopping around. But if you happen to cross [Taberna La Concha](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g187514-d3470895-Reviews-Taberna_la_Concha-Madrid.html), let the turquoise paint pull you in, because inside is one of the coolest experiences you are likely to find in La Latina. I first heard of Taberna La Concha from Jean-Marc, our Couchsurfing Ambassador in Spain, when he wrote [A Couchsurfers Guide to Madrid](http://10.9.0.204/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-madrid/): > Have the best vermouth in the city at [La Concha](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g187514-d3470895-Reviews-Taberna_la_Concha-Madrid.html) in iconic Calle Cava Baja street. But you must order it as a ‘Manuela’. for it to be served with three sprays of gin, filled with vermú and topped with a dash of Campari bitters and an olive and orange peel garnish. > > [Jean-Marc](http://10.9.0.204/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-madrid/) ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/IMG_9512.jpg?fit=855%2C1024&ssl=1 "IMG_9512 - Couchsurfing Blog") I had the opportunity to visit La Concha, actually with Jean-Marc, during the recent [MadCrash](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/madcrash-2019). The event began with Tapa-hopping in La Latina and we arrived to a bar with the backroom reserved for Couchsurfers. Jean-Marc came up and whispered in my ear, “La Concha is across the street, but it’s very small and they don’t allow big groups, so I’m going to take people in groups of eight, follow me.” Vermouth and an adventure? SIGN ME UP! So I followed Jean-Marc and what followed was one of the coolest experiences of the weekend. The bar itself is an old styled bar, long and narrow, with a bar taking up half of the space, but what makes the bar special is the mix of decor, patrons sitting on bar stool talking over martini glasses, and the bartender meticulously crafting the *Manuela*. Jean-Marc explained that the owner of the bar is called Concha and she named the drink after her daughter, Manuela. ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/IMG_9514-2.jpg?fit=775%2C1024&ssl=1 "IMG_9514-2 - Couchsurfing Blog")So we ordered Manuelas. Eight to be exact. At which point the bartender gave a not-at-all quiet scoff. Nevertheless, he set out the eight martini glasses with one ice cube in each. Sprayed the gin, three times exactly per glass, dropped the cocktail stick with an olive and orange peel, poured the vermouth, and finished with a generous dash of Campari bitters. And thus that is the Manuela. Next time you find yourself in Madrid, make your way to Taberna La Concha and order a ‘*Manuela*‘, just don’t go with seven of your closest friends, or you are likely to be met with hat same scoff. ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/IMG_9517.jpg?fit=910%2C683&ssl=1 "IMG_9517 - Couchsurfing Blog")MadCrash 2019 grabs Manuelas in La Concha### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-manuela-in-taberna-la-concha/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-manuela-in-taberna-la-concha/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Advice **Tags:** csmadrid, la concha, la latina, madrid, spain, vermouth --- ### [Surviving The Louages of Tunisia](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/surviving-the-louages-of-tunisia/) **Published:** October 22, 2019 **Author:** Mike Joy **Excerpt:** Louages are the fastest, easiest and most affordable way to get around Tunisia. They may be overwhelming at first, but the time and money they save far outweighs the hassle! **Content:** A louage is the exact kind of transportation your mother begs you not to take while traveling. It consists of you entering a parking lot with men shouting city names at you. You either hear your city, or as usually was the case for me, you tell a man where you want to go, he takes you by the arm and pushes you into a van. Maybe there’s other people in it, maybe not. You then trust that he will deliver you to the promised destination. But if you are not fluent in Arabic or French, as I am not, that requires placing your trust in strange men with vans – the nightmare of parents everywhere. ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/LouageStation.jpg?fit=910%2C552&ssl=1 "LouageStation - Couchsurfing Blog")The Louage Station in SousseThat being said, louages are the easiest and cheapest way of getting around Tunisia; and I used them for all of my intercity travel. Why? ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Louage-Driving.jpg?fit=910%2C639&ssl=1 "Louage-Driving - Couchsurfing Blog")Two Louages racing west **They are fast**: they go from city to city. So often there are no stops in between. Tunis to Sousse? Bizerte? Hammamet? Direct transport. **They are cheap**: I’m talking 5-10 dinar depending on the distance. My trip from Sousse to Tunis was 9 Dinar (roughly US$3) and El Jem to Sousse was closer to 5 Dinar. **They are often**: They go when full. That means you may get lucky and be the eighth person and leave immediately, or the first and have to wait. Luckily even when I was first – as I was to go to Dougga and Sousse, it filled up within 30 minutes. ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/LouageInterior.jpg?fit=910%2C716&ssl=1 "LouageInterior - Couchsurfing Blog")Louage Interior **They are comfortable**: *Relatively*. They are cruising at 100 kilometers per hour so the wind is some natural air conditioning, you are in a fan so it’s at least as comfortable as a bus, and if you get the front seat you get a seat belt! **They are authentic**: I was, almost always, the only non Tunisian in the louages. I loved that. I got to practice my terrible French. The other passengers often tried to chat with me, give me advice, add me on Facebook (shout out Yessine!). I’ve been many places with many modes of transportation. And for all the things one can says about the Tunisian louage system – they are damn efficient! And above all, an adventure! ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/GareDeNord-1.jpg?fit=910%2C791&ssl=1 "GareDeNord-1 - Couchsurfing Blog")Gare Routière Nord Tunis **Important facts:** **Payment**: You often pay the driver directly. But in Sousse Louage Station, you buy a ticket and gave that to the driver. **Stations**: Most cities have one Louage Station that is relatively central. Tunis has at least two. One to go south (Moncef Bey) towards Sousse, Hammamet, Tatouine, etc. And one to go north/west (Gare Routière Nord) toward Bizerte, El Kef, Dougga (via Taboursouk). ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/SelfieFront-Seat-1.jpg?fit=910%2C935&ssl=1 "SelfieFront-Seat-1 - Couchsurfing Blog")Front seats get seatbelts **Safety**: Look. You’re in a van in Tunisia. The front seats usually have seatbelts, I took those if available, otherwise just relax. I would estimate a million Tunisians travel this way regularly and no one seemed bothered. ***Bonne chance mes amis!*** ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/surviving-the-louages-of-tunisia/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/surviving-the-louages-of-tunisia/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Advice **Tags:** Dougga, louage, Sousse, travel, travel advice, travel tips, tunis, tunisia --- ### [How to get around New York City](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/how-to-get-around-new-york-city/) **Published:** October 8, 2019 **Author:** Mike Joy **Excerpt:** Heading to NYC? There are many ways to get around the Big Apple, make sure you choose the one that saves you the most time, the most money, and gives you the true New Yorker experience. **Content:** #### By Mike Joy. Mike is a prolific traveler, 4 year resident of NYC and Community Manager at Couchsurfing. From tourists to locals, there is a persistent confusion in how one gets around New York City (NYC). Some plan on walking from the tip of Manhattan to Central Park (nearly eight km and as many blisters) while others hop in yellow taxis to get everywhere. Luckily, there is a middle road between these two options, saving you time and allowing you to make the most of your time. ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/shutterstock_1192851421.jpg?fit=910%2C636 "shutterstock_1192851421 - Couchsurfing Blog")By [Ryan DeBerardinis](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/deberarr)shutterstockMany people who come to NYC walk from site to site, crossing neighborhoods in their Pink Sketchers, feeling like they are soaking up the true New York experience. The thing is, although we definitely walk a lot in NYC, we walk to modes of transportation. If I am in SoHo shopping and meeting a friend for dinner in Chelsea (20 blocks north) there is NO WAY I am walking. Why? I am a busy man! I can’t spend 40 minutes checking out the sites on lower Broadway (spoiler alert, there are none) and arrive late to dinner. Lucky for you and me, there are MANY ways to get around New York that will be FAR easier on your hips, feet and wallet. **The Adventurer’s** ***(and author’s)*** **choice!** ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/shutterstock_431515762.jpg?fit=910%2C607 "shutterstock_431515762 - Couchsurfing Blog")By [Leonard Zhukovsky](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/leonard+zhukovsky)shutterstockCitiBike: I can not sing the praises of these bikes enough. So much so, you may start to think this is a sponsored post. It is not. Now, I know many people, New Yorkers included who would say I am insane for biking in Manhattan, but there are quite a few bike lanes and if you are a confident rider, it really isn’t any worse than biking in any busy area. Cars know to look out for you and truly your biggest issue will be pedestrians wandering into the street (a bigger nightmare to drivers I assume). CitiBike can be hired on monthly and hourly passes – so if you are going a few blocks or want to get your cardio in, check one out and travel how yours truly does! **The Classic** ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/shutterstock_259538468.jpg?fit=910%2C607 "shutterstock_259538468 - Couchsurfing Blog")By [AllenG](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/agaliza)shutterstockNew York has a subway. A big subway. An expansive subway. A subway that would make a European proud. Well maybe not proud, but at least sigh in tired acceptance. Truth be told, it is in desperate need of a facelift but it will get you wherever you want to go. Will you see a rat in the stations? Yes. Will you walk into a car and immediately turn around when the smell of death hits you? Yes. Will you get stuck under the east river for a few moments and briefly wonder if this is how it ends for you? Maybe that’s just me. All of that aside, the subway (metro for you non-New Yorkers) connects most of the outer boroughs (sorry Staten Island!) to Manhattan and will get you between most of the main sites in far less time than anything else on this list. And at USD$8 for an unlimited day pass, or USD$32 for a week — it is a budget-friendly option. **The Revel** ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/shutterstock_1420540727.jpg?fit=910%2C607 "shutterstock_1420540727 - Couchsurfing Blog")By [rblfmr](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/rblfmr)shutterstockNow NYC doesn’t have those cool Bird scooters like LA does, why? I do not know. Probably some lame law. BUT what it does have is Revel Scooters in Brooklyn and Queens which are straight up mopeds that you open with an app and take off like you’re in the streets of *Milano*. These aren’t allowed in Manhattan (not that you would want to scooter through that mayhem!) but if you are crossing between the less visited but equally interesting Queens and Brooklyn, download the [app](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.reveltransit&hl=en_US) and give it a go. NOTE: Helmets come with the bike and they are a MUST to wear. **The Driver** ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/shutterstock_559730947.jpg?fit=910%2C606 "shutterstock_559730947 - Couchsurfing Blog")Now I definitely use Uber and Lyft in the city for certain moments. The ‘I have a flight to catch!’ moment. The ‘I have had one too many drinks and it is too late for the subway’ moment. The ‘I just went to Target and bought USD$1400 worth of home goods moment’. But that’s about it. The thing with taking Uber and Lyft in the city is that traffic sucks. In some cases, yes it will save you time and if you are a family of four it very well may save you money — but I have been caught in downtown traffic that made a 15-minute subway ride into a 55-minute Uber one too many times to give it my full endorsement. Of course, you can walk. You can catch a cab. You can buy a tricycle and make some pocket change in Time’s Square. But if you’re looking for the easiest, most accessible and most cost-effective way to get around the Big Apple, take our advice and save your feet from those blisters. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/how-to-get-around-new-york-city/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/how-to-get-around-new-york-city/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Advice **Tags:** Citi bike, CitiBike, metro, new york, New York City, NYC, subway, travel, travel article, travel tips, uber --- ### [A Couchsurfer's Guide to... Nicosia](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-nicosia/) **Published:** September 19, 2019 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Excerpt:** Pandelis, our Couchsurfing Ambassador for Cyprus, gives you his tips for your next trip to Nicosia, his home town, and the last divided capital in Europe. **Content:** ## Top Photo By [Nejdet Duzen](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/nejdet+duzen)/shutterstock **Best breakfast in Nicosia…** *[Home for Co-operation Cafe](http://www.home4cooperation.info/cafe)* in the [Green Line](https://www.cyprusisland.net/attractions/green-line-nicosia) (the UN buffer zone that separates Nicosia). The food is tasty and cheap! ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Home-for-Cooperation-Cafe.jpg "Home-for-Cooperation-Cafe - Couchsurfing Blog")Home for Co operation Cafe By Pandelis **1 museum not to miss…** [Leventis Municipal Museum](http://leventismuseum.org.cy/home). It’s a museum in Nicosia, about Nicosia. One of the few museums in the world dedicated to the history of a single city – in this case one that is 8000 years old. And, it won the EuroMuseum Award in 1991! **Best place to grab a drink…** Any of the traditional cafe-bars in the old city, close to the Green Line: [Kala Kathoumena](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g190383-d7817145-Reviews-Kafeneo_Sta_Kala_Kathoumena-Nicosia_Nicosia_District.html), [Halara](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g190383-d7825849-Reviews-Halara_Cafe-Nicosia_Nicosia_District.html), [Imagine](https://newcyprusguide.com/listings/imagine-cafe-and-bar/), or [Hoi Polloi](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g190383-d10487360-Reviews-Hoi_Polloi-Nicosia_Nicosia_District.html) are all great! ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Kala-Kathoumena-Cafe-300x225.jpg "Kala-Kathoumena-Cafe - Couchsurfing Blog")Kala Kathoumena by Pandelis **Best view in the city…** The Observatory at the top of [Shakolas Tower](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g190383-d3750331-Reviews-Shacolas_Tower_Museum_Observatory-Nicosia_Nicosia_District.html), on Ledra Street in the Old City. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/shutterstock_722472544.jpg "shutterstock_722472544 - Couchsurfing Blog")View from Shakolas Tower by [Heracles Kritikos](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/hercules)shutterstock **Where to dance…** [Aperitivo Club](https://www.facebook.com/Aperitivojetset/), for modern dance. Any tavern in the old city for traditional dance! **The perfect picture in Nicosia…** Walk around at the paved streets of the old city and take a pic with one of the lazy cats sitting at the cafeterias (which tourists usually don’t dare to move in order to take their seat…) ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/shutterstock_1506967403.jpg?fit=960%2C640&ssl=1 "shutterstock_1506967403 - Couchsurfing Blog")By [Edgar Machado](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/edgar+machado)shutterstock **Best day trip out of Nicosia…** Any place in Cyprus fits this description – my country is that small :). I would suggest any village in the Troodos Mountain Range, the city and region of Kyrenia (Girne) OR Ayia Napa! **One experience NOT TO MISS…** Cross the Green Line and experience how similar and different the people and places are in the different sides of the last divided capital city in Europe. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/shutterstock_1390510163.jpg "shutterstock_1390510163 - Couchsurfing Blog")By [Shevchenko Andrey](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/shevchenkoandrey)shutterstock**Where to try the local cuisine…** ‘[Zanettos Tavern](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g190383-d1984712-Reviews-Zanettos-Nicosia_Nicosia_District.html)‘, in the ‘within-the-walls’ area. **Best historic site…** In an 8000 year old city, it is a bit hard to choose, but I would say to pay a visit at the [Cathedral of Agia Sophia](https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g190383-d2314145-r242080009-Selimiye_Mosque-Nicosia_Nicosia_District.html), now turned to a mosque, where the French Kings and Queens of Cyprus, Jerusalem and Armenia used to be crowned. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/shutterstock_218786620-e1568878812200-1024x875.jpg "shutterstock_218786620 - Couchsurfing Blog")By [kirill makarov](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/makarov212) shutterstock **One thing to be careful of…** Classic: If you order a taxi, make sure the driver tells you the cost of the ride before you enter the vehicle. If is too much, don’t hesitate to let them go and call another one. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-nicosia/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-nicosia/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Guides **Tags:** cyprus, nicosia, travel, travel advice, travel guide, travel like a local --- ### [A Couchsurfer's Guide to...Krakow](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to/) **Published:** September 12, 2019 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** ## Background photo By [RossHelen](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/rosshelen)/Shutterstock ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Screen-Shot-2019-09-04-at-3.40.23-PM.png "Screen-Shot-2019-09-04-at-3.40.23-PM - Couchsurfing Blog")By [Alberto](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/agent_spider)couchsurfingcom [Alberto](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/agent_spider) has lived in Krakow for 3 years and is currently our Couchsurfing Ambassador in Krakow. Here are his takes on what not to miss on your next trip to Krakow. Ya know, just in case your CS host has a job or something! **Best Breakfast in Krakow…** Pan Nalesnik (Dolnych Młynów 3) and Mr Pancake (Dolnych Młynów 10/1b). Both mean ‘Mr Pancake’ and they are basically in front of each other, but one serves Polish pancakes and the other serves them the American way. ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Wawel-Castle.jpg?fit=960%2C635&ssl=1 "Wawel-Castle - Couchsurfing Blog") By [TTstudio](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/ttstudio)shutterstock **1 Museum not to miss…** The mandatory one is the Wawel Castle. But if apart from that you want to go a bit off the beaten track, try checking Beksinski’s artwork in Nowohuckie Centrum Kultury (al. Jana Pawła II 232). Is a bit far from the city center, but trust me, every kilometer is worth it. **Where to break a sweat…** If you’re here during the summer, rent a kayak in [Kolejowy Klub Wodny](http://www.kkw29.pl) (Księcia Józefa 24a), you can kayak all the way down to the Wawel Castle and back. You don’t need to be really fit to finish the trip and you will have AMAZING pics!!!! 2h cost around 20 zl… that’s less than 5 €! (More info [here](http://kajaki-krakow.pl/poniedzialek-piatek/), unfortunately only in Polish but Google Translate does a good job.) ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Zapiekanka.jpg?fit=960%2C640&ssl=1 "Zapiekanka - Couchsurfing Blog")By [AnnaTamila](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/annatamila)shutterstock **Best street food…** Zapiekanka (the “Polish pizza” made with a baguette) in Plac Nowy square. They are good at any time, but they taste even better when you’re already a bit tipsy and feel hungry at 2 AM. **Best place for local cuisine…** Gospoda Koko (Gołębia 8). It’s traditional Polish cuisine, more like cafeteria style, but delicious and very affordable prices. ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Kopiec-Krakusa.jpg?fit=960%2C600&ssl=1 "Kopiec-Krakusa - Couchsurfing Blog")By [Dominic Jeanmaire](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/dominic+jeanmaire)shutterstock **Best view in the city…** Kopiec Krakusa. There are several mounds like this around the city, but this one is the closest to the center so you have a full view of the whole city. **Best place to grab a drink…** Pijalnia Wódki I Piwa (Florianska 34, Szewska 25, Plac Nowy 7) or Bania Luka (Szewska 13, plac Szczepański 6). Both have several locations across the city. They are kind of crappy, but the prices are ridiculously low and are the perfect place to begin or end a night out. Actually I love their “have your drink and GTF out of here” approach. **Where to get the perfect picture…** Wawel Dragon statue. It spits real fire!!!! Wait until dusk to have the coolest pic ever! ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/WawelDragon.jpg?fit=960%2C639&ssl=1 "WawelDragon - Couchsurfing Blog")By [Benevolente82](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/benevolente82)shutterstock **One experience not to miss…** Check out the nuclear bunker in Nowa Huta district, in the Muzeum PRL-u building (os. Centrum E 1). Cold War legacy all around the area. ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/CityTour.jpg?fit=960%2C640&ssl=1 "CityTour - Couchsurfing Blog")By [Agnes Kantaruk](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/agnes+kantaruk)shutterstock **One experience to avoid…** The golf karts offering tours around the city… better join one of those free walking tours, there’s plenty of them almost 24/7 and in several languages. **Best historic site…** Schindler’s Factory (Lipowa 4). It’s impossible not to make references to WWII when you’re in Poland. **1 must-do day trip…** Auschwitz concentration camp. I encourage people to go there even though the experience is NOT going to be nice, but it works as a reminder of what we as humanity shouldn’t allow to happen again. ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Aushwitz.jpg?fit=960%2C640&ssl=1 "Aushwitz - Couchsurfing Blog")By [bondvit](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/bondvit)shutterstock### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Guides **Tags:** krakow, travel guide, travel tips --- ### [10 Questions with a CS Ambassador: Annarita](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-annarita/) **Published:** September 22, 2019 **Author:** Mike Joy **Excerpt:** Meet Annarita, our Couchsurfing Ambassador from Saint-Brieuc, France. Annarita has been on Couchsurfing for 11 years, active in events, groups and hosting. **Content:** Name [Annarita](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/annarital) City: Saint-Brieuc, France Years on Couchsurfing: 11 ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Annarita-e1568720629684.jpeg "Annarita - Couchsurfing Blog") **Why did you decide to get involved with CS?** Speaking and learning foreign languages is one of my favorite occupations… that leads to meeting people at home or traveling. When I heard about CS my first reaction was ‘that is for me!’ So for years now, I have been active in hosting, surfing, organizing events, participating in events…and ‘doing my best’ to moderate groups.?” **What was your first CS experience?** After entering the site I had many questions but, locally, I didn’t find anybody who answered my questions. That is when the CS French volunteers community called for an event in Nantes (200 km from me), they opened the event to non volunteers on CouchSurfing. I joined the event, there I met some of the French ambassadors and moderators, had my first experience as a guest, and got my first references, and maybe my first vouches!” ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/MG_7581.jpg "MG_7581 - Couchsurfing Blog") The CS France group**What was your most interesting surfing experience?** A family in Argentina, 5 young children from 2 to 8 years old, if I remember well. Family life in a little town. ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/IMGP7131.jpg?fit=960%2C720&ssl=1 "IMGP7131 - Couchsurfing Blog")Annarita with the Argentinian CS Family The mum took me on her Vespa up to the mountains ( 3 hours climbing, crossing rivers…) to visit her own mother and grandmother in the middle of nowhere. We overnighted in the little house. For breakfast, the mum took her ‘tambor’ and sang for me. (Unfortunately, there is no photo of this magic moment).” ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/530707_4959596994217_626993217_n-e1568720567921.jpg "530707_4959596994217_626993217_n - Couchsurfing Blog")Annarita on her hot air balloon ride **What an amazing experience! What is the coolest gift you have received from a surfer?** Months after she stayed with me, my CouchSurfer Lisa sent me a hot air balloon flight ticket! **If you could surf with any celebrity alive or dead, who would it be and why?** I would like to surf with Manu Chao. He is an inspiring and generous guy, not only as a singer or musician but as a human being involved in human rights fights, caring for the planet and living according to his ideals. **What is your favorite travel quote?** It is in Spanish from a poem by Antonio Machado: > Caminante no hay camino, se hace camino al andar **What is the craziest thing that has ever happened to you while traveling?** In a village deep in Colombia (3000 inhabitants), in a little hostel, a woman came up to me and asked: “Are you from Saint-Brieuc ?” I was stunned by the first question and even more with the second one: “Aren’t you Ben’s mum?” The answers were yes and yes. She was one of my son Ben’s friends when they were teenagers, 30 years before! This kind of moment teaches you that you must take care of how you behave wherever you are? ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/IMG-20190404-WA0007.jpg?fit=960%2C480&ssl=1 "IMG-20190404-WA0007 - Couchsurfing Blog")**Wow! What a small world! Speaking of Saint-Briuc, what is your favorite local cuisine from your city?** In Bretagne you have to taste the ‘galettes’ ! **It looks like a pancake! What is the one thing you never go on a trip without?** My little electric resistance to warm water. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/63048_10200988844789821_2099525464_n.jpg "63048_10200988844789821_2099525464_n - Couchsurfing Blog")The one thing Annarita never travels without **Ah! Handy, you must be a tea drinker! So what is your dream vacation?** I would like to cross USA, from east to west, by train. **That’ll be a long trip! And an 11th question just for fun, what is your one piece of advice to a new member of Couchsurfing?** Read all the information you can find on the site. Take your time before jumping in the big bath, try to meet local CS to ask your question. *Learn to balance between giving and taking.* ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-annarita/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-annarita/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Meet an Ambassador **Tags:** Couchsurfing Ambassador, Couchsurfing Community, CS Ambassador, CS Community, france, Meet an Ambassador --- ### [Insider's guide to Williamsburg, New York](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/insiders-guide-to-williamsburg-new-york/) **Published:** April 1, 2019 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** Get to know Williamsburg beyond the hipster cliches. Williamsburg resident, Mike Joy, loves the open spaces and unparalleled views of Manhattan and is letting us in on some local secrets. **When I have friends in town** we start with used clothes shopping at Crossroads, Buffalo Exchange and L Train Vintage. Then we grab brunch at either 12 Chairs or Sunday in Brooklyn (they’re across the street from each other so we go where the wait is shorter.) If it’s warm out, we’ll lay out at Domino Park or watch the sunset from the William Vale Hotel rooftop bar. At night we go dancing in East Williamsburg at either House Of Yes, Sutherlands or Brooklyn Mirage. These clubs often have DJs or specific parties, so check their websites to get tickets! **My favorite sight** is Domino Park! Williamsburg is very much a residential neighborhood, so is short on tourist sights. Luckily, in summer 2018 they opened Domino Park right along the East River and it provides gorgeous views of Manhattan, spots to lay out and read and a kick-ass taco spot with margaritas and micheladas! ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/shutterstock_1135720772.jpg "shutterstock_1135720772 - Couchsurfing Blog")Domino Park located along the East River in Williamsburg Brooklyn includes a 1200 foot long waterfront esplanade with panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline Shutterstockcom **My best snowy day experience ever** was at Freehold. We had a massive snow storm that shut down the subways and canceled work for everyone in New York City. My neighbors and I trekked through the snow to Freehold in South Williamsburg, and laid on the sofas, drank mimosas and listened to music all day meeting other locals who were enjoying the surprise mid-week vacation day. **When I have a day off, I’ll escape to Fire Island.** It’s a trek out of the city (about 2 hours), but Cherry Grove or Pines are both car-free communities on Fire Island with beautiful beaches and are perfect getaways from the city. **My favorite place to shop for gifts is** Bedford Avenue. Bedford is the heart-line of Williamsburg and is full of boutiques and shops, both new and used, where you can find gifts your friends will love. On weekends there are street vendors set up as well with more artisan items. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/shutterstock_443209474.jpg "shutterstock_443209474 - Couchsurfing Blog")Experience Williamsburgs creative energy in the neighborhoods independently run boutiques on Bedford Avenue jumis Shutterstockcom**My friends and I love to** grab drinks at Brooklyn Barge. It is technically in Greenpoint, the neighborhood north of Williamsburg, but it is the coolest spot to grab drinks on warm nights. The barge juts out into the East River, has plenty of space to walk about and chat with friends, and sells food in case you get hungry. **My hidden foodie treasure is** Smorgasburg on Summer Saturdays. A huge parking lot on N7th and the East River is transformed into a food-tent paradise. All the best restaurants in New York set up tents and sell their best dishes. After grabbing your favorite food you can sit on a huge lawn and have a gorgeous view of Manhattan. There’s also a biergarten if that strikes your fancy! **Don’t leave town without trying** Pies ‘n’ Thighs on South 4th. It can be crowded during peak times and weekends but is only closed from 4p-5p, so head over late night or mid-day for some true American cooking and a must-visit for any trip to Williamsburg. **Best place to get a capture a better than a postcard image of Williamsburg** is on the quiet backstreets. Although the Bushwick Collective (in Bushwick, Brooklyn) is arguably more famous for its street art, Williamsburg has numerous walls featuring incredible artists and their work. The streets of Williamsburg are an open-air art gallery. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/Screen-Shot-2019-01-23-at-10.55.16-AM.png "Screen Shot 2019-01-23 at 10.55.16 AM - Couchsurfing Blog")The backstreets of Williamsburg are an open air art gallery with artists like Naveen Shakil making their mark on the neighbourhood Mike Joy**The most inspiring thing about Williamsburg** is the large amount of open space. Compared to Manhattan, Brooklyn is quite a bit lower. We have McCarren Park in the North and Domino Park in the South. There are numerous rooftop bars, restaurants with outdoor seating and the river walk where you can catch the ferry into Manhattan. Everyone knows the best views of Manhattan are from Brooklyn. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/insiders-guide-to-williamsburg-new-york/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/insiders-guide-to-williamsburg-new-york/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Guides **Tags:** couchsurfing, couchsurfing guides, couchsurfing New York, NYC, travel advice, travel guide, Williamsburg --- ### [Carnaval Veracruz Couch Crash](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/carnaval-veracruz-couch-crash/) **Published:** April 17, 2019 **Author:** Mike Joy **Content:** ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/WhatsApp-Image-2019-01-13-at-19.28.31-1.jpeg "WhatsApp Image 2019-01-13 at 19.28.31 - Couchsurfing Blog") Veracruz has the largest and most famous Carnaval in Mexico and has some unique traditions, including Juan Carnaval, where an effigy receives a mock-funeral. The celebration lasts nine days and includes floats, parades, parties and special events all over the city. From 28 February to 3 March, our Veracruz community organized the Veracruz CouchCrash Carnaval to coincide with these celebrations. Carnaval is celebrated all over the world as a period of festivities before observing Lent. It has its roots in the Catholic Church and these multi-day festivities, complete with parades and floats, are spectacular events to experience. ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/veracruz-1.jpeg?fit=766%2C1024&ssl=1 "veracruz - Couchsurfing Blog") Couchsurfers have been meeting up at the ‘CouchCrash Carnaval de Veracruz’ to join in the celebrations every year since 2013. This year there were more than 70 Couchsurfers in attendance. The crash lasted four days with a range of activities leading up to watching the main carnival parade: salsa dancing, visiting downtown Veracruz and some sightseeing of museums, the fortress San Juan de Ulúa, the biggest aquarium in Mexico, and of course, tasting the local delicacies. Carlos, one of the organizers of the event and a Couchsurfing Ambassador, said, “this kind of meeting is very fast, especially on Saturday, because you are going from one place to another, so it is more about giving a tour to the visitors. But after, we had time to meet each other and talk about Couchsurfing. I really loved this time because we could take a break and just talk. In groups of four, we started to introduce each other, and then two members of each group were moved to a new group in a circle. This would form a new group of four so everyone could meet each other. I told them that in some way we were recreating the reference system on Couchsurfing, when we are all connected and we could know about people even if they weren’t in our circle. After, we invited everyone to write references for each other because that’s the cornerstone of our community.” ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/WhatsApp-Image-2019-03-04-at-11.33.54-2.jpeg?fit=960%2C713&ssl=1 "WhatsApp Image 2019-03-04 at 11.33.54 - Couchsurfing Blog") Congrats on the amazing event Veracruz Couchsurfers! We hope you have many years of amazing Carnaval CouchCrash celebrations ahead! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/carnaval-veracruz-couch-crash/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/carnaval-veracruz-couch-crash/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Crashes, Invasions and More! **Tags:** Carnaval Veracruz, couch crash, couchsurfing veracruz, Veracruz --- ### [48 Hours in Oslo with Back To Social](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/48-hours-in-oslo-with-back-to-social/) **Published:** April 25, 2019 **Author:** Mike Joy **Content:** Is your country considered friendly? Warm? Outgoing? Or do you have a reputation for being cold, closed and hard to get to know? These are exactly the kinds of stereotypes that [Back To Social](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChAptuDNwCOHp5PxgdN2PcQ) want to challenge about their home country of Norway. > We want to inspire the Norwegian people to leave their comfort zones more often and show how these experiences can lead to new friendships, opportunities and magical moments. **How it works:** The Back To Social team will choose a host (from the streets of Oslo, with NO Couchsurfing experience!) and they, along with their Couchsurfer will enjoy 48 hours together in Oslo with a custom made itinerary full of unique and interesting local activities. Oh, and the entire experience will ***be*** ***filmed***! The host will have no idea who you are, but will be hand selected to make sure they are a great fit for your stay. The episode will mainly focus on the host being pushed outside their comfort zone, and they will not have any previous Couchsurfing experience. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/f75b813aa4d7f687dbca4a7a0841b126.png "f75b813aa4d7f687dbca4a7a0841b126 - Couchsurfing Blog")**How to apply:** Send a video to the Back To Social team ( ) with: – A bit about yourself – About your previous Couchsurfing experience – Why you want to be a part of this YouTube project – If you are, or can be, in Oslo between April 29 – May 13 for at least 48 hours.\* \**Travel to/from Oslo not included.* ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/Screen-Shot-2019-04-22-at-4.00.37-PM-1.png?fit=960%2C539&ssl=1 "Screen Shot 2019-04-22 at 4.00.37 PM - Couchsurfing Blog") Check out their profile [here](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/backtosocial) for more information or get in touch with the team. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/48-hours-in-oslo-with-back-to-social/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/48-hours-in-oslo-with-back-to-social/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Community Updates **Tags:** back to social, BTS, couchsurfing Oslo, Oslo --- ### [Couchsurfing 15th Anniversary Events](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-15th-anniversary-events/) **Published:** June 10, 2019 **Author:** Mike Joy **Content:** Are you looking for a place to celebrate the 15th anniversary of Couchsurfing? Here are a few events, from Indonesia to Connecticut, where our community is coming together to celebrate 15 amazing years of Couchsurfing memories. India ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Mumbai.jpg "Mumbai - Couchsurfing Blog")[Mumbai](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/couchsurfing-15th-anniversary) United States ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/san-francisco.jpg "san-francisco - Couchsurfing Blog")[Middletown, Connecticut](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/ct-meetup-43a-international-couchsurfing-day) [San Francisco, California](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/international-couchsurfing-day-picnic) Germany ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Nuremberg.jpg "Nuremberg - Couchsurfing Blog")[Nuremburg](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/international-couchsurfing-day-nuremberg) Indonesia ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Bali.jpg?fit=960%2C601&ssl=1 "Bali - Couchsurfing Blog")[Surabaya](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/international-couchsurfing-day-surabaya) [Semarang](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/international-couchsurfing-day-2019-semarang-sel) [Malang](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/international-couchsurfing-day-2019-cs-malang) [Yogyakarta]() [Bandung](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/international-couchsurfing-day-2019-kec-coblong) [Jakarta](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/international-couchsurfing-day-2019) [Denpasar (Bali)](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/international-couchsurfing-day-2019-denpasar-utara): [Mataram (Lombok)](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/international-couchsurfing-day-2019-selaparang) [Makassar](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/international-couchsurfing-day-2019-mariso) [Manado](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/international-couchsurfing-day-2019-cs-manado) [Jayapura](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/international-couchsurfing-day-2019-abepura) [Rantepao (Toraja)](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/international-couchsurfing-day-2019-tallunglipu) [Balikpapan](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/mg-11-international-couchsurfing-day) [Palangkaraya](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/international-couchsurfing-day-2019-palangkaraya) [Padang](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/internasional-couchsurfing-day-2019-kec-padang-utara) [Palembang](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/internasional-couchsurfing-day-2019-cs-palembang) [Pekanbaru](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/international-couchsurfing-day-pekanbaru) [Banda Aceh](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/international-couchsurfing-day-2019-lueng-bata) [Bukittinggi](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/international-couchsurfing-day-2019-2019-06-12) [Medan](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/international-couchsurfing-day-2019-medan-bar) [Kupang](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/international-cs-day-lama-city) [Pangkal Pinang ](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/international-cs-day-taman-sari) [Serang](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/international-couchsurfing-day-2019-kec-serang) [Mamuju](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/happy-international-couchsurfing-day) [Bengkulu](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/international-couchsurfing-day-2019-bengkulu) [Bandar Lampung](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/arch-coffee-and-eatery) [Jambi](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/international-couchsurfing-day-2019-jambi) [Kendari](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/international-couchsurfing-day-2019-kadia) [Pontianak](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/international-couchsurfing-day-2019-kec-pontianak-kota) [Banjarmasin](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/international-couchsurfing-day-2019-kec-banjarmasin-tengah) [Gorontalo ](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/15th-international-couchsurfing-day) [Tanjung Pinang](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/international-couchsurfing-day-2019-west-tanjungpinang) [Samarinda](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/couchsurfing-international-day-2019) [Bogor](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/international-couchsurfing-day-2019-bogor) [Batam](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/international-couchsurfing-day-2019-lubuk-baja) ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-15th-anniversary-events/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-15th-anniversary-events/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Community Updates **Tags:** 15th anniversary, Couchsurfing anniversary, international Couchsurfing Day --- ### [How to Couchsurf in Oslo](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/how-to-couchsurf-in-oslo/) **Published:** June 17, 2019 **Author:** Mike Joy **Content:** Back to Social set out to challenge the notion that Norwegians are cold and unfriendly by choosing a host at random from the streets of Oslo, and having them host a stranger through Couchsurfing. They planned 48 hours full of activities for two lucky surfers and the local host who had never used Couchsurfing before. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Screen-Shot-2019-06-10-at-6.36.01-PM.png "Screen-Shot-2019-06-10-at-6.36.01-PM - Couchsurfing Blog")Idas gorgeous apartment who wouldnt want to stay here After searching the streets of Oslo, the guys of Back to Social found Ida, lounging in a park with a friend, and after an introduction to Couchsurfing – she agreed to take part in their activity. After checking out her apartment, which is gorgeous, they were off to find the surfers. We helped post the project for Back to Social and they received a ton of self-nominations from Couchsurfer’s and eventually chose Doni and Manoj as the lucky guests to enjoy 48 hours with Ida. ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Screen-Shot-2019-06-10-at-6.36.54-PM.png?fit=960%2C611&ssl=1 "Screen-Shot-2019-06-10-at-6.36.54-PM - Couchsurfing Blog")The 48 hours were packed with cool activities, like Taco Fridays (which I had no idea was a thing in Oslo!), scooter rides through the city, a simulated flight chamber and an ice bath! The experience was clearly incredible for all of them. ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Screen-Shot-2019-06-10-at-6.45.44-PM.png?fit=960%2C586&ssl=1 "Screen-Shot-2019-06-10-at-6.45.44-PM - Couchsurfing Blog") When asked what it was like hosting these random strangers, Ida replied: ‘it didn’t feel weird. The weirdest thing is that mess-all thing in my face (referring to the camera filming the whole experience!) We hope Idea decides to host again, she seems like a natural! Thank you Ida, Doni, Manoj and the guys of Back to Social for sharing your lives with us! Check out the video [here](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o50bduPljUg&t=595s)! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/how-to-couchsurf-in-oslo/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/how-to-couchsurf-in-oslo/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Community Updates **Tags:** back to social, BTS, couchsurfing Oslo, Oslo --- ### [13 Things That Could Make You A Wonderful Couchsurfing Guest](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/13-things-that-could-make-you-a-wonderful-couchsurfing-guest/) **Published:** August 14, 2019 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** *by: Katrina Hatchett* When you first start Couchsurfing, you may not know how to be a great guest. After a few stays, you will get the gist of what you should do to have the best surfing experience, but here are some tips to make your trips amazing. **Be honest** The best thing to do in your profile is to be honest. An incredible profile may be impressive but you need to be honest if you want to earn the respect of your hosts. If you lie, you are setting yourself up for a lot of trouble and inconvenience. If you say that you are an extrovert but you are really an introvert, people are not going to like that. **Make personal couchsurfing requests** ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/couchsurfing-300x200.jpg "couchsurfing - Couchsurfing Blog")When sending requests, the easiest thing to do is just copy and paste the same information. But this is not the best way to handle things. You are going to spend a few days with these people and you need to share what it is specifically that attracted you to them. You need to say why you are interested in someone. **Use more hosts** While your host may be awesome on paper, you two may just be awkward together. Sometimes it just doesn’t work between people and they don’t connect at all. This is normal. The best thing to do is to split the time in a destination between two hosts. You will meet more people, stay in different parts of the town, you can learn more this way and you can avoid that awkwardness. **Stay up to date** Inform your host about the itinerary and where you will go. This is a minimum requirement. Your host needs to know when you are coming, when you are leaving, if there are any delays and so on. You can email, call or text to let your host know if there are any changes. Send a follow up email as well. **Stick to their schedule** ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/HitchHiking-300x200.jpg "HitchHiking - Couchsurfing Blog")You may be having the best time ever hitchhiking around the globe without caring for what time it is when you wake up or eat, your host is living their real life and they often may have a schedule that they need to follow. They may have work or family obligations and they still find time for you. So, try your best to match your host’s schedule. This shows appreciation. **Remember it’s not free** While this is a free accommodation for sure, the utilities you use are definitely not and it has to be paid for by your host. You should be respectful of the fact as it can mount up to a lot of costs. Thank the hosts by being a good guest, buy food, coffee or make lunch. Take them out for a drink or pay for their ticket for that club. **Share food and talk with them** “Eating with other people is fun and cooking meals together is too. You should be open to this since the food is one of the main parts of any culture. You can make your own meals or learn from your hosts,” says Helen Bell, a lifestyle blogger at [Britstudent](https://britstudent.com/) and [Australia2Write](https://australia2write.com/). These are great talking points and you can go from there. **Clean up** ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/dishes-300x200.jpg "dishes - Couchsurfing Blog")One of the worst things you can do is be a messy guest. When you come back from a day of trekking, you should clean up after yourself before you enter the house you are staying in. You should clean up after cooking, mop the bathroom after showering, clean the tub or the shower and so on. You should also shower often and stay clean. **Don’t waste water or power** Never shower for longer than you have to and don’t leave the appliances on when you don’t need them. **Be neat** Leaving your stuff all over the place is not fair to the host. Keep your stuff tidy and don’t take up a lot of space. **Keep your hosts home safe** ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/lock-300x200.jpg "lock - Couchsurfing Blog")“Ensure that you follow the rules of the security for your host’s home. You need to make sure that everything is safe when you leave and that you don’t create unnecessary danger for your host,” says Fred Lockley, a couchsurfer at [Write My X](https://writemyx.com/) and [Next Coursework](https://nextcoursework.com/). **Don’t bring people over** Your host may have invited you but they are probably not going to be as welcoming to a whole bunch of people who you have just met. If you want to hang out with your new friends, do so outside of your host’s home. **Be mindful of your host’s life** Your host has their real life to attend to. So, you need to be mindful of that. It’s easy to lose track of that but you need to work around it and find a way not to interrupt it. [![couchsurfing](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/couchsurfing-150x150.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/couchsurfing.jpg) [![lock](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/lock-150x150.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/lock.jpg) [![dishes](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/dishes-150x150.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/dishes.jpg) [![HitchHiking](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/HitchHiking-150x150.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/HitchHiking.jpg) ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/13-things-that-could-make-you-a-wonderful-couchsurfing-guest/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/13-things-that-could-make-you-a-wonderful-couchsurfing-guest/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Advice **Tags:** community tips, couchsurfing tips, How to Couchsurf --- ### [10 Questions with a CS Ambassador: Alberto](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/meet-an-ambassador-alberto-krakow-poland/) **Published:** September 1, 2019 **Author:** Mike Joy **Content:** Name: [Alberto](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/agent_spider) City: Krakow, Poland Years on Couchsurfing: 10 **Tell us how you first learned about Couchsurfing…** *Back in 2007 I was about to move to France for an internship. Some of the people in the program already had previous experiences in Couchsurfing but it was my first time going abroad. I didn’t really consider it as an option at the time because I didn’t have any references, but once I went back to Mexico I opened my profile and began hosting.* **So what made you get involved?** *After that internship in France, I made a lot of foreign friends. I liked being in an international environment, meeting people from all around the world. In Mexico, when you’re from a small town or city, you rarely have the chance to meet foreign people, and Couchsurfing gave me the opportunity to do that.* ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/Luchalibre.jpg?fit=960%2C640&ssl=1 "Luchalibre - Couchsurfing Blog")by [Alberto](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/agent_spider) **How did you start?** *At the beginning I was only attending the weekly meetings. Then I started hosting people. Then I began to organize my own events (the Lucha Libre meeting is still a thing, even though I left Mexico 5 years ago!) and finally I took over the weekly meeting in Mexico City.* *Now that I live in Poland I’m a bit less active when it comes to organizing events because the community here is quite strong and I’m relatively new to the city, but whenever the other organizers are busy, I’m the first one they contact for assistance!* **And what’s the coolest give you’ve ever received from a surfer?** *A fish! A real one! We used to have a Siamese fighter fish, but it passed away and we never bought another. Once a Dutch guy and a Turkish girl who were surfing with us noticed the tank and bought a new one for us! They named it ‘Naranja’, Spanish for ‘Orange’, because it is the royal color of the Netherlands.* **What is one book that you would say has inspired your travels?** *The Little Prince – He’s always going to different places and is pretty curious about everything*! ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/Bartender.jpg?fit=960%2C640&ssl=1 "Bartender - Couchsurfing Blog")The Mexican Bartender by [Alberto](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/agent_spider) **What is the craziest thing that has ever happened to you while traveling?** *Back in 2011, my brother and I were being hosted in London by this Polish girl who was our Couchsurfer one year before in Mexico City. We stayed there for like 10 days, so we had the chance to attend the weekly Couchsurfing meeting twice. It happened that the bartender at the place where the meeting was organized was actually Mexican, which means we had the right, no, the OBLIGATION to drink for free! Anyway, we added the guy on Facebook and I discovered that we had a mutual friend. Turns out my best friend from high school is his best friend from University! Couchsurfing: the world is smaller than you think!* **What is your favorite local cuisine from Krakow?** *I always recommend my surfers go for what I call ‘The Polish Happy Meal’ which includes: – Pierogi ruskie (dumplings stuffed potato and cheese) – Tomato soup with pasta – Kompot (a sweet drink obtained by cooking fruit like strawberries, apricots, peaches and apples in water)* **What is the one place in Krakow every traveler MUST see?** *Auschwitz. It is a day trip from Krakow and it’s not nice or fun, BUT.YOU.HAVE.TO.SEE.IT.* **Is there any place in Krakow that you think shares the Couchsurfing values and is worth checking out?** *Bonobo! It’s A café that frequently organizes meetings where travelers talk about their trips and show pics of them. I just got some good info for a trip to Armenia at one of those talks.* ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/AlbertoBike.jpg?fit=960%2C322&ssl=1 "AlbertoBike - Couchsurfing Blog")The Krakow CS Community on a bike ride by [Alberto](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/agent_spider)**Amazing! And what is your go-to karaoke song?** *‘Los Luchadores’ by Conjunto África. It’s a song by a Mexican band about the experience in a pro-wrestling arena and I think EVERYBODY in Mexico knows the refrain of this song!* **And lastly, what is the one thing you never go on a trip without?** *My digital single-lens reflex (DSLR) camera. Yes, I know, nowadays every cellphone has a pretty decent camera, but my seven year old DSLR is still a MUST for me as I have greater zoom and plenty of options to play with. And if there are no pictures of a trip it’s like it didn’t happen at all!* ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/16.jpg?fit=960%2C520&ssl=1 "16 - Couchsurfing Blog")Alberto ice skating with some Couchsurfers by [Alberto](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/agent_spider)### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/meet-an-ambassador-alberto-krakow-poland/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/meet-an-ambassador-alberto-krakow-poland/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Meet an Ambassador **Tags:** Couchsurfing Ambassador, Couchsurfing Community, CS Ambassador, CS Community, krakow, Meet an Ambassador, poland --- ### [10 Questions with a CS Ambassador: Jason](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-jason/) **Published:** August 25, 2019 **Author:** Mike Joy **Content:** Name: [Jason](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/jhg) City: Colchester, Connecticut, USA Years on Couchsurfing: 11 **Tell us about your very first Couchsurfing experience…** *I have an old boss who no longer lives in the same state. She called me to tell me her son was on Couchsurfing and had surfed in Amsterdam with a couple and the couple was coming to the USA. She asked me if I would be interested in hosting them. Ironically the same week I had read an article in the local paper about Couchsurfing and thought it seemed cool. So I joined up to host them. It was a little bit weird having two ‘strangers’ show up at my place to stay but it turned out to be a life changing experience I will forever be grateful for!* **And what made you join the Couchsurfing Ambassador program?** *I wanted to be an ambassador because Couchsurfing has been such a positive part of my life and I want to be able to share it and help anyone I can to experience all the amazing things that Couchsurfing can bring to your life. I am always telling people I meet how Couchsurfing has restored my faith in humanity.* ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/P9130526.jpg?fit=960%2C720&ssl=1 "OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA - Couchsurfing Blog")Jason on his first Couchsurfing trip Spain 2008 **Ours too! So what has been your favorite hosting memory?** *Two of my favorite experiences were hosting musicians that performed living room concerts in my house. I organized meetups for each of the events and was able to share some great live music in a small personal space with other members.* **Sounds amazing! A private Couchsurfing concert of sorts. What about your favorite surfing memory?** *I honestly can’t say what was my favorite surfing experience as I have had so many experiences while surfing I can’t count them. My host Franco in Lecco, Italy taking me to a restaurant that was closed for a private event but he got the owner to let us in and they made us samples of the whole menu. Or my host Jean-Marie in Beijing who took me to an art district that was having a festival and experiencing some great art and music. Or my hosts Ron and Kitty in Amsterdam taking me on a day-long bike ride through the countryside. Or my host Franck in Nova Scotia who lived off the grid in a small cottage right on the shore cooking lobsters and the best damned mashed potatoes I have ever had watching an amazing sunset. Or staying with Tom and Candy, two of the organizers of the Bend, Oregon CouchCrashes, and seeing some of the most beautiful landscapes I have seen in the USA and of course amazing crash events. Or my host Sonia in South Korea who took the day off to drive us a couple hours to a National Park I never dreamed I would get a chance to go to and fulfil a travel dream. Or was it all my hosts in Astana, Kazakhstan showing me such amazing hospitality in a foreign country. These are just a few of the many memories I have from my surfing experiences that never would have happened if it wasn’t for Couchsurfing!* ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/CT-Meetup-43B-A-Hike-for-Donny-Barkhamsted.jpeg?fit=960%2C720&ssl=1 "CT-Meetup-43B-A-Hike-for-Donny-Barkhamsted - Couchsurfing Blog")Jason and some CSers on a hike **Wow. Some incredible experiences. Do you have a favorite travel quote that inspires you?** *Well my favorite quote is not necessarily a travel quote but it guides my life and travel experiences. I actually heard it on a television commercial. It currently is the mission on my Couchsurfing profile as well:* > *” We only have one life… I want to leave this one exhausted!”* **Are there any places in your city that share the Couchsurfing values and you recommend travelers check out?** *Two Wrasslin’ Cats Cafe supports lots of human rights causes and is a great quirky place to have breakfast or lunch.* **Sounds delicious! Speaking of Colchester, when travelers come, what do you say is a ‘must-see’?** *I always take my surfers to Gillette Castle. William Gillette was famous for portraying Sherlock Holmes on stage in the early 1900s and was one of the most famous actors of his time. He was eccentric and built a really cool castle on a hill overlooking the Connecticut River. Aside from the amazing views and hiking, he designed his ‘castle’ and it has many cool eccentricities in it. I am usually not the sort of person who likes to take tours through old houses but this one is really a different sort of place to see. He even had a train with three miles of track on his property!* ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/IMG_3054-2.jpg?fit=960%2C720&ssl=1 "IMG_3054-2 - Couchsurfing Blog")At the Bend Oregon Crash waiting for the eclipse **That’s almost the amount of train the whole USA has! (kidding!) So what is your one piece of advice to new Couchsurfers?** *The one piece of advice I can give new members is to get involved with all the aspects of Couchsurfing. Don’t just surf or host but go to meetups, CouchCrashes or use Hangouts. There are so many great experiences you can have and people you can meet by taking advantage of all that Couchsurfing has to offer.* **One last question, what is the craziest thing that has happened to you on the road?** *When I was surfing in Astana, Kazakhstan I met some Couchsurfers using hangouts and one of them had a tattoo with a date and coordinates on his leg. I told him I had seen someone else with coordinates tattooed and he excitedly asked what they were and I said it was where the guy was born. He seemed kind of let down, so I asked him about his tattoo.* *He said he met a Couchsurfer who had the same tattoo and that guy had met two others who had the same tattoo. Needless to say my curiosity was going crazy! So what was the tattoo?* *It is the date 7/28/40 and coordinates of a beach in Iceland. The goal is to form bonds with travelers and others and have them get the tattoo and all meet at that beach on that date! I thought it was such a dope concept to REALLY commit yourself to a goal so far in the future and give you something to keep you motivated through life. Well I wasn’t sure if I wanted to commit that to my skin forever so I told him if I was still thinking about it in three months I would get it.* *Needless to say I just couldn’t get it out of my head and three months later for my birthday I got the tattoo! So now I meet other members and have them thinking about committing themselves to it… only time will tell! How cool will it be to show up at the beach in a little over 20 years and hang out with all these forward thinking outgoing people some of whom I may have met in my travels and others I will meet for the first time.* ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/IMG_1485-e1566685859979-1024x768.jpg "IMG_1485 - Couchsurfing Blog")Florian and Jason### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-jason/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-jason/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Meet an Ambassador **Tags:** Connecticut, Couchsurfing Ambassador, Couchsurfing Community, CS Ambassador, CS Community, Meet an Ambassador, usa --- ### [10 Questions with a CS Ambassador: Stephanie](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-stephanie/) **Published:** September 8, 2019 **Author:** Mike Joy **Content:** Name: [Stephanie](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/stephkay) City: Paris, France Years on Couchsurfing: 12 ***Why did you decide to get involved with Couchsurfing?*** *I got involved in Couchsurfing before a move to West Africa, where I would start from zero socially. When I arrived, I knew no one except my boss and my roommate! The mission of Couchsurfing included the connection of people worldwide – both travelers and locals – so I figured this was the way.* ***Very true! What was your first experience on CS?*** ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/StephanieTogo.jpg?fit=960%2C480&ssl=1 "- Couchsurfing Blog")First host in Togo From L to R My roommate our host our hosts youngest son A fellow surfer from Lagos me Aneho Togo 2007 By [Stephanie](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/stephkay) *While living in Ghana my roommate and I decided to spend the weekend in the neighboring country of Togo. We were accepted by a newish host, a 40ish man in import-export business, hosting with his large (for us) family including six children a wife and several “aunties”. He was a great host, and we saw so much of Togo and the complicated relationship a person can have with his home country. He met us at the border, on the Ghana side. When the customs officer tried to make us pay the wrong price for an entrance visa, he really chewed the guy out! Nothing like having a local there to defend you and remind someone of their importance of giving a first impression of the country. He showed us beautiful places, like the coastline in front of Aneho, and more difficult places like villages in the interior and places where the country’s natural resources are extracted and where cement is prepared to send for export. Trucks lined up for kilometers, ready to return to Mali, Ghana, Burkina Faso, all over. “THIS is my country!” He gestured half in respect and half in anger from the drivers seat of the car. Resource-wealthy, but under-developed and subject to selling these resources. At home, he made sure that every child met and interacted with us. His reason for hosting? To make sure that his children understood why a good education is important, why foreign languages are essential to getting opportunitites in the world, and to understand that foreigners are not “only” a source of aid and charity. My other favorite memory? One of our family dinners where we sat down to a peanut stew (mafé) with goat. My roomamte were the slowest eaters. “Oh! I forgot to bring some spoons! You must not be used to eating with your hands!”* *Amazing! And I know you’re an* *active ho****st, what has been your favorite hosting memory?*** *Sometimes I have hosted two groups of travelers at the same time, always in advance letting them know about each other and what that could mean organizationally. Once there was a big K-Pop (korean pop music) concert in Paris which attracted people from all over Europe. I hosted two pairs of young women – one from Greece and another from somewhere else in Europe – who were all headed to the same concert! I learned about this cultural thing that I was totally clueless about, and they got to meet other people that shared their passion for it!* ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/P1040522.jpg?fit=764%2C1024&ssl=1 "P1040522 - Couchsurfing Blog")By [Stephanie](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/stephkay) ***K-Pop has truly taken over! Has there been any book that has inspired you or your travels?*** *You never know what you’ll find when you go to a used book sale; you buy what there is. At one sale in Paris, I picked up “Along the Enchanted Way: A Story of Love and Life in Romania”, by William Blacker. Wow, it sounded like a cool place to visit! An under-visited European country with under-visited regions within it. Forget Dracula’s Castle, I needed to see these painted wooden churches. Not long after, I saw a post via a Couchsurfing Hiking group to go on a hiking trip to Romania organized by a Romanian. There was one extra spot! Coincidentally, I was looking for a destination, and thinking an active trip would be nice. After much deliberation, I decided to go. And that is how I met my husband.* **Wow. From reading about it in a book to booking a trip! You truly were inspired by Mr. Blackner. So when people come to Paris, what is one thing they MUST see?** *The “Promenade plantée” also known as the “coulée verte”. It is to Paris what the Highline is to New York City: An elevated viaduct with plants, flowers, and fountains that runs for a couple kilometers from Bastille to the western edge of Paris. You see all of the beautiful architecture and landmarks of Paris, without the noise and traffic. For those who want to go a bit further into the green, cross the ring road into the Bois de Vincennes or the Parc Floral. I also really like the entrance near Bastille: “Go down to where these two roads split. Look left and you’ll see a big brick wall with hidden stairs, where people seem to come and go with no source or destination. Enter there!”* ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/promenade-plante-CC-2-generic-1.jpg?fit=960%2C640&ssl=1 "promenade-plante-CC-2-generic-1 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Promenade Plantée](https://www.flickr.com/photos/o_0/28647410603/in/photolist-KDtt7t-LqNUXh-JvohCQ-KrRq9K-LqNB6q-Kp4aPs-KDuXHe-KjYP5D-LqNHeN-KDiJdw-KDgSBu-KDtabP-LqPkws-KDfyD7-LAnYtD-LAocUg-LtqF76-KDsxKD-KDrvDX-LqKuRs-KDiWS9-KDgzbY-Lxkjm9-LxjNJd-L9SUtN-Lxji2N-LAmLoZ-L9SK7S-LxiQYq-KDv348-L9TMHG-L9SQxb-LqMsnA-KDjtp1-LqNu37-Lxhepb-LAnqce-KDtkee-LxiqCS-KDu3Cr-KDjohh-LqMd2G-L9TmoJ-LqMUeL-LqN2bG-LAk4h2-KDgZLQ-Ltpt3Z-s8Efke-s8Efik) By [Guilhem Vellut](https://www.flickr.com/photos/o_0/)Flickr ***Sounds beautiful. I will definitely check it out on my next trip to Paris. What is something you never go on a trip without?*** *1. a Back-up plan 2\. Between the few things that I **must** do or see, as much time as possible to explore. Whole days to decide on once I’m “in-country”. Spend time with a host? Take a day-trip by public transit? – Pre-purchased tickets for travel and anything that’s \*really\* important to me to see. My trips are usually less than 10 days. Even with all the new apps and digital offers, it is more and more difficult to travel 100% spontaneously without spending extra time or money (just try to get a last-minute plane ticket these days, in most parts of the world!). I try to make up for this by using CS Hangouts and participating in CS events.* ***All very true. And not things! What is one piece of advice you would give to a new Couchsurfer?** Host! Hosting can be more fun and more rewarding than surfing. Even after living in Paris for several years, I was discovering new (to me) places and people. I could have a social life without even leaving home for the day. I met people I would see again in other parts of the world. I hosted people who later moved to Paris and are \*still\* friends of mine, passing from that awkward stage of “friend from Couchsurfing” to just “friend”.* ***Do you have a favorite quote that has inspired you?*** > Experience is the enemy of ignorance, and travel is a gateway to understanding the world. > > Mark Twain (or at least credited to him) ***One last*** *question**. France is famous for it’s food. Can you give* *us a favorite* *French* *food or snack?* *For dessert, go with the moelleux au chocolat (chocolate cake with a soft, even liquidy, center) or an eclair. If you want to up your pastry game, go to Angelina on rue de Rivoli. It’s probably in your guidebook, but that’s because it’s good! I recommend specifically the Saint Honoré pastry. Why? Because to do a good Saint Honoré, you have to be good at all of the fundamentals of pattisserie (French pastries): the puff pastry for the structure, the pastry cream used as filling, and the caramelized sugar that gives it the shiny glaze and crunch. And the fresh whipped cream, of course! If a patisserie does a good Saint Honoré, it’s likely that their other products are good, too. The location on rue de Rivoli is 120 years old, with all the ornate decorations that that implies.* ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/angelina-st-honore-CC-SA2.jpg?fit=960%2C540&ssl=1 "DSC06056 - Couchsurfing Blog")[Pastries at Angelina](https://www.flickr.com/photos/houseofhall/5934489581/in/photolist-a3sGqb-9YDsvZ-a3pNZT-4Ha1ZL-otJmV2-atmpCC-41UsL-a1iwt1-9YGAQ3-9YGmuw-9YGkbq-9YGkfS-9YGCeq-9YDtqi-9YDyr8-9YGkjG-9YGx2C-a1fgd2-a1fayr-9GgGDc-9YDrrZ-9YDJrz-9YGCAA-9YDBJc-9YDqwP-9YGzcb-a1hXi7-9YGDub-9YGoUu-21cVaTX-6w4E8z-44DuMP-zoVU6E-usAovG) By [Dr Bob Hall](https://www.flickr.com/photos/houseofhall/)Flickr### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-stephanie/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-questions-with-a-cs-ambassador-stephanie/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Meet an Ambassador **Tags:** Couchsurfing Ambassador, Couchsurfing Community, CS Ambassador, CS Community, france, Meet an Ambassador, paris --- ### [10 Amazing Places in Paris For Solo Travelers](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-amazing-places-in-paris-for-solo-travelers/) **Published:** November 26, 2018 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** Good news solo world travelers: Paris isn’t [just for lovers](https://www.google.com/search?q=terranova+paris+is+for+lovers+(my+love)&stick=H4sIAAAAAAAAAONgecToyS3w8sc9YSmHSWtOXmO04uIKzsgvd80rySypFNLhYoOylLgEpHj00_UNC02zqiwqkpI0GKT4uFBEeACmBVyeTgAAAA&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwj94Nb0x6_eAhVFnuAKHUgcAlIQ6RMwF3oECAgQBA). Sure, you’re bound to run into a honeymooning couple (or 10) and there’s probably some sort of drinking bingo game for spotting proposals along the Seine. But when you’re traveling solo there will be zero fighting over who gets the last macaron. We’ve rounded up 10 spots around The City of Lights that are perfect for travel *sans accompagnement.* **1. The Catacombs** There’s nothing like wandering [a mile of underground tunnels lined with bones and skulls](https://www.smithsonianmag.com/travel/paris-catacombs-180950160/) to say “I’m not just here for the romance.” The Catacombs are the final resting place of some 6 million Parisians, including famous former residents like [Robespierre](https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/europe/french-left-loses-its-head-over-robespierre-game-9866290.html). **2. Sainte-Chapelle** This jaw-dropping work of stained glass art needs to be on any itinerary, but it’s perfect for a solo traveler thanks to [its comprehensive audio guide](https://www.solosophie.com/sainte-chapelle/). Pop on the headphones and transport yourself back to the thirteenth century. **3. Musee D’Orsay** [Even just the building—an old train station—is beautiful](https://wanderyourway.com/solo-in-paris-thanks-to-ratatouille/), but this is where you’ll find the Monets, Matisses and Van Goghs. Wander at your own pace, and double back to see your favorites. **4. Laduree Paris isn’t Paris until you’ve stuffed your face with macarons, and [Laduree—where they were first created—is the place to do it](http://parisisparis.com/food/5-best-macarons-in-paris/). Eating solo in cafes is standard Parisian behavior, but you can always grab your sweets to go. **5. Montmartre This[ highly-walkable neighborhood](https://www.solosophie.com/montmartre-walking-tour/) is an immersive experience in all things authentically Parisian. Take in [the view from Sacre Coeur](https://www.eatsleepbreathetravel.com/montmartre-my-favourite-neighbourhood-in-paris/), visit the cafes, shops, and boutiques, even catch a show at the [Moulin Rouge](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dtEgAx80NC4). **6. Take a cooking class** Tap [your inner Julia Child](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ozRK7VXQl-k) and sign up for a cooking class (we like [École de Cuisine Alain Ducasse](http://www.ecolecuisine-alainducasse.com/fr/accueil)). It’s a great way to meet other travelers, plus you can wow for years to come with your authentic [coq au vin](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Coq_au_vin). **7. [Stroll the Seine](https://www.hayleyonholiday.com/solo-travel-guide-paris/)** The macarons and the baguettes can add up after awhile; elevate your heart rate with a jaunt along one of the world’s most famous rivers. It can be hard to pick where to start, [but the section from Notre Dame to the Eiffel Tower is a UNESCO World Heritage Site](https://www.thewanderblogger.com/river-seine-paris/) … so we suggest starting there. 8\. [**Take a cruise.**](https://www.bateauxparisiens.com/) Walking the Seine is one thing, but [the view from the water is unbeatable](https://www.hayleyonholiday.com/solo-travel-guide-paris/). **9. Watch the sunset from the Arc de Triomphe** The couples are going to make a beeline for the Eiffel Tower ([thanks, Tom Cruise](http://www.mtv.com/news/1504271/tom-cruise-proposes-to-katie-holmes-at-eiffel-tower/)), but [you’re going to outsmart them and enjoy a view that *includes* the tower](https://www.solosophie.com/where-to-see-sunset-in-paris/). Hang around long enough to see the light show begin. **10. Listen to a reading at Shakespeare and Company** Arguably [the most famous independent bookstore in the world](https://www.vanityfair.com/culture/2014/11/shakespeare-and-company-paris-george-whitman) (and definitely on [the most prime piece of real estate](https://shakespeareandcompany.com/)), this needs to be a must-do on any bibliophile’s list. Grab a coffee from the cafe and a spot at one of the tables outside for an author reading. Have a favorite spot we missed? Let us know in the comments below! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-amazing-places-in-paris-for-solo-travelers/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-amazing-places-in-paris-for-solo-travelers/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Advice **Tags:** amazing places, Arc de Triomphe, Catacombs, cooking, france, french food, Laduree, Montmartre, Musee D’Orsay, paris, River Seine, Sainte-Chapelle, Shakespeare & Co., Shakespeare and Company, solo travel, travel, travel blog --- ### [Vessel: New York's Coolest New (Free) Attraction](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/vessel-new-yorks-coolest-new-free-attraction/) **Published:** August 27, 2019 **Author:** Mike Joy **Content:** ##### By: Mike Joy, Couchsurfing Community Manager Top photo by [Mike Joy](http://integral.com/iammikejoy) In a city of never-ending photo ops, the newly opened Hudson Yards has added yet another must-see stop on your next trip. If you know someone who has visited New York City in 2019, chances are you’ve seen a picture of them in front of a brass structure that looks like an unconnected set of stairways. This beautiful landmark is NYC’s newest (and potentially coolest) tourist attraction. The best part? It is completely free to climb! ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/vessel3.jpg "vessel3 - Couchsurfing Blog")The internal staircases you climb seen from the elevator By [SCOOTERCASTER](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/scootercaster)shutterstock Vessel, located in the newly opened ‘Hudson Yards’ neighborhood, is a honeycomb-like structure created by two interconnected stairways. It sits in the middle of the Hudson Yards, surrounded by chic hotels, apartments and a shopping center, and as the [Hudson Yards New York’s ](https://www.hudsonyardsnewyork.com/discover/vessel)official website states, it is *“comprised of 154 intricately interconnecting flights of stairs — almost 2,500 individual steps and 80 landings — the vertical climb offers remarkable views of the city, the river and beyond.”* ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/vessel2.jpg "vessel2 - Couchsurfing Blog")Vessel viewed from below The top has views of the Hudson River Hudson yards development and the NYC skyline By [Leonard Zhukovsky](https://www.shutterstock.com/g/leonard+zhukovsky)shutterstock Vessel is completely free to climb, as long as you reserve ahead of time. At the time of writing, you could reserve a 1-hour time slot seven days in advance. So a week before you head to New York, head to the [Hudson Yards’ website](https://tickets.hudsonyardsnewyork.com/webstore/shop/viewitems.aspx?cg=VesselTix&C=VesselAdm&_ga=2.129286351.2142474560.1565803675-868224580.1553690831) and choose what time you want to go up? Already in New York? For USD$10 you can do a ‘[Flex Pass](https://tickets.hudsonyardsnewyork.com/webstore/shop/viewitems.aspx?cg=VesselTix&C=VesselAdm&_ga=2.129286351.2142474560.1565803675-868224580.1553690831)‘ and go today. If stairs aren’t your thing, you don’t have to miss out. There is an elevator that takes you from the entrance straight up to the top platform so can still enjoy the view! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/vessel-new-yorks-coolest-new-free-attraction/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/vessel-new-yorks-coolest-new-free-attraction/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Advice **Tags:** Hudson Yards, Must See NYC, new york, New York City, NYC, The Vessel, Tourist Attraction, Vessel --- ### [Meet a host: Gidon Jones](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/meet-a-host-gidon-jones/) **Published:** December 29, 2018 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** More than 400,000 hosts open their homes to the world and share their lives with travelers every year. Hosts are the backbone of Couchsurfing. [Gidon Jones](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/gidon.jones/) has been a member of the Couchsurfing community since 2012 and started hosting in late 2015. ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/gidonJONES-1.jpeg?fit=768%2C581&ssl=1 "gidonJONES - Couchsurfing Blog")Gidon Jones is a host in Shanghai who has been to every single province in China**What made you decide to start hosting?** I started hosting after being a guest a few times and thinking I needed to pay it back, and started being a guest when travelling in China to cities where I couldn’t find a single youth hostel (they actually exist but you need to search in Chinese). **What are the biggest benefits of hosting?** Hosting is about meeting interesting people from all around the world, who are open minded like you, in the comfort of your own home. More idealistically, hosting is about being part of a better world where trust of strangers in the default and doesn’t need to be earned. **Have you ever had any safety concerns about hosting strangers? How do you protect yourself?** I filter and read references. So far, hosted maybe 100 people, had a few oddballs but never anyone who threatened my safety. **Why host people for free instead of charging a fee with other accommodation services?** Hosting and charging are not even close to the same thing. When hospitality becomes a transaction it loses all its value. **Who’s the most memorable guest you’ve ever had?** This is a hard one. A Pakistani air force colonel? An Israeli who had lived for years in Syria? A survivor of the Breivik terrorist attack in Norway? So many people with interesting life stories and experiences. **Are you still in touch with anyone you’ve hosted? Have you ever slept on their couches in return?** Many, I’ve made some of my closest friends through Couchsurfing, especially those that eventually moved to my city. And I’ve been “counterhosted” many times, has given me an excuse to travel to cities I would have never considered. ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/GidonJONES1-1.jpeg?fit=768%2C577&ssl=1 "GidonJONES1 - Couchsurfing Blog")**Has hosting people changed the way you travel? If so, how?** Couchsurfing has opened up many travel opportunities I would never have considered without knowing a local I could trust. Last year I spent some time in Somalia and would never have had the guts to go if I didn’t know a host was waiting for me. **What’s the most memorable meal that you’ve shared with a Couchsurfer?** The meals which were liquid. **What have you learned about other cultures through Couchsurfing?** Too much to list. **Tell us about your most generous Couchsurfing host** Most generous host? I once arrived in a city and sent a request to someone to ask her if she could help me find a driver. She ended up taking me on a two-day road trip and wouldn’t even let me pay for petrol! **What are ways that Couchsurfers can incorporate our core values into their everyday lives?** What is a Couchsurfing value? Radical trust and giving everyone the benefit of the doubt? A culture of paying it forward rather than giving back? I think naturally those people who host end up treating other people better just because they do these sort of things for others. *If you’d like to be featured on our blog, please get in touch by email socialATcouchsurfingDOTcom.* ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/meet-a-host-gidon-jones/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/meet-a-host-gidon-jones/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Community, Meet a Host, Uncategorized **Tags:** China, community, couchsurfing, couchsurfing host, host experience --- ### [The Perfect Day: Barcelona](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-perfect-day-barcelona/) **Published:** December 7, 2018 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** ***“Barcelona is a very old city in which you can feel the weight of history; it is haunted by history. You cannot walk around it without perceiving it.”** **~Carlos Ruiz Zafón*** There is nowhere quite like Barcelona. Perched on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea with the breathtaking peaks of [Montserrat](https://www.spain-holiday.com/Barcelona-province/articles/barcelona-day-trip-the-mountains-of-montserrat) rising over it, the city’s diverse culture, vibrant nightlife, and exquisitely unique architecture entice visitors from all over the globe. We hear they’ve got [a decent sports scene](https://projects.fivethirtyeight.com/global-club-soccer-rankings/), too … Read on for our take on the best way to spend a day in Barcelona. **Breakfast:** [Second breakfast is totally a thing in Barcelona](https://barcelonalowdown.com/eat-breakfast-like-local-barcelona/), and we’re here for it. Start your morning with [a cafe con leche or a bombon](https://devourbarcelonafoodtours.com/how-to-order-coffee-in-barcelona/), and once your stomach wakes up it’s time to seek out brunch. [Marmalade](http://www.marmaladebarcelona.com/brunch/) gets our vote for its funky vibe … and its eggs benedict. **Outdoor Activity:** [Hop a cable car up Montjuic Hill](https://www.nomadicmatt.com/travel-guides/spain-travel-tips/barcelona/#tips) for sweeping city views, plus an 18th-century fortress, gardens, a Spanish village, and some Olympic stadiums from when Barcelona hosted the Games in 1992. **Lunch:** The locals lunch late in Barcelona—many of the restaurants don’t even open until 1 or 2 p.m. It’s also the biggest meal of the day, so do it up right with some of [the best paella in the city](https://one-week-in.com/9-best-paella-barcelona/) and a killer view of the Mediterranean. **Shopping:** Stroll down [Passeig de Gracia](http://spanishsabores.com/2018/06/10/where-to-shop-in-barcelona/), where you’ll find everything from designer labels to unique, one-of-a-kind local shops on this sweeping, tree-lined street. **Dinner:** As you might expect, there are no early-bird specials in Barcelona. Dinner is never earlier than 8 p.m., and it’s a much lighter meal then you’re probably used to— a tapas bar like [Bar Tomas](https://devourbarcelonafoodtours.com/10-tapas-bars-in-barcelona/) fits the bill perfectly. **Attraction/Splurge:** You can’t visit Barcelona and fail to notice its one-of-a-kind architecture. Antoni Gaudi is the man responsible for much of it, so [a Gaudi tour](https://www.travelmag.com/articles/gaudi-tours-in-barcelona/) is a necessity to take in Sagrada Familia, Casa Calvet, Casa Macaya and La Pedrera. **Drinks/Nightlife:** [Las Ramblas](https://www.tripsavvy.com/what-to-do-on-las-ramblas-1642867) is the place to be after the sun goes down with plenty of bars and clubs to choose from. Keep an eye on your stuff, though—[pickpockets are notorious](https://www.worldnomads.com/travel-safety/europe/spain/barcelona-pickpocket-capital-of-the-world) for preying on the hordes of tourists in this area. **Book To Bring:** [The Shadow of the Wind](https://www.amazon.com/Shadow-Wind-Carlos-Ruiz-Zaf%C3%B3n/dp/0143034901), by Carlos Ruiz Zafon, is an international best-seller. This thriller/mystery hybrid is a story within a story set in Barcelona in the 1940s. **How Do You Say:** Yes, Barcelona is in Spain … but Spanish isn’t the only language spoken there. It’s also the capital of Catalonia, which is an autonomous region of Spain, complete with its own language: Catalan. Many street signs and menus will be in Catalan, rather than Spanish although locals will likely. **Hello:** *Hola* in both languages (but don’t forget to [be breezy](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0agY4x9vzyg) about it) **Goodbye:** *Adios* in Spanish/*Adeu* in Catalan **Thank You:** *Gracias* in Spanish/*Gracies* in Catalan ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-perfect-day-barcelona/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-perfect-day-barcelona/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** Uncategorized **Tags:** Antoni Gaudi, Barcelona, Carlos Ruiz Zafon, Catalan, Catalonia, Las Ramblas, Mediterranean Sea, Montjuic Hill, Montserrat, paella, Passeig de Gracia, Spanish, tapas --- ### [Meet a host: Blanca Calafell](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/meet-a-host-blanca-calafell/) **Published:** March 11, 2019 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** More than 400,000 hosts open their homes to the world and share their lives with travelers every year. Hosts are the backbone of Couchsurfing. [Blanca Calafell](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/blancacalafell) has been a member of the Couchsurfing community since 2013. It wasn’t until a trip to Germany in 2015 that she began using the platform as a traveler. She says “ It was pure gratification, positive vibrations and happiness. And ever since I’ve been using Couchsurfing on a regular basis, as a host, guest, travel companion or as a way to meet people. Definitely, I couldn’t be any more grateful for this community. the kindness of “strangers” is truly magical.” ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/blancacalafell.jpeg?fit=768%2C576&ssl=1 "blancacalafell - Couchsurfing Blog")Blanca Calafell is a host in Munich and a sudoku genius **What made you decide to start hosting?** After several and very positive experiences as a Couchsurfing guest I felt like I had to give back all the generosity and hospitality that I received. I was willing to open my doors to fellow travelers who were seeking this hospitality and willingness to share their time, stories, desires, dreams, experiences, etc. **What are the biggest benefits of hosting?** The joy I get every time I have the chance to host a traveler at my place is just indescribable. For me, hosting means sharing, learning, and it does add growth and experience to my life. It is a unique opportunity to meet people who’re totally different from myself, people with different cultures, backgrounds, experiences, knowledge, and all in all a magnificent manner to get a different perspective of life. **Have you ever had any safety concerns about hosting strangers? How do you protect yourself?** In my entire Couchsurfing life I have never had a negative experience. I do take my time while choosing the potential hosts/guests, and for me it is pretty important to have a well completed profile. Pictures, descriptions, personalized messages and references are some of the aspects that I take into consideration while using Couchsurfing. **Why host people for free instead of charging a fee with other accommodation services?** Because I believe that true and genuine hospitality cannot be paid with money. Couchsurfing members have something in common, and it is this belief that altruism is life, that kindness can change the world, and that emotions are more powerful than money. **Who’s the most memorable guest you’ve ever had?** Every one of them was memorable in their own way, however, my first guest ever, Viktor, left a lasting mark upon me. Full of positive vibes and happiness, this Swedish guy from Norrköping was walking all the way from Sweden till Cabo Fisterra (Spain), which are 3645 kilometers (2264 miles). His joy of life was contagious, and his bright and vivid eyes could encourage anyone. This was a walk to recover from a dark past he had, a walk for the change and all in all a walk for a new beginning. **Are you still in touch with anyone you’ve hosted? Have you ever slept on their couches in return?** Absolutely yes, as in most of the cases we’ve become good friends! For instance, in summer 2016 I met Zach from Chicago in Barcelona while he was traveling Europe, and ever since we’ve been in touch. And last summer when I was in Chicago we met again and it was such a wonderful experience. After two years we could be reunited, visit the city together and he showed me numerous hidden gems of the so called Windy City. ![](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/IMG-20160306-WA0003.jpg?fit=768%2C432&ssl=1 "IMG-20160306-WA0003 - Couchsurfing Blog")**Has hosting people changed the way you travel? If so, how?** Indeed! Since I started hosting people through Couchsurfing I see traveling as a way to immerse myself into a certain culture, rather than just standing out of it. I want to get involved, learn, interact and constantly experience new things. **What’s the most memorable meal that you’ve shared with a Couchsurfer?** He knows he’s my favorite Kiwi on Earth, Tim from Auckland was a gem to have around. Kind, generous and filled with curiosity I had the opportunity to host him for a night and being the purpose of understanding where we live, exploring and learning on a daily basis. Having him during one night and sharing an amazing vegetarian meal was such a fountainhead of wisdom, creativity and knowledge. **What have you learned about other cultures through Couchsurfing?** Definitely that we shouldn’t be driven by stereotypes! For anyone reading this, follow your instincts, be rational and keep positive. Life is beautiful and many people regardless of their gender/age/nationality/religion share this passion for traveling and living life to its fullest. Don’t let anyone take your decisions, because you’re wise and know what you are capable of doing or not. Couchsurfing is a community of joy and love, of people from different backgrounds who share certain common values. A honest and inspiring platform which enables all its users to regularly encounter different cultures and genuinely capture the essence and the magic of a destination. **Tell us about your most generous Couchsurfing host?** His spirit of life and his endless curiosity made me feel as I had always known Beñat. This Basque guy living in Chicago hosted me for two nights, let me sleep on his bedroom while he’d sleep on the couch, offered me breakfast, gave me tones of recommendations on places to go and he even accompanied me to different museums in the city. We happened to have similar personalities and share many interests, which contributed to having an unbeatable Couchsurfing experience. **What are ways that Couchsurfers can incorporate our core values into their everyday lives?** Couchsurfing teaches us all to be more open-minded, respectful, comprehensive, tolerant, curious and to value the little things in life. Ever since my first Couchsurfing experience in 2015 I travel more responsibly, trying to create more meaningful connections with the people I encounter in all my travels. On a daily basis I appreciate every moment shared with a fellow traveler, and I always try to act according to the principles that drive this vivid and diverse community. I believe in the power of generosity and altruism! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/meet-a-host-blanca-calafell/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/meet-a-host-blanca-calafell/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Community, Meet a Host **Tags:** community, couchsurfing, couchsurfing host, germany --- ### [Featured Ambassador: Celebrating the Life of Massimo Bennardo](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/celebrating-the-life-of-massimo-bennardo/) **Published:** July 18, 2017 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** *For over 10 years, Massimo Bennardo dedicated himself to Couchsurfing. As an active host, surfer, event organizer, Community Manager, and Ambassador, few have given more to the Couchsurfing community than Massimo.* *Massimo passed away on July 11, 2017. Below is a guest blog post celebrating his life, written by his good friend and fellow Couchsurfing community member Flohfish.* ———————————- Last Tuesday, my good friend Massimo Bennardo passed away. The information spread like wildfire on the internet. Condolences from all around the world were flooding Facebook within the hour. No matter where these farewell messages were coming from, most of them had one thing in common: disbelief. Wasn’t Massimo still posting travel photos from Prague two weeks ago? How was this possible? ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/IMG-20170718-WA0008-300x300.jpg "IMG-20170718-WA0008 - Couchsurfing Blog") Massimo was one of the most shimmering stars the Couchsurfing community had ever seen. He had an aura surrounding him that made it hard to escape him. With entering a room he was able to spread good vibes in a manner that would turn a funeral into a celebration of life. An active member of the Couchsurfing community 2007, he quickly became one of the best ambassadors for the ideas of hospitality exchange and international friendship. Being an active traveler and couchsurfer, he never forgot to give back. Those who attended will never forget his legendary pizza parties in Pistoia, when he was hosting hundreds of friends and friends to be in his house and garden. Countless local meetings in various countries, the annual CzechSurfing event, and the legendary Prague WinterCamp of 2012/2013 would never have happened without him. Not entirely happy with the changes Couchsurfing had undergone when investors came into the boat, Massimo didn’t complain like so many others. Instead he tried to stay focused on the positive and tried to encourage the community for constructive criticism. Probably, this was the reason why Casey Fenton, founder of Couchsurfing, asked Massimo during a dinner in 2013 if he would become Couchsurfing’s new Community Manager. Only weeks before leaving Europe for an infinite travel around the world, he postponed his plans and moved to San Francisco. There, he became the link and word of reason between investor’s interests and a disillusioned, but hopeful and demanding Couchsurfing community. During this time as the Couchsurfing Community Manager, first in California and later working while on the road, his paramount interest always remained the well-being of the community. From the USA, Massimo proceeded with his travels, first to Yucatan, then Japan, and later to South-East-Asia. His goal was to visit his godchild in Australia, but he would never manage to reach the continent down under. In autumn 2014, Massimo was diagnosed with lung cancer while traveling in Thailand – despite never having smoked. He had to immediately return to Italy to undergo therapy. While many of his friends had already started crying, Massimo didn’t take this diagnosis as a death sentence, but as a challenge of life. Not willing to give up so easily, he started celebrating life more than ever before. Whenever his therapies allowed it, Massimo was back on the road, traveling to places he hadn’t been before (some as far away as the Philippines), moving temporarily to cities like Warsaw and Berlin to experience living there, and visiting old friends all over Europe. Living more consciously than ever before, his will to embrace life to the fullest empowered him so much that it was easy to forget that Massimo was ill at all. Finally, after winning so many battles against the cancer, Massimo lost the war. His memory will remain within hundreds of people around this globe and with it a huge source of inspiration. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/IMG-20170718-WA0007-300x300.jpg "IMG-20170718-WA0007 - Couchsurfing Blog") Dear Massimo, Farewell my big brother, my best man. May you have eternal travels and be re-united with your beloved dogs. The world will always remember you (with a little tear in the eye and a huge smile on the face.) Your little Padawan, Floh ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/celebrating-the-life-of-massimo-bennardo/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/celebrating-the-life-of-massimo-bennardo/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts, Meet an Ambassador --- ### [Featured Ambassador: Steven Moskwa of Brisbane, Australia: 500 Couchsurfers and Counting](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/steven-moskwa-of-brisbane-australia-500-couchsurfers-and-counting/) **Published:** August 14, 2017 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/D2Gl7QdtlctyOxL96vaBiYgkx6hOGJgm0wD65KCHm8IpD2AL-rov8BX_L3sfouAGa_76UEOXQSToo_wUgxqp2UOQeY0s2048-300x200.jpg "D2Gl7QdtlctyOxL96vaBiYgkx6hOGJgm0wD65KCHm8IpD2AL-rov8BX_L3sfouAGa_76UEOXQSToo_wUgxqp2UOQeY0=s2048 - Couchsurfing Blog") Name: Steven Moskwa Location: Brisbane, Australia, Queensland Claim to fame: Hosted over 500 Couchsurfers It was 2008 and Steven Moskwa had just returned to his home in Brisbane from an eight-week holiday in Europe. He was listening to an interview on the radio where an American Couchsurfing Ambassador was describing his experiences with hosting and surfing. Steve thought to himself, “What a great way to meet other travelers and share their experiences”. He started hosting the very next week and has since welcomed over 500 Couchsurfers! Steven is the definition of what it means to be an ambassador: spreading the word about Couchsurfing wherever he goes. On top of that he also manages the Brisbane Couchsurfing Facebook page and is very involved in local events. > “After joining I decided to immerse myself into the Couchsurfing community and attended events, organised events, hosted events and met lots of new and interesting couchsurfers who even back then had been surfing and hosting for over five years.” ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/qBv1woqMLx4wZAd0rTdjkBiXf5uJ1lYiMm7R9XVreOf1smbKdZZnfjPSGfwYvr-FVr4DTST1RdXxHeZpu5Iik-kV9Pcs2048-300x225.jpg "qBv1woqMLx4wZAd0rTdjkBiXf5uJ1lYiMm7R9XVreOf1smbKdZZnfjPSGfwYvr-FVr4DTST1RdXxHeZpu5Iik-kV9Pc=s2048 - Couchsurfing Blog") In addition to be an all-around excellent host, Steve makes a point to introduce his guests to some of his native furry friends. > “I would have to say the look of amazement on each new Couchsurfer’s face when I take them to interact with wild kangaroos close to my home has to be my favourite \[thing about hosting\].” The wildlife is just one of the reasons that millions of people flock to Australia each year. The friendly locals, breathtaking beaches, untapped nature and a distinct joie de vivre keep tourists and backpackers coming back for more. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/ukIe1tjwDOzaUdHhm86v22Ag2nO1uvTZ3C8WyfHN-3Rg6ScJ04s6qIiD7bmdDMmAHzn36GapeCVwC0WOLfTnk7azrogs2048-300x225.jpg "ukIe1tjwDOzaUdHhm86v22Ag2nO1uvTZ3C8WyfHN-3Rg6ScJ04s6qIiD7bmdDMmAHzn36GapeCVwC0WOLfTnk7azrog=s2048 - Couchsurfing Blog")Steven is also an avid traveler himself and has found his vacations greatly enhanced since getting plugged into Couchsurfing. > “I really value the camaraderie. When travelling I always try to attend the local city’s couchsurfing meetup or other events that are being hosted.” Steven recalls one particularly memorable trip to New Orleans in 2016. His host, who was also an Ambassador, showed him all of the sights around the French Quarter and Bourbon St, plus a few impromptu bicycle rides. Had it not been for Couchsurfing, Steven is sure that his time in New Orleans wouldn’t have been the same. Steven has much to look forward to- for the rest of 2017 he has plans to head to Singapore, then to the UK, France, Germany and Poland. > “I absolutely will be doing some surfing with couchsurfers I have previously hosted and attending as many fun couchsurfing events as I can fit in.” ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/w0rP3lmrIOwEkff8UPnA2bZkRpn-H-HE9jTVBQ4UB8NReWCtea3iEyPuF1PPdIfu0rcNsDsoVgaJVAkpgw3ctlxMT0Is2048-300x200.jpg "w0rP3lmrIOwEkff8UPnA2bZkRpn-H-HE9jTVBQ4UB8NReWCtea3iEyPuF1PPdIfu0rcNsDsoVgaJVAkpgw3ctlxMT0I=s2048 - Couchsurfing Blog")Someone as experienced as Steven in both hosting and surfing surely has plenty of great advice. If you are new to Couchsurfing, Steven hopes that you won’t hesitate to get involved. > “Take some time to research couchsurfing.com and all the great information that it contains. Spend some time to create a profile which accurately represents you and your personality and values as this will assist you in finding hosts or surfers or both. > Couchsurfing is a wonderful community and I would encourage those who enjoy the experiences of surfing to also make their homes available to surfers when they are in a position to provide a safe place for others to stay when on their travels.” ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/steven-moskwa-of-brisbane-australia-500-couchsurfers-and-counting/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/steven-moskwa-of-brisbane-australia-500-couchsurfers-and-counting/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** Community, Meet an Ambassador --- ### [Featured Ambassador: Magnus of the Collective Sunshine, Sweden](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/magnus-of-the-collective-sunshine-sweden/) **Published:** April 28, 2018 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Magnus1.jpg "Magnus1 - Couchsurfing Blog")**Name:** Magnus Danielson **Claim to fame:** Runs a collective community house in Sweden **Words of Wisdom:** “Good decisions come from wisdom, wisdom comes from bad decisions” ———— Magnus Danielson is the leader of the Collective Sunshine in Stockholm, Sweden. The Collective Sunshine is a community house made up of 12 people, most of whom are active Couchsurfers. They regularly welcome surfers to their collective, and share the joys of hosting, entertaining and getting to know their guests. At the collective, members do many activities together like cooking, hosting events and simply spending time with each other. They are all very social and appreciate being surrounded by friends and experiencing life together. Magnus began running the Collective Sunshine in 2010 when he returned home from his world tour where he visited 20 different countries. > “I was out hitchhiking the world for about 14 months and stayed with a lot of different people and pretty much Couchsurfed the whole time. For a few days in 2009 I was even staying with the Couchsurfing collective in Istanbul.” He admits that he didn’t always have much of a plan, and Couchsurfers would often come through for him at the last minute. > “One day I arrived in Münich at around 5 pm or so after hitchhiking all day and realized ‘Oh, I don’t have a place to stay tonight.’ So I wrote my phone number in the last minute Couchsurfing group and had 3 messages within an hour.” ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/magnus2.png "- Couchsurfing Blog")Couchsurfing in Degenau SwitzerlandBack in 2008, Magnus was inspired by a friend’s stories of her own Couchsurfing experiences and decided to give it a try. As soon as he signed up, he jumped right in, trying out as many new things as possible. > “After I signed up I got a ”welcome letter” the next day which inspired me to join an event. I met some cool people and decided to try hosting the next weekend. That went pretty well so when I had a business trip to Geneva the next weekend I joined a Couchsurfing potluck there and thought it was a lot of fun. Three weeks after joining Couchsurfing, I hosted my first event at my place. I had perhaps 30-35 people at my little 47 sq. meter flat, which quickly felt a bit small, but we had SO much fun together!” After having such great success during his first few weeks on Couchsurfing, Magnus began to host larger events, utilizing common areas within his housing association and also organized outdoor events like BBQs. His last event before kicking off his world tour in 2009 brought 150 people together, many of whom he still keeps in touch with today. Magnus says that traveling and Couchsurfing have made him much more of a risk taker. In fact, he initially saw results when he went back to work after his first long trip. > “Suddenly I didn’t really care if I would get fired, so I would tell people what I thought and would do what I thought was right. I had so many ‘Oh man, I am SO gonna get fired today’ moments, but in the end what happened was that my career really took off and I got more responsibilities and freedom. Today, when I take a job, I tell my employer straight away ‘I prefer to have a blank paper regarding what my tasks should be, trust me, I’ll figure out what you need to have done.’” In 2014 Magnus started his own consultancy firm while leaving plenty of time for traveling. He has truly discovered the beauty of working for himself, taking extended time off, and returning to his work when it’s the right time for him. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/magnus3.jpg "- Couchsurfing Blog")Members and guests of the Sunshine CollectiveThe Sunshine Collective threw their big annual house party in October 2017 and are looking forward to their next big event in June. For these events, the members invite many friends, both old and new from around the world. These parties are an important part of the collective and allow them socialize with members or the community as well as fellow travelers and Couchsurfers, and possibly even meet some future collective members. You can learn more about the Sunshine Collective by checking out their [website](http://www.collectivesunshine.se/). Magnus leaves us with some parting words that he lives by: > “I never fail, I only have learning experiences.” ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/magnus-of-the-collective-sunshine-sweden/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/magnus-of-the-collective-sunshine-sweden/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Meet an Ambassador --- ### [Featured Ambassador: Matthew Lafontaine of Oslo, Norway](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/matthew-lafontaine-of-oslo-norway/) **Published:** November 22, 2017 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** > I was on my big backpacking trip in Xi’an in central China. I was surfing with a German engineer named Wilhelm who is about 30 years older than me. He was kind, tall, bald. I had heard about the spicy Szechuan cuisine in the neighboring region. We went to dinner, and feeling confident in my newfound ability to handle spicy food, I ordered us the chicken and peppers dish. Wilhelm didn’t say anything. What arrived was some bits of chicken swimming in a sea of chili peppers. I was taken aback but was still bound and determined, so we tucked in. It was overwhelming. My mouth couldn’t handle all the spice, I was gulping water, my nose was running incessantly. I looked over to Wilhelm and beads of sweat were clustering on his forehead. We made a valiant effort but I don’t know if we even finished half of it. I give Wilhelm credit for putting up with me, we laughed about it then, and that story still makes me laugh years later. Matthew heard about Couchsurfing just in time for his 4-month tour of Norway and Asia in 2007. If it hadn’t been for that friend who told him about Couchsurfing, his journey could have turned out completely differently. Matthew ended up using it for the entire four months, with only two exceptions, and surfed all the way from Indonesia to Nepal making countless memories that got him started on his Couchsurfing journey. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/andrei-me-anon-karaoke-300x225.jpg "andrei, me, anon, karaoke - Couchsurfing Blog")Matthew center with his very first CS host Andrei left doing Karaoke in Yogyakarta IndonesiaAfter months of traveling, Matthew was looking for a place to call home in Egypt, and finding a place that could accommodate couchsurfers was part of the equation. Matthew was able to find one of the few flats on the Red Sea that actually came with a couch, which was quite an achievement as traditional couches are not common in that region. > Couchsurfing has certainly transformed how I travel, as it has become my default. I’ve met a lot of people with alternative perspectives on life and it’s given me some of my closest friends. I’ve seen that you can make a meaningful connection with another traveler in a short time, and sometimes that connection can last for years afterwards. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/diving-300x225.jpg "diving - Couchsurfing Blog")Taking couchsurfer Emily diving in the Red SeaAt the moment, Matthew is working on his thesis, but his still finds time to stay active in the CS community by promoting and attending events and even inviting travelers to events personally. In the past, Matthew has been involved in the organization of a few Couch Crashes in the United States, including the 2012 and 2015 Twin Cities Crashes, while also attending the Madison Couch Crash in 2012. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/aA3eMwU5BF1lK1JmLF0jBJT2U9clxwh5zQvBAk5ISsDZtJhahF4d2IUUNSuDmM01QRCALdFlIzHfqaYXF7c0VoeRWhMs2048-300x225.jpg "aA3eMwU5BF1lK1JmLF0jBJT2U9clxwh5zQvBAk5ISsDZtJhahF4d2IUUNSuDmM01QRCALdFlIzHfqaYXF7c0VoeRWhM=s2048 - Couchsurfing Blog")Twin Cities Couch Crash 2015Becoming an Ambassador has been a very rewarding experience for Matthew as he has enjoyed helping out fellow travelers as much as possible. > To me, being an ambassador means being a resource. A few times during our regular events in Oslo, the organizer pulled me over to answer another surfer’s ‘couchsurfing question.’ Because I’ve done this for a decade I’m happy to share my experience and give tips on how to surf and host better. It also means representing my community in larger conversations with the CS leadership, and defending the original values of this community if need be. While hosting in Oslo, one of Matthew favorite things to do with his surfers is bring them to the Aker river. “It’s free, tourists don’t really know about it, and it gives us a chance to get to know each other and swap travel stories in ‘the nature,’ to transliterate from Norwegian.” Like any good Ambassador, Matthew is always spreading the word and trying to get more people to experience the beauty of Couchsurfing. Throughout his 10 years as a couchsurfer Matthew has recruited numerous friends to the site and continues to recommend Couchsurfing widely. > “You will be positively shocked how kind, giving, and trustworthy most of the world is. On that backpacking trip \[around Asia\] a host let me stay in his flat alone when he had to leave early. I’ve received so many insights into cultures that I never would’ve had otherwise. Often they’re surprising, like how my Malay host, a middle-aged mother, loves pro wrestling. Start small, meet some couchsurfers where you live at an event or make your own through Hangouts. And then go for it!” ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/matthew-lafontaine-of-oslo-norway/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/matthew-lafontaine-of-oslo-norway/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** Meet an Ambassador --- ### [Featured Ambassador: Giuseppe, Italian World Traveler and Resident of Groningen, The Netherlands](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/meet-giuseppe-italian-world-traveler-and-resident-of-groningen-the-netherlands/) **Published:** October 20, 2017 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/IMG_3012-300x225.jpg "IMG_3012 - Couchsurfing Blog") **Name:** Giuseppe **Member Since:** 2004 **Words of Wisdom:** “Couchsurfing made me believe in a world where a stranger is just a friend who I haven’t met yet.” Giuseppe, know by his friends as Gius, is originally from Italy but has spent much of his life traveling and living abroad. He currently resides in The Netherlands in a place called Groningen. When Gius first got started with Couchsurfing way back in 2004, he was living on the island of Tasmania. Since it takes nearly 10 hours to travel to anywhere from Tasmania, Gius wasn’t doing much traveling of his own at the time and decided to start hosting. He was pleasantly surprised to discover just how many people wanted to stay him and what a fulfilling experience it was to show newcomers some favorite pubs around Hobart and explore the natural beauty that Tasmania has to offer. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/IMG_1914-300x225.jpg "IMG_1914 - Couchsurfing Blog")Gius in Tasmania> “At the beginning, I was worried that my guests would not have a good time because of lack of activities or because of too much pressure from the activities I was suggesting. In reality, it was an amazing year. The Couchsurfers and I behaved like we were old friends. It was natural to do things together; it was natural to spend time apart so that they could do their own exploration. I am still in touch with some of them after almost 15 years!” Gius says that one of his favorite activities to do with his surfers is cooking together. After many afternoons of boiling potatoes and making homemade gnocchi with his guests, he decided to give surfing a try. He had been hosting for a year in Tasmania and it was time to try things from the other perspective. > “For the first time, I was in the hands of a host, crashing on their couch in their own home. I did not know what to expect and I was afraid we had nothing to share or talk about. Well, it was one of my best CS experiences ever. I was astonished by the kindness of my host, the time we spent together exploring the area, meeting her friends, and just chatting like old friends.” ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/IMG_4472-225x300.jpg "IMG_4472 - Couchsurfing Blog")Making gnocchi with surfersIn 2006 Gius left Tasmania for The Netherlands. Soon after arriving in Groningen, Couchsurfing began its new ambassadorship program and Gius saw it as the perfect opportunity to get to know his new hometown while hosting visitors and showing them around. > “Since I still knew little of the city, I started to co-organize events with the very active local community. There was a monthly meeting, and we started an international cooking club that went on for years and it is still active, organized by new people. In 2007, the ambassador title gave me the possibility to join the CUQ team (Common User Questions) which at that time, was the helpdesk of CS. I always tried to balance my CS activities online and in real life. In Groningen, we started a dance club, we had weekly cooking nights, BBQs, picnics, cinema nights.” Looking back, Gius says that at the time he didn’t even realize what a great impact that Couchsurfing was already having on his life, even from the very beginning. After only a short period of involvement, Gius says that his perspective on life had already begun to change. > “CS made me believe in a world where a stranger is just a friend who I haven’t met yet. > When I say that CS changed my life, it’s because I met so many people that contributed to make me the person I am now. Every CS experience was a new tile in the mosaic of my life. I don’t know if at the end it will be a good or a bad mosaic. But I am sure that there will be a lot of colorful and happy tiles, thanks to all the incredible couchsurfers I met around the world.” ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/IMG_3991-300x225.jpg "IMG_3991 - Couchsurfing Blog") ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/meet-giuseppe-italian-world-traveler-and-resident-of-groningen-the-netherlands/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/meet-giuseppe-italian-world-traveler-and-resident-of-groningen-the-netherlands/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** Meet an Ambassador --- ### [Featured Ambassador: Artu, the chocolate-loving party animal of Uzice, Serbia](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/featured-ambassador-artu-the-chocolate-loving-party-animal-of-uzice-serbia/) **Published:** September 18, 2017 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/DSC_9832-1-300x199.jpg "DSC_9832 (1) - Couchsurfing Blog") > *“Have you ever wondered how it would be like to be a guest at someone’s home? Or have guests at your place and make friends with people you’ve just met whether in your own country or far away? Ever needed travelling companions for a trip you’ve longed for but couldn’t find any? Join CS and enrich your travels.”* Artu Artu has had one special place to call ‘home’ for her entire life. Uzice is a small, yet hilly town in Serbia where one must go ‘hiking’ every day in order to get to where you’re going. Artu admits that though she loves to travel, something always brings her back to Uzice. While home in Uzice, Artu is the proud leader of the Balkan Mafia, her local Couchsurfing group. *“*I’ve been organising the BMM (Balkan Mafia Meeting) since 2009. We meet twice a year– spring and autumn– each time in a different country in the Balkans.” Artu loves being involved in the planning of events and meetups. She says, “The experiences and people I meet make up for the hassle that organisation brings.” ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/DSC00094-300x225.jpg "DSC00094 - Couchsurfing Blog") When Artu welcomes Couchsurfers into her home, some of her favorite things to do with guests include walking, talking and getting to know each other, or sitting outside and enjoying nature. She would rather get to know her guests at home with drinks in hand rather than at a bar or restaurant. Making that personal connection is very important to Artu and is what motivates her to keep going. With a whopping 610 references on her Couchsurfing profile, Artu knows a thing or two about meeting new people. In fact, Artu has been hosting people at her home since she was a young girl. It all started when she and her sister would spend summers at their grandparents’ house. Their backyard was a shortcut to the main road in the village, therefore many villagers would pass through and say hello. Some of them had been walking for hours, so Artu’s grandparents would invite them to rest and spend the night. At first, Artu and her sister were afraid of these unknown people and they would lock their doors and hide in their room. Over time, it just became a way of life for them and they began to enjoy welcoming these mysterious travelers. They began to do the same at their own home– inviting workers who were working on the family home, friends and family members. Into adulthood Artu continued this tradition by welcoming hitchhikers and band members of the concerts that she organized in her hometown. Sometimes up to twelve people a night! Eventually she heard about Couchsurfing and today Artu continues to host people from all walks of life. She also has plenty of great advice for aspiring Couchsurfers everywhere: > *“Act locally then globally. Be sure to meet fellow locals on CS and travellers visiting your hometown, even host some and show them around, listen to their travel stories and CS experiences and then venture into the world. Be enthusiastic about and interested in meeting people not just surfing their couches. To receive you have to give too. Always be a respectful guest and a host. Treat the others the way you’d like to be treated. Enjoy the travels and your time spent with guests/hosts.”* ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/14732304_10154797594973690_3468726125322065312_n-300x225.jpg "14732304_10154797594973690_3468726125322065312_n - Couchsurfing Blog") For Artu, Couchsurfing made it easier for her to do the things that she’s always enjoyed, like staying with friends, meeting new people and hosting guests. Artu says she’s never been into visiting museums or tourist attractions when visiting a new place, rather she prefers learning about the culture through the locals that she meets. Meeting their families, listening to their life stories and trying out new food have always been more valuable to her. Through her travels, Artu has made it her personal mission to try the local chocolate bar or chocolate biscuit from every country she visits. When it comes to hosting, it has helped Artu realize how different we all are. It’s those differences that have given her a better understanding of the world and how to communicate with people with different backgrounds. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/featured-ambassador-artu-the-chocolate-loving-party-animal-of-uzice-serbia/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/featured-ambassador-artu-the-chocolate-loving-party-animal-of-uzice-serbia/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** Community, Meet an Ambassador --- ### [Featured Ambassadors: Nick & Lauren of Denver, Colorado](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/featured-ambassadors-nick-lauren-of-denver-colorado/) **Published:** December 19, 2017 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** ##### “We try not to have a dull moment. I tend to go 100% in all of life’s pursuits.” [Nick](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/nick.hernandez1) has accomplished a lot during his short 25 years on Earth. He and his wife Lauren not only work full time, but also go to school full time. They are both avid runners, competing in marathons and triathlons: at the moment, Nick is training for the Boulder Ironman and notes that they always have a big race on the horizon. And that is just the beginning! On top of all this, Nick and Lauren have filled what little time they has left with hosting Couchsurfers and a handful of hobbies that he is very passionate about. Nick and Lauren married when they were 20 and 19 respectively. According to Nick, he didn’t feel like he had his life together until he met her. *“She is my savior and my guide, I was not like this 3 years ago.”* Lauren, unlike her husband, enjoys her hobbies ‘just for the fun of it’ and helps and encourages Nick to tackle his projects wholeheartedly. Hosting through Couchsurfing is something they have enjoyed discovering and experiencing as a couple. Nick and Lauren’s shared passion for running and training is not only something that they enjoy doing together, but something they enjoy sharing with their surfers. Nick jokes that if you say in your Couch Request you’d like to run with them, there’s 100% chance they’ll accept! Many of their hobbies relate to traveling in one way or another. Nick and Lauren are currently planning a major trip around the world, while Nick also enjoys collecting coins from around the world and educating others about dual citizenship. A few years back, Nick and Lauren visited 25 countries over the course of 5 months, using Couchsurfing whenever it was available and possible. > “Couchsurfing has opened up our explorative goggles as far as what we are capable of doing.” Inspired by their own experience as well as the adventures of traveler [Graham Hughes ](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Graham_Hughes)(the first person to travel to every country without flying), they are currently planning an impressive 100-country trip. Although they will be taking some flights, the pair plans to visit every country in Africa by bus only. They have already planned out most of this route, and estimate the trip will be approximately 2 years and cost about $20,000. They hope to embark upon their epic journey in the next 5-7 years. Couchsurfing will of course play a large role throughout their around-the-world trip, staying with a few of their former guests as well as finding hosts that they haven’t yet met. Nick firmly believes that people should Couchsurf no matter what their travel budget looks like, to meet new people and broaden their horizons. > *This is a balance I want to maintain in my life. People tend to only use it if they are broke, which is a shame. It shouldn’t just be used by people who are broke, it should be used by people who want to engage with other people.* ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/nicklauren-300x200.jpg "nick+lauren - Couchsurfing Blog") Nick began collecting coins during their 25-country trip a few years back. It started as an easy and economical way to bring something home from every country he visits. Upon arriving home from the big trip, Nick began organizing his collection scrupulously, taking 7 months to develop a system that was logical and efficient. He continues to add to this collection when visiting new countries, and also receives many gifts from friends, surfers and others who have heard about his hobby. > *One of my favorites is probably this German bill from the [Weimar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Weimar). Every coin has a story with it, I even have some that are in museums. It wouldn’t be possible without Couchsurfers.* Nick’s final hobby is one that affects him personally. His mother was born in Hungary, making Nick eligible for Hungarian citizenship. He says that he had always assumed that it would be a complicated process, but once he applied he was pleasantly surprised to discover how easy it was. Since then he has been inspired to share this information with others, encouraging young people to not only travel, but to explore dual citizenship options for those who may not even realize that they are eligible. *“It’s a very unique topic that I tend to only talk to about with random people in bars.”* He hopes to one day move from talking in bars to speaking to audiences of college students. In the meantime, check out Nicks’s [website](http://footsteps-home.com/blog/) to learn more about this very interesting passion project. From traveling around to world to racing on foot, Nick and Lauren have accomplished a lot during their lives already, and have even more to look forward to. Nick’s dedication to everything that he does is nothing short of inspiring, making him one to watch in the future. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/featured-ambassadors-nick-lauren-of-denver-colorado/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/featured-ambassadors-nick-lauren-of-denver-colorado/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Community, Meet an Ambassador --- ### [A Perfect Week in Japan’s Noto Peninsula](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-perfect-week-in-japans-noto-peninsula/) **Published:** October 3, 2018 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** Some trips beg to cram as many sights into as few days as possible. Sometimes, though, it’s nice to sloooowwww it down and really take your time exploring a place. Get to third base with one place instead of playing the field, so to speak. Japan’s Noto Peninsula is just such a place, worthy of an entire week of dedicated exploration rather than a fly-by en route to Tokyo en route to wherever. Here’s how we’d make a week of it. **Day 1:** You’ll likely arrive in Japan via Tokyo, and as luck would have it, the trek from Tokyo to Noto isn’t too shabby and makes for a great first day of your trip. There are a few different [train routes](https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e4251.html) you can choose, carrying you three-to-four hours across typically Japanese landscape including rugged coastline, rice paddies, towns and farmland. *Eat: At the [Heidee Winery](https://tabelog.com/en/ishikawa/A1704/A170401/17009971/)* **Day 2:** Make your home-for-the-day in the town of Wajima, where the *asaichi* (morning market) serves as a well-known gathering point where you can find everything from lacquerware to sake to fresh fish to vegetables from local gardens. A popular highlight of the market is the line of fish-mongers; think Seattle’s Pike Place Market but with elderly Japanese women in rubber boots instead of grizzly seamen. Wander the market, stock up on snacks for your week and gifts to bring home. *Buy: A traditional piece of [lacquerware](http://www.wajimanuri.co.jp/e_tayashikkiten/lacquerware.html)* **Day 3:** Head to the northernmost tip of the peninsula for a day on the sea. After you’ve wandered and strolled and basked in the Japanese sun (yes we know it’s the same sun as everywhere else but you know what we mean), head to the [Skybird](https://travel.navitime.com/en/area/jp/spot/02301-2500624/), a mid-air lookout located in the Sanctuary Cape. *Treat Yo-Self: To a soak in the [Hot Springs](http://www.notostyle.jp/en/index.php?id=1423)* **Day 4:** After a scenic drive through nearby fishing villages, forests, and pastoral landscapes, get boozey and head to [Matsunami Sake Brewery](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1121166-d8725038-Reviews-Matsunami_Sake_Brewery-Noto_cho_Hosu_gun_Ishikawa_Prefecture_Hokuriku_Chubu.html). The quaint fifth generation brewery includes a gift shop where you can pick up unique liquors like permission sake (kaki-sake), which can be guzzled like your favorite wine cooler (less recommended), or poured over ice cream for a sake float (more recommended). *Drink: All the sake* **Day 5:** Make your mother proud and check out the [Kenroku-en gardens](https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e4200.html), which took the ruling Maeda family a casual two centuries to create. The name Kenrokuen literally means “Garden of the Six Sublimities”, referring to spaciousness, seclusion, artificiality, antiquity, abundant water and broad views, which according to Chinese landscape theory are the six essential attributes that make up a perfect [garden](https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2099.html) (and you thought all you had to do was keep the plants alive). *Go in the Fall: To get some [Autumn color therapy](https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2014.html)* **Day 6:** Be a legit tourist and spend the day at [21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art](https://www.kanazawa21.jp/en/) where you can, you know, enjoy the art. Alongside rotating special exhibits, the museum will blow your mind with a [trippy swimming pool](https://www.kanazawa21.jp/data_list.php?g=30&d=7&lng=e) and a [grown up game of outdoor tuba phone](https://www.kanazawa21.jp/data_list.php?g=30&d=2&lng=e), among other things. *Eat your vegetables: [At Cafe Restaurant Fusion21](https://www.kanazawa21.jp/data_list.php?g=10&d=2&lng=e)* **Day 7:** Plan your route to the airport to include a stop at [Kakusenkei Gorge](https://www.travelko.com/locale/en_US/review/jp_4_56/sightseeing/spot/127575/), situated along the Daijoji river between Kurotani bridge and Korogi bridge on a 1.3km road that’s perfect for one last shakeout before you’re homeward bound. *Don’t Forget: To check into your flight!* ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-perfect-week-in-japans-noto-peninsula/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-perfect-week-in-japans-noto-peninsula/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Guides **Tags:** 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Cafe Restaurant Fusion21, food, geisha, Heidee Winery, japan, Kakusenkei Gorge, Kenroku-en gardens, kyoto, lacquerware, Matsunami Sake Brewery, noto peninsula, onsen, ryokan, tokyo, travel, travel guide, travel tips --- ### [The Digital Nomad: Six Ways to Earn Money While Traveling](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-digital-nomad-six-ways-to-earn-money-while-traveling/) **Published:** November 19, 2018 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** Have you been bitten by the travel bug? Want to extend your worldwide romp indefinitely? There are ways to make money, even when your address on your employment application is TBD. Read on for six of our favorite options to not only fund your taste for travel, but actually work hand-in-hand with it. **Teach English** First, you’ll need to [be certified](https://www.internationalteflacademy.com/faq/bid/102043/what-is-tefl-and-what-is-tefl-certification), but after that the world is your oyster. Some places in the Middle East and Southeast Asia [will even cover your housing costs and transportation](https://www.ciee.org/go-abroad/work/tefl/blog/3-ways-anyone-can-make-money-while-traveling). Or, you can teach online and [work from anywhere](http://vagabonddisposition.com/2017/09/06/teach-english-online/) you please. **Get a working holiday visa** If you’re between the ages of 18 and 30, look into a [working holiday visa](https://www.wanderingearl.com/42-ways-you-can-make-money-and-travel-the-world/). They’re good for up to a year and typically cover pretty much any job you want in countries like Australia, New Zealand, Canada, France, Ireland and Singapore. **Start a travel blog** If you like to write and can take a decent picture or two, a [travel blog should be on your radar as a potential income producer](https://www.thebrokebackpacker.com/39-jobs-to-work-and-travel-the-world/). It will take time to build up readership, but you could eventually [parlay your web presence into sponsored travel](https://www.wanderingearl.com/42-ways-you-can-make-money-and-travel-the-world/) and also make income off of affiliate links. **Sell your photography** You could end up with a [steady stream of income by licensing your photos for commercial use](https://expertvagabond.com/paid-to-travel-world/) or selling them to publications. **Teach** Some skills (like yoga or scuba) require fairly extensive certifications and training courses, but others just require a little interest and ability and they’re [one of the most reliable ways to make income while traveling](https://www.thebrokebackpacker.com/39-jobs-to-work-and-travel-the-world/). You could also [partner with a local business](https://www.wanderingearl.com/42-ways-you-can-make-money-and-travel-the-world/) like a restaurant or bar where they pay you to hold a dance or yoga class at their location because it will bring them extra business. **Think outside the box** [Flip houses](https://ordinarytraveler.com/make-living-traveling-world). [Day trade](https://wanderingtrader.com/). If you have a computer and a reliable internet connection (and maybe an investor pal or two), there’s really no limit to ways of making money when your address is inconsistent. What’d we miss? Leave us your favorite making-money-while-traveling tips in the comments below! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-digital-nomad-six-ways-to-earn-money-while-traveling/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-digital-nomad-six-ways-to-earn-money-while-traveling/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** Uncategorized **Tags:** digital nomad, earn money, international travel, make money while traveling, travel abroad, travel tips --- ### [The Perfect Day: Rome](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-perfect-day-rome/) **Published:** October 16, 2018 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** ***“Rome was a poem pressed into service as a city.*” – Anotole Broyard** With its urban hustle and bustle set against the backdrop of centuries-old monuments and landmarks, there’s simply nowhere else in the world like Rome. One winding street after another teems with activity; travelers who can spare a bit of time to wander are guaranteed to stumble across a hidden gem or two. Plus, squeeze in some time in Vatican City and you can cross another country off your bucket list. **Breakfast: Start your morning at a bakery in Trastevere where you can grab a [cornetto](https://veganswithappetites.com/vegan-croissants-and-cappuccino-in-rome/) (a delightful cousin of the croissant that’s stuffed with everything from jam to Nutella) and a cappuccino. Although you might want to consider making that breakfast to-go, since there’s no time to waste in Rome.** **Outdoor Activity:** The view from Terrazza Viale del Belvedere is breathtaking at any time of day, but [sunset is downright magical](https://www.flickr.com/photos/mattwalkerncl/33511971233). Head up to this free public park to drink in the view and enjoy some downtime before you shift gears for the afternoon and evening. **Lunch: A morning of sightseeing is sure to work up an appetite, so pop into [Sora Lucia](https://theromanguy.com/italy-travel-blog/top-places-eat-near-trevi-fountain/) for a meal just like your grandma used to make, if your grandma was a master of Italian cuisine and could make a lasagna that would cause you to weep with joy. Trevi Fountain is right down the street and a great spot to sit awhile until your food coma lifts.** **Shopping:** Should you find yourself in Rome on a Sunday, don’t miss the[ Porta Portese street market](https://www.wantedinrome.com/whatson/porta-portese-sunday-market.html) with hundreds of vendors selling everything from cashmere sweaters to spare car parts. **Dinner: If you’re gonna drop some serious coinage on a dinner, Italy seems like the place to do it, right? Throw caution (and your savings) to the wind and get a table at [Aroma](https://www.aromarestaurant.it/en/menu/), a Michelin-starred restaurant with a stunning view of the Colosseum. If you’re dining on a dime, head to [Pane e Tempesta](https://www.facebook.com/PaneTempesta) in the Gianicolense quarter where you’ll be treated to an amazing array of Roman pies.** **Attraction/Splurge:** Save yourself hours in line, and buy your tickets online in advance to tour popular sites like [The Sistine Chapel](https://biglietteriamusei.vatican.va/musei/tickets/do) and [The Colosseum](https://www.coopculture.it/en/colosseo-e-shop.cfm). Simply show up at your appointed time and walk right in, bypassing the hot, tired, and hungry fools who didn’t plan ahead. **Drinks/Nightlife:** Bookend your day by landing right back where you started. The [Trastevere neighborhood](https://www.adventurouskate.com/where-to-stay-in-rome-best-neighborhoods-accommodation/) offers your pick of lively bars packed with a mix of locals and students from the nearby universities. **Book To Bring:** [The Roman Spring of Mrs. Stone](https://www.amazon.com/Roman-Spring-Mrs-Stone/dp/0811221458/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1538322359&sr=8-1&keywords=the+roman+spring+of+mrs.+stone+book) by Tennessee Williams, follows the drifting life of a former American actress and wealthy widow in the years after the end of World War II. The city’s best-known landmarks and vistas are basically supporting characters. **How Do You Say:** Hello/Goodbye: *Ciao!* (the Italians make it easy) Thank You: *Grazie!* - ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-perfect-day-rome/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-perfect-day-rome/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Uncategorized --- ### [Announcing the Couchsurfing hall of heroes contest!](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/announcing-the-couchsurfing-hall-of-heroes-contest/) **Published:** January 1, 2019 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** ![Couchsurfers jumping for joy after reaching the Pacific Ocean.](https://i2.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/23331228_10155240473657852_1835116263925848849_o.jpg?fit=768%2C512&ssl=1 "23331228_10155240473657852_1835116263925848849_o - Couchsurfing Blog")Photo by Chris Gothenburg I met these two separately on an 8000 mile road trip around America One was America one was French and Im Canadian We hit it off immediately and they ended up joining me on a whim We spent every minute together for weeks eventually making it to the Pacific Ocean We took these epic shots as the sun went down playing on the beach and taking in the beautiful scene That was almost a year ago to the day and we still talk every single weekSubmit a photo of a memorable Couchsurfing experience and be featured on the walls of Couchsurfing HQ! Couchsurfing HQ is moving offices and we want to feature the people who we’re working for, our community of travelers. ![Couchsurfers on the edge of the Sahara desert.](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/23415197_10155240474352852_7260501141523711417_o.jpg "23415197_10155240474352852_7260501141523711417_o - Couchsurfing Blog")Photo by Harold Aziz invited us to his house in the last village of Maroc called MHamid El Ghizlane This village is located some meters before the beginning Sahara desert Is one of the most interesting rural villages around Maroc with a few touristical population We made a deep connection with our host Aziz we hope to see him in Perú somedayWe know that Couchsurfing creates connections and lets travelers share their lives and moments of kindness every day. We want to hear your stories. Your Couchsurfing friendships inspire us. ![](https://i1.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/23215604_10155240473567852_59064080391297563_o.jpg?fit=768%2C1024&ssl=1 "23215604_10155240473567852_59064080391297563_o - Couchsurfing Blog")Photo by Khalil I met this family from USA lives in Saudi Arabia and by staying with them we becomes a very close family and Tim ward that he has same CS as same name on the site makes me become his brother and thats what CS a bout love and be loved this photo taken at Dead sea Jordan inside the sea what a day **How it works:** Submit your photo by sharing your story through our submission form before February 25, 2019 along with a short story about your Couchsurfing experience. (We’ll release and share an album of all the photo submissions on Facebook.) ![](https://i0.wp.com/blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/23415300_10155251328062852_147564511865450928_o.jpg?fit=683%2C1024&ssl=1 "23415300_10155251328062852_147564511865450928_o - Couchsurfing Blog") Photo by Zaynab Meet people before judging them#### ***Contest rules*** ENTRY: No purchase necessary to enter or win. Contestants will enter by emailing Couchsurfing with a photo and story about their experience with Couchsurfing. ELIGIBILITY: This contest is open to anyone over the age of 18. Void where prohibited by law. Contestants residing in those areas where the contest is void may participate in the contest but may not win any prizes. Couchsurfing retains the right to remove and disqualify submissions that, in Couchsurfing’s sole discretion, do not align with the Couchsurfing Terms of Use, and can remove any entry for any reason. Entries should not duplicate entries to the 2017 or 2018 Couchsurfing Calendar Contest. Entries must not violate our Member Conduct and Content requirements, which can be viewed here: [http://www.couchsurfing.com/about/terms-of-use/.](http://www.couchsurfing.com/about/terms-of-use/) WINNER SELECTION: 30 winners will be selected. The winners will be selected by Couchsurfing staff. PRIZES: The 30 winners will receive [a Couchsurfing mug](https://store.couchsurfing.com/products/11oz-couchsurfing-mug). WINNER NOTIFICATION: Winners will be notified within 14 days after the determination date. Inability to contact a winner may result in disqualification and selection of an alternate winner. GENERAL CONDITIONS: a. Participants hereby grant Couchsurfing a non-exclusive, perpetual, worldwide license to broadcast, publish, store, reproduce, distribute, syndicate, and otherwise use and exhibit the Submission (along with their names, voices, performance and/or likenesses) in all media now known and later come into being for purposes of trade or advertising without further compensation. Participants represent and warrant that they have full legal right, power and authority to grant Couchsurfing the foregoing license and if applicable, have secured all necessary rights from any participants in, and contributors to, their Submission in order to grant such a license. b. Couchsurfing is under no obligation to use any Submission or return the Submissions to participants. USE OF CONTEST INFORMATION: All entries become the property of Couchsurfing. Couchsurfing reserves the right to use any and all information related to the contest, including submissions provided by the contestants, for editorial, marketing and any other purpose, unless prohibited by law. CONDUCT: All contest participants agree to be bound by these Official Rules. Couchsurfing, in its sole discretion, reserves the right to disqualify any person it finds to be tampering with the entry process, the operation of its web site or is otherwise in violation of these rules. LIMITATIONS OF LIABILITY: Couchsurfing is not responsible for late, lost or misdirected email or for any computer, online, telephone or technical malfunctions that may occur. If for any reason, the contest is not capable of running as planned, including infection by computer virus, bugs, tampering, unauthorized intervention or technical failures of any sort, Couchsurfing may cancel, terminate, modify or suspend the contest. Entrants further agree to release Couchsurfing from any liability resulting from, or related to participation in the contest. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/announcing-the-couchsurfing-hall-of-heroes-contest/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/announcing-the-couchsurfing-hall-of-heroes-contest/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Uncategorized **Tags:** community, contest --- ### [Ringing in the New Year Around the World: How Different Cultures Will Celebrate 2019](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/ringing-in-the-new-year-around-the-world-how-different-cultures-will-celebrate-2019/) **Published:** December 12, 2018 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** Fireworks and champagne toasts are so 2018. Take your celebrations up a notch with one of our favorite unconventional ways to ring in the new year. **Feasting in Estonia** Hope you packed your stretchy pants—i[n Estonia it’s customary to have seven, nine, or even 12 meals on New Year’s](https://www.gadventures.com/blog/the-coolest-new-years-traditions-from-around-the-world/), as a gesture of strength for the coming year. Don’t sweat it if you can’t maintain your Clean Plate Club status though; [leaving food on your plate is considered a gift for ancestral spirits](https://www.oyster.com/articles/56515-7-new-years-eve-traditions-that-you-havent-heard-of/). ![Burning Effigies in Ecuador](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/CS_Burning-Effigies-in-Ecuador.jpg "- Couchsurfing Blog")Burning Effigies in Ecuador **Burning Effigies in Ecuador** Wander an Ecuadorian market on New Year’s, and you’ll find [life-sized, papier-mache mannequins for sale](https://www.gadventures.com/blog/the-coolest-new-years-traditions-from-around-the-world/). Why? [For you to burn, of course](http://www.happygringo.com/blog/ecuadorian-new-years-celebrations/). The tradition is supposed to cleanse bad energy before heading into the new year. If you want to do it right, jump the fire 12 times. **Fist-Fighting in Peru** Peruvians take the [airing of grievances](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1l8Eag9CAFk) up a notch with Takanakuy. On this day, [villagers take out their petty (and not-so-petty) issues with one another in fist fights](https://www.cnn.com/2012/03/14/world/americas/vice-peru-takanakuy/index.html) that would make a UFC fighter wince. **Carrying a Suitcase in Colombia** Now here’s a tradition we can get behind: [In Colombia, it’s customary to carry an empty suitcase around for the day to bring on a year of travel adventures](https://worldstrides.com/blog/2016/12/9-new-years-traditions-cultures-around-world/). **Hogmanay in Scotland** Don’t limit yourself to just [one day of celebrating when you can have three](https://www.visitscotland.com/see-do/events/christmas-winter-festivals/hogmanay/). It starts with parades [where people swing fireballs around](https://www.tripsavvy.com/stonehaven-fireballs-new-years-festival-1662599), and then continues for two more days with plenty of food and, er, [wee drams](https://www.oyster.com/articles/56515-7-new-years-eve-traditions-that-you-havent-heard-of/). **Frozen Lake Jumping in Siberia** Looking to start your year off with hypothermia and a fairly significant drowning risk? Siberia is the spot for you. Their [polar plunge would almost be a cliche … except that they do it while holding a tree trunk](http://www.travelers-society.com/11-weird-ny-traditions/). **Jumping Waves in Brazil** If a warm weather celebration is more your thing, head to Copacabana, [throw on some white, and jump seven waves at midnight](https://www.accorhotels.com/gb/united-kingdom/magazine/did-you-know/brazil-new-year-tradition-d8e2e.shtml). For an extra boost of good luck, [bring a bouquet to toss to the goddess of the seas](https://www.oyster.com/articles/56515-7-new-years-eve-traditions-that-you-havent-heard-of/). Did we miss your favorite tradition? Let us know how you’ll be celebrating the New Year in the comments! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/ringing-in-the-new-year-around-the-world-how-different-cultures-will-celebrate-2019/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/ringing-in-the-new-year-around-the-world-how-different-cultures-will-celebrate-2019/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** All Posts, Guides **Tags:** adventure, adventure travel, Burning Effigies in Ecuador, Carrying a Suitcase in Colombia, Feasting in Estonia, Fist-Fighting in Peru, Frozen Lake Jumping in Siberia, Hogmanay in Scotland, Jumping Waves in Brazil, New Year, New Years Eve, travel --- ### [8 Unique Holiday Traditions Around The World](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/8-unique-holiday-traditions-around-the-world/) **Published:** December 2, 2018 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** Sure, you could spend Christmas around a tree, opening gifts with loved ones and enjoying a delicious meal together. But where’s the adventure in that? From [setting giant straw goats on fire ](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wUgXRZ3j24I)to a pooping yule log and St. Nick’s evil alter-ego, we’ve rounded up eight of our favorite … *unique* spins on the holidays around the world. **Sweden’s Christmas Goat** On December 1, a 42 foot (13 meter) straw goat was erected in the Gavle Square, as it has every December 1 for the last 50 years. The only question is, [how quickly will it be burned down?](https://www.thelocal.se/20181201/swedens-gvle-christmas-goat-ready-to-return-for-festive-season) It seems the only thing more traditional than the straw goat is the attempted arson that follows; the goat has successfully (?) been burned down 29 of the 50 years. To see how it fairs in 2018, [there’s a goat cam for that.](http://www.visitgavle.se/en/gavle-goat) **The Philippines’ Giant Lantern Festival** Beginning the Saturday before Christmas Eve, [villages compete to build the most impressive lantern](https://www.momondo.com/discover/article/christmas-traditions-around-the-world). Steeped in cultural tradition, the lanterns used to be simple, small creations made from origami paper and lit with a candle. Today, you’ll find elaborate constructions nearly 20 feet (6 meters) in diameter. **Roller Skating to Church in Caracas** On Christmas Eve morning, Venezuelans head to mass—[not terribly surprising for a country that’s 70 percent Catholic, right?](https://metro.co.uk/2017/12/20/christmas-around-the-world-why-venezuelans-roller-skate-to-mass-on-christmas-eve-7018407/) [Except that they do it on roller blades](https://www.momondo.com/discover/article/christmas-traditions-around-the-world). City streets are even closed to traffic so that families can skate safely. No one is sure exactly how the tradition got started (an alternative to sledding, perhaps?), but they’re just rolling (sorry; couldn’t resist) with it. **The Krampus in Austria** Prefer your yuletide with a side of bone-chilling terror? Then you’re going to love Austria’s Krampus,[ a horned beast who supposedly scoops up naughty children in his sack and carts them off.](https://www.ajc.com/news/world/krampus-story-austria-terrifying-christmas-tradition/EmLwnoDqgUdEIfKnQhvAxL/) You’ll find parades across Austria filled with young men dressed up as Krampuses (Krampusi?), in [celebrations that rival Mardi Gras](https://www.tripsavvy.com/krampus-parade-in-austria-tyrolean-christmas-festival-4154986) for their theatrics. **Iceland’s Yule Lads (and Christmas Cat)** Don’t settle for just one Santa when you could have 13 Yule Lads. While these chaps used to come with a much more terrifying backstory (seriously—t[hey passed an actual law in 1746 forbidding parents from tormenting their children with scary stories about them](https://www.smithsonianmag.com/smart-news/meet-the-thirteen-yule-lads-icelands-own-mischievous-santa-clauses-180948162/)), now they just[ fill shoes with treats in the 13 days leading up to Christmas](https://www.momondo.com/discover/article/christmas-traditions-around-the-world). There are no laws on the books about Christmas Cat tales though—this [giant, blood-thirsty black cat prowls the countryside on Christmas Eve and eats anyone not wearing at least one new article of clothin](http://monstersherethere.com/monster/j%C3%B3lak%C3%B6tturinn-christmas-cat-iceland)g. Supposedly, of course. **KFC Christmas in Japan** It sounds like a case study from a Marketing 101 class but [in the early ‘70s, Kentucky Fried Chicken launched an ad campaign in Japan called “Kentucky for Christmas!”](https://www.holidayextras.co.uk/travel-blog/wanderlust/unusual-christmas-traditions.html) that was so successful, it got *a country that doesn’t even widely celebrate Christmas* to head, en masse, to KFC for dinner every Christmas Eve. **Catalonia’s Poop Log** Tio de Nadal is made from a hollow log with stick legs, a smiley face, and a red hat. From Dec. 8 until Christmas Eve, [the log is plied with treats and water by children and kept warm under a blanket](https://www.npr.org/sections/thesalt/2017/12/22/572569325/caga-ti-a-catalan-log-that-poops-nougats-at-christmas). A little odd, but no biggie, right? Well, [stuff goes a little sideways on Christmas Eve](https://www.holidayextras.co.uk/travel-blog/wanderlust/unusual-christmas-traditions.html). The children beat the log with sticks while singing traditional songs that, among other words, include commands to poop. Eventually, when it’s been beaten thoroughly, [the log poops out presents and cand](https://www.npr.org/sections/thesalt/2017/12/22/572569325/caga-ti-a-catalan-log-that-poops-nougats-at-christmas)y … and is then thrown into the fire and burned. **The Undead Rhyming Welsh Horse** Stop me if you’ve heard this one before, but [a horse skull on a stick covered with a sheet shows up at your door](http://mentalfloss.com/article/20333/8-truly-strange-christmas-customs). It engages you in [what is essentially a rap battle](https://hyperallergic.com/345156/the-welsh-undead-horse-of-christmas-you-must-beat-in-a-battle-of-rhymes/) and, if the horse wins, it gets to come inside for food and drink. And you thought [Cousin Eddie](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LSqb4e8mUd4) made Christmas a little strange. Did we miss one of your favorite unexpected holiday traditions? Let us know in the comments! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/8-unique-holiday-traditions-around-the-world/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/8-unique-holiday-traditions-around-the-world/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Guides **Tags:** Christmas Goat, culture, festivals, Giant Lantern Festival, holiday traditions, holidays, KFC Christmas, Krampus, Poop Log, travel, travel guide, Undead Rhyming Welsh Horse, Yule Lads --- ### [10 Epic Places to Celebrate Christmas in the U.S.](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-epic-places-to-celebrate-christmas-in-the-u-s/) **Published:** November 23, 2018 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** If the plot of nearly every Christmas movie (like [this one](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SC409VxoMtw), [this one](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3lgcViU45Fs), or [this one](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2iXor73ajuA)) isn’t enough to convince you, sometimes spending the holidays at home isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. Consider this license to dodge the dinner squabbles and family dysfunction for a year and seek out one of these spots that are sure to put you in the Christmas spirit. **1. North Pole, Alaska** If you’re the kind of person who feels like if it’s worth doing, it’s worth doing to the 1,000th degree, look no further. From [the 45-foot Santa that greets you on the way into town, to the Santa Claus House where children’s letters to the big guy are answered by volunteers](https://abcnews.go.com/blogs/lifestyle/2013/12/what-christmas-is-really-like-in-north-pole-alaska/), it’s basically like [Buddy the Elf](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1pAob17r-VU) is mayor of this little Alaskan town outside of Fairbanks. **2. New York City** Everyone needs to see [NYC at Christmastime](https://theculturetrip.com/north-america/usa/articles/the-10-most-festive-destinations-to-celebrate-christmas-in-the-us/) at least once. Admire the tree in Rockefeller Center, indulge your inner kid by playing with all the coolest toys at FAO Schwartz, and stroll down 5th Avenue for the very best in window shopping. **3. Orlando** It’s a season for childlike wonder, and no one gets that quite like the Mouse. [Desserts, lights, shows … they even have snow on Main Street](https://www.visitorlando.com/events/holidays/holiday-season-in-orlando/) for crying out loud. **4. San Antonio** The famous River Walk gets the holiday treatment[ with lights, colors, and even carolers singing from boats](https://www.southernliving.com/travel/southern-christmas-vacations#southern-christmas-vacations-san-antonio-river-walk). Add in all the shopping you could ask for in the El Mercado district plus average temperatures in the 60s, and you’ve got all the merriment and none of the cold-induced misery. **5. Colorado** If it’s just not Christmas without the white stuff, [the Rockies are calling](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vc2zBTQ4Bq0). Strap on your skis and head for Aspen, Vail, or Beaver Creek, or [catch the Polar Express in Durango](https://theculturetrip.com/north-america/usa/articles/the-10-most-festive-destinations-to-celebrate-christmas-in-the-us/). **6. Branson, Missouri** We know what you’re thinking—when has Branson ever made anyone’s list of places to travel to? But hear us out. [They’ve got thousands of lights. Nightly parades. More live music than you can shake a stick at](https://www.fodors.com/news/outdoors/top-10-us-towns-with-christmas-celebrations). Plus, imagine your mom’s relief when she asks with trepidation what you’re getting into over the holidays and you tell her you’ll be in Missouri. **7. Christmas Town, North Carolina** Eleven months of the year it’s known as McAdenville, but come December [this little town outside of Charlotte legally christens itself Christmas Town USA](https://www.fodors.com/news/outdoors/top-10-us-towns-with-christmas-celebrations). With 450,000 lights and only 660 residents, that’s [a ratio Clark Griswold would be proud of](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ian6NyXpszw). Plus, free kettle corn and hot chocolate! **8. Nantucket, Massachusetts** The island might be an off-radar option outside of summer, but their take on Christmas is the stuff of your Dickens dreams. [Hit up the Christmas Stroll that mingles shops and carolers with mulled wine and don’t miss the Whaling Museum’s](https://www.islands.com/5-reasons-visit-nantucket-december-christmas-stroll#page-3) display of more than 80 Christmas trees. **9. Hawaii** Cold and snow not really your thing? Leave the coat at home and practice your best [Mele Kalikimaka](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e2pk4p_yqH8) on the Hawaiian Islands. [Catch the boat parade on the Big Island or head to Maui](https://www.tripping.com/guides/christmas-getaways-in-hawaii/) to see the largest banyan tree in the U.S. (it covers nearly two acres!) draped in thousands of lights. **10. Washington, D.C.** There are the obvious stops like the National Tree at the White House, but there’s also the [Downtown Holiday Market](http://downtownholidaymarket.com/) featuring hundreds of local artisans and [a giant model train and tree courtesy of Norway](https://www.norwegianamerican.com/featured/norwegian-christmas-at-union-station-in-washington-dc/)—an annual gift demonstrating the country’s goodwill and friendship. You can also pop over to Mount Vernon for a Christmas-edition candlelight tour that ends with cookies and warm cider. Where are you celebrating Christmas this year? Will you be with friends and family or on the road? Tell us your plans in the comments below! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-epic-places-to-celebrate-christmas-in-the-u-s/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-epic-places-to-celebrate-christmas-in-the-u-s/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** Guides **Tags:** christmas, Christmastime, holidays, tourist, travel, travel guide, travel like a local, united states --- ### [Travel Tales: The Kindness of Strangers](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/travel-tales-the-kindness-of-strangers/) **Published:** November 7, 2018 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** There’s nothing like being on the road and having a complete stranger turn your day around or better yet—change your worldview. The world is a big place, with infinite destinations and myriad of cultures and peoples; traveling solo for long periods of time can make you feel at times lost and lonely but it only takes one moment of connection to feel energized and inspired. Last month, we asked you to tell us about a time when a stranger helped you out while traveling. Here’s what you said: **Michael Paramore, @1paramore1world** “Too many times to count! But I’m reminded of a Taiwanese couple who spoke no English that gave me and three other CS mates a ride down from a mountain outside Taipei back to my flat downtown. All they asked for in return was a selfie with the four of us. There is kindness everywhere.” **Hope Global, @h0p3gl0bal** “Too many times for a short tweet. Many strangers that stopped being strangers. Among them all, just let me spend few words about two women—a mom and daughter—both with cognitive issues, that bought me a meal on a plane. Will never forget them, hope life treats them well.” **Vaughan, @Vaughan84370282** “Got stuck on a surf mission in Sumbawa and had to cross a big ditch on a scooter; an old local man carrying a big sack of rice helped me make a bridge, and then I doubled back to his village with him on the back of the scooter, very cool guy.” **Latitude Legends, @latitudelegends** “Caught a ride from this nice stranger in #Ghana on a long walk to get food from the market.” **Eric Black, @eric\_black3** “Hitchhiking in Hawaii (Maui or Kauai, can’t remember): Born again Christians picked me up and brought me to their house where there was a huge cookout already planned. It was awesome.” **Duarte Valente, @DuarteValente09** “I was in a local bus in Lviv towards the coach bus station. I wasn’t sure which stop was mine but this old Ukrainian man seated next to me started to point towards a building outside and to my backpack. Saved me from losing my bus, as I was late already.” **Akina Chargualaf, @\_akinamarie** “I was in Greece when there was a strike and not understanding the language, exited the train confused. An adorable grandmother waved my friend and I over to follow her and the huge crowd. She didn’t say a word but took us to our port, waved us goodbye, and went on her way.” **Dr.Vaidehi Shukla, @vaidehie\_k** “I was in Shimla, HP for a month and one late dark evening was walking to hostel. A stranger stopped for me and dropped me home safely, though I didn’t asked help.” Do you have a story to add about a time when a stranger extended a hand while you were traveling? Let us know in the comments below! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/travel-tales-the-kindness-of-strangers/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/travel-tales-the-kindness-of-strangers/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** Community **Tags:** adventure travel, live like a local, the kindness of strangers, tourism, tourist, travel blog, travel diaries, travel stories, travel tales, travel the world, travel tips --- ### [Tremors in Japan](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tremors-in-japan/) **Published:** October 27, 2018 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** *By Gavin Williams, originally published in [Beings Magazine](https://www.instagram.com/beings_mag/), a print [magazine](https://www.beingsmagazine.com/tremors-in-japan) about the human side of travel. 2018.* Sometimes things are so perfect that they feel like they belong in the pages of a book rather than in reality. This was one of those times. It was perfect. Scarily perfect. I was sat at a bar in Kumamoto, in the south west of Japan. We’d quickly learnt that few tourists make it as far as Kumamoto and most locals’ English seemed as poor as my Japanese. The bar owner, Yoshinari, was a exception. A rare conversation in English went down as well as the Suntory whiskey we were sipping. Although, with Yoshinari’s liberal swearing, the chat wasn’t quite as refined as the amber liquid. Yoshinari, his bartending daughter and the local salarymen next to us were recounting the destruction of the Kumamoto earthquake. Almost exactly a year ago, here in the city where we were sat, the earth shook so badly that at least 50 people died, 3,000 were injured and 44,000 were evacuated from their homes. Yoshinari pointed at the bottles of spirits behind the bar – “all smashed.” He told us he had a big tank filled with expensive fish – “fucking dead.” He pointed to his daughter and told us he was worried she was dead too. The daughter, so cutesy she was almost beyond Japanese self-parody, made a sad face and pretended to wipe away tears with her paw-like hands. Then, as the tales of destruction from the earthquake sank in, the room shook. The salarymen sat there in their suits; the daughter continued to pour out a drink. Yoshinari stared off into the middle distance, lost in memory and the haze of alcohol. Maybe nothing had happened. Maybe a train had hurtled past just outside. Except we knew there was no train line. But no, there it was again – the ground moved and the glass bottles clinked. Yoshinari turned to us and, almost as a lazy afterthought, mentioned that was a tremor from the earth we’d just felt. There we were, sat in a bar in Japan, the locals telling us about the earthquake that ripped up this very city a year before, and the earth was shaking. It was too poetic to be real, and too unreal to be scary. Yoshinari asked us if we had felt an earthquake before. Wide-eyed, we told him no and he roared with laughter. And with that, the conversation moved on. Yoshinari could speak English because he’d spent five years in California when he was much younger. His English was good, but a little worn with rust. You had to strain your ears and squint at his lips to understand him sometimes. Earthquake became ‘ass cake’. He had a voice deeply marinated for years in whiskey and cigarettes, the Japanese vocal chords wrapping haphazardly around Americanisms and English swear words learnt decades ago. It was irresistible, that voice. Yoshinari was the literal personification of the phrase ‘walking around like you own the place.’ He *did* own the place, and he waltzed around as if to show that fact. At one point, he helped himself to my glass, took a sip to see what I was drinking and then told his daughter to pour me another whiskey. On the house, of course. He was clearly drunk, his conversation veering loosely around like a faulty wheel on a shopping trolley. He was warm to us, but the words coming from his mouth were occasionally jarring. ‘She’s fat hahahaha,’ he said about his daughter. She wasn’t. ‘Are you going to watch them fuck?’ he asked me in reference to my two friends. I wasn’t. As jazz music drifted through the bar like the smoke from the cigarettes he was occasionally smoking, Yoshinari flipped from topic to topic. Some of it was lost in whiskey and translation, like when he said something garbled about us white people and christian crusades. Some of it was flattering, like when he called us handsome or ‘super cute’ – which is translated from the Japanese word *kawai.* And some of it felt like a trap, like when he asked me if I’d like to marry his daughter. She possessed Pikachu or Hello Kitty levels of kawai, but it felt like any response I gave to marrying her could end in a night of free drinks or a sinister one-way trip down a darkened alley. He sat there, gazing at us proudly. At one point he said he felt like we were his children. His children from a land far away. For some reason Yoshinari gave me a 1000 Yen note. At first it seemed like a joke so I could go pick up a prostitute. Then it seemed he was rewarding me for winning at cards – even though I’d lost. Although the motive was left ambiguous, he made me take the money. Yoshinari and his daughter also gave us a souvenir to take home (a Japanese money envelope) and took a picture with us. He even begged me to stay and ‘fucking drink with me, man’ but with an early start the next day, we had to politely decline and bow our way out of the door. This wasn’t the Japan of straight-backed introverts floating serenely across the room issuing polite bows. This was the Japan of whiskey, swearing and ‘ass cake’. Of tremors and laughter. Beings Magazine is an independent print magazine about travel, focussing on the people we meet in new places. Visit [Beings Magazine](https://www.beingsmagazine.com/) for more on the human side of travel. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tremors-in-japan/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tremors-in-japan/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** Guides **Tags:** bar, Beings Magazine, earthquake, Gavin Williams, japan, Japanese, Kumamoto, travel, travel blog, travel guide, travelogue, Tremors in Japan, whiskey --- ### [How to Find the Best Air Travel Deals Online](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/how-to-find-the-best-air-travel-deals-online/) **Published:** October 16, 2018 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** Snagging a great deal on your airline ticket is sometimes the linchpin to making an entire destination possible. Since you’re likely shelling out the most bucks for this aspect of your trip, it makes sense to do your due diligence and lock in the best pricing possible. With that said, it’s not always as easy as hopping on Expedia and trusting that the best deal will be prominently displayed for you. But if you follow these five simple steps, you’ll be flying low (cost, that is). **Keep your searches on the DL** No, you’re not crazy; that air travel website is exactly as shady as your last ex. [They’ll use the cookies in your browser history to jack up the price of a repeatedly-searched flight route](https://thriftynomads.com/booking-cheapest-flight-possible-anywhere/), trying to trick you into booking quickly before prices theoretically jump higher. Keep all your searches in [incognito or private browsing mode](https://www.laptopmag.com/articles/how-to-use-incognito-windows-in-chrome) to beat the system. **Be flexible** If you’re not married to your itinerary, you’re likely to land a better deal on your airfare. Depending on the size of the city you’re traveling to, sometimes you can choose from two or even three airports located in relative proximity to one another. Make sure you look at all of them to avoid missing a great deal right next door. **Know which days are cheapest to fly on** For domestic flights, that’s typically Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays. For international itineraries, flying during the week is usually going to be more affordable than on a weekend. [Play around with dates](https://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/columnist/seaney/2017/03/02/cheapest-days-to-fly/98586184/) (in your incognito browser windows, natch) to make sure you’re not missing out on an epic deal by flying out 24 hours sooner. **Consider booking legs separately** One roundtrip ticket that includes all your connections might be the most convenient option, but it’s not always the best deal. Spend some time researching one way flights in and out of the airports on your route; [you might be able to save a bundle by booking separate one-way tickets](http://www.nomadwallet.com/book-separate-flights-cheap-airfares/). Just watch your connection time—when you’re transferring airlines, you’ll have to collect your own luggage and recheck it and you’re also at the mercy of delayed and canceled flights. Given the degree of risk, this is an ideal option if you could add a night or two at the halfway point. **Cross compare sites** Different sites cater to different locations, so checking just one isn’t necessarily going to be the best bang for your buck. [Skyscanner](https://worldtravelfamily.com/save-money-flights-skyscanner/) is a great option with a mobile-friendly app, but don’t forget to check with the budget airlines serving your destination—a lot of the bigger search engines omit those. [Skiplagged](https://skiplagged.com/) is also a great resource, offering flights that are so inexpensive (they expose loopholes in airfare pricing) that the airlines don’t want you to see them. They were even sued by United Airlines. . .and won. Have a tip we missed? Let us know in the comments below! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/how-to-find-the-best-air-travel-deals-online/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/how-to-find-the-best-air-travel-deals-online/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Guides --- ### [Incredible Halloween-Like Celebrations Around the World](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/incredible-halloween-like-celebrations-around-the-world/) **Published:** October 15, 2018 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** Just because you’re too old to trick-or-treat (are you ever *really* too old to trick-or-treat?) doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the Halloween fun. Grab your best costume and join in one of these seven incredible Halloween celebrations from around the globe. **Ireland** Get your spook on where it all began. [Halloween’s origins can be traced to the early Celtic festival Samhain](https://www.discoveringireland.com/newsletter-halloween-09/), which marked the end of summer and beginning of winter. If you like your Halloween with a side of terror, there’s no shortage of haunted sites to tour like [Wicklow Gaol](http://www.wicklowshistoricgaol.com/buy/night-tournight-tour/), a former prison that’s said to be one of the most haunted places in all of Ireland. If you prefer to stay where the lights are on, head to Belfast for a [huge fireworks display](https://www.irelandbeforeyoudie.com/top-10-halloween-events-ireland/). **Oaxaca, Mexico** Even [Disney has the scoop](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zNCz4mQzfEI) on Dia de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, a three-day festival that takes place across Mexico. It can take on a solemn, ceremonial tone in many villages, but [Oaxaca is full of street festivals](https://theculturetrip.com/north-america/mexico/articles/how-locals-celebrate-day-of-the-dead-in-oaxaca/), carnivals, and tequila. Lots of tequila. **Greenwich Village, New York** If your attitude is the bigger the crowd, the better, don’t miss [the largest Halloween parade in the world](https://www.greats.com/blogs/the-playbook/a-brief-history-of-the-village-halloween-parade) in New York City. More than 50,000 people participate in this jaunt down lower Manhattan; [all that’s required to join in the fun](https://www.tripsavvy.com/new-yorks-village-halloween-parade-1613054) is a costume. **Hong Kong** This unofficial Halloween capital of Asia has married its own traditions with the more Westernized version of the holiday for a truly spooktacular time. Yu Lan, or the [Festival of the Hungry Ghosts](http://www.discoverhongkong.com/us/see-do/events-festivals/chinese-festivals/the-hungry-ghost-festival.jsp), is a Buddhist tradition that involves carnivals, street festivals, and, of course, plenty of food. **Transylvania, Romania** What’s more Halloween than a [party in Dracula’s castle](https://travelaway.me/halloween-in-transylvania/)? Vlad the Impaler, who ruled Transylvania in the 1400s (and murdered thousands of people) became the inspiration for Bram Stoker’s Dracula. Vlad’s not-so-humble abode, the iconic Bran Castle, plays host to the most #onbrand Halloween party you’ll find. **Salem, Massachusetts** This picturesque New England town celebrates its infamous spot in history as the site of more than 200 witch trials and 19 hangings with a month-long celebration of all things haunted. [From the Witches’ Ball to horror film festivals and haunted tours](https://www.escapehere.com/destination/the-10-coolest-places-to-celebrate-halloween/), you’re sure to find the perfect setting for sending chills up your spine. **London** Nobody does [a ghost walk](https://www.thewanderblogger.com/london-ghost-walk/) like London. Whether it’s a classic [Jack the Ripper](https://thejacktherippertour.com/) tour or a [haunted pub crawl](https://www.london-walking-tours.co.uk/the-haunted-london-pub-walk.htm), wandering around the damp and dark streets of London is sure to put you in a frightful mood just in time for All Hallow’s Eve. Any must-hit Halloween spots on your list that we missed? Let us know in the comments below. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/incredible-halloween-like-celebrations-around-the-world/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/incredible-halloween-like-celebrations-around-the-world/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** All Posts, Guides --- ### [6 Amazing Places in The Middle East For Solo Travelers](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/6-amazing-places-in-the-middle-east-for-solo-travelers/) **Published:** September 20, 2018 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** The Middle East is a fascinating mix of cultures, sights, smells, and sounds. Unfortunately it’s often shrouded in negative media coverage, which can certainly give solo travelers pause. From the scents of spices coming from food stalls in [Israel](https://www.stridetravel.com/tours/destinations/middle-east/israel.html?d), to the majesty and mystery of the [pyramids of Egypt](https://www.stridetravel.com/tours/destinations/africa/egypt/pyramids-at-giza.html), to standing at the crossroads of ancient religions in Jerusalem, the Middle East is a treasure trove of experiences that are worth getting out of your comfort zone for. Here are six countries to consider for your next solo trip: ![footwear, iran, travel](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Asorted-footwear-Iran_-Ali-Morshedlou-@alimorshedlou--300x200.jpg "- Couchsurfing Blog")Assorted footwear Iran Photo credit Ali MorshedlouIran: The protests and demonstrations that took place in Iran in December 2017 were largely ceased as of mid-January of this year and many travelers, including travel blogger [Anna Everywhere](http://annaeverywhere.com/safe-to-travel-to-iran-female/), describe it as one of the ‘safest countries I’ve ever been to’. Culture Trip has a stellar [solo Iran travel guide](https://theculturetrip.com/middle-east/iran/articles/a-solo-travelers-guide-to-iran/) outlining recommendations for accommodations, site-seeing, and apps that make getting around easier, while Travel Girls contributor Alessia Ramponi shares her experience spending 13 days in Iran [here](https://theculturetrip.com/middle-east/iran/articles/a-solo-travelers-guide-to-iran/). With travel to Iran on the rise, there’s no shortage of inspiration and resources to get your solo trip mapped out and on the calendar. **What we love: Tehran’s modern metropolis and charming people** ![Afghanistan](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Afghanistan_Pierpaolo-Lanfrancotti-@goofy1981--300x181.jpg "- Couchsurfing Blog")Afghanistan Photo credit Pierpaolo LanfrancottiAfghanistan: Although travel to Afghanistan has [declined in recent years](https://www.nytimes.com/2018/06/08/opinion/couchsurfing-with-the-taliban.html), a well-planned trip can provide a safe and amazing experience for travelers looking to take a trip off the well-travelled road. From the ruins of the 11th-century fortress of Bost in Lashkar Gah in Helmand, to the 80-feet-high murals of pastel palm trees and kitschy crescent moons at the Eid Gah Mosque in Kandahar, Afghanistan is home to plenty of Instagram-worthy locales that just might expand your horizons a bit in the process. **What we love: The amazing Afghani hospitality** Egypt: According to popular travel blog [Escape Here](https://www.escapehere.com/destination/the-7-safest-places-to-travel-in-the-middle-east/), “From the un-crowded pyramids of Giza to the tourist empty Valley of The Kings; travelling along the Nile is a safe and plentiful option for travel right now. We do recommend sticking to cities such as Luxor and Aswan if you are going to travel alone without a guided tour. If you are going to see the Pyramids of Giza a cruise of the Nile with a guide is our best suggestion. Look, sometimes to get where you want to go you have to add a cruise to your itinerary, life can be hard that like. **What we love: The lack of tourists at World Heritage Sites** Israel: If you have any interest in major world religions, a trip to Israel is a must. Northern Israel is home to Nazareth—the famed birthplace of Jesus as well as several historic churches, and Galilee, a mountainous region in the north that is famous for its wine country and national parks. While Israel has seen its fair share of conflict, the Northern part of the country remains [a safe travel destination](https://www.escapehere.com/destination/the-7-safest-places-to-travel-in-the-middle-east/?streamview=all) and is worth exploring for any history or religion buff. **What we love: Sunsets on Tel Aviv Beach, and the #foodporn** ![muscat, oman](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Muscat-Oman_Anfal-Shamsudeen-@anfalshams-300x200.jpg "- Couchsurfing Blog")Muscat Oman Photo credit Anfal ShamsudeenOman: White sand beaches. Warm waters. Mountains in the backdrop. World Heritage Sites. What else do you need to know, really? Oman is a desert destination [brimming with natural beauty](https://www.cnn.com/travel/article/9-reasons-to-visit-oman/index.html) and nary a crowd to fight (when was the last time you saw an Instagram travel trend with an Oman geotag? That’s what we thought). **What we love: Hiking and swimming in Wadi Shab** Lebanon: Every region has its party places, and Beirut is the party capital of the Middle East. In an area ruled by traditional religious and cultural customs, Beirut stands out as [a lively club scene](https://theculturetrip.com/middle-east/articles/the-best-places-to-visit-in-the-middle-east-in-2018/) that regularly hosts top DJs and all the necessary ingredients to make some moderately bad decisions in the name of making memories. #YOLO **What we love: Showing off our dance moves in former detention center, B018** ![Saqqarah, Egypt, travel](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Saqqarah-Egypt_Josh-Rocklage-@joshrocklage-300x200.jpg "- Couchsurfing Blog")Saqqarah Egypt Photo credit Josh Rocklage### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/6-amazing-places-in-the-middle-east-for-solo-travelers/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/6-amazing-places-in-the-middle-east-for-solo-travelers/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** Guides **Tags:** adventure, adventure travel, Afghanistan, beaches, Egypt, Iran, Israel, Lebanon, Middle East, Oman, solo travel, travel, travel guide, vacation --- ### [Deja Surfing?](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/deja-surfing/) **Published:** August 14, 2018 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** Déjà vu…..we’ve all had it happen: all of a sudden you feel like you’ve experienced the same moment before. Well, when you are lucky enough to meet up up with former hosts or surfers again I like to call it Déjà Surfing! Couchsurfing says we have friends all over the world we just haven’t met yet. It’s true, because I’ve been lucky enough to have had quite a few Déjà Surfing experiences with former hosts and surfers I now call friends. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/IMG_0959-300x225.jpg "IMG_0959 - Couchsurfing Blog") My first surfers in 2008 Ron & Kitty invited me to surf with them and not long after they slept on my ‘couch’ in Connecticut, I slept on theirs in Amsterdam in 2009. In 2010 I went to China for the World Expo in Shanghai. One of my very first hosts, Jean-Marie in China, who really showed me the generosity and spirit Couchsurfing brings to humanity met up with me again in 2015 while I was in Milan and yet again in 2017 in Kyrgyzstan with his CS buddies Carl and Keith who I also met back in 2010. Then there’s Sonia in South Korea who I surfed with in 2012 when I went to the World Expo in Yeosu, I spent about a week with her and had more crazy experiences than I can remember (did I really win that fashion show?!) she made it to my place in 2016 for a visit. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Franco-Me-2015-300x225.jpg "Franco & Me 2015 - Couchsurfing Blog")Franco I in 2015![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Franco-Me-2017-300x225.jpg "Franco & Me 2017 - Couchsurfing Blog")Franco and I in 2017On my trip to Italy in 2015 for the World Expo in Milan I stayed with some amazing hosts, three of them were Franco in Lecco, Nico in Monza and Guilio who actually lived in Milan. Well last year I traveled to Kazakhstan for the World Expo in Astana and of course arranged a layover in Milan and was hosted by all three of them again! I was also hosted by Giorgio who I met a meetup when I was there in 2015. So great to catch up, share memories and create some new ones with everyone. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Giorgio-Surfer-Dominika-Me-2017-300x225.jpg "Giorgio, Surfer Dominika & Me 2017 - Couchsurfing Blog")Giorgio Dominika and IMy big surfing trip in 2017 was to the World Expo in Astana, Kazakhstan. While I did not surf with her,I did meet the crazy and rambunctious Lorelei at a CS hangout there and then randomly met her again while we were both in Kyrgyzstan! ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Lorelei-Me-Kazakhstan-July-2017-300x225.jpg "Lorelei & Me Kazakhstan July 2017 - Couchsurfing Blog") How about Déjà Crashing? I went to the Bend Oregon Couchcrash in 2014 and had such a great time I had to go back and surf with my same hosts Tom & Candy when they had their second crash in 2017. Remember Lorelei who I met in Kazakhstan….. ends up she is from Bend and we met up again at the 2017 Bend Couchcrash! ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Lorelei-Me-Bend-Crash-Aug-2017-300x225.jpg "Lorelei & Me Bend Crash Aug 2017 - Couchsurfing Blog") Thanks to Bend in 2014 I was inspired to get my local Couchsurfers together to plan ConnectiCOUCH 2016 …Connecticut’s first Couchcrash. This made for more future Déjà Surfing when Rob and Mandy who came to ConnectiCOUCH headed to the 2017 Bend Couchcrash as well. Of course, later this year at ConnectiCOUCH 2018 I hope to see some familiar faces! Right now I’m looking forward to this summer when two of the organizers of Bend’s Couchcrash surf with me…can’t wait to see you Liana & Peter! And I haven’t even mentioned all the CS friends made over the years at our monthly local meetups. It’s true…we’ve got a lot of friends all over the world we haven’t met yet….so get out there ….host, surf & meet them and hopefully you’ll get to experience some Déjà Surfing yourself! ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Guilio-Me-2017-300x225.jpg "Guilio & Me 2017 - Couchsurfing Blog") ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/deja-surfing/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/deja-surfing/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Stories, Uncategorized --- ### [6 Places in Asia For Vegan Travelers](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/vegan-travel/) **Published:** July 12, 2018 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** If the old saying is true that we are what we eat, travel can occasionally refine us into the truest versions of ourselves as we get acquainted with a new culture via our lunch order. For vegan travelers, exploring new landscapes can provide both challenges and opportunities to honor the vegan lifestyle while experiencing new cuisines. If you’re curious about setting out on a vegan adventure, Asia provides several destinations where your need to roam and your love of plant-based eating can coexist in perfect harmony. Here’s a list of six places to add to your list: ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/CS_jennifer-schmidt-462962-unsplash-200x300.jpg "- Couchsurfing Blog")Photo credit Jennifer SchmidtBali: The country with not one but *two* multi-day [vegan festivals](http://www.baliveganfestival.com/) is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to combine their love of their travel with their desire to learn about and celebrate the vegan lifestyle. Even if your travel dates don’t align with either festival, expect to find a [plethora of vegan grub](https://www.vegantravel.com/destinations/asia/indonesia/bali/) throughout Bali year-round, including [nasi goreng](https://www.vilondo.com/bali-travel-guide/5-traditional-food-dishes-to-try-when-visiting-bali/), a traditional fried rice dish that is a staple of Balinese cuisine. India: Vegetarianism is strongly linked to a number of [religions with origins in India](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vegetarianism_and_religion), making finding meat-free fare pretty easy almost anywhere you might choose to travel within the country. Avoiding dairy is a little trickier given the [popularity of ghee](https://www.vegantravel.com/vegan-india-avoid-ghee/) in [Indian cuisine](https://veganuary.com/eating-out/indian-cuisine/), but veggie curries, vindaloo, chana masala, sambar, vegetable biryani and balti will provide tons of local flavor without compromising a vegan diet. Malaysia: White rice abounds in traditional Malaysian cuisine, offering plenty of delicious [vegan options for locals and travelers alike](https://www.vegantravel.com/destinations/asia/malaysia/). A must-eat Malaysian staple is Nasi Lemak, which translates to “rice in cream,” is derived from the cooking process where regular white rice is literally soaked in coconut cream and then steamed and wrapped in a banana leaf or served on a plate and eaten with the other side dishes. Singapore: While many vegans are familiar with soybean products masquerading as animal-based comfort foods (we’re looking at you, Tofurkey), traveling in Singapore offers a chance to enjoy [*Tau huay*](https://www.tripzilla.com/vegetarian-foods-singapore-travel/50139)*,* a silken soymilk and beancurd custard that is slightly more set than typical custard. The beancurd is fresh and traditionally served warm with plenty of rock sugar to sweeten it. Plenty of [vegan options](https://www.vegantravel.com/destinations/asia/singapore/) exist outside of dessert as well, of course, Tofurkey notwithstanding. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/CS_edgar-castrejon-460843-unsplash-240x300.jpg "- Couchsurfing Blog")Photo credit Edgar CastrejonThailand: Home to some of the world’s best-known [elephant sanctuaries](https://www.iexplore.com/destinations/thailand/Ethical-Elephant-Sanctuaries-in-Thailand), Thailand has no shortage of travel allure for animal lovers of all kinds. [Vegan dining options](https://www.vegantravel.com/portfolio/vegan-food-phuket-thailand/) aren’t hard to come by in this country that uses [rice and noodles](https://veganuary.com/eating-out/thai-cuisine/) as the base for many of its traditional delicious dishes. Vietnam: Home to a large contingent of practicing Buddhists, who on the first and fifteenth day of each month in the lunar cycle [eat vegetarian (An Chay)](http://www.veganfoodandliving.com/a-vegans-guide-to-vietnam/), many restaurants in Vietnam offer robust vegetarian and vegan options to meet this demand. [Travel throughout the country](https://www.vegantravel.com/destinations/asia/vietnam/) is insanely cheap, making it a great travel option for anyone looking to stretch their dollar and squeeze a few more days, meals, adventures, or luxuries. Did we miss your favorite spot? Tell us in the comments below your favorite cities to find for vegan cuisine! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/vegan-travel/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/vegan-travel/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** Guides **Tags:** asia, bali, food, india, malaysia, singapore, thailand, travel, vegan, vegan food, vietnam --- ### [A Love Letter to the Couchsurfing Community](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-love-letter/) **Published:** June 26, 2018 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** I always knew Couchsurfing was a community that was full of people that felt like distant family members scattered across the globe. It became a completely different experience, however, during my first Couch Crash to have all those people bursting with energy and passion for the movement come together in one place. This video is just one of a series from a project called Wanderye, my effort to make travel more tangible for the casual dreamer. I created it as a sort of love letter to the Couchsurfing community; it is a vehicle to tell the story of Couchsurfing to the wary wanderer, directly from the mouths of the people who have lived and breathed it and are eager for more. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-love-letter/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-love-letter/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Stories **Tags:** couch crash, couchsurfing, friends, nebraska, omaha couch crash, travel --- ### [10 Travel Hacks to Travel Smarter](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-travel-hacks/) **Published:** July 6, 2018 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** We’ve all heard the advice to “work smarter, not harder,” but what about traveling smarter? We champion anyone who sets out to travel hard—cramming everything they want to do into as few days as possible, or using precious vacation time to go all-out on a mountain climbing expedition—but every traveler should know how to travel smart, too. Whether you’re traveling hard or taking it easy on your next trip, here are 10 hacks to save you time, money, and headaches. 1\. Shop from the shadows. Enabling private browsing for any web-based travel shopping might prevent you from paying more based on your geotag or the fact that you’ve been to a particular travel site previously. While airlines deny that they hike up prices based on the fact you’ve been stalking that itinerary for weeks, [some skeptics aren’t so sure](http://time.com/4899508/flight-search-history-price/). 2\. Find your way without WiFi. Did you know you can use Google Maps even when you’re offline by typing “Ok Maps” into the GM search bar? Well now you do. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/CS_Travel_@guilhermestecanella-200x300.jpg "CS_Travel_@guilhermestecanella - Couchsurfing Blog")Photo credit Guilherme Stecanella3\. Be a WiFi password sleuth. Relying on hostels, cafes, and random local hotspots to connect to the internet can offer countless “character building” moments. Save yourself some stress by getting your Inspector Gadget on and checking FourSquare for WiFi passwords in your locale. 4\. Give your liquids the Elsa treatment. Worried about getting your must-have liquids through security? [Freeze](https://www.travelandleisure.com/airlines-airports/tsa-freeze-liquids) your toiletries, supplement beverages, or other liquids to make them temporarily solid. Like your travel plan. 5\. Make e-copies in case of e-mergency. Scan your passport, identification and itinerary and [email them](https://bestlifeonline.com/travel-hacks/) to yourself. Every traveler’s worst nightmare is having their wallet go missing or get stolen, but savvy travelers are prepared to make alternate plans and have replacements sent by having all the necessary information saved electronically. 6\. Make sure your money is good here. Cash can occasionally be advantageous over plastic, like when bartering with street vendors, paying for taxis, or shopping at remote mom and pop shops. Make sure you’ve got the right kind of cash by using [ATMs to get local currency](https://www.lifehack.org/articles/lifestyle/23-awesome-travel-hacks-that-add-fun-your-trip.html), then make it rain as you see fit. 7\. Get to 100% with one cable. No need to purchase special adapters for every country you visit or pack a bunch of extra charging cables just in case. Nearly all TVs have USB outlets hidden in the back these days, so a simple USB cable should be sufficient to [charge your devices from any television-equipped accommodations](https://www.hostelworld.com/blog/every-single-travel-hack-you-will-ever-need/). 8\. Stop folding, start rolling. [Rolling your clothes](https://www.independent.co.uk/travel/travel-hacks-flight-attendants-stewards-tips-advice-flying-planes-a8284776.html) can create more space in your suitcase than folding them, and more space in your suitcase means more room to bring home local souvenirs. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/CS_Travel_Priscilla-Du-Preez-300x200.jpg "- Couchsurfing Blog")Photo credit Priscilla Du Preez9\. Reduce, reuse, and recycle. Your [travel sized toiletries](https://bestlifeonline.com/travel-hacks/), that is. Rather than travel with full-sized products or buy new minis for every trip, buy a set of reusable travel sized bottles and top them off before each trip. 10\. Be a tough traveler with “fragile” luggage. If you’re checking a bag, marking your baggage as [fragile](https://bestlifeonline.com/travel-hacks/) will likely mean that the airline loads your bag on top of the pile, which means it will be unloaded first, which means you’ll be out of the airport and onto your adventure before anyone else. Bonus: Use [Skiplagged](https://skiplagged.com/) to fly cheaper and smarter. Skiplagged makes it easy for you to find the best rates on airfare by showing you flights the airlines don’t want you to see. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-travel-hacks/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-travel-hacks/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** Guides **Tags:** air travel, cheap travel, inexpensive travel, save time, smart travel, travel deals, travel hacks, travel smarter, travel tips --- ### [10 Places to Find The Best Whitewater Rafting Around The World](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-best-whitewater-rafting/) **Published:** June 28, 2018 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** You can learn a lot about a place by understanding its relationship to water. From geology to drinking to agriculture to recreation to various spiritual and cultural practices, water tells an important story about the people who use it and inhabit its shores. Good news for adventurous travelers who want to experience new cultures without spending their days confined inside museums, river rafting offers a chance to literally be part of the water that shapes some of the most interesting places on the planet. Here are ten rivers to consider adding to your bucket list: **1. Ruakuri Cave, New Zealand**. You’ve been river rafting, but have you been river rafting *underground*? Yeah, didn’t think so. Part of the Waitomo Caves complex, the Ruakuri Cave offers hidden delights like subterranean waterfalls, amazing limestone formations, and real-life glowworms. Book a [guided tour](http://www.waitomo.com/black-water-rafting/Pages/default.aspx) to ensure you have access to the right gear and the local knowledge. **2. Colorado River through the Grand Canyon, Arizona. Astronauts have seen the Grand Canyon [from space](https://www.nasa.gov/image-feature/space-station-view-of-grand-canyon-national-park), but you can see it up close and personal from the very bottom by booking a [half](https://grandcanyon.com/tours/east-tours/colorado-river-discovery-rafting/) or [full day](https://grandcanyon.com/tours/south-rim-tours/one-day-whitewater-self-drive/) rafting trip on the Colorado River, which varies from super chill to super thunderous and wild depending on which section you cover, so choose wisely.** ![whitewater rafting, rafting, river, sports, adventure sports](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/CS_Whitewater-300x200.jpg "- Couchsurfing Blog") **3. Zambezi River (Bakota Gorge), Zambia. Hailed as one of the [seven wonders of the natural world](https://web.archive.org/web/20060721011803/http://www.cnn.com/TRAVEL/DESTINATIONS/9711/natural.wonders/), Victoria Falls provides an epic locale for a rafting tour that might easily involve navigating 20 rapids in a single day. With work just beginning on the construction of a hydro-electric dam 56 kilometers downstream of the Falls, you’d be wise to check this one off your bucket list sooner rather than later.** **4. Chilko River, British Columbia. Home to the longest, continuous stretch of commercially-navigable Class IV whitewater in North America, the Chilko River winds through alpine forests, narrow canyons, high desert plateaus and skyscraping hoodoos, making it one of the best and most unique ways to sightsee in Canada. Tours are commonly about a week-long — perfect for inclusion in a long excursion through the great white north.** **5. Futaleufu River, Chile. Nestled beneath the spires and snow-packed crowns of the Andes, rafting “the Fu” (as the cool kids call it) is an excellent way to have a true Patagonia travel adventure. Many guided trips will also include optional mountain biking, rappelling, and horseback riding, so you’ll get the full land and sea experience.** ![Kayack, river, futaleufu, chile, adventure sports, whitewater, whitewater rafting, rafting](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/CS_Futaleufu-River-300x199.jpg "- Couchsurfing Blog")A kayaker fights the rapids on the Futaleufu River in southern Chile**6. Bhote Kosi, Nepal. Regarded as one of the best short whitewater rafting trips in the world, the Bhote Kosi is the steepest river that is rafted in Nepal. With continuous rapid action making this river a full-on commitment and a huge adrenaline rush, this is an ideal trip for those wanting a short but intense and thrilling rafting trip. It is better suited to those who have some previous rafting experience and who have time in their travel schedule to check out the surrounding Himalayas on foot or by bus, not while they’re also trying to stay in the boat.** **7. Pacuare River, Costa Rica. A true river gorge, the Pacuare is flanked by steep, green walls where waterfalls flowing on either side punctuate your trip. A perfect choice for wildlife enthusiasts, expect to see sloths, toucans, parrots, coatis, morpho butterflies and colorful frogs in between keeping your eyes on the rapids.** **8. Paro Chhu, Bhutan. If you’re interested in making your rafting trip a spiritual experience, the Paro Chhu will take you by the numerous monasteries located in Paro Valley, and many tours will also include an optional hike to Buddha Point. BYOPF (that’s Bring Your Own Prayer Flags)** ![Tachog Lhakhang Bridge, Bhutan, Paro Chhu, river, whitewater rafting, adventure sports](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/CS_Paro-Chhu-300x200.jpg "- Couchsurfing Blog")This bridge in Bhutan spans the Paro Chhu river between Paro and Thimphu and is adorned with many prayer flags**9. Neretva River, Bosnia & Herzegovina. The ancient Romans called the river Neretva – ‘Queen – the goddess that flows’ (remember, this was a time before Beyonce). The most interesting rafting tours on the Neretva river go from the village Glavaticevo to the city Konjic and take visitors through a beautiful canyon and numerous waterfalls. Many tours will also include breaks on beautiful Mali (Small) and Veliki (Big) canyons, areas that are mostly untouched by man and offer views that are not visible from the road.** **10. Cal Salmon River, USA. Ranking as one of the most difficult rivers to raft in the state of California, the Cal Salmon River is known for its steep, powerful rapids that seem to come one after another in many spots. The technicality of the river makes it best for those with some previous experience (and the not faint of heart), but the payoffs are many. The canyon’s beauty is so stunning that it is protected by Congress as a National Wild and Scenic River, for example.** ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-best-whitewater-rafting/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-best-whitewater-rafting/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** Guides **Tags:** adventure, adventure sports, adventure travel, Bhote Kosi, Cal Salmon River, Chilko River, Futaleufu River, Neretva River, New Zealand, Pacuare River, Paro Chhu, Ruakuri Cave, sports, summer, travel guide, travel tips, whitewater, whitewater rafting, Zambezi River --- ### [The Perfect Day: Kigali, Rwanda](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/perfect-day-kigali/) **Published:** June 19, 2018 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** ***“Although the world is full of suffering, it is also full of the overcoming of it.” ~Helen Keller*** Sitting just south of the equator in the African Great Lakes region, Rwanda boasts a stunningly beautiful landscape with infinite opportunities for the adventurous traveler. Known as the land of a thousand hills and a million smiles, Rwanda sits at a high elevation and is dominated by mountains, lakes, and subtropical weather, all of which lend to agriculture and food markets that will make you feel like the star of a travel show on the Food Network. Even without a camera crew following you, you can still plan out a perfect day to experience the heart of the country like the savvy traveler you are. ![Rwanda, Kigali, agriculture, produce](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/Rwanda-Agr_@niyomax-300x200.jpg "- Couchsurfing Blog")Rwanda is known for its agriculture and abundance of fresh produce Photo credit Maxime Niyomwungeri**Breakfast:** Find a traditional breakfast of sweet potatoes and porridge from a local street vendor to start your day off like a local. Meat isn’t a big staple in most rural parts of the country, so consider this a chance to carb-load for the day ahead. **Cultural Activity:** The first thing many people think of when they think of Rwanda is the 1994 genocide, and a visit to the [Kigali Genocide Museum](http://www.kgm.rw/) is a must-see for anyone wanting to understand this tragedy and its influence on the country. **Lunch:** If you’re feeling a little solemn after your museum visit, a poolside lunch at [Hotel des Mille Collines](https://www.millecollines.rw/) should help you shift your perspective back to all the beauty of Rwanda and the joys of traveling. As you dine on signature brochettes, raise a glass to the 1,268 people who took refuge inside the hotel during the genocide, an event that was depicted in the movie *Hotel Rwanda*. **Shopping:** Do good with your souvenir shopping by hitting up the [Art Gallery inside Heaven Restaurant](https://www.heavenrwanda.com/retail.php)*.* The fair trade gallery offers a wide selection of handmade goods including greeting cards, artwork, soap, coffee, essential oils and kitenge fabric wares. Plus, forty percent of the proceeds from art sales go towards putting kids in school. **Dinner:** Make it easy and hop right over to the [Heaven Restaurant](https://www.heavenrwanda.com/restaurant.php) after you stock up on local art. Chefs work closely with local farmers, focus on quality ingredients and have cultivated an onsite organic garden where fresh herbs and lettuce are harvested daily. Want to know more about the restaurant and hotel? [There’s a whole book about it](https://www.amazon.com/Thousand-Hills-Heaven-Restaurant-Rwanda/dp/0316232912) and it’s definitely worth checking out. **Special Attraction/Splurge:** The first national park to be created in Rwanda, Volcano National Park is home to five volcanoes as well as the rare and endangered mountain gorilla and golden monkeys. Go all-in and book a [gorilla trekking tour](http://rwandatourism.com/things-to-do/gorilla-tracking/), a chance to see these gentle beasts in the wild. It might set you back a month’s rent, but might also change your life. ![Gorilla, Rwanda, travel,](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/Rwanda-Gorilla-still-300x200.jpg "- Couchsurfing Blog")Gorilla in Volcanoes National Park**Drinks/Nightlife: The Kigali neighborhood of Kisimenti has a strip of bars tucked away behind the shops, making it a pretty safe bet to find a good time. If the first one is a miss, hop on to the neighboring one as it may just be on fire.** **Book To Bring:** [*A Thousand Hills*](https://www.amazon.com/Thousand-Hills-Rwandas-Rebirth-Dreamed/dp/0470120150) by Stephen Kinzer (author of All The Shah’s Men), which tells the story of Paul Kagame, a refugee who, after a generation of exile, found his way home and strived to make Rwanda the first middle-income country in Africa. **How Do You Say:** A few useful phrases in Swahili Hello: *Jambo* ([Lindsay Lohan is available for translation on this one](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7aApQK_wnUs)) Goodbye: *Kwaheri* Thank You: *Asante* sana*!* ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/Sunset_Kigali-Rwanda--300x199.jpg "- Couchsurfing Blog")Sunset in Kigali Rwanda Photo credit Maxime Niyomwungeri### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/perfect-day-kigali/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/perfect-day-kigali/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** Guides **Tags:** adventure, adventure travel, Africa, agriculture, genocide museum, gorilla, gorilla trekking, Hotel Rwanda, kigali, land of a thousand hills, rwanda, Stephen Kinzer, street food, subtropical, travel, travel guide, trekking, Volcano National Park --- ### [8 Festivals Not To Miss This Summer & Fall](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/8-festivals-not-to-miss-this-summer-fall/) **Published:** June 7, 2018 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** Load up your daypacks and dust off your comfy shoes, it’s Festival Season, friends. Whether it involves costumes and customs or simply taking in the action as a spectator, festivals around the world offer a unique and sensational way to experience and celebrate a new culture with the locals. Here are eight festivals that each offer the perfect excuse to pack up, head out, and be festive. 1\. Burning Man, Nevada, USA (August 26 – September 3). The [Burning Man website](https://burningman.org/) declares that “The Burning Man organization will bring experiences to people in grand, awe-inspiring and joyful ways that lift the human spirit, address social problems and inspire a sense of culture, community and personal engagement.” What you can expect is massive, hands-on art installations peppered throughout a pop-up city in a dusty desert, a myriad of nightly raves, and a self-sufficient instant community that might [change your life](https://becomingasuperhuman.com/burning-man-changes-people-forever/). 2\. Pushkar Cattle Festival, Rajasthan, India (November 15 – November 23). Originally intended for local camel and cattle herders to sell and trade livestock, the festival has evolved into a full-blown Indian [extravaganza](https://www.tripsavvy.com/pushkar-camel-fair-festival-guide-1539294) with camel races, music and dancing, an arts and crafts bazaar, and a camel beauty contest for the camels who can’t help but be extra. ![Pushkar Cattle Festival, cattle festival, festival, festivals](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/Pushkar-Cattle-Festival-300x220.jpg "- Couchsurfing Blog")Pushkar Cattle Festival India3\. Cascamorras, Granada, Spain (September 6 – September 9). Basically the OG [Color Run](https://thecolorrun.com/), the Fiesta Cascamorras is rooted in a legendary fight between two towns over a statue of a virgin—a fight now carried out via throwing black olive oil and paint at each other. The event has been declared a Fiesta of National Tourist Interest of Spain but is still widely unknown outside the country. Put it on your must-do list before it’s all over Instagram. 4\. La Tomatina, Bunol, Spain (August 29). The festival where you’re most likely to spot [Fozzie Bear](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lcElGfR9wpc), La Tomatina is literally a city-wide food fight in which over one hundred metric tons of over-ripe tomatoes are thrown in the streets. Although the origins of the event are unclear and date back to the mid-1940’s, the festival always occurs on the last Wednesday in August, requires a ticket to attend, and has a strict code of conduct which includes a cease-fire one hour after the first tomato is thrown. Because civility. ![La Tomatina Festival, festival, spain](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/La-Tomatina-300x169.jpg "- Couchsurfing Blog")La Tomatina Festival Spain5\. Running of the Bulls, Pamplona, Spain (July 6 – July 14). You’ve seen the photos. You’ve seen the videos. You’ve wondered why, and how, and what if. The only way to know for sure is to see it – or run it – for yourself. The event occurs in early July as part of the San Fermin festival and consists of running approximately half a mile with a small herd of bulls and trying not to be one of the 50 – 100 people who are injured annually at the event. 6\. Kirpinar Oil Wrestling Tournament, Edirne, Turkey (July 2 – July 8). Dating back to 1346 (take that, Burning Man), this wrestling contest holds the Guiness World Record for the longest-running sports competition and consists of guys covering themselves in olive oil before wrestling each other on a grassy field until someone gets pinned down or hoisted above his competitor’s shoulders. If you need a break from oiled up flesh, the three-day event also includes belly dancing, beer, and roasted lamb (okay only one of those things *isn’t* oiled up flesh, but you get the idea). ![Running of the Bulls, Spain, bulls, festivals](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/Running-of-the-Bulls-300x200.jpg "- Couchsurfing Blog")Running of the Bulls Spain7\. Boryeong Mud Festival, South Korea (July 13 – July 22). Perhaps a contender for the fastest-growing festival, the first Mud Festival was staged in 1998 but by 2007 attracted 2.2 million visitors. The local mud is high in minerals, bentonites, and germaniums, so whether you partake in the mud pool, mudslides, mud prison or mud skiing competitions, you can also count it as a spa day. The festival also includes a main stage for live music and other attractions, but if you don’t get muddy it doesn’t count. 8\. Pride Parade, San Francisco, USA (June 23 – June 24). Anchored by a parade that draws 100,000 spectators annually, SF Pride [encourages](http://www.sfpride.org/celebration/) you to “get your queer on and make the world a better place.” See every color of the rainbow during this June event in the city that’s also home to the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and those iconic cable cars. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/8-festivals-not-to-miss-this-summer-fall/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/8-festivals-not-to-miss-this-summer-fall/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** Guides **Tags:** Boryeong Mud Festival, Burning Man, Cascamorras, cultural festivals, festivals, Kirpinar Oil Wrestling Tournament, La Tomatina, Pride Parade, Pushkar Cattle Festival, Running of the Bulls, travel, Travel Guides --- ### [Location Error](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/location-error/) **Published:** June 4, 2018 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** On Sunday afternoon Couchsurfing was notified of an error on the website and we released a fix within 3 hours. This error intermittently exposed coded location related information in some URLs on the website. While this only impacted a small minority of users, we are nonetheless taking additional measures with help from a third party security firm to ensure this issue is fully resolved. We will notify members that were potentially impacted with further detail. Couchsurfing respects and champions individual data privacy rights. We are proud to extend large portions of the Global Data Protection Regulation (“GDPR”) to all members, not just those located in the European Union. We always welcome help in making the site better and this includes data privacy. If you see something we should be aware of, please let us know at support@couchsurfing.com. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/location-error/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/location-error/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** News --- ### [I Would Never Travel Without Couchsurfing](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/i-would-never-travel-without-couchsurfing/) **Published:** May 21, 2018 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** Hello everyone, My name is Blair and I am a Canadian who traveled for years using Couchsurfing, and these are some of the memorable experiences I have had because of CS: (1) In Argentina, I stayed with an artist in Mendoza and wrote a story in his home that later won a literary award. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Friend-in-Argentina.jpg "Friend in Argentina - Couchsurfing Blog") (2) In the US, I stayed with a filmmaker who collaborated with me to make a film of that story. (3) In Costa Rica, Venezuela, Brazil, Austin, Texas and San Francisco, California, CS friends who I barely knew let me stay alone at their summer homes for months while I completed the writing of several books. (4) In Cuba, I met a CSer who gave me a touring bike that let me do a 1000 km cycling tour through the whole island. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Cuban-Cycling-Trip-Map.jpg "Cuban Cycling Trip Map - Couchsurfing Blog") (5) In California, a retiring CSer gave me a car so I could do a 6-month road trip through the United States. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Car.png "Car - Couchsurfing Blog") (6) On that American road trip, I did not need to pay for accommodation even once, thanks to Couchsurfing, and was able to travel much longer and see much more of the country than would have been possible otherwise. (7) I found a job in Saudi Arabia through the recommendation of a Saudi CS connection, and became a highly-paid supervisor of a university program there for years. (8) I was able to learn Portuguese through friends made in Brazil, when I stayed for several months in São Paulo, and later when I traveled down the Amazon River. (9) My unique and authentic “all-walks-of-life” travel experiences helped me to write two whole books on Latin America and the United States (Here is my author page: ). (10) Because I am naturally a rather shy and introverted person, without Couchsurfing I never would have made all the wonderful friends and helpful acquaintances that enriched my life beyond measure in my travels. Now I have hundreds of contacts around the world! Without Couchsurfing, probably none of these things would have happened! So I am very grateful for this community, and all it offers to the world. Thank you, CS, for everything! I would never travel again without you! [![Car](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Car-150x150.png)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Car.png) [![Cuban Cycling Trip Map](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Cuban-Cycling-Trip-Map-150x150.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Cuban-Cycling-Trip-Map.jpg) [![Friend in Argentina](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Friend-in-Argentina-150x150.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Friend-in-Argentina.jpg) ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/i-would-never-travel-without-couchsurfing/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/i-would-never-travel-without-couchsurfing/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Stories --- ### [Couchsurfing, A Friendship That Never Ends](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-a-friendship-that-never-ends/) **Published:** June 4, 2018 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** 2.5 years ago today, I was sent to Cebu to work away for the first time. I was kind of afraid, as much as I was excited for what was in store for me. The first few days were not really as complicated as I thought, probably because I have a friendly nature and I know how to smile, laugh, respect and appreciate everything around me. I also reminded myself that one year wouldn’t be that long, then I can go back. Days, weeks and months went by so fast and I started to like being here, which made me decide to relocate. I’ve met new friends, started to travel around and also work very hard. That’s work life balance man! ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/About-to-watch-sunset_Duy.jpg "About to watch sunset_Duy - Couchsurfing Blog") ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/A-mixture-of-ideas-always-turn-out-great_Dale-Erin-Lucasz-Balder.jpg "A mixture of ideas always turn out great_Dale, Erin, Lucasz & Balder - Couchsurfing Blog") Then I heard about Couchsurfing, I didn’t know what to expect. I started to welcome people to my home from different walks of life from all over the world. At first it was kind of difficult, as it’s easier to find surfers once you have references. But soon enough it’s overwhelming how a lot of people, day by day, message me that they’d like to stay with me. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Casually-touring-around_Glyd-Alex.jpg "Casually touring around_Glyd & Alex - Couchsurfing Blog") Some of them are asking, ‘aren’t you afraid that these people might be dangerous and can harm you?’ Well, I’m just not afraid of something that I don’t know will happen. If they’re thinking something bad then it’s not my problem anymore. All I know is– my intentions are pure, I will help as much as I can, let them experience how the Filipino people live– the values, the culture and show them kindness. In the beginning I was really emotional, sad, even cried whenever they would leave and I missed them. Then I realized that the happy times together are memories created that will never fade. The bonds of friendship will be there no matter where on earth we might be. I learned to be more patient, understanding, loving, caring and a lot more. It’s amazing how this experience changed my life. From being ‘Norms’ to ‘Cebuanorms’ and dozens of other nicknames I got from these lovely people, it’s just great and fantastic! ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Malapascua-weekend-trip_Alec-Mounia-Eila.jpg "Malapascua weekend trip_Alec, Mounia & Eila - Couchsurfing Blog") ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Fun-games-at-night_Michael-Camille.jpg "Fun games at night_Michael & Camille - Couchsurfing Blog") ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/A-night-wouldnt-be-complete-without-Karaoke_Jayson-Natassa-Raycien-Shin.jpg "A night wouldn't be complete without Karaoke_Jayson, Natassa, Raycien & Shin - Couchsurfing Blog")I might be leaving Cebu, so Cebu will be losing it’s best friend/host in town. But for sure I will meet the world again whenever I set foot to a new place. This whole experience is not just about hosting people, for me it’s more of a bond as family. I have mixed emotions leaving this place. I don’t feel sad, I don’t know, I will miss my friends, but I feel happy, satisfied. Maybe because as a person I am fulfilled by what I’m supposed to do here, that’s why I’m excited for what the future holds for me. Everything is temporary so instead of making a fuss about something, just appreciate, help, respect and love one another for the world to be a better place. Just enjoy and live life, for this is what it’s meant to be. Thank you. Love you all and see you as I continue this journey in my next destination. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Showing-of-bellys-on-Sinulog-Festival_Dave-Starry-Timo-and-Sadia.jpg "Showing of belly's on Sinulog Festival_Dave, Starry, Timo and Sadia - Couchsurfing Blog") ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Wacky-is-always-a-good-option_Sandy-Gregory.jpg "Wacky is always a good option_Sandy & Gregory - Couchsurfing Blog") ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/And-they-are-leaving-me_Aleksie-Alexandra.jpg "And they are leaving me_Aleksie & Alexandra - Couchsurfing Blog") ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Friendship-bonds-with-a-bracelet_Laurence-Laurie.jpg "Friendship bonds with a bracelet_Laurence& Laurie - Couchsurfing Blog") [![Wacky is always a good option_Sandy & Gregory](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Wacky-is-always-a-good-option_Sandy-Gregory-150x150.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Wacky-is-always-a-good-option_Sandy-Gregory.jpg) [![Fun games at night_Michael & Camille](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Fun-games-at-night_Michael-Camille-150x150.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Fun-games-at-night_Michael-Camille.jpg) [![Friendship bonds with a bracelet_Laurence& Laurie](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Friendship-bonds-with-a-bracelet_Laurence-Laurie-150x150.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Friendship-bonds-with-a-bracelet_Laurence-Laurie.jpg) [![Casually touring around_Glyd & Alex](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Casually-touring-around_Glyd-Alex-150x150.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Casually-touring-around_Glyd-Alex.jpg) [![A mixture of ideas always turn out great_Dale, Erin, Lucasz & Balder](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/A-mixture-of-ideas-always-turn-out-great_Dale-Erin-Lucasz-Balder-150x150.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/A-mixture-of-ideas-always-turn-out-great_Dale-Erin-Lucasz-Balder.jpg) [![About to watch sunset_Duy](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/About-to-watch-sunset_Duy-150x150.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/About-to-watch-sunset_Duy.jpg) [![Showing of belly's on Sinulog Festival_Dave, Starry, Timo and Sadia](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Showing-of-bellys-on-Sinulog-Festival_Dave-Starry-Timo-and-Sadia-150x150.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Showing-of-bellys-on-Sinulog-Festival_Dave-Starry-Timo-and-Sadia.jpg) [![A night wouldn't be complete without Karaoke_Jayson, Natassa, Raycien & Shin](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/A-night-wouldnt-be-complete-without-Karaoke_Jayson-Natassa-Raycien-Shin-150x150.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/A-night-wouldnt-be-complete-without-Karaoke_Jayson-Natassa-Raycien-Shin.jpg) [![And they are leaving me_Aleksie & Alexandra](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/And-they-are-leaving-me_Aleksie-Alexandra-150x150.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/And-they-are-leaving-me_Aleksie-Alexandra.jpg) [![Malapascua weekend trip_Alec, Mounia & Eila](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Malapascua-weekend-trip_Alec-Mounia-Eila-150x150.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Malapascua-weekend-trip_Alec-Mounia-Eila.jpg) ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-a-friendship-that-never-ends/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-a-friendship-that-never-ends/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Stories --- ### [This Happened When I Tried Couchsurfing for the First Time](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/this-happened-when-i-tried-couchsurfing-for-the-first-time/) **Published:** May 28, 2018 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** I honestly don’t know if this blog post could ever do my first Couchsurfing experience justice, but I will still give it a try. I have read that a lot of travelers have used this hosting platform: some of their experiences were good, and some were not. Of course, safety is an issue here as you would live with someone you barely know in a far away place. It is a different take from the usual hotel accommodation we are all accustomed to. To add to my uncertainty, it was not just my first CS experience; it was my first solo backpacking trip ever! It was something that I wanted to try for such a long time, so when a seat sale presented itself; I booked that flight. Destination: DAVAO CITY. Truthfully, I was hesitant when I first signed up on the Couchsurfing [website](http://couchsurfing.com/). It was months before my trip, but I already scrutinized my potential hosts. Since I am alone, I wanted to pick a female or a host family. I sent a request to a girl who lives with her family (I believe I would be able to relate to her as I am very close to my family too), and to a girl, same as my age, who has a lot of positive references from Couchsurfers. Shortly after I sent the request, I got a confirmation from the second girl, Mae. I remember being excited and nervous at the same time! I will be arriving on a Thursday night, but I told her that my flight is in the following Friday morning as I don’t want to inconvenience her by arriving late at night (I actually planned to sleep at the airport). ## **THE DAY (OR NIGHT RATHER) HAS COME** ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Couchsurfing-1.jpg "Couchsurfing-1 - Couchsurfing Blog") But on the day of my flight, she insisted on knowing what time I will arrive and I couldn’t lie to her. The next thing I know we were exchanging text messages as she fetched me at the airport. As we travel to her house from the airport, I remember thinking how crazy the idea was. In that moment, I still couldn’t believe that I was actually doing what I was doing. Her house was quite far from the airport. The road leading there was so dark, but I remember that she kept on talking to me the entire taxi ride. Surprisingly, I didn’t feel scared. We spent that first night chatting about life, love, and travel. You sure couldn’t expect silence with two girls in one house! She drew maps of their village and the city proper for me. I was just so glad she did as I have zero sense of direction. It was my first time in Davao City so you could just imagine the disaster that would happen to me without a map. We slept around 3AM. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Couchsurfing-3.jpg "Couchsurfing-3 - Couchsurfing Blog") The next morning, I woke up to a freshly-cooked breakfast of garlic rice and tuna. I was so surprised; I don’t know why she cooked breakfast! When it comes to food, I am never shy, but the effort surprised me. Afterwards, we chatted until noon. It was unfortunate that she needed to go to work so she couldn’t come with me as I toured the city. The same thing happened the next day, she prepared breakfast for me and wouldn’t allow me to pay the transportation fare whenever I’m with her. I kept on insisting to pay as I have prepared money for the trip, but she wouldn’t allow me. I also met Rosa, another Couchsurfer, who offered to bring me to some of Davao City’s restaurants. Because she is a local, she knows where to buy cheap Durian and which local ice cream tastes better. Surely, that is something I wouldn’t have known if I booked for a hotel and pursued my trip literally all by myself. I also never took a taxi to get around, I used public transportation the entire trip (with Mae and Rosa’s advice, of course) so now, I can say that I am quite knowledgeable in their public transport. ## **MY REALIZATIONS** ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Couchsurfing-2.jpg "Couchsurfing-2 - Couchsurfing Blog") I realized that more than sharing their home, Couchsurfers also impart what they know regarding their area. I am naturally curious and it was awesome to get instant answers from legitimate residents. For example, did you know that Davao doesn’t have Meralco, the electricity provider? They have Davao Light instead. Cool info, eh? And since I can’t speak their local dialect, my new CS friends translate for me. Amazing! Aside from the free accommodation, Wi-Fi, food, and travel advice, the **memories and instant friendship** are my ultimate take aways from this Couchsurfing experience. On the night of my departure for Manila, Mae decided to bring me to Abreeza mall to chill and wait for my flight. We left my bag on the mall’s baggage counter, but we got carried away chatting (obviously) that we forgot that the mall is about to close! We hopped from one entrance to another to access my bag. Mae was so scared but I was just laughing at the situation. I almost left for Manila without my clothes, but we eventually found it. I gave my first CS host a gift before I left, it was a copy of Paulo Coelho’s *“Manuscript found in Accra”*. I was supposed to read it during the trip, but didn’t find the time as every day was packed with activities. Why do I always do that? Bring books that I don’t have time to read? She was so thankful for my gift and even told me that she didn’t have anything to give me. I was like, *“What are you talking about? You hosted me for three nights, cooked me breakfast, and shared your air-conditioned room with me, remember?”* ### *Final Words* I made a lot of friends during that trip and it was the most memorable trip I’ve had so far. I’ve learned that people are extra friendly and helpful to you once they learned that you are travelling alone. Couchsurfing taught me how to trust again. It allowed me to make new friends 1500 kilometers away from home. For sure, there wouldn’t be any hotel booking for me for the time being. *Thank you so much Couchsurfing!* Original post first appeared at www.pengandpaper.com > [This Happened When I Tried Couchsurfing for the First Time](https://www.pengandpaper.com/2016/06/happened-couchsurfing-first.html) [![Couchsurfing-3](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Couchsurfing-3-150x150.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Couchsurfing-3.jpg) [![Couchsurfing-2](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Couchsurfing-2-150x150.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Couchsurfing-2.jpg) [![Couchsurfing-1](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Couchsurfing-1-150x150.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Couchsurfing-1.jpg) ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/this-happened-when-i-tried-couchsurfing-for-the-first-time/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/this-happened-when-i-tried-couchsurfing-for-the-first-time/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Stories --- ### [Vegan Couchsurfing in Spain](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/vegan-couchsurfing-in-spain/) **Published:** May 18, 2018 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** ###### **My Search for the Perfect Couchsurfing Host** **Fun fact:** I hosted someone a couple of years ago and had a great experience but I, myself, have never tried Couchsurfing. So I thought, why not try it out when I’m in Spain? But I had one very important requirement. My host must be vegan. Why? Because veganism is an integral part of who I am and I wanted to stay with someone who understood my values. Plus, I thought it would be a cool way to meet another vegan in another part of the world. So I got on Couchsurfing, typed in “vegan” and “female” in the filter and it returned… THREE people. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Pic-1.png "Pic 1 - Couchsurfing Blog") I messaged all three of them and my inbox stayed dead silent for the next week. **Then the universe surprised me.** Three days before departure, I got a response from someone saying they were willing to host me. As soon as I got to the airport and met Mariela (yes, she came to pick me up!) all my worries and fears dissipated. Mariela was exactly who she was on her profile and better. ###### **Is It Catalan or Spanish?** ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Pic2.jpg "Pic2 - Couchsurfing Blog") Thanks to Mariela’s insider knowledge, I was able to quickly learn the difference between Catalan and Spanish. If you’re going “Huh?” let me clear this up: - Catalonia is a region in Spain. - Barcelona is in Catalonia. - Barcelona is in the northeastern shore of Spain staring at the Mediterranean sea. - Barcelona is where people speak with the “th” sound. Barthelona. Grathias. And no, it’s not because they have a lisp. - Most of Catalonia wishes to secede from Spain but they have been unsuccessful so far. - Most Barcelona natives can speak Catalan and Spanish, which are two different languages. I was told Catalan is like a mixture of French, Italian and Spanish. Children learn both in school. Example: English: I want to go to Figueres. Spanish: Quiero ir a Figueres. Catalan: Vull anar a Figueres. Got it? 🙂 ###### **What Did You Do In Barcelona?** When I wasn’t stuffing my face in vegan food, I walked all over the city. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Pic-3.jpg "Pic 3 - Couchsurfing Blog") Barcelona was an extremely walkable and bike-friendly city. I almost got hit a few times by bikes. Public transportation was also very easy to navigate. Thank you, Google maps. And of course, I visited the famous **Sagrada Familia** church. I bought myself a ticket to go all the way to the top and got an amazing view of Barcelona and then got lost inside its twirling staircases. ###### **People** Most of the people I interacted with in Barcelona were friendly. Everyone who worked in customer service spoke some English and when they didn’t, a simple “hola” and pointing worked. I only had one bad incident where a group of guys said something lewd to me but they weren’t even from Spain. Some of my favorite Barcelona memories were meeting up with an old friend, trying vegan tapas with new friends, and drinking way too much sangria and Spanish champaign for our own good. Eating churros with Mariela and laughing over language misunderstandings was another highlight. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Pic-4.jpg "Pic 4 - Couchsurfing Blog") ###### Figueres ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Pic-5.jpg "Pic 5 - Couchsurfing Blog") On my fourth day in Spain, Mariela came exploring with me in a town called Figueres. Figueres was two hours outside of Barcelona by train and half an hour from France. As soon as we stepped off the train, I noticed all the signs were in Catalan and the streets were nearly empty. When we asked the tourist information center where everyone was, they said, “I guess they just decided not to open since there aren’t enough people around.” Despite all this, Mariela and I still had a lot of fun. We climbed up a hill to see the largest “castle” in Europe (which was more like a military fortress), ate the delicious vegan lunches that we packed, watched the town from above, visited the Dali Museum, and overall, really got to know each other. ###### Sitges ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Pic6.jpg "Pic6 - Couchsurfing Blog") On my fifth day in Spain, I headed out to a beautiful seaside town by myself called Sitges (See-jes). Sitges was the type of place you imagine Spain to look like. As soon as I got there, I ran to the beach, tossed my shoes aside, and dipped my toes in the sand and water. It was too cold for swimming but still quite beautiful to look at. Then I spent a good hour walking along the boardwalk, watching people, and soaking up the sun. ###### Would I Recommend Couchsurfing? If you can’t tell already… **absolutely, yes!** Without a doubt, Couchsurfing made my experience in Spain much more memorable than if I had just stayed in a hostel or hotel. I was able to look inside a real home in Barcelona, be a part of Mariela’s everyday life, cuddle with her cute dog (Totoro), practice Spanish with her roommate, go to the supermarket and ask her what everything was, learn about her childhood, family and views on the world. But most importantly of all, Couchsurfing connected me to someone who also loves travel and is vegan, two things that make me who I am. It was like meeting a different version of myself in another part of the world. And by the end of my trip, I didn’t just leave with memories or souvenirs, I left with a new friend and a little bit more faith in strangers. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Pic-7.jpg "Pic 7 - Couchsurfing Blog") Thank you, Mariela, from the bottom of my heart! ###### Tips on Couchsurfing - Use the filter! Do not just type in a city and scroll through the thousands of search results. It’s tempting to stay with anyone since it’s free but make sure to find someone with common interests as you. - It’s great to be open-minded but if staying with a male or female host makes you uncomfortable, don’t do it! The reality is there are some creeps in Couchsurfing who are looking for more. - State clearly in your profile that you are not interested in flirting/dating, well, unless you are. - Make sure your host has plenty of good reviews and it isn’t just from their friends. - Look up the nearest hostel or hotel to your host’s place in case things don’t work out so you’re not left stranded on the street. - Tell someone your host’s address before you go in case anything happens. - Show your gratitude. Yes, Couchsurfing is technically free but making them dinner, taking them out for drinks, or buying them a small gift wouldn’t hurt. - Don’t be a jerk. Clean up after yourself, don’t come home super late and drunk. Be a decent human being. *This blog post was originally published in [The Tiny Punch.](https://thetinypunch.com/couchsurfing-in-spain-vale/)* [![Pic 7](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Pic-7-150x150.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Pic-7.jpg) [![Pic6](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Pic6-150x150.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Pic6.jpg) [![Pic 5](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Pic-5-150x150.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Pic-5.jpg) [![Pic 3](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Pic-3-150x150.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Pic-3.jpg) [![Pic 4](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Pic-4-150x150.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Pic-4.jpg) [![Pic2](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Pic2-150x150.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Pic2.jpg) [![Pic 1](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Pic-1-150x150.png)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Pic-1.png) ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/vegan-couchsurfing-in-spain/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/vegan-couchsurfing-in-spain/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Stories --- ### [Crossing Switzerland by foot : from Couchsurfer to Couchsurfer](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/crossing-switzerland-by-foot-from-couchsurfing-to-couchsurfing/) **Published:** May 3, 2018 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** Last December we crossed Switzerland from West (Geneva) to East (Rorschach). We did it mostly by foot but we also did a little bit of hitchhiking to join our Couchsurfing host in time for Christmas. During this trip we slept 18 nights in Couchsurfers’ houses, 18 unique hosts and wonderful evenings. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/1_Switzerland.jpg "1_Switzerland - Couchsurfing Blog") Let’s introduce ourselves first. We are two French travelers, Amélie and Vincent, who have decided to cross the continent, from France to China. We do it mostly by foot, but we also allow ourselves to do hitchhiking, biking, canoeing, etc. We started this adventure because we wanted to travel, we like hiking and nature. But also because we want to discover new countries, peoples, and cultures. Therefore, we have naturally decided to use Couchsurfing sometimes during our trips. You can find more on our [travel blog](http://www.apprentis-vagabonds.fr/) or on [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/apprentis.vagabonds). At the beginning of our trip (in France), we slept a lot in a tent. But with the winter time coming, we started to increase the number of Couchsurfing experiences. Couchsurfing has become so widely spread nowadays that you can actually walk from town to town and find a host quite easily. And in fact, that’s almost what we did in Switzerland. When we entered Switzerland, our first Couchsurfer was Jan, a Polish man. He already had some experience with traveling as he once hitchhiked from Poland to Thailand for 8 months. During the evening, he made mashed potatoes for us. « The Polish way: No mashed potatoes machine, I hold the pot and I shake it hard ». Michael was from Austria. Once, he hitchhiked from China to Austria in only 5 months. For the evening, he invited a friend to his house. We made a curry, discussed a lot, and ended the evening playing Carrom, an Indian Game that was so much fun. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/2_amelie_playing_carrom.jpg "2_amelie_playing_carrom - Couchsurfing Blog") Eric was French, from Vendée. He was another expat in Switzerland. Some time ago he had crossed Canada by hitchhiking. He was also part of the hitchhikers association of Fribourg. Eric was supposed to have an interview the next morning but had accepted to host us anyway. We talked a lot and enjoyed a sketch about Switzerland by Marie-Thérèse Porchet. One other night, a last minute request lead to a peaceful evening speaking about traveling books. Olivier had crossed several countries. He was now retired and held a collection of old books written by the first explorers. Johanna used to sail. Now that she is in her fifties she switched to a new way of traveling: she sees the world in her jeep with a roof tent. We also hitchhiked a little bit to make sure we reached Patricia’s house for Christmas. Patricia was from Germany, she taught French and English. She and her two sons hosted us on the 24th and 25th of December, they were also hosting another Couchsurfer: Hebert, a nice Brazilian man, now living in Ireland. He was traveling from a European capital to another in order to find a new place to live. We will remember his smile and his amazing stories. We listened to German Christmas songs and we enjoyed that Christmas Eve very much. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/3_christmas_gifts.jpg "3_christmas_gifts - Couchsurfing Blog") We enjoyed Couchsurfing in Switzerland a lot. The Swiss love their country with its many lakes and mountains. They also like to discuss and to share local specialties. We ate a lot of cheese and chocolate! We met so many people thanks to Couchsurfing! ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/4_Switzerland_houses.jpg "4_Switzerland_houses - Couchsurfing Blog") ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/5_Switzerland_lake_and_mountains.jpg "5_Switzerland_lake_and_mountains - Couchsurfing Blog") You can find more on our adventures in Switzerland in the full article (in French): [Ca joue en Suisse](http://www.apprentis-vagabonds.fr/2017/12/31/ca_joue_en_suisse/) --- This post was written by a member of the Couchsurfing community. The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or opinion of Couchsurfing. To share your own story, visit our [Community Stories](http://10.9.0.204/community-stories) page. We can’t wait to hear from you! [![1_Switzerland](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/1_Switzerland-150x150.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/1_Switzerland.jpg) [![2_amelie_playing_carrom](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/2_amelie_playing_carrom-150x150.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/2_amelie_playing_carrom.jpg) [![3_christmas_gifts](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/3_christmas_gifts-150x150.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/3_christmas_gifts.jpg) [![4_Switzerland_houses](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/4_Switzerland_houses-150x150.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/4_Switzerland_houses.jpg) [![5_Switzerland_lake_and_mountains](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/5_Switzerland_lake_and_mountains-150x150.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/5_Switzerland_lake_and_mountains.jpg) ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/crossing-switzerland-by-foot-from-couchsurfing-to-couchsurfing/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/crossing-switzerland-by-foot-from-couchsurfing-to-couchsurfing/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Stories --- ### [Couchsurfing Europe: Amsterdam & Prague](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-europe-amsterdam-prague/) **Published:** April 30, 2018 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** Please read the original post on my travel blog at . ———– It’s been a little over a year and a half since I Couchsurfed Europe with one of my best lovely ladies, Ms. Erin Callahan of Austin, Texas. We’d both never been, we both wanted to go, so we both did. Easy enough. I was working as a Social Media Specialist for the largest private owner of bingo halls in the U.S. at the time (see my [bingo rap video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wWCpLbvBVzg) for proof) and Erin was working as a bartender at the restaurant where I met most of my friends to this day, good ole Z’ Tejas in downtown Austin. After taking scattered suggestions from bar guests and bingo experts and all sorts of whatever-experts on the interwebs, we finally chose our European destinations – Amsterdam, Prague, Venice, Florence, Amalfi, and Barcelona. Originally we had also chosen Ibiza, but we would have gotten there right as the parties were ending for the year, and since you can pretty much take $20 shots of tequila in an empty bar anywhere in Europe, we skipped the crazy rave island and moved on. We both saved up about $5,000 for the 22 day trip, figuring (and secretly hoping) that that would be enough to ball out in Europe and still come back with a few bucks to spare. To keep our costs to a minimum, our goal was to Couchsurf the entire way through Europe. If you’re unfamiliar with [Couchsurfing](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/kelsey.love), it’s a website where you create a profile, inform people about where you’re planning on traveling and ask people to stay in their mansions/apartments/shacks/homes/vans/boats/whatever in exchange for the pleasure of your company. It’s a great way to meet locals and fellow travelers. And why might total strangers invite other total strangers into their private abodes to stay on their couches and spare rooms for free, might you ask? Because traveling is a funny thing, and once you start doing it more, you understand why it’s interesting, great and sometimes even necessary to meet other people like you. And not like you. So on we went. # Couchsurfing Europe: Amsterdam & Prague ## Day 1-3: Amsterdam After a very restless 10 hour flight from Houston to Amsterdam, the first thing I did upon landing was puke. Actually we hadn’t even landed yet. And actually the beverage cart was blocking my way to the bathroom, so I had to puke in one of those flimsy paper bags and then run to the bathroom *as the plane was landing*. Welcome to Europe. ![Amsterdam](https://i2.wp.com/travelinfools.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Screen-shot-2014-05-31-at-9.34.26-AM.png?resize=596%2C451&ssl=1 "- Couchsurfing Blog")![Amsterdam](https://i0.wp.com/travelinfools.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Screen-shot-2014-05-31-at-9.35.36-AM.png?resize=596%2C450&ssl=1 "- Couchsurfing Blog") An hour and one wrong train later, we made it to Grand Central Station in Amsterdam. Game on. We did the usual Amsterdam stuff the first day, eating at charming cafes, drinking wine by the canal, walking through the Red Light District, smoking giant spli cigarettes. It was glorious. I even got so confused for a moment that I honestly thought I was walking around a very realistic Amsterdam-themed hotel in Las Vegas. Those are some strong cigarettes, my friends. ![Amsterdam](https://i0.wp.com/travelinfools.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/amsterdam4.jpg?resize=604%2C453&ssl=1 "- Couchsurfing Blog")![Amsterdam](https://i0.wp.com/travelinfools.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Screen-shot-2014-05-31-at-9.35.24-AM.png?resize=601%2C450&ssl=1 "- Couchsurfing Blog") After hours of wandering around and seeing all the gorgeous places, buildings and people, we headed to our first Couchsurfing house. Our cabbie dropped us off on the wrong street, so after a few minutes of wandering around wondering what the hell to do, we ran into a normal lookin’ dude to ask for help. “Hey, can you help us find this address? I think we’re in the wrong place.” “What do I look like, some tall Dutch guy?” Turns out the normal lookin’ dude was Brian from Austin, Texas. It’s a small world. He helped us find our new home for the next couple days, a very nice apartment within walking distance to just about everything in Amsterdam, for which we were thankful after a long day of craziness. We met our first host, Melahn, a Miami-born, strange but nice guy who gave us his museum passes, told us to check out Anne Frank’s house and even made us dinner. Rad first day complete. ![Amsterdam](https://i2.wp.com/travelinfools.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/amsterdam5.jpg?resize=600%2C450&ssl=1 "- Couchsurfing Blog")![Amsterdam](https://i0.wp.com/travelinfools.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Screen-shot-2014-05-31-at-9.34.47-AM.png?resize=600%2C450&ssl=1 "- Couchsurfing Blog") The next day, we woke up super early and headed to Anne Frank’s house, which I highly recommend, and then onto more cafes, the Amsterdam Historical Museum, book stores, coffee shops and so on. I really, really loved it there. Everyone looks like a fashion model, rides their bike everywhere and is awesomely friendly, even to two small white chicks who don’t speak a lick of Dutch. They also live on houseboats and have their small children stand on the back of their bike seats and hang on for dear life while they cruise the crowded streets. It’s a strange, refreshing and slightly terrifying thing to see parents trust their kids so much. And see so many people successfully riding bikes. Ahem. ![Amsterdam](https://i0.wp.com/travelinfools.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Screen-shot-2014-05-31-at-9.34.17-AM.png?resize=601%2C449&ssl=1 "- Couchsurfing Blog")![Amsterdam](https://i0.wp.com/travelinfools.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Screen-shot-2014-05-31-at-9.34.02-AM.png?resize=601%2C450&ssl=1 "- Couchsurfing Blog") After two days of walking miles upon miles around Amsterdam, we decided we were ready to make our next move to Prague. We hadn’t booked any sort of train or transit tickets from one city to the next before the trip, figuring it would be better to leave it open-ended in case we wanted to leave a place early or stay somewhere longer, so we headed to the train station and booked the next available overnight train to the Czech Republic. ![best couchsurfing hosts amsterdam](https://i1.wp.com/travelinfools.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/amsterdam3.jpg?resize=453%2C604&ssl=1 "- Couchsurfing Blog")![Amsterdam travel tips](https://i2.wp.com/travelinfools.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/amsterdam9.jpg?resize=604%2C453&ssl=1 "- Couchsurfing Blog") Melahn was a great first host and gave us a very accurate reading after two days of knowing us… “you consistently punch bigger than your size.” We’ll take it. We made him a list of new music to check out, exchanged hugs and left for the next adventure. ## Day 3: The Train to the Czech Republic Imagine 6 beds (3-level bunk beds on each side) in a room slightly roomier than the average walk-in closet. That was our home for the next 14 hours. With little to no room to do anything besides lay down, we quickly made friends with our bunkies, including a lady from San Antonio who smoked weed out the window, a young girl named Sarah traveling solo from Australia (who we later found out made it to Paris to live for a bit) and a 2 other people who did not want to be our friends. The train ride went off without a hitch, stopping several times throughout the night to drop people off in Germany, and we arrived in Prague the next afternoon, sleep deprived but ready to rumble. Wow, I haven’t said that since 1997. ![overnight train from amsterdam to prague](https://i0.wp.com/travelinfools.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Screen-shot-2014-05-31-at-9.35.54-AM.png?resize=600%2C450&ssl=1 "- Couchsurfing Blog") ## Day 4-7: Prague If you ever have the chance to go to Prague, do it. Don’t think twice. This place rocks and is one of the most beautiful, weird, interesting places I’ve ever been. We initially got lost and walked through the abandoned, slightly ghetto part of the city close to the train station, but finally found our way to Charles Bridge, the most touristy and awesome bridge in all the land. We rented a paddle boat (is that what those are called?) and paddled our happy asses around in small circles, looking at all the crazy architecture and swans and generally having an amazing time being somewhere new and unfamiliar with no chance of speaking the language. Czech be crazy, y’all. ![couchsurfing in prague](https://i1.wp.com/travelinfools.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Screen-shot-2014-05-31-at-3.40.40-PM.png?resize=599%2C448&ssl=1 "- Couchsurfing Blog")![prague budget travel tips](https://i2.wp.com/travelinfools.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Screen-shot-2014-05-31-at-3.38.53-PM.png?resize=602%2C449&ssl=1 "- Couchsurfing Blog") After having probably the best pizza on our whole trip (sorry, Italy) and a couple glasses of celebratory wine, we found a policeman to ask for directions to our next Couchsurfing host’s house, who quickly and dismissively pointed in a random direction and then said “okay bye”, leaving no more opportunity for tourist question time. Fair enough. One thing we did not know is that Prague is big. And when you have no idea where you’re at in a big city and only an address that looks like it was thrown up by consonants, it’s not that easy to find said address, especially when no one or their mom speaks your language. We took a cab to our next Couchsurfing house, where we met Michelle, who treated us to homemade strudel, kisses from her dog Simba, her lovely company and a nice foldout futon. Our only directions were “not to wake up before 11:00am”. Done. ![things to do in prague on a budget](https://i2.wp.com/travelinfools.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Screen-shot-2014-05-31-at-3.39.05-PM.png?resize=599%2C448&ssl=1 "- Couchsurfing Blog") The next morning we took the train to the stunning Prague Castle, where we saw [this famous dude](http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0001209/?ref_=tt_cl_t11) wandering around with his family. We ordered triple cappuccinos and had ourselves a morning tobacco treat. When in Europe, right? After enjoying a delicious sauerkraut and bread bowl soup lunch, we walked across Charles Bridge to the top of the viewing tower, through the Jewish area of Prague and headed to Old Towne Square to watch the sunset and enjoy dessert. Since it was a little chilly outside, every single outdoor bar and restaurant offered you a blanket and heaters. How sweet. We accidentally sat down at Coyote Ugly, of all un-charming places, and met some Italian guys that invited us to tag along to a local underground jazz club. And by underground I mean it was down some stairs in a carved-out cave literally under the ground. Sweet. ![charles bridge prague](https://i1.wp.com/travelinfools.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Screen-shot-2014-05-31-at-3.39.37-PM.png?resize=599%2C447&ssl=1 "- Couchsurfing Blog")![jazz bars prague](https://i2.wp.com/travelinfools.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Screen-shot-2014-05-31-at-3.42.02-PM.png?resize=594%2C384&ssl=1 "- Couchsurfing Blog") The next day we left our second couchsurfing host and moved onto the 3rd, a funny Nigerian guy named Gody who stayed up late, laughed, danced and drank wine with us till the early hours of the morning before he had to go to work. We spent the rest of our time in Prague wandering through the Old Town Square and drinking beers in the park before our next overnight train to Venice. Having spent a relatively large amount of money the first couple days in Amsterdam, we hardly spent anything in Prague and lived like less flashy versions of Jay Z the entire time… appetizers, desserts, bottles of wine, you name it. If you’re looking to save some cash and still have a ballin’ time, Prague’s the place to do it. ![old town square prague](https://i1.wp.com/travelinfools.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Screen-shot-2014-05-31-at-3.42.22-PM.png?resize=600%2C449&ssl=1 "- Couchsurfing Blog") --- This post was written by a member of the Couchsurfing community. The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or opinion of Couchsurfing. To share your own story, visit our [Community Stories](http://10.9.0.204/community-stories) page. We can’t wait to hear from you! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-europe-amsterdam-prague/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-europe-amsterdam-prague/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Stories --- ### [Meet William: A Couchsurfer in Los Angeles](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/meet-william-a-couchsurfer-in-los-angeles/) **Published:** May 13, 2018 **Author:** Mike Joy **Content:** Imagine arriving at your host’s house in the middle of Hollywood, California. You are welcomed by the cutest 3 year old boxer who licks your face as you sit down. You’re offered a cold beer and some mac-n-cheese. Your host shows you their recently patented invention – a retractable flower box that allows residents of small apartments in big cities to grow their own vegetables. He laughs as you push and pull the box through the window. You notice the camouflage backpack in the corner and learn that he is a Paramedic in the Air Force. He can play Robyn’s ‘Dancing On My Own’ on the keyboard. He played semi-pro baseball. He makes a mean Bloody Mary. You just met William. And he’s your host for the next few nights. > “I first heard about Couchsurfing while staying at Tower Youth Hostel in Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca, Mexico,” William told me as we were sipping one of his mean Bloody Mary’s. “Hostels were kind of like a ‘transition drug’. You take a sip of a hostel and you catch the traveler bug. But sometimes you end up somewhere where there are no hostels, but you can find a fellow surfer.” This exact thing happened to him on a trip a few years back. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/william3-225x300.jpeg "william3 - Couchsurfing Blog") “*In 2010, I was driving the old Route 66 and found myself in Ada, Oklahoma. There are no hostels in Ada, Oklahoma, but there is one couchsurfer! Jeff. You get to see the town from a local’s perspective. You could stay in a hotel anywhere, but why sit in a room by yourself? Jeff was able to introduce me to Ada and his friends, recommend places to see, and take what a ‘yuppy cruise ship traveler’ would think to be a boring town and turn it into a great place to see. It’s fun to get off the beaten path and take the road less traveled.* ” I checked. There are now 7 hosts in Ada! William offers much more to surfers than a place to rest for the night. His three year old boxer, Toby, is adorably friendly and will accept a snuggle whenever offered and William fancies himself somewhat of a bartender. He whips up a rum-sweet tea concoction, a drink that you never knew you needed and shares story after story from his years on Couchsurfing. He moved to California in 2017 when the Air Force relocated him and he lists Santa Monica Beach as his favorite place in the city. His apartment is in the perfect location, a stone’s throw from the Hollywood Walk of Fame, a 20 minute walk to the best food and cafes in Los Feliz, and on the Red Line of the LA Metro. Hailing from Pennsylvania, he has adjusted just fine to the never-ending summer and considers the weather to be perfect. On weekends, he takes his surfers to the beach with him and is always up for an after-work happy hour. Professionally, William is as impressive as they come. He is an Engineer and in the Air Force. He jumps from planes and saves lives. All in a day’s work! > “The coolest thing about being a paramedic, I think, is that there are people out there walking around who would have been dead if we had not been there.” Beyond being a life-saver for LA couchsurfers, and a literal life-saver for humankind, he is a patented inventor. As I mentioned before, he used his engineering background to design a retractable flower box. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/William-2-e1524604441327-256x300.jpg "William 2 - Couchsurfing Blog") *“Californians are always drooling over that nature s\*\*\*. Who doesn’t like some good flowers? This is a way that you can grow all your own vegetables and other things I know are going to get grown in it…”* It is the focal point of the living room. A box, hanging precariously out the window by the couch, greets you in the morning with fresh flowers and veggies. His dream is to see an ad for it depicting a family, Norman Rockwell style, eating a full salad dinner that they picked from their own flower box. It is his favorite part of his apartment to show off to his surfers. He’s been hosting in his Hollywood apartment for 3 months and is a big supporter of last minute requests. His profile states to write ‘Urgent Request!’ just so he knows that the situation is dire. He laughs about how low his response rate is due to the high number of requests. He quips, “I would need a secretary just to answer all of the requests I get!’ But, he gets it, because he too started off as a surfer. *“I was in Mexico and met this group of Spanish guys, and one of them set me up on couchsurfing. A few years later I was going to Spain to I sent him a request. Wasn’t even sure I would recognize him because it had been so many years, but I was walking towards his place on Gran Via and all of the sudden he starts yelling and screaming my name across the street, and everyone was stopping and looking and confused about what was going on. I just remember thinking it was so cool that we had met in Mexico and I was staying with him in Spain. All for free!”* He loves the way Couchsurfing brings people together and letting them explore a city from a locals perspective. He loves taking his surfers out in West Hollywood and showing them the famous LA nightlife. And as for a must-see recommendation? *“Definitely, The Moroccan Lounge.”* The Moroccan Lounge is a small music venue and bar in downtown LA where popular bands often come and play. This cool spot is well known amongst music lovers due to it’s small size, which gives each performance a much more intimate feeling. *“If you’re lucky enough to get tickets for a big name band playing there, you’ll find yourself in a small room where the furthest spot from them is no more than 20 feet. ”* William offers a truly unique and fun-filled view into his new home for surfers headed to LA. Active Host, Paramedic, Engineer, Inventor and former Semi-Pro Baseball Player. That’s William. But, as William says: > “Anyone living in Pennsylvania with a small interest in baseball can be semi-pro.” ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/meet-william-a-couchsurfer-in-los-angeles/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/meet-william-a-couchsurfer-in-los-angeles/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c1d7b2d7245eaf4d61790066c22f58898af8f077957fe22931e67d33cb92501?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Mike Joy Mike is an avid traveler, prolific advice giver, and Community Manager and Couchsurfing. [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/mikejoy/) **Categories:** Community, Community Updates --- ### [Why You Should Start Talking to Strangers #4 - Taiwanese Generosity](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/why-you-should-start-talking-to-strangers-4-taiwanese-generosity/) **Published:** May 7, 2018 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** [Originally posted here in both English and French.](https://wildside.pixtache.fr/en/strangers-4) and can be read in both English and French!) ### **SOME TRADITIONAL VILLAGE SOUTH OF TAIPEI, TAIWAN** #### **May 2017** It all started with a simple message on Couchsurfing. Vita was inviting me to stay over at her place near the Taoyuan airport when I was getting to Taiwan. I already booked my accommodation though and had some plans to work in a hostel for accommodation, but we kept in touch in order to meet each other when I’d get settled in Taipei. With Flora, whom I met in the first hostel I stayed, and Nicolas, the only other French Working Holiday Visa holder in Taiwan I know, we decided to go to Wulai for a day trip. I asked Vita to join for it’s always good fun to share a travel trip with a local (especially when it comes to ordering something for lunch). And the more the merrier as they say in English. Vita is a 35 year old Taiwanese girl full of energy with a smile illuminating her cute face. **And this smile is highly contagious when she smiles and makes jokes, you can’t help but smiling as well.** The coincidence is that she’s about to go to France with her mum for a few months, so we kept on telling her tips and food she has to try while there (cheese, cheese and… cheese?) Our day trip in Wulai was a fabulous day indeed, filled up with amazing landscapes and lots of laughter. Which I’ll tell you more about in another post. --- ### **A HOUSE OF HAPPINESS WESTERN TAIPEI, TAIWAN** ### One Week Later![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/vita-4.jpg "- Couchsurfing Blog") A week after this beautiful day, Flora and I were invited to stay at Vita’s house on my day off. Now that I think of it, it was my first genuine experience of going to a Taiwanese home. After an afternoon filled with new culinary experiences, Vita brought us to her home, where she said: **“you can eat everything you see, my home is your home”** – that’s certainly the best welcoming introduction ever! Vita is also hosting quite a lot of Couchsurfers, she even has a CS wall with pictures of people she and her family hosted in Taoyuan. “This Russian couple even stayed a whole month,” she said by showing me a picture of happy smiling people in which they have written some really nice words. Because, that’s how it goes at Vita’s home, even though her mother doesn’t really speak English, she’s so welcoming and enthusiastic about meeting foreigners, that you’re really feeling like you just met your Taiwanese mum. Vita’s family is vegetarian and her mum has gold in her hands when she cooks. We were full but still couldn’t stop eating. Between the taro, the spinach, the rice steamed in bamboo leaves (it’s called *Zongzi*), some pickles, capsicums, fried noodles and veggie sausages, every dish was a delight for my tastebuds. Her mum is very funny indeed, she keeps on saying we should eat slowly, but we can’t help it, we keep on eating. That makes her laugh, and really happy. Since we both grew up in France, she wants us to share a bottle of Bordeaux wine they brought back from their last travel in France. She insists on befriending me on Facebook and wants to see pictures of my hometown. My heart feels so warm at that moment, it could be the wine, but it’s most probably the fact that I’m feeling mostly super grateful for this family who’s welcoming us with such generosity and happiness. **That’s the proper word, they’re genuinely generous towards strangers.** **I’m having what I’m calling now “a magical moment.”** When I feel cheesy happiness rushing through my heart and spread in my whole body -making me feel this warm and delightful feeling of being grateful for life. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/vita-6.jpg "OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA - Couchsurfing Blog") After that, Vita and her mum insisted that I come back to their home again. That was settled, I quit my hostel job to start travelling a bit out of Taipei and my first stop would be Vita’s house. No need to say the food her mother cooked me was amazing, and Vita and I got really close. **I still remember how I felt like a teenager, holding this giant stuffed shark in my arms in Vita’s bed, talking about love and French boys before falling sound asleep.** It seems that getting older doesn’t make us stop being confused about love issues. She taught me Chinese chess, I taught her French. Her mother kept saying ‘*Je suis contente!*‘ ‘- I’m happy- while I was trying to improve saying the four Chinese tones. I felt part of the Lung family, and it was heartwarming. We’re already planning to see each other again while I’m in Taiwan but mostly when I’ll go back to France. **And now, I get this strange feeling of wishing I’d have an actual home**, even though I was so proud for the past two years of not having any and being able to make myself feel at home everywhere and anywhere. Because right now I feel so grateful that I would love to host them in return. I want to have a vibrant “house of happiness” where all of those people who were so generous with me by opening their doors, their cars, their tents, their hearts could come and enjoy a bit of French lifestyle. There would be cheese and wine and books in every language. There would be loud laughter that would piss off the neighbours. There would be never-ending dinners and dancing people because dancing and eating actually make people happy. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/vita-5.jpg "OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA - Couchsurfing Blog") --- **It’s weird to get this feeling as I am just starting another travelling year backpacking.** Maybe there’s more to it this time. Maybe this year won’t be about learning how to live with no strings but about how to be able to give back the magical moments I had for the past two years. Maybe this year I will actually learn how I could settle down again somewhere and make it matters. Maybe I would find the energy to finally build something (like a “house of happiness”?) ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/vita-2.jpg "OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA - Couchsurfing Blog") [![OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/vita-5-150x150.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/vita-5.jpg) [![OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/vita-2-150x150.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/vita-2.jpg) [![OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/vita-6-150x150.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/vita-6.jpg) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/vita-4-150x150.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/vita-4.jpg) [![OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/vita-1-150x150.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/vita-1.jpg) ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/why-you-should-start-talking-to-strangers-4-taiwanese-generosity/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/why-you-should-start-talking-to-strangers-4-taiwanese-generosity/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Stories --- ### [Couchsurfing Asean Couchcrash event in Kuala Lumpur](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-asean-couchcrash-event-in-kuala-lumpur/) **Published:** April 25, 2018 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** *Original article posted on [DriftSoul.com](https://driftsoul.com/2018/02/23/first-international-couchsurfing-asean-couchcrash-event-in-kuala-lumpur/).* One of the best things I have ever done in my life was when joining Couchsurfing. Recently, there was a big [Couchsurfing](https://www.couchsurfing.com/) event which happened in Malaysia that was called CS Asean Couch Crash 2018. It took place on February 10th and 11th with around 120 people and was held at [Tadom Hill Resorts.](https://driftsoul.com/2018/01/19/escape-trip-to-tadom-hills/) People from all over the world gathered to celebrate and make it a success. ![2](https://travelchoise.files.wordpress.com/2018/02/2.jpg?w=736 "- Couchsurfing Blog") The event was organized by three well known Ambassadors from Malaysia, Indonesia and Singapore.![3](https://travelchoise.files.wordpress.com/2018/02/3.jpg?w=384&h=256 "- Couchsurfing Blog") 1. Abbey – Malaysia 2. DJ – Indonesia 3. Ummar Hasim – Singapore. This close knit community of Couchsurfers from these 3 countries have always been actively organizing various events within their respective countries. For the first time, these three countries decided to hold a cross-community event involving all Couchsurfing members from South East Asia. Two people from Couchsurfing headquarters- Zareen and Gabby- were also invited to attend this event and they enjoyed it thoroughly. ![4](https://travelchoise.files.wordpress.com/2018/02/4.jpg?w=413&h=276 "- Couchsurfing Blog")From CS HQ Zareen and Gaby with organisersEveryone is waiting for the event to start to gather and have fun. It’s time to exchange culture and diversity among the Couchsurfing people and have fun together. Its a 3-day weekend starting with the evening sunset at Heli-lounge bar overlooking the city skyline and outlet. Everyone is gathered at the Heli-lounge bar for welcome drinks followed by a night of supper and mingling with new friends. ![5-1](https://travelchoise.files.wordpress.com/2018/02/5-1.jpg?w=736 "- Couchsurfing Blog")Heli Lounge Bar Friday Evening CS GatheringOn 10th February everyone is supposed to gather at the Times Square mall to get on the bus to reach Tadom Hills which was arranged by the organizers. ![6-1](https://travelchoise.files.wordpress.com/2018/02/6-1.jpg?w=363&h=272 "- Couchsurfing Blog")PutrajayaAlong the way to Tadom Resorts the people from [Couchsurfing](https://www.couchsurfing.com/) had a nice tour to Putrajaya with spectacular architectural buildings and locations like Putra Mosque, Perdana Putra, Seri Wawasan Bridge, Putra Bridge and Putrajaya International Convention Centre including the interpretation of a guide. After the completion of the tour everyone reached the Tadom Resorts by 4pm. Once everyone had arrived we gathered in the main hall. Camping tents were given to each person and dinner was served at the gathering hall. ![5](https://travelchoise.files.wordpress.com/2018/02/5.jpg?w=736 "- Couchsurfing Blog") The event started at 6pm with a gathering of all the Couchsurfing members introducing themselves to other people which includes some funny conversations from Indonesian people. Zareen and Gabby from CS Headquarters gave us valuable tips and information from Couchsurfing. They patiently answered many questions from members of the community. After the introductions and question & answer session was over, we went to Tadom Hills for the party. ![9](https://travelchoise.files.wordpress.com/2018/02/9.jpg?w=480&h=321 "- Couchsurfing Blog")The organizers arranged some classical music and cultural shows from their own countries. The Fire dance was done by a local girl which was carried out along with the music. She outperformed everyone for 15 min and we all enjoyed the performance. The event continued along with Dj music and Bhangra dance from 10pm until 3am along with fire crackers. Some people continued the whole night speaking with each other while having some indomie noodles. ![10](https://travelchoise.files.wordpress.com/2018/02/101.jpg?w=521&h=347 "- Couchsurfing Blog") On the 11th February Couchsurfing members had breakfast at the gathering hall served by organizers. After breakfast we moved to Orang Asli village at Banting by walking around 15 minutes. The village people showed us the way of living in old days. For example, how to hunt animals by using a blowgun with needles. They even performed with some natural drumsticks and flute music from their tradition. We had lunch along with the village people. The event was over after this and everyone went back to their own countries. ![7](https://travelchoise.files.wordpress.com/2018/02/7.jpg?w=736 "- Couchsurfing Blog") I have done so many beautiful things because of Couchsurfing. Through Couchsurfing I learned many things from the local people from around the world. Couchsurfing gave me this opportunity and gave my life very valuable lessons and some beautiful experiences along with it. It filled my journey with stories, and I got to meet people from all over the world and learn about their homes and cultures. Do we need religions and cultures to make friends? I don’t think it is necessary. We just need to believe in people and make friends around the world and show peace to everyone to travel together. Finally, whenever I go to a new country I can say for sure that I have a friend waiting for me to show me the places in their city or country. I am sure you will definitely find a travel partner or real life partner through Couchsurfing and make lot of friends. Thank you for the Pics from Andy Carlson and other Couchsurfing members who attended this event. [![1-1-1](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/1-1-1-1-150x150.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/1-1-1-1.jpg) ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-asean-couchcrash-event-in-kuala-lumpur/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-asean-couchcrash-event-in-kuala-lumpur/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Stories --- ### [Kasol – The Unraveling Hippie land in the North of India](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/kasol-the-unraveling-hippie-land-in-the-north-of-india/) **Published:** April 20, 2018 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** #### The Journey I heard mixed reviews about Kasol, a tiny village in the state of Himachal Pradesh, India. People would tell me all kinds of stories about Kasol– some good, others bad. But I was pretty much determined to visit this place. Since my husband is from Shimla which is also in Himachal, it was his idea basically to show me around in Himachal. We decided on a day towards the end of July. With our driver/tour guide we headed towards Kullu (a part of Himachal) from Shimla at 8 in the morning. The peak season in Kasol is over by the end of August. There are decent food joints on your way up there. As north India is famous for good food you will not have issues finding good food here. Wherever you choose to eat you will be served with delicious food. After taking few stops here and there for a snack or tea, we reached Kullu district in around 8 hours thanks to our driver friend who drove us really fast there. When you reach Kullu, you will see the river Beas– a furious river that flows with great force all the way up from the Himalayas. You can get a view of it along the sides of the road on your way up to Kasol. This view is spectacular as you are moving up toward Kasol and on your left is this river which is flowing all along with you as if it is accompanying you as your acquaintance. As you reach Kasol through the busy streets the river now on your left is Parvati which eventually meets Beas down there where you came from and merges into it. We had finally reached to our destination of Kasol. [![DSC00287](https://eatpraylove1810.files.wordpress.com/2018/01/dsc00287.jpg?w=408&h=229 "DSC00287")](https://eatpraylove1810.wordpress.com/2018/02/06/kasol-the-unraveling-hippie-land-in-the-north-of-india/dsc00287/) #### The final destination As we never planned where we were going to stay exactly and left that decision to our spontaneity, we looked around in our car and found a peaceful guest house called the Alpine Guest House with exotic views. This is the only guest house there which is located right next to the Parvati river. So if you want to visualize on one side of you is the guest house and the restaurant seating area and on the other is this ferocious river flowing with all its energy giving you the best view you can imagine. And not just the river but the lush green mountains which surround this river and the entire town. It gives you the greatest of all views. We really loved this guest house. As soon as we arrived we decided to take a walk near the restaurant area where there were few people sitting and ordering delicious food. ![DSC00286](https://eatpraylove1810.files.wordpress.com/2018/01/dsc002861.jpg?w=825 "- Couchsurfing Blog") Moving on, my husband started to talk with a couple of friendly looking guys. People who belong here and those coming there as visitors are all so friendly and amazing. There we sat next to the river and ordered food. #### The evening stroll As I get dressed in the most bohemian way which is my favorite style of clothing, my husband sat outside in our small river facing balcony chilling out. It was already around 9 pm. Soon we were on our way on to the road to wander a little in this little town which was lit up with small road-side shops meant to sell Israeli clothes and beautiful accessories. We stopped at one to take a look and decided to buy some the next morning in the day light. As we didn’t have much idea of what exactly to do we decided to take a stroll. As we were walking on the silent streets, we moved past a board advertising a Jim Morrison cafe. [![DSC00295](https://eatpraylove1810.files.wordpress.com/2018/01/dsc00295.jpg?w=409&h=229 "DSC00295")](https://eatpraylove1810.wordpress.com/2018/02/06/kasol-the-unraveling-hippie-land-in-the-north-of-india/dsc00295/) [![DSC00297](https://eatpraylove1810.files.wordpress.com/2018/01/dsc00297.jpg?w=408&h=229 "DSC00297")](https://eatpraylove1810.wordpress.com/2018/02/06/kasol-the-unraveling-hippie-land-in-the-north-of-india/dsc00297/) [![DSC00300](https://eatpraylove1810.files.wordpress.com/2018/01/dsc00300.jpg?w=409&h=229 "DSC00300")](https://eatpraylove1810.wordpress.com/2018/02/06/kasol-the-unraveling-hippie-land-in-the-north-of-india/dsc00300/) [![DSC00311](https://eatpraylove1810.files.wordpress.com/2018/01/dsc00311.jpg?w=409&h=229 "DSC00311")](https://eatpraylove1810.wordpress.com/2018/02/06/kasol-the-unraveling-hippie-land-in-the-north-of-india/dsc00311/) [![DSC00315](https://eatpraylove1810.files.wordpress.com/2018/01/dsc00315.jpg?w=408&h=229 "DSC00315")](https://eatpraylove1810.wordpress.com/2018/02/06/kasol-the-unraveling-hippie-land-in-the-north-of-india/dsc00315/) #### Jim Morrison Cafe As the name sounded tempting we soon were heading in the direction of it. The road to this cafe wasn’t exactly a road rather it was a small trek up on the hills. Everything was pitch dark and a bit scary as we couldn’t see the proper way to move in a particular direction. We still kept our hopes high and followed a small group of people who were also headed into the same direction. We kept walking and eventually saw another board suggesting that the cafe was still 200 m away. We reached on top and there were still no signs of the cafe. Even that small crowd whom we went past seemed to have already given up on this little adventure to the cafe. Finally we see a small meadow, a very scary small path leading us somewhere, showing us some direction to move toward. As we already came this far we decided to keep going. We kept walking on the small path and out of nowhere we see a gigantic gate which at first we thought is a private house of someone local there. We were really scared to even walk any further as there was no way or path except for that huge gate. With some courage I knocked at the great door. Someone peeked out of it. We thought we really have landed into a private property and with a doubtful face I asked “Jim Morrison Cafe?”. To our great surprise the guy let us in. Finally a sigh of relief. I signaled at the mysterious crowd who were still following our lead, to get inside the great door. As we entered inside, there was a strange and dim ambience accompanied with a very amazing sound system and a projector screen on which they were broadcasting Johnny Depp’s *Black Mass.* What a movie it is! I felt for a second that none of this is real! Unlike an urban cafe which is full of crowd and noise, this place was quite with only sound of the movie on the projector. The sound of the movie was a mix of music and some dialogue. I looked around to find the prefect spot for us to sit and soon after we found a nice spot on the mattresses on the floor. Once we regained our senses was the moment when hunger strikes. As my husband ordered the best pancakes and pizza. There were some board games placed there which some of them were busy playing with while others smoked shisha (Hukkah). There were also some people who came there all alone and were busy in their laptops or books while rest were engrossed in conversations. ![13669162_921828964609288_5198488717259971625_n](https://eatpraylove1810.files.wordpress.com/2018/01/13669162_921828964609288_5198488717259971625_n.jpg?w=825 "- Couchsurfing Blog") We finished the movie, we had the delicious food and conversations before we left for our guest house through the same way that we came from, but this time with less fear as we already knew our way down. Once we got back to our guest house, all the shops on our way back were closed and number of people on the streets was reduced to almost 0. At night the river looked dark and musical. Looking at deep rivers, I feel connected to them as if they are trying to tell me a story about where they belong and where they come from. As if they are the only ones who have seen the topmost edges of the Himalayas. If only one could imagine what it would be like sitting on the summit of a rocky mountain and seeing the whole world unwind right in front of you in a circle!! It was 3 am yet the sound of the river convinced me to sit there in silence. For a while I just wanted to stop, take a deep breath and forget everything, forget that I ever have to return back home. With our exhausted minds and bodies, we crashed into our hotel room. #### Day 2 – Oh Magic View! The next morning we sat in the same restaurant ordered some breakfast and were thinking for our next course of action. Our initial plan was to stay only for a day in Kasol as everyone told us there isn’t much to do there and head for Manikaran which is another good place. But we were in love with the place and didn’t want to leave just yet. From the restaurant we could see a half broken bridge crossing the river just minutes from our guest house. So we decided to explore the other side of he bridge. We couldn’t resist the temptation that we saw in that adventure. We decided to take a leap. We prepared our little trek backpack and got ready in comfy clothes and shoes and headed towards the bridge. On our way there we had to cross the same streets that we saw last night and we stopped to buy some really cool stuff from there. They didn’t only sell clothes and jewelry, but also offered some cool hippie stuff like bongs, pipes and ashtrays that you can buy to gift someone. We bought an ashtray for our friends. We then got back onto our road towards the bridge. As we walked onto the bridge, it was the most amazing experience to be over the middle of the river. The bridge was easily 1000+ years old ? At least that’s what it looked like to me, and it had with a broken fence on one side. But I loved standing in the middle of it and inhaling the freshest air. We crossed to the other side and from there it’s your choice if you want to continue trekking or take a break and chill at a cafe along that way. We decided to walk towards a cafe called *Oh Magic View* which was a small trek on the way up. As we reached the cafe we were greeted with a friendly owner of the cafe who liked to call himself Chilluminati. We sat there relaxing, intrigued by the view which boasted of the glorious mountains all around. This guy played some of the best music and spent time with us along with some other friends of his sharing his funny stories. [![DSC00328](https://eatpraylove1810.files.wordpress.com/2018/01/dsc00328.jpg?w=821&h=461 "DSC00328")](https://eatpraylove1810.wordpress.com/2018/02/06/kasol-the-unraveling-hippie-land-in-the-north-of-india/dsc00328/) Finally we bid them adieu and decided to keep moving. As we moved ahead into densely forested village, we inquired with some people and found out that further ahead on the straight path was a small village called Chhalal. There were also other good places on top of the trek called Tosh village, Rasol etc. which we couldn’t cover this time but we promised ourselves to go there the next time whenever we come back. For now we headed for Chhalal. It was an interesting trek with some really great views on either side. On one side was the same river which kept us the company last night. As it wasn’t peak season, the crowd was really small and the cafes were either closed or had hardly any people in them. We stopped at another lonely cafe in the dense mountains of Chhalal after a few hours of trekking. As we were so tired I slept on one of the small beds meant for sitting. In the meantime, the cafe guy arrived with the world’s best freshly cooked white sauce Pasta and chicken sandwiches to satisfy our taste buds. We couldn’t thank him enough and left from there to come back to our guest house. It was late at night and we spent some time sitting outside listening to the sounds of the river. We sat there this time in silence and this is how our day ends. [![DSC00359](https://eatpraylove1810.files.wordpress.com/2018/01/dsc00359.jpg?w=408&h=408&crop=1 "DSC00359")](https://eatpraylove1810.wordpress.com/2018/02/06/kasol-the-unraveling-hippie-land-in-the-north-of-india/dsc00359/) The next morning we decided to end our Kasol trip here with heavy hearts and head toward our next destination– Old Manali. We had a lot less time on hand which we had managed to steal from our hectic work lives back in Singapore. We bid farewell to this beautiful, calm place. But we are going to come back! Best way to reach – 1\. Shimla to Kasol by car/taxi – 8 hours 2\. Delhi to Kullu by Air, From Kullu airport to Kasol by taxi – 2 hours Best place to stay – Alpine Guest House tariff 1500 INR Things to do – Trekking, Fishing, Cycling Attractions – Jim Morrison Cafe, Oh Magic View Cafe, German Bakery, Moon Dance Cafe ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/kasol-the-unraveling-hippie-land-in-the-north-of-india/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/kasol-the-unraveling-hippie-land-in-the-north-of-india/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Stories --- ### [Couchsurfing- Uniting People](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-uniting-people/) **Published:** April 16, 2018 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** Many of our friends in Couchsurfing know a little about the story, but when other people ask us, “so, how do you know each other?” The best answer is that we met in a social network where members use it to host each other while they’re traveling. For those who are not familiar with the subject, the idea of opening the doors of their home to receive a person who contacted them on the internet tends to be confusing and people often ask about the security of Couchsurfing. From the beginning I realized that I had found a fabulous tool to travel and also something that can cause some social change by promoting this gesture of hospitality to a stranger. Giving and trusting are values that really have to be preserved, especially in countries like Mexico where I am from. ## **How did I meet Couchsurfing?** It was in 2006 when I heard about Couchsurfing during a student exchange program in France. A friend told me about it just few days before I had the opportunity to leave my comfort zone and visit countries like Switzerland, Germany, The Netherlands and Belgium. I had some experience as a solo traveler, sometimes visiting relatives who live far away or friends in other cities, always staying in a hotel or hostel. To tell the truth, sending a couch request to a stranger was new in my life and a bit strange because the only thing that the other person could know about me was written on my profile. Now I have almost 12 years of Couchsurfing experience and there are many good stories to tell. I had the opportunity to meet amazing people and keep ties to them through the years, but my 1st experience is the most symbolic because it caused one of the greatest changes in my life. I arrived in Bern, Switzerland and was hosted by a guy who lent me one of his bicycles to ride into the city. We visited the Paul Klee museum, went out for drinks with his roommates and shared breakfast around a long and interesting talk. I never imagined that I would be crossing the Swiss capital by bicycle at midnight, or following a recommendation to discover the best fragrances in the city’s rose garden. After that trip where I met several strangers that made an impact on my life, I realized that it wasn’t fair to arrive with empty hands to a place that gladly opened their doors to me. So I started traveling with a bag of Maseca (corn flour) in my backpack and offered a Mexican dinner with the ingredients that I had around. I also got more involved in the cities where I settled and after a season in Toulouse, where I lived closely with people very committed to the community, I became an organizer of meetings in France and later in Mexico on my return. My goal was to bring together all the people who wanted share their time and exchange travel experiences and this way the members of the community can become closer and build a safer community. In one of those many meetings I met Eva, and after getting to know her in other events where I was the organizer, we ended up traveling together as well. In May 2016 me and Eva traveled to Europe. In every city we were hosted by those faces that I met years ago. Couchsurfing friends in other parts of Europe were inviting us to visit them. Couchsurfing is so much more than free accommodation! It is an investment of time to get to know another place through the person who hosts you, and the best way to return that favor is by giving a gift or leaving something personal with your hosts, like a postcard from your place of origin. Sometimes we ask our hosts if they would like something in particular from our region. Or sometimes we cook together, or even pay for a dinner. It’s a little gesture for those who take the time keep a space in their home for you. You can host travelers with the same emotion and detail that others hosts had with you. If you can’t host travelers, don’t worry, you can be their guide or go out together for a coffee or a beer. Couchsurfing has given me so much happiness. Knowing that I can visit many places in the world with the confidence that I will find someone that I met in another time, or find an unknown face that will eventually become familiar, and years later with whom I will share stories. Therefore, this community changed my life and introduced me to the person I most enjoy to travel with, that’s why I appreciate Couchsurfing so much. Original post at: https://losviajesdecarlosyeva.wordpress.com/2016/11/12/couchsurfing-uniendo-gente/ [![10 tulum](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/10-tulum-150x150.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/10-tulum.jpg) ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-uniting-people/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-uniting-people/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Stories --- ### [I planned my own event while visiting Reykjavik and this is what happened](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/i-planned-my-own-event-while-visiting-reykjavik-and-this-is-what-happened/) **Published:** March 20, 2018 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** Thanks to airline price wars that put flights to Europe at an all-time low during the summer of 2017, my one week cycling tour around the Netherlands became a three-week adventure abroad. I decided to take advantage of the increasingly popular stopover option offered by Iceland Air and Wow Airlines and had given myself 5 days in Iceland. Although I am not much of a planner when it comes to traveling, I did manage to find a CS host in Reykjavik, and also did some remedial research on things to do around this island that I knew almost nothing about. Through my preliminary research, I saw many mentions of these large, organized pub crawls which I thought sounded like a lot of fun. Unfortunately, they were only offered on Friday and Saturday nights and I was arriving in Reykjavik Saturday after midnight. I looked around some more and couldn’t find any similar events happening any other nights of the week. That’s when it hit me: surely there must be other travelers like myself who wouldn’t be in Reykjavik on Friday or Saturday who would also enjoy partaking in a fun event like this. I knew I had the perfect solution: to organize one myself. Luckily for me, Couchsurfing provides the perfect platform to organize your own event; be it a large gathering or perhaps you’re just looking for someone to share a ride with. You can plan any event and make it available and searchable to anyone who is nearby, or who plans to travel to the designated area. Without thinking twice, I went ahead and made the event and released it out there for the world to discover. I figured maybe one or two people would show up and we would have a great time. I was hoping for the best but wasn’t expecting much. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Screen-Shot-2018-02-12-at-3.20.58-PM.png "Screen Shot 2018-02-12 at 3.20.58 PM - Couchsurfing Blog") After a week of cycling by day and sleeping aboard a canal boat by night as I traveled through the Netherlands, I was finally back on some decent wifi at the Amsterdam airport. I was pleasantly surprised to see some RSVPs rolling in for the event that I had put out there a few weeks back. It was about 24 hours until the kick off of my event and I reached out the group to introduce myself and got the conversation going about where we should go the next night. I landed in Reykjavik just after midnight and took the shuttle into the city. From there I hopped in a cab and arrived at my host’s house. Baba greeted me and introduced me to this flatmate. I learned that they are both immigrants from Senegal and that Baba has lived in Iceland for nearly 8 years. It was clear how much they both love their new home country of Iceland and I immediately felt welcome and relaxed in my new home for the next 5 days. The next morning I awoke to an ambush of new messages and new RSVPs to the event. One girl named Kristin suggested we move our communications to WhatsApp and created a group chat for everyone to join. We then posted invite link for the WhatsApp group on the CS event page. This was a great idea and without a doubt made the rest of the planning so much easier. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/IMG_0967.jpg "IMG_0967 - Couchsurfing Blog")I had an amazing experience at Breidholtslaug a neighborhood poolBaba and I got ready to go visit his favorite neighborhood pool. I recalled reading about these infamous pools in my research and how they are a big part of Icelandic culture. Thankfully this article also covered the proper dressing room etiquette. This is something that they take very seriously so I was very glad that I was prepared. The experience at the pool was even better than expected. It was a beautiful yet rainy day and being in the water with a light rain falling from above was a truly magical experience. The outdoor pool deck included a large pool for swimming laps and also a section for just hanging out, a kids pool with toys and a water slide, a sauna, several hot tubs of varying temperatures and some deck chairs for those rare but wonderful sunny days. We moved around trying out all the different options for several hours, hopping from super hot to cold, to sauna, to warm, to hot and back to cold again. It was a wonderful experience not only to enjoy the facilities, but also to be a part of the local culture. While we were enjoying the hot tubs, I told Baba about my plan for the night. I was starting to get pretty excited as about 15 people has RSVP’d. Baba said he would love to join us for the evening and it was reassuring to know we would have at least one person along who knew the area better than I did. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/IMG_1003.jpg "IMG_1003 - Couchsurfing Blog")The crew at our first stop of the night Bar LebowskiThe WhatsApp group was really kicking off as people began sending suggestions for our first bar, along with introductions and photos from the day’s activities. The group was already beginning to take on a personality of it’s own and I grew more and more confident that we were in for a good night. We finally agreed to meet at Bar Lebowski at 9 pm. Bar Lebowski, as the name suggests, is known for their White Russians. Their menu goes far beyond the classic version, offering countless variations of the drink made famous by the movie *The Big Lebowski.* The group, which grew steadily throughout the evening was a good mix of locals, tourists and expats. I was pleased to discover that some of these locals had great suggestions on which bars to hit up next. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/IMG_1007.jpg "IMG_1007 - Couchsurfing Blog")A lovely view from the roof deck at LoftWe decided on our next stop and updated the WhatApp group so the latecomers could find us. We made our way to Loft, a hostel bar that sits atop HI hostel with great views and a roof deck. We enjoyed the deck for a few minutes before retreating back inside as it was getting colder by the minute as the sun was making its very slow descent. During our time at Loft we welcomed a few newcomers and picked up one additional person who was just hanging out at the bar. We also came up with our official signal that it was time to move on to the next place… the slow clap! ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/IMG_1027.jpg "IMG_1027 - Couchsurfing Blog")Most of the group at Loft a cozy hostel barThe next bar was probably one of my favorites because it was an authentic Icelandic bar called Islenski Barinn, full of many locals and not too many tourists. That is, until we arrived. I learned from another patron at the bar that the decor had been untouched since the 60s and that it was done in a typical Icelandic style. By that point in the night I really began to feel like something special was happening, and that our group of around 20 Couchsurfers and friends were really starting to hit it off and have a great time together. I couldn’t help but feel like a proud mother who brought all these wonderful people together for what was sure to be a pretty memorable night. My sentimental moment was short lived as my new Belgian friend, who works aboard a cruise ship, was pushing a shot into my hand as he had bought a round for the whole group! Shortly thereafter I began the slow clap. As the rest of the crew joined in, our applause gained momentum and ended with a boisterous cheer. It was time to move on. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/IMG_1019.jpg "IMG_1019 - Couchsurfing Blog")We eventually learned that the following day was a holiday and that many locals had the day offWe carried on to several other bars, and also managed to make a stop for a late-night snack. We finally ended up at what appeared to be a street festival. Hundreds of people were out in the street, directly in front of two very popular bars– The Dubliner and Gaukurinn. There was a stage, decorative string lights, and some drinks being sold on the sidewalk. We enjoyed the festivities for a while and then moved inside for some Karaoke at Gaukurinn. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/IMG_1022-e1518478356137.jpg "IMG_1022 - Couchsurfing Blog")Suns coming up time to head homeAs the sun began to rise, one by one the pub-crawlers began to head home. Everyone said their goodbyes and thanked me for organizing such a fun night. Many of them expressed that they were surprised at what a success it had become, and I honestly had to agree! My little event, with no real plan laid out, somehow managed to keep 20 Couchsurfers together until roughly 5am. I hope this little story of one fun-filled night around Reykjavik will be a source of inspiration for you on your next big adventure. It doesn’t take any special skills, or even any knowledge of the area, for that matter, to plan a great event! Just give it your best shot and hope for the best. If you’re lucky like I was, an amazing group of friendly travelers will be more than happy to join in on the fun. This post was written by a member of the Couchsurfing community. The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or opinion of Couchsurfing. To share your own story, visit our [Community Stories](http://10.9.0.204/community-stories) page. We can’t wait to hear from you! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/i-planned-my-own-event-while-visiting-reykjavik-and-this-is-what-happened/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/i-planned-my-own-event-while-visiting-reykjavik-and-this-is-what-happened/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Community Updates, Events, Stories --- ### [Hosting from the backroads of the American Deep South](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/hosting-from-the-backroads-of-the-american-deep-south/) **Published:** February 1, 2018 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** > “I always remember a country by its people, so we want to surf to meet ‘The Real America’!” I received this message while living in a crossroads town in the Mississippi Delta called Tallulah. It came from a Dutch guy named Joost, who was road-tripping from Chicago to New Orleans with his friends Bob and Rolf. *Well Joost*, I thought, butchering his name in my head. *You’re gonna see some type of America alright.* ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/IMG_4824-300x225.jpg "IMG_4824 - Couchsurfing Blog")Downtown TallulahTo save you the trouble of scrounging for Tallulah on a map, I’ll just tell you where it is: It’s located in the northeastern corner of Louisiana, where the state joins with Mississippi and Arkansas. The closest international airport is about four hours south in New Orleans, and typically the only out-of-towners who come through are truckers taking a pit stop. It’s not, as you can imagine, a place that attracts many Couchsurfers. Nevertheless, I kept my account active when I moved to Tallulah in 2015. It was mostly so that I could surf while on weekend escape-trips; I never imagined I’d actually host anyone. With both a population and per-capita GDP of around 7,000, Tallulah is not on anyone’s bucket list. Packs of stray dogs prowl the gravel roads, the main street shops are broken and abandoned, and for some reason people are always burning trash in their backyards. So while I accepted Joost’s request, I added a warning: “there’s really not much to do here, but it’s a window into small-town America that shocked even me when I moved here.” The three guys arrived, and we set off to one of Louisiana’s finest establishments: the local drive-through daiquiri shop. You might be thinking, “hey, that sounds like it should be illegal!” and surely you’d be right, but there’s nothing more Louisiana than cruising around the backroads with a three dollar, 24-ounce concoction of sugar and rum. “Y’all from Europe?” the guy at the window asked, staring incredulously at their ID’s. “What on Earth y’all doin’ here?” ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Captura-de-pantalla-2018-01-15-a-las-9.24.47-AM-300x200.png "Captura de pantalla 2018-01-15 a la(s) 9.24.47 AM - Couchsurfing Blog")Tallulahs drive through daiquiri shop from Google street viewIn their two days in Tallulah, Joost, Bob, and Rolf were able to see the site of a major Civil War battle, an old plantation home, and the many miles of cotton fields that surround the town. They also saw the neighborhoods across the tracks, where old ladies sit behind mosquito nets on dilapidated porches and wave at passersby. Later, when I asked Joost what he thought about his stay in Tallulah, he said: “It wasn’t exactly the American dream over there.” It may not have been the American dream, but the Mississippi Delta holds the heart of American history. It was here where, just 150 years ago, plantations lined the River and slave-labor made the country rich. It is the hot, humid underbelly of my country, replete with swamps and barbecue and slow, rich music. Joost described is as “the darker side of the US, and the sweetness it brings out in people.” As it turns out, the three of them really enjoyed themselves. I couldn’t show Joost and his friends a Brooklyn loft or a Malibu house party, but I could show them a place they would’ve never happened upon were it not for Couchsurfing. After all, a drive-through daiquiri beats a $15 cocktail any day. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/IMG_2876-288x300.jpg "IMG_2876 - Couchsurfing Blog")Joost Bob and Rolf along their travels--- This post was written by a member of the Couchsurfing community. The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or opinion of Couchsurfing. To share your own story, visit our [Community Stories](http://10.9.0.204/community-stories) page. We can’t wait to hear from you! [See more by Becca on Medium](https://medium.com/@beclev623) [![IMG_4824](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/IMG_4824-150x150.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/IMG_4824.jpg) [![Captura de pantalla 2018-01-15 a la(s) 9.24.47 AM](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Captura-de-pantalla-2018-01-15-a-las-9.24.47-AM-150x150.png)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Captura-de-pantalla-2018-01-15-a-las-9.24.47-AM.png) [![IMG_2876](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/IMG_2876-150x150.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/IMG_2876.jpg) ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/hosting-from-the-backroads-of-the-american-deep-south/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/hosting-from-the-backroads-of-the-american-deep-south/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Community Updates, Stories --- ### [Couchsurfing great even for seniors](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-great-even-for-seniors/) **Published:** February 5, 2018 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** A word to seniors who may be pondering joining Couchsurfing and wondering about its value. I have now CSed in 4 countries: Egypt, Bolivia, Brazil and USA Virginia and have found it to be enlightening and an excellent way to engage with local people eager to host foreigners passing through. It has been a totally non commercial way to meet people genuinely interested in helping improve my visit, whether meeting me for a stroll, a meal together, a drive around town or hosting me for the night. I very much look forward to more CS experiences on travel to Haiti and other places. I have only recently learned there is a group on Couchsurfing for people 50+ years of age and will look into it. The CS experience helps broaden minds, so I say bravo. --- This post was written by a member of the Couchsurfing community. The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or opinion of Couchsurfing. To share your own story, visit our [Community Stories](http://10.9.0.204/community-stories) page. We can’t wait to hear from you! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-great-even-for-seniors/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-great-even-for-seniors/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Advice --- ### [2017 in Scary Moments and What I Learned From Them](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/2017-in-scary-moments-and-what-i-learned-from-them/) **Published:** February 10, 2018 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** 2017 was a scary year. From getting an IUD, to traveling solo to 3 countries for nearly 3 months, to getting a mastectomy, these scary moments taught me to make the most of each situation. Here’s a breakdown of the year by month and what I learned from each. ## January I learned that it is possible to miss a flight and not get your money back. I had bought a one-way ticket from Seattle to Cape Town through Gotogate.com for about $600, which had seemed too good to be true. On the day of my flight, I had to drive from Moses Lake, WA to the Seattle airport (a 3 hour drive). It turned out that massive amounts of snow, freezing rain, and ice would shut down the highway. I drove my blue Subaru Outback the roundabout way for about 7 hours straight, and I still missed my flight. Gotogate.com refused to put me on another flight. Needless to say, I’m never doing business with them again. That night, I booked a ticket to DC instead, and moved there. Shout out to my Wellesley fam for hosting me for months while I job searched! Oh, and while moving to DC on inauguration was not fun, the Women’s March made it all worth it. https://www.instagram.com/p/BPiHM6djapN/?taken-by=vulnerabletraveler ## February I learned that getting the types of jobs I am qualified for on paper without a master’s degree in DC is ROUGH. Almost everyone I know here has a master’s, and while I often made it to the final rounds of interviews, I was told I didn’t get several jobs various recruiters simply because the other candidates had master’s degrees and I didn’t. This is why I’ve started studying for the GRE and I plan to take it by February. It’s something concrete that I feel like I’ve needed to work on. Meanwhile, I applied to work as a bike tour guide for DC Bike and Roll. After having been on a Bogota Graffiti Tour last year, I was inspired to become a tour guide. I had just moved to DC and I became Bike and Roll’s first hire of the year. ## March I learned that the cherry blossoms were scheduled to bloom the first week of April, but that they would bloom around Mid March this year. I also learned that taking three bike tours in one day through the cherry blossom festival was just about as stressful as a day of teaching (shout out to all the teachers for doing what I couldn’t do for very long). https://www.instagram.com/p/BSNDzk9DEMI/?taken-by=vulnerabletraveler ## April I learned that Facebook can be life changing and that [the best meal of my life was in China](http://charstoever.com/2017/05/14/the-best-food-of-my-life-was-in-china/). A friend had tagged me in a Facebook post asking for someone to go on a last-minute work trip to recruit high schoolers to enroll in American schools, and I sent in my resume. Before I knew it, I was lining up at the Chinese consulate in DC at 7:30 AM, applying for a rush visa, and getting a 10-year visa with a glowing Great Wall of China stamped into my passport. The only other Asian country I’d visited was Japan in 2013, so I was excited to go some place new. This was also the first time that I’d be flown to a different country for work. Boy, did we fly. We went to four different cities in a week, but it was still unforgettable. https://www.instagram.com/p/BS2SHFND36L/?taken-by=vulnerabletraveler ## May I learned that it is possible to still feel like a woman but to feel gender dysphoria in the sense of no longer wanting breasts. In 2011, when I was studying abroad in France, a doctor had even signed off on my breast reduction. I wasn’t quite ready to undergo the process yet, so I tabled that desire. In DC, where I felt comfortable exploring my dysphoria again, I began seeing a therapist, my primary care physician, and a breast surgeon. Initially I had just gone in for a reduction, but deep down I felt that I wanted a mastectomy, but that society wouldn’t be ready for it. Then, after speaking with a friend who had undergone top surgery, I knew it was something I wanted to do. I don’t need to ask society’s permission. I also began a full time job, which taught me that it takes a LONG time to plan trips in advance. I also learned about the wonders of nitro coffee, which my workplace supplied on tap. ## June I learned that the Wellesley College reunion, which only lasts 3 days, needs to last 3 weeks. Before going, I was scared that everyone would be asking me about my ten-year plan. That was not the case. I saw so many people I hadn’t seen in five years that I wished I really had more time with them. When I did catch up with the amazing people at this predominantly women’s college, I also realized how grateful I was to be in a place where people would look me in the eye while talking to me, and they would focus on the ideas I was saying instead of focusing on how I looked or what I was wearing. It was so nice to be around such amazing people and to not worry nearly as much as I thought I would about explaining where I was in my career. https://www.instagram.com/p/BVUtg-9jUg2/?taken-by=vulnerabletraveler ## July I learned that getting an IUD to control my periods is something I should have done ten years ago. Yes, it was an uncomfortable process, but the pain of one hour was nothing compared to the accumulated pain of having periods. While getting heavy periods was a motivator, I was also motivated to get one before this presidency makes it illegal to do so. By now, my periods are super light and much more manageable. Also, since I don’t had a photo of the IUD, I’ll add one and a fun fact I learned about myself: Whenever I have friends visit, I always want to get a diet coke with them (caffeine free, please, because I am actually a 99-year-old woman who cannot afford feeling heart palpitations in the afternoon). https://www.instagram.com/p/BWjSWyGgWYk/?taken-by=vulnerabletraveler ## August I learned what all the buzz was about with solar eclipses. Once I saw the magic in the Pacific Northwestern Sky I grew up under, even if for two brief minutes, I stopped assuming eclipses were just something privileged white people make a big deal about. https://www.instagram.com/p/BYEGwTDAGKA/?taken-by=vulnerabletraveler ## September I learned that anything really can change in an instant. On September 1st, being the confident Virgo that I am, I wrote on Facebook: “It’s virgoing to be a great month.” Minutes later, I was laid off. I packed up my Wellesley Poster and newly purchased succulent plant from Trader Joe’s, and took an Uber from my office. I was in shock, then denial, then felt relieved. Something told me this was my second chance to go to South Africa. I decided I’d leave for 2.5 months, so I subletted my room for exactly that amount of time, and bought another one-way ticket, this time from DC to Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe. On September 15th, I was flying on Ethiopian airlines with a row of seats entirely to myself, and surrounded by Ethiopian families chatting happily. I made it to Victoria Falls, and my Zimbabwean roommate in DC, Anesu, set me up with some friends in Vic Falls who picked me up from the airport. I ended up Couchsurfing with a man named Martin who is no stranger to Couchsurfing and I appreciate him putting me up for nearly a week. A few days later, I ended up walking across the nearby border to Zambia to save money on my only outdoor activity in the country, and still paying over $100 to swim at [The Devil’s Pool](http://charstoever.com/2017/09/23/the-devils-pool-victoria-falls-what-to-know-before-jumping-in/), a small natural pool at the top of Victoria Falls. While I didn’t go on a safari after paying this much to jump in a pool of water, I have no regrets. That was one of the proudest, most exhilarating moments of my life! I’ll never forget looking over at the other side of the falls and seeing the hundreds of little waterfalls that had formed from the falls’ spray. I heard them singing to me and I teared up. https://www.instagram.com/p/BZVkbaqnORi/?taken-by=vulnerabletraveler ## October I learned that I would finally make it to South Africa after the third try (Oh yes! I had applied to research Art Therapy in Cape Town through the Fulbright program but was rejected in 2015), and that being there was just what I needed to learn about its complex history. Speaking of history, in you’re ever in South Africa, please don’t just go to Cape Town. If you have time, Johannesburg is worth a visit. The Apartheid Museum was one of my favorites, and tells a story that everyone should learn about. The fact that Nelson Mandela was in prison for as long as I’ve been alive (27 years) is still something I still struggle to wrap my head around. He was an incredible leader. Anyway, Cape Town really is as stunning as everyone says it is. The views from Table Mountain are incredible, but the hike itself was not. I wish I’d taken my time on the hike up. The “trail” consists of rocks I spend over two hours climbing up. It’s not a pleasant, leisurely hike. Shortly after hiking Table Mountain, I found out that my Medicaid approved me for getting my mastectomy, and I booked my surgery date for December 15th. At the end of October, I also booked my one-way ticket to Rio de Janeiro. https://www.instagram.com/p/BaZcjuAn0E1/?taken-by=vulnerabletraveler ## November I learned that getting my Mexican passport in September was the best decision I’d made in order to avoid the visa process and fees that U.S. citizens deal with when they go to Brazil. In September, I didn’t know I’d be traveling to Brazil, but it wouldn’t hurt to get a Mexican Passport just in case. As a kid, I’d always wanted to see South Africa, Brazil, and Russia. Since I’d made part of my childhood dreams come true, why not keep going? I had the money I’d saved from riding my bike and cooking consistently over the years, so the money was the only thing stopping me. I ended up staying in Rio, Belo Horizonte, and Salvador, all big cities and all very different from one another. Geographically, Rio is the prettiest city I’ve ever laid eyes on. Belo Horizonte was covered in street art and was the easiest city to find hosts in (I ended up staying with 4 different hosts). Salvador radiated with a sense of black power that I wish all of my friends, especially my black friends, could see. I was in Salvador during the month of black consciousness, so my Couchsurfing host, Claudiane, took me to a march and a concert, where I was easily the whitest person there, but it wasn’t about me. Not at all. I felt welcome the entire time I was there. Thank you, Claudiane, for hosting me. Thank you for showing me the photo of you with your graduating class. I assumed all of your classmates were black, since most of the people in the city are black, but once I saw your photo, you were the only black woman in a class of about 50. You’re an inspiration. Last, I already new that people don’t want to others to assume things about them, but appreciated the time my host brother reminded me of how much he wants others to know Brazil for more than just beaches and Carnival. https://www.instagram.com/p/BbamhuVHRCm/?taken-by=vulnerabletraveler ## December I learned how difficult it would have been to recover from surgery without the support of my amazing friends. Having friends show up and put straws in my drinks, or take out the trash because my t-rex arms can’t handle it yet, has made a world of a difference during my recovery process. I’m excited to be able to work out again. I still cannot lift much at all, so walking is as much activity as my body can handle right now. It still feels strange to walk around without a bra. I’m barely two weeks post-op, but I’m excited for what’s to come. I’m excited to go on a run without a bra, to buy new clothes, and to never have to go bra shopping ever again. https://www.instagram.com/p/Bcvh9DGFaBG/?taken-by=vulnerabletraveler With that, I’ll leave you with one of my favorite quotes: > “I’ve been absolutely terrified every moment of my life and I’ve never let it keep me from doing a single thing that I wanted to do.” > -Georgia O’Keefe Bring on all of the scary moments, 2018! --- This post was written by a member of the Couchsurfing community. The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or opinion of Couchsurfing. To share your own story, visit our [Community Stories](http://10.9.0.204/community-stories) page. We can’t wait to hear from you! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/2017-in-scary-moments-and-what-i-learned-from-them/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/2017-in-scary-moments-and-what-i-learned-from-them/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Stories --- ### [A very cultural week](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-very-cultural-week/) **Published:** February 14, 2018 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** Hey travel addicts! My husband Dan and I are happy travel addicts too! We have visited many countries. I think at the last count it was around 35. Anyway, although we rarely stay with Couchsurfing hosts, we do frequently host Couchsurfers, or meet up with them in different locations around the world. We have attended Couchsurfing meetups in Mexico, Vienna, China and elsewhere. [In my blog,](http://www.rsheffer.wordpress.com) you can read about these meetups and about people we have hosted. I think the best way to visit a city is with a local. One meetup was with Sima in Mexico City. Here is a short excerpt of two meetings in Mexico City: “We then messaged Sima, who said that she lived nearby in Coyoacán district and would come and meet us in a restaurant. We waited for her for a long time in the restaurant, by which time we were starving, and not sure what had happened to her (traffic) so we had a soup and finally she arrived. She poured out her long and involved life story to us and took us on a walking tour of Coyoacan, which was great, especially the food market.” And another meeting: “In Mexico City we saw murals by Diego Rivera, Frida’s husband, in the Palacio de Bellas Artes (with another Couchsurfer called Miguel Noguera) and also in Tlalpan, an area of the city far from the centre, which our friend Francisco took us to by car. It seems that the whole city is full of artwork. It’s quite overwhelming. But we also did some more prosaic sightseeing, or so we thought. The market of Sonora, was in fact very weird. At first it looked like any other market, but at the back there are some stalls that sell witchcraft and voodoo items, which we were not supposed to photograph, but I managed anyway (hope I am not jinxed now).” And this post was about our Couchsurfing meetup meal in Vienna: “In the evening we attended a meeting of Vienna Couchsurfing at a small bar, and met people from Vienna, Spain, Colombia, Finland and even Syria and Palestine. It was fun but hard to talk to everyone as there were so many people. When we left it was pouring rain so we took a taxi home, as we were not sure how to navigate the tram. The third day was spent entirely at the amazing Imperial Palace the Hofburg, which has several different parts, and it is difficult to see everything if you don’t want to be “castled out”. Since we’re not big animal fans, we passed on the Riding school. But if you are a horse person you can do that. We saw the Silver collection and the Sissi Apartments, which show a peek into the lives of Franz Josef and his young wife Elizabeth (the Sissi of the movie fame) and it was a very interesting experience and made me want to brush up on my history. Everything was fascinating and beautifully laid out. We then returned to the Naschmarkt for supper to get a bit of Stir fry and practice our Chinese on the waiters.” ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/party-300x200.jpg "party - Couchsurfing Blog") If you want to read more about wonderful meetings we have had with Couchsurfers around the world please visit my blog www.rsheffer.wordpress.com You will learn more about us and our way of travel! Good traveling, Couchsurfers everywhere. --- This post was written by a member of the Couchsurfing community. The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or opinion of Couchsurfing. To share your own story, visit our [Community Stories](http://10.9.0.204/community-stories) page. We can’t wait to hear from you! [![sima](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/sima-150x150.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/sima.jpg) [![party](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/party-150x150.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/party.jpg) ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-very-cultural-week/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-very-cultural-week/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Stories --- ### [My wonderful Couchsurfing experience](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/my-wonderful-couchsurfing-experience/) **Published:** February 20, 2018 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** Hey everyone. I’m Maca, a 23 year old journalist. I born and live in Antofagasta, a city in the north of Chile. When I started to live on my own I decided to use this app to host people. I’ve always been curious about other cultures and I hate the routine so… My first surfer was a German (the guy with me in the picture). The next one was French and after that I can’t remember the order of the next people who visited my place! I’ve had wonderful experiences! I’ve met incredible people. I’m pretty sure that most of the people using this app share the same spirit of freedom and love. I feel this almost every time that I have the opportunity to host or surf. I’m glad to have the knowledge that most of us here have wanderlust because of our desire and impulse to get out of our comfort zone by traveling, and not just like a tourist. We have the talent to adapt ourselves to the local lifestyle and we enjoy it, don’t we? We love learning and discovering new things. Couchsurfing is an amazing network of people with similar interests and it’s amazing. We help each other, we’re friends, we’re family. I’m so glad to know this truth. This means a lot to me and makes me grateful. Guys, I just want to wish you all the best on your adventures wherever you go! Travel as much as you can and meet all the lovely people on your way. Money can’t buy this! Good luck! --- This post was written by a member of the Couchsurfing community. The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or opinion of Couchsurfing. To share your own story, visit our [Community Stories](http://10.9.0.204/community-stories) page. We can’t wait to hear from you! [![4D865159-DF1E-4798-83C2-1BCE1A10DA66](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/4D865159-DF1E-4798-83C2-1BCE1A10DA66-150x150.jpeg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/4D865159-DF1E-4798-83C2-1BCE1A10DA66.jpeg) ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/my-wonderful-couchsurfing-experience/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/my-wonderful-couchsurfing-experience/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Stories --- ### [How I almost didn't fall in love with Couchsurfing](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/how-i-almost-didnt-fall-in-love-with-couchsurfing/) **Published:** March 1, 2018 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** As a Nicaraguan, you grow up with fear. Fear that your family, your friends, your co-workers and people in general put in your head. Fear of uncertainty, to leave the comfort of your home. Fear of living. I have had the privilege of having an economically stable family in an economically unstable country, but I have also been curious. My mother told me that when I was born, I was not crying, but that my eyes were wide open; I wanted to see everything. 22 years later, I still want to see everything. I want to read about the history of Papua New Guinea, I want to talk to an evangelical pastor, I want to hitchhike around South America, I want to eat falafel in Egypt; I want to do everything that can be done in a lifetime. And in December of 2014 I made my first “great trip” alone. And I use the quote marks because it was not so big, it was only a month, but for me that was crazy. For me, going to Europe alone with a backpack was absolutely crazy. But it was just the beginning. While planning some details of the trip, my aunt – with whom I share interests such as traveling – recommended me to try Couchsurfing. I had never heard of that and when I found it, it did not convince me either. I wrote to a couple of people in some cities I was going to visit but I did not receive a response of ten or twelve that I sent. I had given up before trying. But then, when there were only a few days left to go on my trip, I decided to check that webpage again. Now I wrote to about twenty people in Rome in one night; I had to receive at least one response! And so I did! But almost all of them were negative. Almost everyone either traveling or going to host someone else. I was about to give up once more until Maria, a Russian student from St. Petersburg without any references, with a very empty profile and with only two or three photos, replied to me. It seemed strange to me. I was not excited. I thought they would end up trafficking my organs in some remote country far in the East. But then Maria proposed to have a conversation over Skype before my arrival and I already felt that all this Couchsurfing was a little more real. The thing is that I went out with my backpack and eventually arrived in Rome. Everything was so … old and full of history. Part of the curiosity I told you about includes a deep interest in universal history, and just walking in Rome is living history. Also, a few years ago I had learned basic Italian and I was dying to practice it. I still remember going into a restaurant (because pizza obviously had to be the first meal I would try in Italy), order in Italian and after I ate it, saying «questa é la migliore pizza che io ho mangiato in tutta la mia vita». That cliché moment felt so well; I felt like I was living a story I had already read or seen in a movie. Anyway, I agreed to meet Maria at her apartment at 5:00 p.m. I arrived there around 4:30 p.m., more or less. And waited. And it was five o’clock and I was still waiting. And it was almost six and I was still waiting. And it was January and it was getting very cold for my tropical taste. And it was already past six when I decided to go and find a hostel, and it was just when I was turning in the corner of the street where Maria lived when I met her. If I had left fifteen seconds before, I would not have seen her and would never have done Couchsurfing. The following days with Maria were just great. She was very busy but she managed to find a lot of time to be with me, to take me to places that only the people who live there know. We watched movies, we talked about our countries, we drank wine; all the time we spent together was memorable. I loved the concept of Couchsurfing and I did not want any more hostels, so I did it a few weeks later in Prague and, again, I had an incredible experience. At the beginning of February I returned to Nicaragua and the first thing I did was to update my profile. Soon after, requests began to arrive and I immediately accepted Robert, the German guy from Dortmund. Again: an incredible experience with a very good person, super fun and full of stories. I clearly remember when we went out and he underestimated Nicaraguan rum and got super wasted. Three years later, surfers have hosted me around ten times and I have hosted some forty or fifty people and they have all been good people, good experiences – moments I’ll never forget. Just this week were two Spanish sisters and a Czech guy at home. My family loves all the backpackers who stay at my house and I think I have become addicted to Couchsurfing. I can’t always travel, but to know these people who bring so many positive energies, who are full of adventures, who are curious, it’s almost like traveling from my house. --- This post was written by a member of the Couchsurfing community. The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or opinion of Couchsurfing. To share your own story, visit our [Community Stories](http://10.9.0.204/community-stories) page. We can’t wait to hear from you! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/how-i-almost-didnt-fall-in-love-with-couchsurfing/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/how-i-almost-didnt-fall-in-love-with-couchsurfing/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Stories --- ### [The Piñata Adventure](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-pinata-adventure/) **Published:** March 6, 2018 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/1931497_10154380521818998_4415607258674468003_n.jpg "1931497_10154380521818998_4415607258674468003_n - Couchsurfing Blog") On boxing day, while going through the hour-long (which eventually totaled 4.5 hours) questioning (with a complementary body search, of course) in Cyprus flying to Tel Aviv, the Israeli officers asked, *“Why would you use Couchsurfing? What would the host get out of it?”* *“Well, for the cultural exchange! Don’t you think it’s amazing to be able to visit a country, and actually hang out with the locals? Learning about their lives, their thoughts, their country?”* To the Israelis, having faith in basic human compassion while interacting with strangers might be a very alien concept, even terrorist-like. But to me, that’s the most valuable asset of Couchsurfing- to be able to experience life in faraway lands, through the native’s eyes. And I’m saying this as someone who has lived on 4 continents, visited 56 countries, and is working with people with more than 60 nationalities. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/10330340_10154390991743998_7120191626820733403_n.jpg "10330340_10154390991743998_7120191626820733403_n - Couchsurfing Blog") 2 and a half years ago, I decided to move to Mexico. I had never been to Latin America prior to that, and I had never even visited the Hispanic world. Like any relatively well-off immigrant, I travelled quite a bit, all over the country. Mostly alone, sometimes with Mexican *amigos*. Yet, none of my experiences were remotely comparable to what I experienced with a Couchsurfing host in the state of Michoacan. I was told that its capital, Morelia, was an impressive colonial town with a sea of historical buildings. And that was what I expected of the trip, to just go around, observing the beautiful ancient sites. Logging into Couchsurfing, I found only a handful of potential hosts in the area, but luckily, one of them got back to me quickly. He didn’t actually live in the city, but he said he’d drive me to his place. I wasn’t sure what to expect. At the coach station, there he was waiting for me, yearning to show me around his wonderful town. When the night fell, we headed to his house where he treated me to a private room. So far, so good. *“Tomorrow I’m going to my hometown to spend Christmas with my family. Would you like to come along?”* *“Sure.”* Being around 14,000 km away from home, it’s not like I had anything else to do anyway. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/10660190_10154390991143998_3081205725675066314_n.jpg "10660190_10154390991143998_3081205725675066314_n - Couchsurfing Blog") His hometown Zacapu was a peaceful town with some nice lakes and a crater. The small town was far from the tourist trail, so getting there was already interesting enough. Little did I know that the best was yet to come. And I’m not even talking about the amazing aguachile his brother gave me at his restaurant. It was only my fourth month in the former Spanish territory, and I knew practically nothing about Mexican culture. One of the first things I learned immediately was how big their families were. My host took me around the town, introducing me not only to his parents, but also his gazillion other relatives, before finally gathering all together at the home of one if this Aunts. They weren’t wealthy- their lavatory didn’t even have a seat, but that was a part of what made it so special- to be able to go out of one’s comfort zone while still remaining perfectly safe. The children, and there were like a million of them, kept telling me their names. It turned out I was the very first non-Spanish-speaking person they had ever met! Then they started singing Christmas songs and hitting the piñatas, running around, while the adults had a beef soup and drank. It was not like any Christmas I had experienced before, or even seen in the movies! It was such an authentic experience, and one that I never would have been exposed to without Couchsurfing. Now *this* is what I reckon to be the most fascinating aspect of the site- not the free accommodation or guide, but the possibility to immerse oneself into a foreign environment, all while staying perfectly safe! ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/1935807_10154382678513998_1645454851828447712_n.jpg "1935807_10154382678513998_1645454851828447712_n - Couchsurfing Blog") *Mtro. Prof. Hilary L. Chow FRAS is a fellow of Royal Asiatic Society, a British international school teacher in Mexico, a sometime* [*musician*](http://www.youtube.com/chowlokhei)*, and the blogger at the travel blog*[ *jagged little earth*](https://jaggedlittleearth.wordpress.com)*.* --- This post was written by a member of the Couchsurfing community. The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or opinion of Couchsurfing. To share your own story, visit our [Community Stories](http://10.9.0.204/community-stories) page. We can’t wait to hear from you! [![10485282_10154384539833998_2293919446329140846_n](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/10485282_10154384539833998_2293919446329140846_n-150x150.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/10485282_10154384539833998_2293919446329140846_n.jpg) [![10660190_10154390991143998_3081205725675066314_n](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/10660190_10154390991143998_3081205725675066314_n-150x150.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/10660190_10154390991143998_3081205725675066314_n.jpg) [![10330340_10154390991743998_7120191626820733403_n](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/10330340_10154390991743998_7120191626820733403_n-150x150.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/10330340_10154390991743998_7120191626820733403_n.jpg) [![1935807_10154382678513998_1645454851828447712_n](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/1935807_10154382678513998_1645454851828447712_n-150x150.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/1935807_10154382678513998_1645454851828447712_n.jpg) [![1931497_10154380521818998_4415607258674468003_n](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/1931497_10154380521818998_4415607258674468003_n-150x150.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/1931497_10154380521818998_4415607258674468003_n.jpg) [![921059_10154390992843998_8177352957337846333_o](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/921059_10154390992843998_8177352957337846333_o-150x150.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/921059_10154390992843998_8177352957337846333_o.jpg) [![7515_10154384539528998_8328876805431078397_n](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/7515_10154384539528998_8328876805431078397_n-150x150.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/7515_10154384539528998_8328876805431078397_n.jpg) ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-pinata-adventure/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-pinata-adventure/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Stories --- ### [2018 is My Family's 10th Anniversary of Hosting Couchsurfers from Around the World](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/2018-is-my-familys-10th-anniversary-of-hosting-couchsurfers-from-around-the-world/) **Published:** March 12, 2018 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** Hello CSers, We are greeting to you from Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia to say we already have 10 wonderful years of Couchsurfing behind us. In the last 10 years we hosted more than 500 travelers from 50 countries. We host in order to share our Mongolian lifestyle and to get to know the civilization of the people who come to stay with us. I will always remember that day when I learned about the “connecting travelers with locals” website. It was July 8, 2008 when I learned about Couchsurfing by meeting my American friend Andrew Judkins. My Couchsurfers have always been happy to meet my family. They happily joined my daily life– bringing water, feeding cows, cooking together, playing games, teaching music, dancing and sharing stories. Now we have 7 guestbooks from Couchsurfers. These books include local tips and lots of helpful information about traveling the world. It was started by my 4th guests– 2 French friends, David and Aude-so. 2018 marks our 10th year of hosting, and our first guests of the year were Pere from Spain and Tim from France. They happily lived with and entertained my family from the 8th to 12th of January, 2018. We cooked and ate healthy food, went sledding on the fresh snow and played basketball. We are very grateful for their warmth and attention to my family, and for contributing by cooking and by helping with the household chores. This lifestyle of meeting new people through Couchsurfing is such a great way to make a happy and lucky life. Me and my wife would love to keep up the habit of a long, healthy life by hosting and being guests. Couchurfing can change the world by inspiring people to live more healthily and with a positive mind! --- This post was written by a member of the Couchsurfing community. The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or opinion of Couchsurfing. To share your own story, visit our [Community Stories](http://10.9.0.204/community-stories) page. We can’t wait to hear from you! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/2018-is-my-familys-10th-anniversary-of-hosting-couchsurfers-from-around-the-world/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/2018-is-my-familys-10th-anniversary-of-hosting-couchsurfers-from-around-the-world/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Stories --- ### [Why travelling with little money is the best](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/why-travelling-with-little-money-is-the-best/) **Published:** March 18, 2018 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** Dan Kieran writes in [*The Idle Traveller*](http://amzn.to/2xpy3ac)*:* > If you have to rely on other people, you are forced to be open and engage with them, which quickly spreads the notion of friendship and community. One person leads you to another further along your path or pushes you in a slightly different direction from the one you were imagining. It is a loss of control, but an entirely life-affirming and liberating one. If, on the other hand, you have plenty of money and no need of anyone’s help, you can venture all over the world without meeting a single local person. And I agree. If I had enough money to stay in hotels all the time, I would never have tried **[Couchsurfing](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/andreas_lawyer)**, where I met plenty of inspiring and helpful people. They often made my trips much more interesting than they would have been without local contacts. This summer for example, I stayed with a young Couchsurfing host in Abkhazia, who took me to galleries and exhibitions and introduced me to artists, academics and even the former Foreign Minister of the country. If I had stayed in a hotel, I wouldn’t have experienced any of this. (In my experience, [AirBnB](http://www.airbnb.de/c/amoser104) hosts don’t have as much time/interest as Couchsurfing hosts, but that may also be due to the travelers’ preferences.) If I had enough money to rent a car, I would never stand by the side of the road and hope for a stranger to invite me into their car. A particularly nice driver in Montenegro even invited me to his home, prepared a meal and drinks and gave me a bunch of presents before taking me exactly where I needed to go. In Bolivia, I was [walking in the mountains](https://andreasmoser.blog/2017/03/09/adventure/) when a truck with miners stopped to take me through a breathtakingly beautiful valley. The most **hitchhiking-friendly** place so far was Easter Island: cars, quads, pick-up trucks sometimes even stopped without me trying to hitchhike. “Jump in,” the drivers said without asking for my destination, because all roads lead to the only town on the island anyway. In Brazil, I even caught a ride on a helicopter. If I had enough money for a car, I wouldn’t have **spent a freezing night at the train station** in Romania that lead to a very [memorable encounter](https://andreasmoser.blog/2016/11/17/the-homeless-non-beggar/). If I had enough money for restaurants all the time, I would never buy food from the market and **eat in the park**, where people sit down next to me and chat me up. It is this contact with random locals, not only with members of my own profession or my own social class, that makes traveling most interesting. If I had enough money for intercontinental planes, I wouldn’t have found myself on a **ship crossing the Atlantic**. If I had enough money to fly from one capital city to the next, I would never see the little towns and villages in between, the ones that are forgotten, where the waste dumps and slums are, where development lags 20 years behind. In other words, **I wouldn’t have seen reality**. I would know and understand less about the world. ![hobo.JPG](https://andreasmoser.files.wordpress.com/2017/10/hobo.jpg?w=640 "- Couchsurfing Blog") *(By the way, I don’t want to recommend [Dan Kieran’s book](http://amzn.to/2xpy3ac). Except for a few interesting thoughts, it’s rather boring and free of substance. You’ll be entertained better by reading [my blog](http://www.andreasmoser.blog).)* --- This post was written by a member of the Couchsurfing community. The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or opinion of Couchsurfing. To share your own story, visit our [Community Stories](http://10.9.0.204/community-stories) page. We can’t wait to hear from you! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/why-travelling-with-little-money-is-the-best/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/why-travelling-with-little-money-is-the-best/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Community Updates, Stories --- ### [Couch Surfing is the best idea since the dishwasher!](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couch-surfing-is-the-best-idea-since-the-dishwasher/) **Published:** March 25, 2018 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/IMG_4342.jpg "IMG_4342 - Couchsurfing Blog") OK, I admit the first time I heard of Couchsurfing I thought it sounded dangerous and strange. I poked around some and found a girl’s testimony of staying with a family in Mongolia and how awesome they were to her. They shared one room in a round enclosure that was their house and they had made room for her to sleep even with grandmother living there! So I decided to try it when I went to Florida for a political campaign and my boyfriend came with me. The stay was amazing and our host was everything I could write home to mom about! We got our own room and it was lovely. He went with us to the political thing and we took him out to dinner. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/5b3c47f5-fcb3-4257-8755-ce340a3a01c9.jpeg "5b3c47f5-fcb3-4257-8755-ce340a3a01c9 - Couchsurfing Blog") ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/15548581_l_768dafef2ba4818b6cddc842b0497e36.jpg "15548581_l_768dafef2ba4818b6cddc842b0497e36 - Couchsurfing Blog")My next experience was a girl from Brazil staying at my house for 3 days. Again, an amazing experience because I got to show her around my town and she shared her experiences with me. I did my first solo overnight at a single mans apartment in New York City a few years later and it was also a great experience. We shared one room but had 2 sleeping areas. He gave me his bed and slept on an air mattress. We had a great discussions on politics and he was very helpful about the sites I should visit. Fast forward to last month. OMG! Everything I knew about Couchsurfing just got better! I went to Japan, Thailand, Cambodia, Hong Kong and Macau for a month. I Couchsurfed through Japan and it was an experience that you can’t imagine unless you experience it for yourself! I now have 4 friends from Tokyo that are always welcome in my home! It was not about staying somewhere for free as it had been the first 2 times. It was about me traveling alone in such foreign places that I needed a bit of help from time to time, not knowing the language. It is also about never being lonely when traveling alone. Mostly it is about fellowship, community, and friends with common interests that you can trust! From all over the world! When I reached Hong Kong I only stayed with one person for a few days. I never want to over stay my welcome. But I did meet-ups with many people there and it was a great experience. I will never travel internationally without Couchsurfing again! It made the entire experience better and more memorable! I think Couchsurfing is the best thing you can find on the internet if you are a traveler! ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/1B5B52B5-F7C1-4FC3-BFF7-0B133001E4E4.jpeg "1B5B52B5-F7C1-4FC3-BFF7-0B133001E4E4 - Couchsurfing Blog") --- This post was written by a member of the Couchsurfing community. The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or opinion of Couchsurfing. To share your own story, visit our [Community Stories](http://10.9.0.204/community-stories) page. We can’t wait to hear from you! [![5b3c47f5-fcb3-4257-8755-ce340a3a01c9](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/5b3c47f5-fcb3-4257-8755-ce340a3a01c9-150x150.jpeg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/5b3c47f5-fcb3-4257-8755-ce340a3a01c9.jpeg) [![15548581_l_768dafef2ba4818b6cddc842b0497e36](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/15548581_l_768dafef2ba4818b6cddc842b0497e36-150x150.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/15548581_l_768dafef2ba4818b6cddc842b0497e36.jpg) [![1B5B52B5-F7C1-4FC3-BFF7-0B133001E4E4](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/1B5B52B5-F7C1-4FC3-BFF7-0B133001E4E4-150x150.jpeg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/1B5B52B5-F7C1-4FC3-BFF7-0B133001E4E4.jpeg) [![IMG_4342](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/IMG_4342-150x150.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/IMG_4342.jpg) ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couch-surfing-is-the-best-idea-since-the-dishwasher/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couch-surfing-is-the-best-idea-since-the-dishwasher/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Stories --- ### [The Devil's Pool, Victoria Falls: What To Know Before Jumping In!](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-devils-pool-victoria-falls-what-to-know-before-jumping-in/) **Published:** March 30, 2018 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** Ever since I was a kid, I have had vivid dreams of flying over the lush African landscape, and about flying over and around Victoria falls (*Mosi-oa-Tunya*, or “The Smoke that Thunders”). Victoria Falls is the largest waterfall in the world. The Devil’s Pool, at the falls’ edge, hadn’t been in the picture—yet. Since I was homeschooled for a few years during my childhood, I’d wake up, eat my mom’s eggs with jitomate and tortillas, and watch *Discovery Kids* with my brother before our dad gave us his classes, ranging from French to the functions of the liver. My favorite *Discovery Kids* episodes showcased Amazonian animals or the creatures you’d see on an African Safari. I grew up wanting to study and work with animals. Whether I’d be a veterinarian, or study marine biology, I didn’t know. Then I actually took biology in high school. Learning about the parts of the cell didn’t excite me as much as history class, so plans of studying life forms in far off lands went on the back burner—but thoughts of going to Africa didn’t. When my mind would wander during my classes, I’d stare at the globe we probably bought from Costco, wondering what it would be like across the world—what in the world is Africa really like? I suppose being born in Mexico and having family far away made me aware of how big the world was and that I needed to see it. Fast forward to September 1, 2017, when I was laid off unexpectedly. While it was a shock, I had been saving money in case such a thing would ever happen. I toyed with the idea of finding another job, but after speaking with my friend Damaly, who reminded me to live my truth, as scary as that may be, I made plans to find a subletter for a few months, and I booked a one way ticket from DC to Victoria Falls. I connected in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia (since I was flying on Ethiopian airlines), and didn’t know what to expect of this continent I’ve heard of all my life but that I just had to see for myself. I’ve been Couchsurfing and staying with a great host here in Zimbabwe named Martin for the past few days. https://www.instagram.com/p/BZQ9SyRADVU/?taken-by=vulnerabletraveler I’d always known I needed to see Victoria Falls. It was only until I arrived that I realized that it is one of the seven natural wonders of the world. Not only did I need to see it, but I needed to swim in it—at it’s edge. This is where the “Devil’s Pool” comes in. The Zambezi River drops quite a bit during the dry season, and from about mid August to mid January, one can walk along the falls’ lip on the Zambian side. The Devil’s Pool is what you may think of as the ultimate infinity pool, as it formed on the very edge of the fall’s drop. Swimming in it was one of the top 10 most memorable experiences of my life, and I hope that if it’s possible for you to experience it for yourself, that you are even more prepared for it than I was. Here are some things you need to know before sliding in (I know, my title was misleading, but our guide didn’t let us jump)! ## The cost of swimming in the Devil’s Pool I don’t normally spend too much money on outdoor activities. I enjoy hiking and biking, but those activities have not been too expensive for me. The last outdoor activity I splurged on was to go ziplining near Puerto Vallarta, and that cost $50. Booking a tour from the Zimbabwean side of Victoria Falls (in the city named after the falls) was too expensive for me. Some tour companies charged anywhere from $110–$165, and the cheapest time slots were usually in the morning. These slots were booked up several days in advance. https://www.instagram.com/p/BZWJJTvn-rl/?taken-by=vulnerabletraveler I decided to cross the Zimbabwean border into Zambia on foot, which took about an hour. I paid $20 to enter Zambia with a U.S. passport, then paid another $20 to enter the Victoria Falls Park on the Zambian side. At the entrance of the park was a woman named Patience who was helping two young German men book a trip to the Devil’s Pool. I asked about the price, and it cost $75 to be taken up with a guide. I made it in time for the last slot at 2:15. ## What to wear to The Devil’s Pool During my Peace Corps service in Nicaragua, I wore my Teva sandals about 95% of the time. These, or Chaco’s are a sturdy brand, and are comfortable, especially for swimming and hiking in relatively flat areas. Since we were already at the level of the lip of the falls, we didn’t have to hike much uphill. We had to walk over rocks that are normally covered with water during the wet season, and there were some sharp rocks too. We also had to swim for about 3 minutes to get to the Devil’s Pool, making me wish that I’d brought my sandals or booties instead of my tennis shoes. It gets quite dusty out here, which is why I didn’t want to ruin my only pair of sneakers any further by swimming with them on. I wore board shorts and a sports bra and was fine. You’ll be fine with a swimming suit, and you are given time to change. ## Bring a waterproof camera if possible I highly suggest this. While my guide, David, had a waterproof bag for us to put our cameras in, the Devil’s Pool area is full of mist and spray from the falls. I brought my Go Pro Camera in its waterproof case, and I’m glad I left my iphone out of the area. Our guides are well versed in bringing groups out and in taking photos. We didn’t even really have to ask them to take photos of us. They suggested different poses and places where we could take our photos. If anything, I think they took too many photos of me….which leads me to my next point. https://www.instagram.com/p/BZVpvqQnZTo/?taken-by=vulnerabletraveler ## The Devil’s Pool swim only lasts about 15 minutes At least with the guides we went with. Since there are so many groups going up to see it, the guides respect the other groups’ time and make it very clear that the swim is a quick one. Instead of worrying about if the photos were turning out okay, in retrospect, after taking 3 photos, I would have let the guides know that I didn’t need any more. ## There are small fish that will gently bite you! I’m glad I had read about this in preparation. I had no idea the fish would be so persistent. I never saw them, but I felt them. I am someone who can spend all day swimming in a lake, of which the bottom I will never see, but I’e never been greeted so persistently by fish in my entire life. These weren’t cute, little pedicure-type fish. These were the kind of fish that kept biting at my feet until I raised them up—which only made the water push me forward more easily, adding to the adrenaline rush! ## You may tear up as you look over and to the bottom of Victoria Falls I did. Through the mist, you could see dozens of mini waterfalls trickling down, each in their own world. It was like something out of The Lord of the Rings. Seeing this, along with having the feeling that the Zambezi River could push you over if it wished, was exhilarating. I trust water more than I trust humans sometimes. I’m so grateful for this experience. For being a human living on the planet at this moment and for trusting myself enough to know that I would make it happen. It was as if all of those mundane, excel spreadsheet–filled days at the office had evaporated into thin air and provided me with this. I felt blessed and lucky to witness it. David, our guide, grabbed my feet and tried pushing me even further along the edge as we were laying on our stomachs, but I said “Nope, I’m good!” He was very understanding. My life was in his hands. It felt like a huge lesson in trust. David and another guide who joined us at the pools, kept us safe, telling us which way to swim and where to sit the whole time. Hearing the deafening explosion of spray, and witnessing it as close as one possibly could without a harness or helicopter, was unforgettable. I’m proud of myself for being patient with myself and waiting for the right moment to let this happen. https://www.instagram.com/p/BZVkbaqnORi/?taken-by=vulnerabletraveler When life didn’t work out at the start of the month, I ended up fulfilling my childhood dream. Not only did I see Victoria Falls, but I swam at its edge. I hope that one day you can experience the Devil’s Pool in Zambia. --- [Original post located on Charleen’s blog.](http://www.charstoever.com) This post was written by a member of the Couchsurfing community. The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or opinion of Couchsurfing. To share your own story, visit our [Community Stories](http://10.9.0.204/community-stories) page. We can’t wait to hear from you! [![devils-pool-victoria-falls-e1506178753341](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/devils-pool-victoria-falls-e1506178753341-150x150.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/devils-pool-victoria-falls-e1506178753341.jpg) ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-devils-pool-victoria-falls-what-to-know-before-jumping-in/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-devils-pool-victoria-falls-what-to-know-before-jumping-in/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Advice --- ### [Couchsurfing on a Feather Duvet](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-on-a-feather-duvet/) **Published:** January 12, 2018 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** From When we told our senior friends we were going Couchsurfing in [Provence](http://www.beyond.fr/), many of them had never even heard of Couchsurfing. Most of the rest expressed strong reservations about crashing on someone’s uncomfortable couch. By the time we headed for the airport, we were confident we’d find more comfortable sleeping arrangements. [Couchsurfing.org](https://www.couchsurfing.com/) is one of the more popular “hospitality exchanges”. These sites and organizations offer travelers around the world short-stay accommodation with local hosts, with no expectation other than the pleasure of each other’s company… and maybe some help with dinner. The fundamental premise is that the cultural exchange is a two-way street, and the hosts should enjoy the experience as much as the travelers. There are a number of hospitality exchanges, and some might be more suitable for the older traveler. If you “surf” with a 20-something host, there’s a good chance you *will* be sleeping on a couch. The average age of a Couchsurfer is around 28, and it seems that only about 3% of users are over 50. Still with over 5 million members, that’s 150,000 “golden age” surfers and hosts. [![The view from our balcony in Provence](https://nopensionwilltravel.files.wordpress.com/2013/08/viewfromroom.jpg?w=300&h=225 "- Couchsurfing Blog")](https://nopensionwilltravel.files.wordpress.com/2013/08/viewfromroom.jpg) ###### *The view from our balcony in Provence* We decided to search hosts who were couples over 50, something fairly easy to do on the site. We also restricted our searches to “verified” profiles with pictures, and read all the references carefully. The listings generally indicated that their offer of accommodation was at least a private bedroom. Still, to be on the safe side, we decided to try it out nearby before heading to France. (We’d done the same thing with AirBnB.) Our first Couchsurfing experience was in the seaside town of [Sequim, Washington](http://www.visitsunnysequim.com/). Our host, Teresa, was both interesting and gracious, and the accommodation offered us by our new friend was as good as any an old friend might provide. After one more local test run, we were ready to try Europe. Our chosen hosts in [Avignon](http://wikitravel.org/en/Avignon) included facility with English on their profile, so we figured we could revert to our native tongue if our fractured French was found wanting. In our message exchange before our arrival, we were careful always to include a [Google Translate](http://translate.google.com/#en/fr/) French translation of every message we sent. It turned out to be unnecessary as our hosts were fluent in English. [![Roussillon, the "Colorado of Provence", was one of the many local sites we visited with our hosts in Avignon](https://nopensionwilltravel.files.wordpress.com/2013/08/roussillon.jpg?w=625&h=315 "- Couchsurfing Blog")](https://nopensionwilltravel.files.wordpress.com/2013/08/roussillon.jpg) ###### *Roussillon, the “Colorado of Provence”, was one of the many local sites we visited with our hosts in Avignon* We were pleasantly surprised with the responses we got from our query. Another host who couldn’t accommodate us went out of her way to recommend nearby B&Bs and restaurants: “Tell them Pauline sent you.” We received an unsolicited offer of accommodation from a retired judge who’d spent six months in our hometown years earlier. By then we were already “booked” with the couple we’d selected. Our hosts, Monique and Jean-Paul, had offered to meet us at the boat docks – later switched to the train station due to [flooding on the Rhône](https://nopensionwilltravel.wordpress.com/2013/07/05/trip-technology-meltdown/ "Trip Technology Meltdown"). We easily spotted each other, and much to our delight, they proceeded to drive us – with a few sightseeing stops en route – to a 400-year old Provençal six-bedroom farmhouse, hidden away on a quiet country lane, and surrounded by vinyards and fruit trees. Our “couch” turned out to be a very comfortable bed in a second-story bedroom with ensuite, balcony overlooking the gardens, and kitchen facilities. The kitchen was hardly needed as our hosts fed us delicious healthy home-cooked French cuisine three meals a day for our entire stay. In addition, they drove us to many area attractions – including some we’d never heard of, and certainly would never have visited but for their hospitality. What’s more, given their patience with our halting efforts, our French improved dramatically over just two days – although it never got anywhere near as good as their English. Our visit to Avignon was a perfect example of the objectives of hospitality exchanges. We talked about many subjects over our two days, comparing French ways of doing things to those back home – not to mention all the other countries that each of us had visited. Like many Couchsurfers, our hosts were globetrotters, so we had the chance to live their adventures vicariously – as did they with ours.. And pick up some tips for the road. It was the most memorable two days of our entire trip. Couchsurfing will be high on our list for our next trip. We’d recommend it for yours. *For more on Couchsurfing: * [![roussillon](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/roussillon-150x150.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/roussillon.jpg) ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-on-a-feather-duvet/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-on-a-feather-duvet/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Community Updates, Stories --- ### [National meetings in Mexico](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/national-meetings-in-mexico/) **Published:** January 24, 2018 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** Couchsurfing is not only a community for travelers who host and “surf”, In Mexico we also organize a big meetup every year in a different city of our country during the second long weekend in November. For example in 2017 our annual meeting was celebrated at Morelia. In particular, for us has been to plan trips before or after the meeting, we have met people who are initially strangers but with the time they had become our best friends with whom we have shared several and invaluable episodes in our trips. So for this reason, we will recapitulate the annual meetings in Mexico: ## León (2012) was the first meeting: Six years ago, on a Friday night before the very first national meeting began, some of us went to Marcela’s house (one of the organizers) to meet some of the early travelers. We were not more than 20 people there and one of us gave some advice about the relevance of the moment, being the first time that many couchsurfers had been a part of something that was going to be told through the years. Those event was emotional because we were sitting around a circle waiting for others to arrive, and we had activities to introduce ourselves, welcome and share travel experiences. Also we enjoyed the Globe Festival and we had a fun weekend… Thanks to the initiative of others surfers there were activities as a rally organized by Querétaro’s people, gastronomic sample and even a slip and slide in the middle of the area. ## At Tulum (2013) we were camping on the beach. Without a plan of activities, we were dispersed and only we meet at night but was memorable to have a hundred people inside the beach with the full moon abobe us. ## **Durango (2014) was the first meeting that involved most support.** The Ministry of Tourism helped us with discounts in museums and attractions and we had the facility to enjoy a private screening of a video mapping in a historic building. For this reasons, the community of Durango left the guidelines to improve national meetings in Mexico offering different activities to learn more about the city without just crossing half of the country only to drink with friends. ## Mazunte (2015) back to the coast. It was easy to disperse us through the Jazz Festival but at the same time was possible to contemplate a sunset at Punta Cometa and even swim with turtles. ## In Hermosillo (2016) the community was very organized. The agenda was varied, for example we went to popular bars, walked to see the street art of Hermosillo, knew the government palace murals and even an excursion to Tiburón Island to know the Séri culture. Therefore, national meetings in Mexico have allowed us to meet other people around the country, remove that barrier of distance and allow us to plan trips that we could not do without the confidence of having the support of someone local. ## And finally, if you go to a Couchsurfing meeting, we recommend … Go without expecting anything, try to interact with as many people as possible because someone travel from far away and maybe is the only opportunity to know each other. Invite to visit your city and ask for tips to travel or hosting people, finally we are there to share our life with others. *Original post at:* https://losviajesdecarlosyeva.wordpress.com/2017/11/15/reuniones-nacionales-couchsurfing-mexico/ [![nacionalmorelia](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/nacionalmorelia-150x150.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/nacionalmorelia.jpg) ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/national-meetings-in-mexico/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/national-meetings-in-mexico/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Events, Stories --- ### [A Blind Traveller's Couchsurfing Experiences](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-blind-travellers-couchsurfing-experiences/) **Published:** January 19, 2018 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** I’ve been travelling the world for 20 years and been Couchsurfing since 2008, having been in various interesting countries from Indonesia and Papua New Guinea to Hungary and Slovakia- Kenya to Coasta Rica, French Guiana to Malaysia. I’ve slept in everything from a king-size bed in Israel to a mat on the floor in Japan, to a swinging hammock in a shed in French Guiana and more! Probably not too different from many other Couchsurfers, exceot for one major difference – I’m totally blind and severely deaf! Yes, I travel alone and backpack solo, using public transportation and the kindness of strangers like fellow Couchsurfers to help me along. I’ve Couchsurfed in 27 countries out of my 125 nations visited and have had mostly fantastic experiences. Apart from an unfortunate situation in Zanzibar where my host was unable to host me and a few other experiences where I wasn’t able to spend time with my hosts, I’ve had excellent and wonderful CS experiences. It is the ultimate way to travel and meet local people and gain friends and learn about a country’s and people’s culture. My most recent adventure took me to the Middle East, from October to December 2017. I met up with a couple of interesting CS hosts in Amman, the capital of Jordan, and was taken to lunch/dinner to try the local fair, chicken and rice, pita bread and yogurt sauce (delicious!), followed by falafel, chip pea balls, swallowed down with very sweet tea! I stayed with a lovely doctor in Madaba, another Jordanian small city near the international airport and my host Ashraf kindly drove me up Mount Nebo, for views of the ‘holey land’ before taking me back to the city and the historical St George Church with its mosaics. In Israel, I was hosted by several fantastic people, most notably Yuval in Beersheba, in the south of the country. Yuval wandered around one of the old Tels ‘hill cities’ with me early one morning and we discovered the ancient water system together. Likewise, wonderful Ilian cared for me splendidly over three days in peaceful Mitzpe Ramon, atop the dramatic Ramon Crater in the Negev Desert. I had interesting times in Jerusalem, first getting hopelessly lost with my German host Julian, a kind guy who’s volunteering for a year, caring for elderly disabled people. He tried to encourage me to become a vegan, but it didn’t work! Then I was hosted by an elderly, Jewish, American couple, who’ve been living in Israel since the mid 1970s. Naf, aged roughly 70, liked to reminisce about Jerusalem’s ancient history, insisting he knew the real story behind this or that religious historic event! He would pour himself a shot of Arak, a Middle East spirit, before taking me to feel bullet holes in interesting buildings and let me tough fascinating parts of various synagogues, walls, pillars, doors and stones. As a blind traveller, being able to feel the structures and architecture of buildings is an important part of my travels and explorations. When staying with Khader, a native of Bethlehem, Palestinian Territory, I was treated to a wonderful experience of floating in the Dead Sea and having mud rubbed all over my body – a wonderful sensation for any blind person! Floating on the warm still water was most relaxing ?. It was thanks to my host who, drove me and another guest there, that I was able to have such a wonderful experience. This is what travelling and Couchsurfing for me is all about, as demonstrated in the documentary I made in Bethlehem, which shows my CS host, Adam, and I meeting on my first night in the city. I’ve been fortunate enough to travel all over the world, to every continent, all 50 States of the US, every Canadian Province, all the countries of Europe and South America. I’ve done it independently, despite being totally blind and severely deaf, but I couldn’t have done this without the kindness and the generosity of local people and couchsurfers. You can read more about my adventures in my travel Ebooks: Seeing The World My Way, which follows me through nights of drinking in New Orleans and California to sky diving in Australia and bungee jumping and driving jetboats in New Zealand. My second Ebook: Seeing The Americas My Way, 2016, describes adventures of a more soba nature. It explores the beaches and cuisine of Brazil, the nightclubs and nature of Argentina and the isolated, spectacular scenery of Chile, before heading north to tackle the huge land masses of the central parts of the US and Canada, as well as climbing ancient piramids in Mexico City and solsa dancing in Cuba, plus much more. You can read more about my wanderings and find details about my unique travels and Ebooks [on my website. ](http://www.tonythetraveller.com) Hope you like this blog, happy reading and happy couchsurfing, Tony the Traveller ?. [![Screen Shot 2018-01-18 at 11.46.42 AM](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Screen-Shot-2018-01-18-at-11.46.42-AM-150x150.png)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Screen-Shot-2018-01-18-at-11.46.42-AM.png) ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-blind-travellers-couchsurfing-experiences/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-blind-travellers-couchsurfing-experiences/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Stories --- ### [Announcing the 2018 Couchsurfing Calendar Contest!](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/announcing-the-2018-couchsurfing-calendar-contest/) **Published:** October 23, 2017 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** **Edit: We’ve extended the submission period until 5pm PST on November 6, 2017 due to a high number of last minute entries!** Submit a photo from 2017 of a memorable Couchsurfing experience and be featured in the Couchsurfing calendar! Last year, we held an awesome photo contest and [made this calendar ](https://store.couchsurfing.com/collections/gifts/products/2017-couchsurfing-calendar)to share with the Couchsurfing community! The response was so great that we decided to repeat the contest this year. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Screen_Shot_2016-11-08_at_11.22.06_AM_1024x1024-300x232.png "Screen_Shot_2016-11-08_at_11.22.06_AM_1024x1024 - Couchsurfing Blog") ### How it works: Submit your photo using the submission form below anytime before November 6, 2017. We’ll be cutting off submissions at 9am PST (**Update – now 5pm)** on November 6th. Then, we’ll kick off the voting period – we’ll release and share an album of all the photo submissions on Facebook to share with your friends and family. To vote on a photo, all they have to do is click the “Like” button or heart! They’ll have until November 13th to vote for your photo. We’ll be selecting 12 winners for this contest. 7 of them will be determined through voting – so be sure to share your submission with your friends and family! The remaining 5 winners will be selected by the Couchsurfing team. Next, we’ll include the photos in the calendar and you’ll be able to order the calendar in time for the new year. # **Contest Rules** ENTRY: No purchase necessary to enter or win. Contestants will enter by filling out the submission form with a photo and story about their experience with Couchsurfing. ELIGIBILITY: This contest is open to anyone over the age of 18. Void where prohibited by law. Contestants residing in those areas where the contest is void may participate in the contest but may not win any prizes. Couchsurfing retains the right to remove and disqualify submissions that, in Couchsurfing’s sole discretion, do not align with the Couchsurfing Terms of Use, and can remove any entry for any reason. Entries should not duplicate entries to the 2017 Couchsurfing Calendar Contest. Entries must not violate our Member Conduct and Content requirements, which can be viewed here: [http://www.couchsurfing.com/about/terms-of-use/. ](http://www.couchsurfing.com/about/terms-of-use/) WINNER SELECTION: 13 winners will be selected. 7 of those winners will be selected through voting via Facebook likes – the seven photos with the highest votes will be featured in the calendar. The remaining 6 photos will be selected by Couchsurfing staff. PRIZES: The 13 winners will receive a free Couchsurfing T-Shirt and a free Couchsurfing calendar. WINNER NOTIFICATION: Winners will be notified within 14 days after the determination date. Inability to contact a winner may result in disqualification and selection of an alternate winner. GENERAL CONDITIONS: a. Participants hereby grant Couchsurfing a non-exclusive, perpetual, worldwide license to broadcast, publish, store, reproduce, distribute, syndicate, and otherwise use and exhibit the Submission (along with their names, voices, performance and/or likenesses) in all media now known and later come into being for purposes of trade or advertising without further compensation. Participants represent and warrant that they have full legal right, power and authority to grant Couchsurfing the foregoing license and if applicable, have secured all necessary rights from any participants in, and contributors to, their Submission in order to grant such a license. b. Couchsurfing is under no obligation to use any Submission or return the Submissions to participants. USE OF CONTEST INFORMATION: All entries become the property of Couchsurfing. Couchsurfing reserves the right to use any and all information related to the contest, including submissions provided by the contestants, for editorial, marketing and any other purpose, unless prohibited by law. CONDUCT: All contest participants agree to be bound by these Official Rules. Couchsurfing, in its sole discretion, reserves the right to disqualify any person it finds to be tampering with the entry process, the operation of its web site or is otherwise in violation of these rules. LIMITATIONS OF LIABILITY: Couchsurfing is not responsible for late, lost or misdirected email or for any computer, online, telephone or technical malfunctions that may occur. If for any reason, the contest is not capable of running as planned, including infection by computer virus, bugs, tampering, unauthorized intervention or technical failures of any sort, Couchsurfing may cancel, terminate, modify or suspend the contest. Entrants further agree to release Couchsurfing from any liability resulting from, or related to participation in the contest. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/announcing-the-2018-couchsurfing-calendar-contest/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/announcing-the-2018-couchsurfing-calendar-contest/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** News --- ### [Drawn to the Dark: Explorations in Scare Tourism around the World](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/drawn-to-the-dark-explorations-in-scare-tourism-around-the-world/) **Published:** October 18, 2017 **Author:** Couchsurfing Community **Content:** Couchsurfing has given me the ultimate Halloween adventure. As a life-long horror and monster fan, I spent a year traveling the globe to seek out monster characters in various cultures. After reaching out to hosts in eleven countries and telling them about my plans, I was thrilled to discover people who were as ecstatic about the adventures as I was. With their help, I had the privilege of attending shows starring Krampus in Austria, the Oni and Namahage in Japan, witches and devils in Germany, the Busójárás in Hungry, and so many more. My gracious hosts were delighted to teach me about what it meant to grow up with these traditions, and to share their experiences and insights with someone who had traveled so far to learn about them. In addition, I was also able to share my own love for Halloween. Many towns I visited ran Halloween-style haunted attractions–venues that I have enjoyed, worked for and written about for more than twenty years. Although some of my hosts had known that these local shows existed, they had never before gone through them. I therefore got to take my host in Mexico through his first experience of “Screamville,” my host in Transylvania through “Castelul Groazei,” and my host in Hawaii through “Dr. Carnage’s House of Horrors.” With each experience, my new friends and I then compared and contrasted these monstrous characters from different parts of the world, from Hollywood-inspired icons to mythical creatures of ancient legend. After a year of travels and another year and a half of writing, I have published a book about the journey. The book is entitled *Drawn to the Dark: Explorations in Scare Tourism around the World*. I was truly honored to be able to share the experiences, insights, and friendships I made with all of my hosts. A very special thank you to the wonderful people who make the Couchsurfing organization possible, and for allowing these types of life-changing experiences to take place every day! Gratefully yours, Chris Kullstroem [![Namahage Chris and Hikaru](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Namahage-Chris-and-Hikaru-150x150.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Namahage-Chris-and-Hikaru.jpg) ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/drawn-to-the-dark-explorations-in-scare-tourism-around-the-world/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/drawn-to-the-dark-explorations-in-scare-tourism-around-the-world/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24300f7e1587b201929f6a0cad10d3257de9cf1df96d3069be16528cefbf5184?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing Community [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing-community/) **Categories:** Stories --- ### [Hans from Rotterdam, Netherlands](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/featured-host-hans-from-rotterdam-netherlands/) **Published:** August 28, 2017 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/Hans2-300x200.jpg "Hans2 - Couchsurfing Blog")Hans and some of his Surfers in KinderdikjMeet Hans, a host in Rotterdam, Netherlands and one of Couchsurfing’s most active hosts. A cyclist, racewalking judge, and economics teacher, Hans has hosted over 800 surfers from dozens of countries around the world since 2014. The best way to get to know Hans is through the hundreds of references from his grateful guests: - “What else can I say about the guy with more than a 1000 references that hadn’t been said already? Well I guess that I can say that if get hosted by him you can count yourself lucky, because Hans is definitely one of the most generous hosts I’ve ever met, he is unbelievable. - “Hans is amazing. He truly embodies the idea of “what we have, we have to share.”” - This was a life-changing CS experience. Hans has been one of the most helpful and kindest person we’ve met or spoken to on any of our trips. - “Riding a bike on a Erasmus bridge is the best way of realizing how beautiful the life is. Thanks to Hans, my stay in Rotterdam was simply amazing.” Hans first discovered Couchsurfing while renting his house to tenants: a Polish student renting one of his rooms mentioned the site, and encouraged Hans to sign up. It wasn’t until a while later that Hans hosted his first surfer, while he had a temporary vacancy in one of his rooms. Ever since, he’s hosted Couchsurfers just about every chance he gets. For Hans, “all hosting experiences are different. Some surfers come with a list of things to do or see,” while others are eager for some help figuring out the best places to explore. “My favorite hosting experiences typically include a bike ride to the 18th century Windmills in Kinderdijk. On the way back, we take a boat (called the Waterbus). I also love to bike around the center of Rotterdam with my guests, and show the highlights of the city.” As for why he loves to host, Hans points to how quickly strangers can become close friends. “My favorite part about hosting is the connection you create with Couchsurfers,” says Hans. “Although you hardly know each other, sometimes you find yourself talking about things that you would maybe not ever share with your very best friends.” His advice to new members, or those considering hosting their first surfer? “Don’t hesitate! Couchsurfers are the most open-minded, positive, and thoughtful people that you can imagine.” While Hans hosts much more often than he surfs, he does get a chance to explore new cities through his volunteer work as a racewalking judge in competitions around the world. In September, he’ll be a judge in China, and in February, a judge in Ghana. “The organizers of the competition typically offer me accommodation, but during my last visit to Kenya I used Couchsurfing as a way to meet up with local hosts. That was a great experience,” say Hans. And what does Rotterdam’s most active host have to share about his city? “It’s a surprising place,” says Hans. Rotterdam is a port-city, the largest port in all of Europe. “The architecture is amazing,” Hans says. “World War II completed destroyed the city center, and rather than rebuild the city as-is, the city opted to start all over. There’s a few pre-war buildings (the Town Hall, and the White House amongst them), which you won’t want to miss.” As for what to do during your stay, “going through the Maas Tunnel, the oldest tunnel in the country is a must-do. Don’t forget the monument of Lost Luggage (which symbolizes what you leave behind when you leave for another country) and the Fenix Food Factory.” ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/featured-host-hans-from-rotterdam-netherlands/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/featured-host-hans-from-rotterdam-netherlands/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** Community --- ### [Featured Ambassador: Celebrating 10 Years of Couchsurfing with CYBERCHI](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/featured-ambassador-celebrating-10-years-of-couchsurfing-with-cyberchi/) **Published:** September 10, 2017 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** Chris, also known by his Couchsurfing username of CYBERCHI, is a Couchsurfing Ambassador, Host, Event Organizer and much more. Today, September 10, 2017, he’s celebrating a whopping 10 years on Couchsurfing! Chris first joined Couchsurfing in 2007, shortly after he moved to London and joined Couchsurfing for the variety of offline and online interactions that can be found on Couchsurfing. “On moving to London, I was looking for a new community to get involved with that covered online, offline and global concepts and had the bonus of getting me involved in an instant social scene (anyone that’s landed in a new big city not knowing anyone knows this is kinda essential!). I actually unfortunately missed out on the London calling event of May 2007, which was one of the key London events to date, instead joining just before my birthday in Sept, but early enough to join at a great time in the life of CS. ” When he first joined Couchsurfing, he started chatting in the forums and participating in a few different groups. As many of the regular London Couchsurfing hosts and event organizers were taking a break from a summer full of events and hosting, Chris began organizing regular weekly events. The weekly events became nearly nightly, and he was soon invited to become a City Ambassador. At the time, Couchsurfing was run nearly completely by volunteers, and Chris got involved in several different teams, including the Ambassador and Groups management teams and the safety team. “The people I’d meet and interact with on a daily basis – the old ‘CS spirit’ – became addictive. It was at a time where it really was about the people and community, not the number of couches surfed or profile ‘friends’ you had, people heard about it only by word of mouth and not mass media, it had a real connection which I loved.” As Chris got more and more involved in Couchsurfing, his social life became consumed by Couchsurfing – and he never regretted it. “CS has given me enough stories to fill a book, from the socials such as the 3-4 day Florence invasion weekend with about 150-200 people simply as a result of saying hi online to Massimo (RIP) a few months before, to 6 months hitching around Europe and Oz staying only with surfers that I met as a result of people I’d crossed paths with (only 3 requests sent that entire time!) to memories of friendships that’ll last a lifetime.” He remembers posting in a local discussion group, asking if anyone was willing to show him around and hang out that night, and having a whole onslaught of people show up at the bar for a spontaneous meetup. One memorable night, he arranged a Couchsurfing meetup for a surfer who had never attended a CS event before. That night, his surfer ended up meeting her future husband, a temporary London resident who attended the meetup. “More times than I can count, I’ve been asked how did I keep up the energy or the enthusiasm for it, when you’ve hosted 20 in 2 weeks and still seem to want to host more? The simple answer is – treat every hosting as if it’s your first. It’s the first time you’ve met them, the first time you’ve shared stories, the first time you cooked a meal or shared a drink together so just got with the flow and don’t worry.” To other hosts, Chris recommends that you always stay true to what you want to get the most out of your Couchsurfing experience. “At one point I remember receiving about 35 requests in one day, with my then partner who I lived with, receiving another 15-20, we said no to pretty much all of them. Never feel you have to say yes to a surfer, only say yes to those you want to, those you feel you want to spend some of your time with and think will bring interesting stories with them. I know some hosts will disagree with me and just host everyone, that’s a personal choice, mine was to be fussy, regardless of how many or how few requests I got. Just enjoy it.” After an entire decade, Chris is still an active member of the Couchsurfing community. Chris, we’re lucky to have had you in the Couchsurfing Community for the last 10 years, and look forward to seeing what the next 10 bring! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/featured-ambassador-celebrating-10-years-of-couchsurfing-with-cyberchi/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/featured-ambassador-celebrating-10-years-of-couchsurfing-with-cyberchi/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** Community, Meet an Ambassador --- ### [Maski Haile](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/featured-ambassador-maski-haile/) **Published:** June 5, 2017 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** **![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/1917828_97298519882_7640534_n-225x300.jpg "1917828_97298519882_7640534_n - Couchsurfing Blog")Name:** [Maski](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/mkmtl) Haile **Location:** Montreal, Quebec, Canada **From:** Addis Ababa, Ethiopia **One amazing thing she’s done:** Backpacked from Cape Town to Cairo using public transport, hitchhiking, and Couchsurfing for nine months **Current Mission**: Finishing her book > “As much as I love traveling and meeting new people, there is nothing that warms my heart and makes my soul dance like reconnecting with old friends.” Maski has just returned to Montreal after six years of working, living, traveling and giving back to communities around Ethiopia, Tanzania, and Uganda. Now that she’s back in Canada she is working on her travel memoir, retelling her stories collected over many years of travel. For years, Maski had been traveling, staying with strangers, befriending travelers and inviting them to crash at her home. But it wasn’t until 2006 that she learned about Couchsurfing. > “My then boyfriend had seen an article in one of the English newspapers in Montreal. He came to me and said, ‘This is YOU. Read it’. I read the article and immediately signed up. A few days later I donated some of my things and embarked on one year of travel around the world which turned into five years of bliss.” Her discovery of Couchsurfing gave Maski a community and also a name for something she had been doing for years. For that she is grateful. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/1913859_209160795802_3499757_n-300x225.jpg "1913859_209160795802_3499757_n - Couchsurfing Blog")A CS dinner that Maski hosted at her apartment days before moving to South America to say thank you to her community groupWhat follows is a glimpse into Maski’s life and her experiences with Couchsurfing thus far. **Is there a Couchsurfing member that stands out to you? Why?** > That is very hard to answer. I have over 300 Couchsurfing friends on my profile, surfed more than 80 couches around the world and I’ve hosted 60+ surfers. Most of my CS friends today are my best friends. > > That being said, I can share a story where I witnessed one person’s amazing journey into creating and sustaining a community single-handedly. That person is my friend Riana. At our first meeting, it was just me and her. Our second meeting was an official CS meeting and there were only four of us that showed up. By the time I left South Africa, Riana had created a huge community in Pretoria and Jo’burg. The regular meetings usually have 20+ locals and travelers. > > Riana single-handedly sent out emails to travelers to welcome them every day. She offered assistance whenever any locals or travelers needed it, hosted, organized events, cooked, drove people around, gave advice and treated each and every one of us as her long lost family members with so much joy, kindness, and love. She’s one of the most incredible and inspiring Couchsurfers who has touched my heart in more ways than I could have ever imagined. **What advice do you have for new members to Couchsurfing?** > Couchsurfing is more than free accommodation for travelers. Couchsurfing is a community built on trust. Please don’t take Couchsurfing for granted, don’t take your host for granted, and also please be responsible travelers. Sometimes it only takes one experience to ruin years of built trust. Remember we only receive as much as we give. **How has Couchsurfing changed your perspective on life?** > Couchsurfing made my biggest dream come true which is traveling the world while connecting with people. Couchsurfing allowed me to trust more, be bold and never underestimate the power of sharing and giving. We are all the same; deep inside we seek the same thing. > > Kindness/generosity is the currency that will take us a long way. **What’s next for you?** > Right now my biggest mission is finishing my Travel Memoir and publishing it. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/374344_10150525995659883_263577586_n-300x225.jpg "374344_10150525995659883_263577586_n - Couchsurfing Blog")In Addis Ababa Maskis hometown having dinner at a traditional Ethiopian restaurantYou can read more about Maski’s journey and get a sneak peak of her upcoming book at [www.abyssiniannomad.com](http://www.abyssiniannomad.com) ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/featured-ambassador-maski-haile/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/featured-ambassador-maski-haile/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** Community, Meet an Ambassador --- ### [Iain McGeachin: Walking Around Europe to Raise Awareness for Ataxia](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/iain-mcgeachin-walking-around-europe-to-raise-awareness-for-ataxia/) **Published:** June 19, 2017 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** When Iain McGeachin was diagnosed with spinocerebellar ataxia after 17 months of tests, doctors told him that eventually he would lose his ability to walk. But that news didn’t stop Iain from walking (and Couchsurfing) his way along a 500-mile stretch in Spain and completing walks in 10+ European cities to raise awareness for his incurable condition. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/15002323_905680159565615_7618792808283779162_o-300x225.jpg "15002323_905680159565615_7618792808283779162_o - Couchsurfing Blog")Iain with one of his many Couchsurfing hostsCouchsurfing became a fixture in Iain’s travels after he joined the community in 2013. At the time, he was planning a “round the world by train” trip, and a new friend tipped him off to Couchsurfing. Before long, Iain had wracked up stays in 30 different homes and one boat. “I like to meet with all different kinds of people, since everyone has a very different view of life,” Iain says. “It’s fascinating for me to see the different ways that people live. During my travels I have been hosted by young single people, couples of varying ages, and families.” Iain’s first Couchsurfing stay was with Alex in Switzerland’s Engadine Valley. Alex owns a home built in 1608, and he opens his doors to Couchsurfers on weekends when he’s not working. Alex and Iain spent time cooking and bonded over a shared love of music from the 70s. One of Iain’s most memorable Couchsurfing experiences happened in Östersund, Sweden. During his travels in Sweden Iain met João, a Portuguese traveler who had settled down in Scandinavia. Normally João provided a room in his apartment for Couchsurfers, but the weather was set to be perfect during Iain’s stay, so the two of them arranged to spend time on João’s sailboat. João ended up having to work, but he handed Iain the keys to his sailboat within minutes of meeting him. “I wondered if João would be worried about me taking off with his sailboat,” Iain says, “but the lake in front of his home was an inland lake, so he knew his boat would be close, and he said that he’d ‘sized me up’ while we were chatting and figured that his boat was in good hands.” Iain has also formed great memories while staying with families. To date, he has Couchsurfed with seven families, and he takes opportunities to Couchsurf with families whenever he can. “In a world where the media constantly tells us about “stranger danger”, these parents prefer that their children grow up without an irrational fear of unknown people. They still teach their kids the importance of being wary of strangers, but not to fear them from the start”, Iain says. Ataxia is a rare disease, and it affects how Iain moves and functions.The condition is both incurable and progressive. Loss of coordination and balance are common symptoms, and some people who are affected by ataxia struggle to focus on more than one task at a time. Immediately after receiving his diagnosis, Iain turned to Ataxia UK, an organization created to research ataxia and to assist those who have it. Iain says Ataxia UK was an invaluable resource, as his doctor wasn’t even aware about some of the effects of ataxia at the time. “Ataxia UK provides the funding for the medical research which hopes to find a cure for one, or all, ataxias. And as the UK government/taxpayer does not fund this research, Ataxia UK relies on people like myself to raise this money for them,” Iain says. In light of his diagnosis, Iain knew that he could take one of two paths: he could stay at home and Scotland and prepare himself for a less mobile life, or he could travel. He chose to travel. Iain’s travels quickly developed a theme built around raising awareness for Ataxia. Prior to leaving for his first big trip, he went to London to participate in an Ataxia UK walk, and decided to wear a kilt that he’d bought for a special occasion. From there his website, kiltedwalker.com, was born, and he began packing his kilt for all of his trips. Iain’s travel plans evolved over the years, but now he walks in various destinations with an Ataxia UK t-shirt and his kilt, talking to as many people as he can while he sightsees and meets up with Couchsurfers. He shares photos of his travels on kiltedwalker.com and his social media pages. His biggest walk to-date was a 500-mile-long trip in Spain, and he plans to continue his walks throughout Europe and other continents. “A cure for Ataxia may come too late for me personally…but I am not raising money for myself, and there is absolutely no reason why future generations should have to face the same ordeal,” Iain says. You can learn more about Iain and his travel plans by visiting [kiltedwalker.com. ](https://kiltedwalker.com) ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/iain-mcgeachin-walking-around-europe-to-raise-awareness-for-ataxia/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/iain-mcgeachin-walking-around-europe-to-raise-awareness-for-ataxia/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** Community --- ### [Featured Ambassador: Liana from Bend, Oregon](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/featured-ambassador-liana-from-bend-oregon/) **Published:** September 6, 2017 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/iobTO-g7VM0mrGsdtVQrggrOYUtxwqv9oXCMyZiD44gBUuQPTP-KxlZQtRPQkLezX3uwddZsPNah8W69uRKoT9imJ0s2048-300x225.jpg "_iobTO-g7VM0mrGsdtVQrggrOYUtxwqv9oXCMyZiD44gBUuQPTP-KxlZQtRPQkLezX3uwddZsPNah8W69uRKoT9imJ0=s2048 - Couchsurfing Blog") *“‘Less Vanity, More Planety.’ I made that up several years ago. What it means to me is that people should care less about the stuff they own and how they look, and more about the other people on earth and taking care of the planet.”* Liana lives in Bend with her husband and teenage daughter. This family of three has hosted everyone from filmmakers and actors to hikers and cyclists– and have the filled guest book to prove it! Straight from Liana’s Couchsurfing profile, she provides us with a perfect description of her fun-loving family: > *“Liana is the cook, the logistical planner, and the frugal shopper. Peter referees bike races, heads the family Public Relations department, and is the man-about-town in a suit usually on a bike. Their daughter is a high school student who reads, acts, paints, and geeks out on retro 80’s fashion and technology. As a family they excel at snarky banter. Be prepared with your own snappy comebacks!”* ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/O7VGe8oc8PCyTzM_5PR6B_SQZj51lh9j6GaTMMqB7vlZPSZn6bNlV8Dc4CGAZd-l55M0OvuMpZufrJgkMe9xeYLv5Dos2048-300x225.jpg "O7VGe8oc8PCyTzM_5PR6B_SQZj51lh9j6GaTMMqB7vlZPSZn6bNlV8Dc4CGAZd-l55M0OvuMpZufrJgkMe9xeYLv5Do=s2048 - Couchsurfing Blog")Couchsurfing in Austria Liana far right Peter second from left and their daughter second from the rightHosting with a child has definitely put an interesting spin on things for Liana’s family and Liana says that she truly enjoys observing interactions between Couchsurfers and her daughter. > *“I find it fascinating to see which surfers truly resonate with our daughter. She is a teenager now so the exterior can be a little rough, but some surfers go the extra mile to engage her, ask her about her life, make her laugh, and she warms to them. One of our other goals was for her to see/meet women traveling by themselves in the world. That, I’m sure, will have an effect on her which we may not appreciate until many years from now.”* Liana and her family got involved in Couchsurfing after a trip to the UK in 2012 where they did not Couchsurf. “We expected to meet people in pubs and have them invite us over to their homes, but nothing like that happened.” They stayed in hotels, B&Bs, and although lovely, they did not find those personal connections they had been craving. After returning home to Oregon they started hosting straight away. > *“I have come to believe that most people are universally interested in others, curious about different lifestyles, and want to share with/learn from each other. I felt that way before to some extent, but didn’t have examples to back it up.”* ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/D2_zwNhEkBdZ3hX32pU-kmT-RvjVYERqoFmRnAfM1gVtOfBI90vpYwZn4sfTpGhgVgDpx9_AUKzh10X1C-1VOtKg6Sks2048-300x225.jpg "D2_zwNhEkBdZ3hX32pU-kmT-RvjVYERqoFmRnAfM1gVtOfBI90vpYwZn4sfTpGhgVgDpx9_AUKzh10X1C-1VOtKg6Sk=s2048 - Couchsurfing Blog")Couchsurfing in SloveniaSince then, they have hosted over 200 surfers with whom they have shared many memorable moments along the way. Going out for drinks and dinner with surfers, introducing some Slovakians to their first s’mores over at a neighbor’s bonfire, and staying with a family in Europe that they had previously hosted in Bend are just a few highlights. Liana especially loves when Couchsurfers cook for the family. Understanding how intimidating it can be to use your host’s kitchen, she is always very impressed and grateful when a guest prepares a meal for them. > *“One woman brought a complete meal from her farm, including a rabbit, canned vegetables, and homemade grape juice. One gentleman made us stuffed green bell peppers and butter-beans from a recipe he carried in a notebook. Another recent surfer from India made us egg curry and gave me some curry powder.”* Liana, who helped organize the 2014 Bend Couch Crash, was excited to get involved in this year’s event. Since Bend was only a short distance from the prime viewing point of the 2017 solar eclipse, they decided to host the Couch Crash the weekend immediately prior to the eclipse which took place on Monday, August 21, 2017. The eclipse was a perfect ending to an already fantastic weekend. > *“The Couch Crash was, by all accounts, a great success. It was a perfect blend of local hosts and visiting surfers, prior Bend Couch Crash 2014 (and ConnectiCOUCH 2016) attendees as well as new faces, experienced surfers/hosts, recently added members, and even a couple CS employees! Even though we were nervous about the number of people swarming into Central Oregon for the eclipse, we encountered no traffic and no crowds, and were able to do everything we planned”* Brewery tours, floating the Deschutes river, lava cave tour, cruiser bike ride, lake/mountain hikes, Sunday brunch and nights out on the town were just a few of the things that Liana and the other organizers had planned for the weekend. On the morning of the eclipse, the group departed Bend around 6:30 am and were the first ones to arrive at Centennial Park in Redmond. There they waited and experienced 47 seconds of total darkness which was a truly special way to end the weekend. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/2bKGuppVFMrGT-HPr8yAMC97PueSwGQ1DRfQULDu15ePaGGutxxZiJ-FTeBElyHrrCjCwwQl_jaaZDjyfkiktkopcd4s2048-300x225.jpg "2bKGuppVFMrGT-HPr8yAMC97PueSwGQ1DRfQULDu15ePaGGutxxZiJ-FTeBElyHrrCjCwwQl_jaaZDjyfkiktkopcd4=s2048 - Couchsurfing Blog")Getting ready for the eclipse in Centennial Park Redmond OregonAlong with her involvement with Couch Crash, Liana lends her time in many other ways in order to spread the word about Couchsurfing. > *“I love attending monthly meetups, and I encourage other local CS members to join us each month by sending them personal invitations and messages.”* The monthly meetups are held at a different restaurant, pub, or member’s house each time, which has resulted in many new friendships with other members of the community. They bring a homemade Couchsurfing flag and take a group photo with it at each meetup. Liana and Peter have also been known to scout out REI looking for people hiking the Pacific Crest Trail who might need a place to stay, keeping the spirit of Couchsurfing alive. New to Couchsurfing? Liana’s got your back: > *“Take time to set up a profile that really says something about yourself, and what is unique about you. Upload many photos that show you in various aspects of your life (i.e. with friends, family, pets). Link your profile to other websites where you have a public profile if you don’t have any references yet. Have friends on CS write personal references about you. Go to meetups and meet other members in your area to hear real-life experiences.”* ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/featured-ambassador-liana-from-bend-oregon/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/featured-ambassador-liana-from-bend-oregon/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** Community, Meet an Ambassador --- ### [The Bend Couch Crash 2017 - in the Wild with Zareen and Josh](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-bend-couch-crash-2017-in-the-wild-with-zareen-and-josh/) **Published:** August 31, 2017 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** ### You have friends all over the world. You just haven’t met them yet. I’ve seen these words echoed all over the Couchsurfing website and even used them myself when describing Couchsurfing to other people. However, I did not realize how true it was until we got to Bend. Within 12 hours, I felt as if I had known all 25 or so members of the Bend Couch Crash for years. I wasn’t quite sure what my first Couch Crash would be like, so I thought I’d share my experience so you know what to expect when you make it to your first Couch Crash! For those of you who may not know, a Couch Crash is a multi-day event organized by a group of locals, showcasing the best of their city. Travelers from California, Canada, Connecticut, Boston, and even northern England all came to Bend to appreciate the Bend breweries, lava caves, and the total solar eclipse visible from nearby Redmond. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/IMG_2906-300x225.jpg "IMG_2906 - Couchsurfing Blog")Tom and Liana our two amazing Couch Crash OrganizersWe (myself, my coworker Josh, his roommate Zach, and my boyfriend Spencer) drove up from San Francisco and arrived in Oregon early Friday morning. We met up with Connecticut Ambassador Jason and his partner, Lee, at Crater Lake for a beautiful hike and to catch up before the Couch Crash kickoff party. There, we found a patch of snow (in August!) and couldn’t resist the opportunity to take a silly picture with [Couchsurfing beach balls ](https://store.couchsurfing.com/products/couchsurfing-beach-ball)and [sunglasses](https://store.couchsurfing.com/collections/gifts/products/couchsurfing-sunglasses) from the Couchsurfing store. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/IMG_2823-300x225.jpg "IMG_2823 - Couchsurfing Blog")Josh Zareen Zach Spencer Jason and Lee hanging out in the snow## Lava Tunnels, Deschutes Brewery, and Arcade Games On Saturday, we all met up in the morning to break into our organized groups. There was a choice of 4 different activities, but most of us chose the same one – to check out Boyd Cave! A few people had been to the Bend Couch Crash three years ago, and had seen the caves then – they opted to walk around the Farmer’s Market instead. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/IMG_7233-300x225.jpg "IMG_7233 - Couchsurfing Blog")The group descends into Boyd CaveBoyd Cave is a lava tunnel slightly outside of Bend. From the outside, it looked like just a hole in the ground with a ladder – but once we descended the ladder, it was like we were in another world! We walked along the network of tunnels with our headlamps, climbing over walks and exploring variations along the wall. At times, the tunnel narrowed and we had to climb through on our hands and knees – at one point, the tunnel was too small even for that and we slithered through like a snake. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/IMG_7244-300x225.jpg "IMG_7244 - Couchsurfing Blog")The crew deep in Boyd CaveOnce back out of the cave, we all realized we were starving – climbing through pitch black tunnels is no walk in the park! We met up with the rest of the crew and some Bend locals who hadn’t joined us for the cave tour at the Lot, a food truck park in Bend, where we gorged on delicious food and swapped stories about travel, Couchsurfing, and our day-to-day lives. In the afternoon, the group split up once again, with half touring Deschutes Brewery and the other half walking around Downtown Bend, checking out art galleries and shops. We met back up in the late afternoon As always when you’re Couchsurfing, it’s important to take time out to get to know your host – so Saturday evening was reserved for just that! We all split up to share dinner with our hosts. Spencer and I were staying with Liana, one of the Couch Crash organizers, so we joined Liana, her husband Peter, her other two surfers for a wonderful dinner near their house, before heading back out with the whole crew to enjoy beer and arcade games at a local bar. ## Lazy Sunday Liana opened her home and kitchen to the entire Couch Crash for a scrumptious pancake and mimosa breakfast. We had a whole crew of helpers flipping pancakes, serving up bacon and eggs, and making mimosas. Liana even accepted Jason’s challenge from the night before: Peanut Butter & Jelly pancakes! ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/IMG_7278-300x225.jpg "IMG_7278 - Couchsurfing Blog")Celebrating pancakes mimosas and new friendsBend is a lovely, picturesque town made all the more beautiful by a lazy river winding it’s way through the river. On the weekends, it’s not uncommon to see hundreds of people on floats of all shapes and sizes, making their way down the river. Our trip to Bend wouldn’t be complete without a float in the river – so after we’d eaten hundreds (it seemed) of pancakes, we packed up our stuff and floated down the river. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/IMG_2938-300x225.jpg "IMG_2938 - Couchsurfing Blog")Watching people float down the riverAfter a leisurely dinner at the Lot again, we concluded the Couch Crash – but most of us didn’t say goodbye yet! Just north of Bend, in Redmond, Oregon, was the line of totality for the 2017 Total Solar Eclipse – and we couldn’t miss it. ## Eclipse Redmond, Oregon was set to experience 47 seconds of totality at 10:21 am, and was just a few miles north of Bend. However, with scary news reports predicting “The Worst Traffic Jam of All Time”, we wanted to make sure we left with plenty of time to spare. So we headed up at 6am, and enjoyed a traffic-free drive towards Centennial Park in Redmond, Oregon. Of course, we had over-prepared – but we were still able to enjoy coffee, breakfast, and time together while we waited for the eclipse. And, we had plenty of time to take some goofy pictures in our eclipse glasses! ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/20988498_10155620345496419_8637356069976789384_o-300x225.jpg "20988498_10155620345496419_8637356069976789384_o - Couchsurfing Blog")Blinded by the eclipseIt was with heavy hearts that we filed into our cars and headed home . . . but I know we’ll all meet again somewhere – maybe at the next Bend Couch Crash, but hopefully before then at another Couch Crash in a new city! *Zareen lives in San Francisco and is the Couchsurfing community manager. For a list of upcoming Couch Crashes, [check out the calendar. ](http://10.9.0.204/calendar)* ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-bend-couch-crash-2017-in-the-wild-with-zareen-and-josh/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-bend-couch-crash-2017-in-the-wild-with-zareen-and-josh/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** Community --- ### [Featured Ambassador: Hamza - From Morocco to Canada](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/featured-ambassador-hamza-from-morocco-to-canada/) **Published:** May 29, 2017 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** **![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/IMG_20140412_233415-300x225.jpg "IMG_20140412_233415 - Couchsurfing Blog")Name:** [Hamza](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/gzork) Benhmani **Location:** Montreal, Quebec, Canada **From:** Ait Melloul, Souss-Massa-Draa, Morocco *“I would describe myself as a fellow who thinks it’s not so easy to describe oneself”* -Hamza Couchsurfing means something different to everyone. For Hamza Benhmani, it was a way for him to get involved in his new home of Quebec City. Hamza, who now resides in Montreal, relocated to Canada from Morocco in 2012. When Hamza moved, he was eager to find a way to get involved. Almost immediately, he began to host surfers at his new home. “I’ve always loved getting to know strangers, it always feels good to establish a connection and a bond with a complete stranger, and find things in common. So when I moved from Morocco to Quebec, not knowing almost anyone here, it was sort of natural for me to start hosting” After only a few weeks the current Quebec Ambassador was moving cross-country to British Columbia and was looking for someone to take over for him. “I was happy to volunteer and do it” says Hamza. This opportunity allowed him to get more involved and meet more people than he could have ever imagined. As an Ambassador, he began organizing the weekly meetups and welcoming new members to the online Quebec City group. Today, Hamza loves his life in Montreal and is a very active host, accepting Couchsurfers whenever possible. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/18319289_1738421473115987_8299940354777107928_o-300x225.jpg "18319289_1738421473115987_8299940354777107928_o - Couchsurfing Blog")A recent night in Montreal that Hamza spent with his roommate and three Couchsurfers**Montreal Floods** In May 2017, as Hamza’s interview is being conducted, something else is on his mind: the city which he calls ‘home’ has been ravished by severe rainfall and flooding. After several days of flooding, nearly 4,600 homes have been damaged by floodwaters and 3,900 people have been evacuated from their residences. Hamza sprung into action and began contacting other hosts in Montreal. His plan is to help to connect those who have been displaced with hosts who are willing to take them in. Hamza is working hard to get the word out about his project. **An International Perspective** > “As an immigrant, I tend to naturally to immerse myself in the local environment, culture and life, of course while remaining who I am, and also open up to other immigrant cultures, enjoy, celebrate and take advantage of diversity. I find that Couchsurfing is exactly about these same values, so my experiences as an immigrant did indeed influence my involvement and my experiences with Couchsurfers, local community, and also travelling and incoming Couchsurfers.” If you are new to Couchsurfing, Hamza leaves you with this advice: take it easy and be yourself! > “A lot of new members I encounter worry a lot about what they should do and not do when they host or surf, I always say they shouldn’t worry a lot, and should just communicate well with the other person, and be themselves.” ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/featured-ambassador-hamza-from-morocco-to-canada/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/featured-ambassador-hamza-from-morocco-to-canada/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** Community, Meet an Ambassador --- ### [Peter Gersten and the TBRC](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-tbrc/) **Published:** August 9, 2017 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/themanhimself-300x300.jpg "themanhimself - Couchsurfing Blog") Name: Peter Gersten Location: Sedona, Arizona From: New York City Favorite hobbies: *Hiking, binge-viewing DVDs, hiking, playing with my 5000 photos, hiking, hosting couchsurfers & hiking.* Peter was born in New York City, and moved to Sedona in 2000 in order to pursue his personal mission of taking 1,111 people up to the top of Bell Rock by the year 2012. Each person that joins him on his journey to the top of bell rock is given a number, welcomed into his Top of Bell Rock Club (TBRC), and given a card to confirm their lifetime membership. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/Image-uploaded-from-iOS-225x300.jpg "Image uploaded from iOS - Couchsurfing Blog") To the people of Sedona, he is widely known as “The Vortex Jumper”. He frequently hosts Couchsurfers at his place in Sedona under two conditions: 1\) You must have a car 2\) The following morning you must hike with him to the top of Bell Rock I reached out to ask Peter about this mission and how Couchsurfing has played a role. Here is his story: How did you first become involved with Couchsurfing? > In August 2012 a woman living in Canada, who kept up with my UFO work, messaged me that her son would be coming to Sedona and asked if I could take him to the top of Bell Rock. I later did and on the way he told me about couchsurfing. A week later, while visiting my daughter in N.Y.C., it hit me. Couchsurfing would be the “cosmic conduit” the way I would find the pre-determined 1111 people (or they would find me) I needed to take to the top. What does it mean to be the “Vortex Jumper”? > How do people get ideas for stories, screenplays, books, etc? I have a story but instead of writing it I created a holographic reality show that I star in as the Vortex Jumper and first-time CSers and returning TBRC members are my guest stars, co-stars, and recurring characters. I believe I exist in the ultimate role-playing game in which I programmed my entire life before I was born. Couchsurfing, no matter what its original purpose, is a necessary part of my story’s mission. What part does Bell Rock play in all of this? > Bell Rock is the perfect rock for my story. It has the reputation of being an interdimensional portal. In 1987, during the Harmonic Convergence, people gathered around the rock waiting for it to “blast off.” Unlike other red rocks/vortexes that have a well-marked trail, Bell Rock has no trail to the top. People need me to lead the way. My home faces Bell Rock. It’s the first thing I see in the morning and the last thing at night. It is continually in my present moments. > > I started the Top of Bell Rock Club (TBRC) a few weeks after I began hosting Couchsurfers. It was a fun way to keep track of the number of people while providing a foundation to my story. The TBRC now has 2338 members worldwide. About 1/3 are CSers. I followed up to learn more about this “holographic reality show”, Peter’s unique worldview, and the role so many Couchsurfers have played in this, to which he responded – “*Come to Sedona and to the top of Bell Rock with me and I’ll tell you.”* So I did. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/Peter3-225x300.jpg "Peter3 - Couchsurfing Blog") After visiting my sister, Jenna, in Tempe, we both drove up to Sedona and arrived at the clubhouse a little before sunset. Peter was waiting there to welcome us to the city and give us a detailed tour of his home. The first thing we noticed inside was the variety of people featured in photos on his walls, showcasing the many who’ve traveled with him to the top of Bell Rock. He proudly walked us through these pictures and pointed out the wide diversity of participants – from pregnant women, to families with young children, couples whose wedding he officiated at the top, and countless 20-something year olds, each accompanied by their own unique story. There are hundreds of handwritten letters and trinkets left by TBRC members scattered around the house, as well as pictures of Bell Rock made from any material imaginable including watercolor, acrylic, copper, wood, and nails, to name a few. After Peter walked us through these various memories and works of art, we opened the bottle of wine I had brought and discussed plans for the next day. As customary, we woke at 7am the following morning and set off to climb Bell Rock. We had a couple others, Michael and Robert, join us for the hike last minute after hearing about Peter from another Couchsurfer. We were happy to have the additional company. Peter guided us all up the same path that his feet have weathered a couple thousand times, yet is still disparate from any recognizable trail and unknown to the general public. He pointed out where to hold on and find footholds in the rock, where to take the best pictures, and what different parts of the red rock meant to him. At the top, he has all members complete a series of riddles before he will agree to show the way back down. When I asked if he gets tired of doing the same hike all the time, Peter joyfully responded “hiking Bell Rock is always a unique experience since each time I’m joined by new people like yourselves”. Here are some pics from my first Top of Bell Rock journey with Peter, but to get the full picture you really have to experience it for yourself. Peter’s final advice for next time you are visiting Sedona: *“Send me a Couchsurfing request and come with me to the top of Bell Rock!”* ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/Peter1-1024x769.jpg "Peter1 - Couchsurfing Blog")Me and the man himself![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/Peter2-1024x768.jpg "Peter2 - Couchsurfing Blog")Peter guiding Michael and Jenna![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/viewfrombellrock-1024x768.jpg "viewfrombellrock - Couchsurfing Blog")View from the Top of Bell Rock![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/DSCN8794-300x225.jpg "DSCN8794 - Couchsurfing Blog")Squad pic after the hike*This article was written by Josh, a Couchsurfing Marketing team member and proud member of the Top of Bell Rock Club.* ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-tbrc/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-tbrc/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** Community --- ### [A Couchsurfer's Guide to San Francisco](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-san-francisco/) **Published:** August 17, 2017 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** San Francisco is a city known for many great things. Rice-a-roni, cable cars, The San Francisco Giants, and the Golden Gate Bridge, just to name a few. It’s a city that draws upwards of 16 million visitors each year. When visiting a tourist destination of that magnitude, it can often become difficult to sift through all the tourist clutter and hone in on the true San Francisco experience. But alas, we are here to help by giving you the best local advice on this beautiful city that we at Couchsurfing HQ call ‘home’. ## Quick Tips from Hosts and CS Staff - *“It’s not Southern California, wear layers and bring long pants for when it gets cold. Summertime will often be the coldest time in San Francisco” – Robin, San Francisco host since 2004* - *“Favorite things about SF: The city’s diversity and proximity to some of the most beautiful places on the planet” – David, San Francisco host* - “*San Francisco has amazing food. Hands down the best burger in San Francisco can be found at Pearl’s Deluxe Burgers on Post, just a short walk from Union Square.”* – Zareen, Community Manager at CS HQ and host in San Francisco - *“The* [Bayshore Roundhouse](https://www.thrillist.com/entertainment/san-francisco/bayshore/abandoned-bayshore-train-yard-photos-in-san-francisco) *is a great spot for urban exploration in nearby Brisbane. Once the center of the Bay Area steam-powered freight train network, today it lies abandoned and forgotten, except for those adventurous enough to find and enter it through one of the many edges of its chained linked, barbed wire perimeter.”* – Andrew, Couchsurfing Engineer - *“Be a traveler, not a tourist.”* – David, San Francisco host ## Getting Around When arriving in a new city for the first time, the most common question often involves how to get from Point A to Point B. You may be surprised to learn that the city of San Francisco is only 7×7 miles, which is why you may notice many people walking and biking. While those infamous hills do make the 7 miles feel a touch longer, San Francisco is in fact a pedestrian’s paradise. For longer distances, you might consider one of many options: **Biking** “Biking is the best way to get around San Francisco. It’s fast, convenient and a great way to see the city” -Robin There are many options for renting a bike in the city. The Bay Area Bike-Share (soon to be Ford GoBike) could be a good choice if you are just trying to get from one place to another quickly. These bikes are meant for shorter rides and not recommended for a full day of biking or riding over the Golden Gate bridge. Pick-up/drop-off points are limited to select neighborhoods so be sure to [plan ahead](http://www.bayareabikeshare.com/). This is a great option if you are looking for a no hassle way to get to where you need to go. If you would like to see the sights from the seat of a bike, there is no shortage of bike rental places for you to choose from. Many of these are located in Fisherman’s Wharf and there are a few location in or around Golden Gate Park and Union Square. Blazing Saddles and Bike and Roll have two of the largest bike fleets. Park Wide is your best option if you are looking to ride through Golden Gate Park. Bike rentals for the whole day typically start around $32 and most of these companies offer weekly rates. Insider tip: Make sure you have a lock and know how to use it. Don’t even think about leaving your bike outside after dark. While the streets are safe, the unattended bike is not! **Public Transportation** Thinking of driving around the city? Think again. “You don’t want or need a car. It’s more of a risk to have it around and very difficult to find parking. If you have a rental car, drop it off before you get into the city.” – Robin Understanding the difference between BART, Muni and Caltrain can often leave newcomers spinning. Here’s what you need to know: - BART: You may recognize BART from it’s 15 minutes of fame in *The Pursuit of Happyness* with Will Smith. It is also known for its revolutionary methods used to build the [Transbay Tube](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Transbay_Tube). BART runs up and down Market St., through the bay to the East Bay, and also South to the airport. This is the best option for getting to and from the airport and will make stops in the Mission, Union Square and Financial district, to name a few. - MUNI: Muni is actually the company that controls both the bus and the Muni Metro. Muni Metro (which locals simply refer to as ‘Muni’) is a light-rail that runs both above and below ground, depending on where you are. The F line is an above ground route which uses old fashioned style cars from around the world. It’s not the fastest option, but it will give you a fun and scenic route from the Wharf to the Castro. If you hop aboard a Muni train at an above-ground stop, you will need to have exact change to pay your fair. At below ground stops you will enter through a station and purchase your fare via a ticket machine. - The Bus: Just like any other major city, we have a very complex web of buses that can get you just about anywhere. One great thing about riding the bus is that you will always be above ground and able to enjoy the scenery. Bus drivers are usually kind enough to answer basic questions about where the bus is going and will even alert you of your stop if you ask nicely. Exact change is also required here. - Caltrain: Caltrain is the commuter train which runs from San Francisco (near the ballpark) all the way to South Bay. You would only really use this if you are heading to an event in the Peninsula or South Bay, or staying with a host outside of the city. Be sure to purchase your tickets before boarding, they often check for proof of purchase. - Cable Car: See that huge line of people waiting for the cable car at Union Square and Fisherman’s Wharf? That line is for tourists, not travelers! Follow the tracks up the street a few blocks to the next stop, or the one after that. It usually stops every two blocks and the conductors do not fill the car to capacity, in order to be able to pick up passengers at each stop. Be ready to hop aboard when the cable car approaches! It will stop in the middle of the street and you’ll hear the conductor call out how many more people they can take. It’s definitely not the cheapest option for getting around, most people do it for the experience. - Lyft/Uber: San Francisco’s small size makes ride-sharing a great option. You can easily get from one side of the city to the other for a very reasonable price. Just be sure to look out for cyclists when opening your doors, and encourage your driver to not block the bike lane when stopping for drop-off/pick-up. ## Things to do You will have no trouble finding plenty of ways to fill your time. If you are trying to have a more authentic experience, the best advice we can give you is to steer clear of Fisherman’s Wharf. Union Square can also wind up feeling like a bit of a tourist trap. Pick a neighborhood and stick to it for the night. Just have a walk around, see what catches your eye. Each neighborhood offers a unique flare with endless opportunities to find exactly what you’re looking for. The number of good places to eat in this city cannot be measured; it’s a foodie’s paradise. Looking for authentic Mexican food and dive bars? Make your way to the Mission. Italian food, great coffee and some of the city’s oldest bars? North Beach is the spot. Rainbows, gay bars and upscale shops will light your way to the Castro. **Favorite Bars** > Couchsurfing hangout in San Francisco with Netherland Star [@marjetwoldhuis](https://twitter.com/marjetwoldhuis) ! [pic.twitter.com/S8jbQq7z9d](https://t.co/S8jbQq7z9d) > > — Enguerran Gillier (@opnsec) [August 22, 2016](https://twitter.com/opnsec/status/767522058695745542) - [Trad’r Sam](https://www.yelp.com/biz/tradr-sam-san-francisco-2): A Tiki bar in the Outer Richmond. It’s worth the trek. - [Aunt Charlie’s Lounge](https://www.yelp.com/biz/aunt-charlies-lounge-san-francisco) in the Tenderloin hits its stride on Thursdays. - [El Rio](https://www.yelp.com/biz/el-rio-san-francisco) in the Mission. With plenty of weekly and monthly events, there’s a little something for everyone. - [Hotel Utah Saloon](https://www.yelp.com/biz/hotel-utah-saloon-san-francisco): Just your average old bar, but you are pretty much guaranteed to make friends with some locals over some very strong drinks. They also have a very small and intimate performance space downstairs. (Insider tip: Any place called a Saloon is a little glimpse into San Francisco’s past). **Brunch** Brunch has become a very popular weekend activity, you may even hear it referred to as the official sport of San Francisco. What draws the crowds are the bottomless mimosas. Yes, you read that right– restaurants typically give you a 2 hour window to drink all the mimosas you can, but you must order an entree to unlock this deal. Some favorite and noteworthy brunch spots include [The Vestry](https://www.yelp.com/biz/the-vestry-san-francisco) in the Mission, [A Kitchen Story](https://www.yelp.com/biz/kitchen-story-san-francisco?osq=a+kitchen+story) in the Castro and [Sweet Maple](https://www.yelp.com/biz/sweet-maple-san-francisco) in Lower Pacific Heights. **Museums** San Francisco boasts many wonderful museums; there’s something here for everyone. Along with the well-known attractions such as [de Young](https://deyoung.famsf.org/), [SF MOMA](https://www.sfmoma.org/), [The Academy of Sciences](http://www.calacademy.org/) and the [Exploratorium](https://www.exploratorium.edu/), San Francisco also contains numerous less well-known but equally awesome museums and galleries. Many of these, including the big ones, offer a free visit day once per month. Click [here](http://freemuseumday.org/sf.html) for a complete list of Bay Area museums plus when to visit for free. If you’re in town on a Thursday night, be sure to check out the Academy of Science’s [NightLife](http://www.calacademy.org/nightlife); a 21+ up event in which you can tour the museum while sipping on cocktails for a reduced ticket price. ## Outdoor Adventures Another thing that locals love about living here is the balance of city and nature. It won’t take long for you to notice the abundance of greenery around the city. Take one step further and enjoy the beautiful parks that San Francisco has to offer. [Dolores Park](https://www.yelp.com/biz/mission-dolores-park-san-francisco): We’ll start with Dolores. It’s not so much of a nature walk, but more of a place to take a load off and sip on some beverages (which you can pick up at a bodega on the way). With it’s proximity to the fun and action in the Mission District, this park is full of life anytime the sun comes out. On a sunny weekend day head here for some of the best vibes and friendliest faces in the city. Remember the backpacker’s motto: *Pack it in, pack it out* and do you part to keep the park clean. [Golden Gate Park](https://goldengatepark.com/): While there are still plenty of places to relax with a picnic, Golden Gate Park’s expansiveness takes many by surprise. There is so much to do within the park that you could easily spend days there. It houses several museums, plus the Japanese Tea House and Botanical gardens are definitely worth a visit. There are also plenty of trails, open meadows and secret gardens for you to discover on your own. If you keep walking all the way through, you will eventually reach Ocean Beach on the West side of the city. Beaches: [Ocean Beach](https://www.yelp.ca/biz/ocean-beach-san-francisco) is a large, expansive beach on the West of San Francisco. Popular with joggers, dog-walkers, surfers and beach-strollers, you will rarely find people laying out here for a suntan. We are lucky to get a handful of days that would justify stripping down to our swim wear. However, that doesn’t stop the nudists at [Baker Beach](https://www.yelp.ca/biz/baker-beach-san-francisco). With some of the most spectacular views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Baker beach is a popular spot with photographers and locals. This beach is a little more difficult to access and therefore typically not as busy. On a sunny weekend day, however, you’ll be rubbing shoulders with half of the city’s population. A handful of nudists can usually be found at the far end, neaer the beach. [Crissy Field Beach](https://www.yelp.com/biz/crissy-field-san-francisco-3) is on the bay side and therefore doesn’t get those riptides and crashing waves that we see at the Pacific beaches, which has made it a very popular spot for dogs to take a dip in the calm waters. Visit between 12 and 3 on any weekday for a dog to human ratio of about 8:1. [Twin Peaks](https://www.yelp.ca/biz/twin-peaks-san-francisco): Looking for the best views of the city, Ocean AND the bay? Look no further. You will have to get yourself up to the highest point in the city, but it’s worth it. [Urban Hiking](https://urbanhikersf.blogspot.ca/2014/07/what-is-urban-hiking.html): Urban hiking is just a fancy way to say walking up and down all these hills and exploring the city. It’s a great way to see a lot while experiencing city life and the beautiful parks from ground zero. Pick a neighborhood and shoot for somewhere on the opposite side of the city and make a day of it! ## Before you go As is true while visiting any city, it is important to be respectful of the residents and cultures of that city that may be different than your own. San Francisco has seen many changes over the past decade and therefore some tensions have arisen over issues like gentrification, homelessness and the skyrocketing cost of living. While you visit, keep these things in mind. If you can, contribute and support local businesses, acknowledge the cultural epicenters by respecting the people that make up those neighborhoods. Be sensitive to people trying to earn a buck on the street and always remember to clean up after yourself. Above all, enjoy the city. And try to leave with your heart still intact. > San Francisco, it’s been great! Thanks to my [@Couchsurfing](https://twitter.com/Couchsurfing) host, his friends, + Duff for making this a trip to be remembered![\#Gaycation](https://twitter.com/hashtag/Gaycation?src=hash) [pic.twitter.com/BbBgh9XfPW](https://t.co/BbBgh9XfPW) > > — Peter Moosman (@petermoosman) [May 29, 2017](https://twitter.com/petermoosman/status/869203579407441920) ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-san-francisco/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-san-francisco/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** Travel Tips --- ### [Featured Ambassador: Carlos](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/featured-ambassador-carlos/) **Published:** June 26, 2017 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** **![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/DDEFB0E8-1572-4F28-BA29-15FF8B382385-300x225.jpg "DDEFB0E8-1572-4F28-BA29-15FF8B382385 - Couchsurfing Blog")Name:** [Carlos Alvarez](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/carlosmdp25_) **Location:** Rosario, Santa Fe, Argentina **Words of Wisdom:** The World is much smaller than you think. Carlos Alvarez is a passionate, socially aware, self-proclaimed freedom fighter. He lives in a large Argentinian city called Rosario where he hosts surfers, sells (and reads) plenty of books, and keeps a travel [blog](https://demochilasyhuellas.wordpress.com/) with his girlfriend. Carlos is a man of great convictions and morals, and points out many issues that he is passionate about on his CS profile. He loves to engage in long and meaningful conversations, exchanging viewpoints and learning about perspectives different than his own. One can’t help but be impressed by his dedication to his own personal growth while simultaneously taking a stand against things like war, homophobia and and sexism. Carlos got involved with Couchsurfing back in 2009. “I loved the concept and there were very few people doing it in those days in my country, which made it more rare and interesting” recalls Carlos. > “In many ways, I’m not the same guy I was before my Couchsurfing experience. CS showed me that the world is smaller than I thought and full of amazing people, and that we all belong to the same place– the earth. Understanding that and breaking the limits of the mind, I discovered that I loved a lot of cultural aspects of other societies, like languages, traditions, gastronomy, etc. From being a normal student and worker immersed in my routine, to becoming a worldly guy that studies to understand others and working to travel as much as possible. The priorities in my life have changed completely since I joined Couchsurfing.” For Carlos, discovering Couchsurfing was a way for him to quench his insatiable thirst for travel while he was still a University student. It helped him learn more about the world and open his mind, shaping him into the strong person that he is today. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/2017-05-18-PHOTO-00001926-300x169.jpg "2017-05-18-PHOTO-00001926 - Couchsurfing Blog")At one of the weekly Couchsurfing meetings that Carlos organizes in Rosario ArgentinaCarlos, along with thousands of other travelers, has found inspiration from legendary backpacker, Juan Villarino. Villarino is best known for is travels across the middle east during the Bush administration, proving that people are, in fact, inherently good and not at all like they had been portrayed by the media. “Following his steps I started to make my own path.” Carlos has taken his love for travel and applied to another interesting hobby– sending postcards to strangers all over the world. He uses [postcrossing.com](https://www.postcrossing.com/) to send and receive postcards from anyone who wants to get involved. He started this hobby around the same time that he joined Couchsurfing. It is one of the many ways that Carlos makes the world feel a little bit smaller. What’s next for Carlos? Continuing to organize Rosario’s weekly meetings, which he has done since 2013, is at the top of his list. Carlos also plans and hosts other social events for travelers who come to town. “As a CS Ambassador I love to make events where people can develop the CS spirit and share their tales and experiences of helping others.” On top of all that, Carlos is also planning a big trip with his girlfriend where they will hitchhike from Argentina to Mexico. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/20170123_152600-e1498003917518-225x300.jpg "20170123_152600 - Couchsurfing Blog") ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/featured-ambassador-carlos/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/featured-ambassador-carlos/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** Community, Meet an Ambassador --- ### [What does more funding mean for Couchsurfing? -- A conversation with CEO Tony Espinoza](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/what-does-more-funding-mean-for-couchsurfing-a-conversation-with-ceo-tony-espinoza/) **Published:** August 24, 2012 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Excerpt:** Our investors want to see CouchSurfing become something that really revolutionizes how people travel and connect. They’re looking at the power of that idea to create something totally new and essential. **Content:** ![](/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/tony.jpeg "Tony Espinoza - Couchsurfing Blog")CEO Tony EspinozaToday we announced that we’ve raised $15 million in additional funding. It’s a big announcement and understandably members have a lot of questions. Tony Espinoza, CouchSurfing’s CEO, and I had a meeting so that we could talk about it. > Our investors want to see CouchSurfing become something that really revolutionizes how people travel and connect. **Meredith**: So one thing that people are understandably skeptical about is how we’re going to eventually earn money as a company. Can you share how you’re thinking about our business model going forward? **Tony**: I think that we probably will end up launching something within the next year, whatever it is. But I really think the website needs to work. It just needs to work well. Whether it’s fancy or not I don’t know, but it should just work, it should be there, it should not be going down, the results should make sense and help you meet people. Ironically at this moment we’re reaching the next level but it also represents going back to basics. Our website is a toolkit that lets people get offline and meet each other. That’s what we need to focus on. We’re definitely not planning to do something like putting advertising up, or anything else that takes away from the experience or damages the community. We know that surfing and hosting needs to be free. So we have a lot of awareness of what we can’t do. Next step is figuring out what we can and should do. **Meredith**: One big question that people have is, what do the investors want? It’s not a gift, obviously, it’s an investment, and I think there’s a lot of concern about what kinds of expectations these people who have given us all this money will have. **Tony**: There are all different kinds of investors in the world. If you look through all of our individual investors, you will find consistent track records of believing in technology’s ability to change the world. And not because technology is so great in and of itself, but because people use it, and people use it on a global mass scale. And when they use it that way, and they use it for social purposes, it becomes a fabric that enables things to happen. Investors benefit from change. They invest because ideas grow and have impact. But things won’t grow if they aren’t working. There are two types of investors. There are what we think of as “investor types” and there are company builders. And those are pretty different mindsets. An investor type is looking at market forces, these trajectories, how things are happening. Company builders have a belief in the model that a company can become really great at something, and if it has the right focus and the right execution then it can become increasingly relevant over time. So company builders look at really broad trends and ask themselves, “Is this part of the world changing? And in what ways does this company fit in? Is it becoming increasingly relevant over time, or neutral?” **Meredith**: So you put a lot of work into finding the right investors, people that you thought were well suited to how we want to do things. I know you’ve also made sure that they really understand us and how we’re not just a company or a website, we’re representing this big living culture. **Tony**: What I like about the set of people we have in the company is I think that we’re very well aligned in wanting to build something meaningful; because it has impact, and because it’s relevant on a global basis. There are a lot of companies that get funded around here that are all about technology, all about Silicon Valley. And that’s great, but anyone we’ve brought in to invest in CouchSurfing understands that we’re not about that, that we’re really about connecting every country and every culture, and the only reason that technology is relevant is because it enables us to reach everyone, and because it’s become part of our lives every day. In that way it’s vital, and we’re making this next step so that we’re really competent and capable of supporting a network of that scale. **Meredith**: We’re definitely in a really unique environment here, where people are putting money into these ideas rather than into some kind of concrete plan. Or at least it seems that way to me. **Tony**: So traditionally the world has been driven by value chains. Where somebody makes something, somebody distributes it, somebody sells it to someone, somebody buys it. There’s been this distinction of either you’re on the production end or you’re on the consumer end of the spectrum. And I think the movement that we’re connected to, that’s much bigger than just CouchSurfing, although CouchSurfing lives and breathes it, is that everyone in our community is both. We’re creating experiences, and we’re also happily experiencing them ourselves. What the technology does is it takes out all the middle men, just destroys the value chain and says that people can reach one another and that we can build a system that makes that work really well. That’s such a fundamental shift economically in the way the world works that it creates a huge amount of opportunity. CouchSurfing already has something that nobody else has. It already has changed the world. And that’s extremely valuable. Our investors want to see CouchSurfing become something that really revolutionizes how people travel and connect. They’re looking at the power of that idea to create something totally new and essential. **Meredith**: So how would you summarize what this means for us, getting the new round of funding? You mentioned that it’s a step forward but it’s also a return to basics; could you go back to that and talk a little bit more about what this moment is about for the organization and for the community? **Tony**: I want us to start thinking about next June, now. And deliver on that, and match what we do with what we’re saying, and give people stuff that’s going to come true. This is going to be a steady process. We’re in it, we’ve gone from thinking about weeks and months to thinking about the next two years. We’re thinking about CouchSurfing as something that we can think about long term, not just handling where we’re at right now. Beginning this fall, we’re really going to be strengthening the tools that are available on the website. Making them more reliable, making them easier to use. By having this new platform \[*Ed. note: the new code base that the engineering team is building*\] we will finally be able to operate in a way that’s not based on building features, but actually a process of iterating on our service, responding to things that aren’t working the way we hoped and constantly improving things. So instead of working in a vacuum, for the first time we’ll really be able to build something dynamically with the community, and respond, and be involved so that things continually get better. **Meredith**: When you say working with the community, what will that look like? What are your plans to improve that conversation? **Tony**: Building things that people use and using the analytics to understand what is and isn’t working is really vital. Because there’s an answer as to whether or not this solution is better than that, or what have you. But it’s not actually possible from my experience to iterate or tune your way to a major shift. So you do two things at the same time. You have to actually take risks and innovate and try things that are non-linear. And then on top of that you’ve got to be able to twist and turn and optimize and test your way to something better. So we have to do both. The non-linear pieces come from our ability to understand what people really are doing in the system and want to be able to do, and so that comes from being CouchSurfers ourselves and from working closely with CouchSurfers. How we actually make it easy, approachable, functional, fluid, efficient, those are things we can get from metrics. But a lot of the big ideas really do have to come from CouchSurfers. We need to make sure we are working on better ways to get those ideas to the surface, and that’s something I want to be sure we do. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/what-does-more-funding-mean-for-couchsurfing-a-conversation-with-ceo-tony-espinoza/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/what-does-more-funding-mean-for-couchsurfing-a-conversation-with-ceo-tony-espinoza/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts --- ### [A Couchsurfer's Guide to Detroit](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-detroit/) **Published:** May 24, 2017 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** Detroit, Michigan is well known for being the automotive capital of the world and for being the birthplace of Motown sound and techno, making it extremely influential in the international music world. Tourists flock to Detroit for its rich industrial and manufacturing history, the Movement festival or simply because they love Eminem’s 8 Mile. However, none of these things alone are enough to capture the Detroit spirit. To help your experience the real Detroit, we interviewed some local Couchsurfing hosts in the city for tips on how to get the most out of your visit. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/Couch-Crash-2015-Spirit-of-Detroit-300x169.jpg "Couch Crash 2015 - Spirit of Detroit - Couchsurfing Blog")Attendees of the 2015 Detroit Couch Crash in front of The Spirit of Detroit### Experience Detroit at its best by becoming part of it. > “If you come here, you should come to participate in Detroit. We’re not a place to consume culture, but to create and contribute to it. Come for more than a couple days and do something really cool – create some art, plug into something.” –* Mars Mars, a Detroit native, frequently hosts Couchsurfers at his place off W. Grand Blvd and emphasizes the importance of actively participating and contributing to Detroit in order to fully experience the city. He highlights several ways you can get involved: - Visit and do some gardening at the [Michigan Urban Farming Initiative](http://www.miufi.org/) - Volunteer at the [Capuchin Soup Kitchen](http://www.cskdetroit.org/) - Help demolish and renovate abandoned buildings with[ Motor City Blight Busters](http://www.mcbbdetroit.com/contact/volunteer/) - Check out[ Fireweed University](http://fireweeduniversecity.blogspot.com/) “for off-the-grid living at its finest (or stop by on Wednesday night for their weekly drum circle at the Psychedelic Healing Shack)” A few other urban farming and volunteering opportunities worth checking out: - [Keep Growing Detroit](http://detroitagriculture.net/) - [Earthworks Urban Farm](https://communitygarden.org/find-a-garden/gardens/earthworks-urban-farm/) - [Lafayette Greens](http://www.kw-la.com/kenweikal/2011/10/lafayette-greens-an-urban-garden/) - [Detroit Medical Center Children’s Hospital of Michigan](https://www.childrensdmc.org/) - [Urban Development Corporation](http://www.urbandevelopmentcorp.org/volunteers/) ### If you’re not coming for an event, visit Detroit in the summer. Michiganders joke that it can be 80℉ and sunny one morning, and snowing later that evening. When traveling to the state of Michigan make sure to note the time of year and pack accordingly, as the average temperature will range from 19℉ (-7℃) in January to 65℉ (18℃) in July with highs of 85+℉ (30℃). > “Movement weekend is not the time to have a local Detroit experience. Come during the summer with time to properly explore” – Mars. Thousands flock to the city every May for the Detroit Movement festival and this is a very popular week for Couchsurfing. If you’re in town on Movement weekend make sure to send out Couch Requests well in advance. Use the date filters or a Public Trip to increase your chances of finding a great host. Some other popular events that draw large crowds to the city include the North American International Auto Show, Woodward Dream Cruise, the Detroit Jazz Festival and Arts Beats and Eats. ### Explore Detroit’s Museums and other popular sights. > “For someone new to the city I’d highly recommend checking out museums to get a better sense of the city’s history” – Michelle A few good places to start include: - [Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History](https://thewright.org/) - [Motown Museum](https://www.motownmuseum.org/) - [Piquette Plant Museum](http://www.fordpiquetteavenueplant.org/) - [Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA)](http://www.dia.org/) *“*Check out MetroTimes.com and DLY’s Guidebook for info on many of Detroit’s top sights,” Nathan, another local Detroiter who frequently hosts in the city, advises. He provides an extensive list of places for his guests to check out. Here are a few: - The Heidelberg project, the Red Bull house of Art, and Hamtramck (Ukranian) Disneyland, which are all inspiring pieces of art and part of someone’s home - The Guardian building, the Detroit Building or the Fisher Building for beautiful Detroit Architecture - The Detroit Experience Factory, *“Detroit’s unofficial welcome center”* - The Works, Fox Theatre, Redford Theatre, St. Andrew’s Hall for live shows and music ### It’s easiest to get around by car, depending on the neighborhood. > “Since Detroit was built on the automotive industry, it’s built around cars and has very little public transit. However, there are parking lots everywhere and is very driver friendly.” -Melissa Public transportation is a relatively new concept for the city. That being said, your two main options are buses or the QLine. - **Buses**: A reliable (and cheap!) option at $1.50USD base fare. You can find more information on DDOT bus schedules[ here](http://www.detroitmi.gov/How-Do-I/Locate-Transportation/Bus-Schedules). - **QLine**: New as of 2017, the QLine is far from an all-encompassing form of transit but is Detroit’s first major step in the right direction. The 3.3-mile track will take you down Woodward, through Midtown and to the river, while passing some of Detroit’s most iconic venues and historic buildings. This is a good option if your host lives in Midtown or New Town. Also worth mentioning is the **Detroit People Mover** (the DPM), a 3-mile suspended single-track system that’s been in operation since 1987 and is still going strong. While some locals commute using the DPM daily, most no longer use it.. However, at 75 cents a ride it’s a great way to see a piece of Detroit’s history as well as stunning views of Windsor, Ontario and the Detroit River! > “A **bike** is the best way to experience Detroit. You can rent one from Kelly at the Wheelhouse.” –Mars. While Mars may be a bit biased after biking 2,800 miles from San Francisco to Detroit, he stresses that the best way to see the city is on a bike. He’ll often take his couchsurfers on biking tours of the city and says it’s a great way to get to know the different neighborhoods without having to rent a car or spend money on ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft. ### Stay in Downtown, Midtown or Corktown if you want to be in the city center. > “I don’t think there’s anything you shouldn’t consider. Detroit is a story, and just like any other you need to see both where it’s going and where it came from to understand.” – Melissa Melissa is also from the Detroit area originally, and along with much of the city, considers herself a die-hard Detroit sports fan. She gave us the following direction in terms of which neighborhoods to look for while Couchsurfing in Detroit. “**Downtown** has a lot to explore and is a good place to start. There’s always new businesses opening up and it’s very lively because all Detroit sport teams are hosted right in the city” “**Midtown** is technically part of downtown, but now commonly referred to separately and is a very up and coming neighborhood. It’s also near Eastern Market which is a huge street market every Saturday” If you’re around Midtown recommends checking out Honest John’s for their breakfast or burgers, and the Jolly Pumpkin Brewery for pizza and brews.” “**Corktown** is the oldest neighborhood in the city with great food and is close to Southwest Detroit. More family oriented but a lot to see,” she said. “I recommend checking out a relatively new concert venue called El Club, it brings in some great artists.” Renting a car? Some other great neighborhood with cool shops and restaurants include **Indian Village**, **West Village**, **Grandmont Rosedale** and **New Center** if you want to be further from urban core of downtown Detroit. ### Staying Safe in Detroit Like any other big city, it’s important to take a few precautions to stay safe while traveling. If you rent a car, be sure to lock it and take your valuables with you when park. When exploring Detroit at night, we recommend that you bring a friend with you and stay in lit areas. If you are traveling alone, invite your Couchsurfing host to come with you, or make a new friend with Couchsurfing Hangouts! In the event of an emergency, the local number for the police, ambulance, and fire station is 911. ### Before you go, keep in mind… > “Humble yourselves and let go of your pre-dispositions of Detroit.” – Mars. > > “People are really cool and generally very friendly in Detroit. If you have an open mind you’re going to have a good time no matter where you go.” – Melissa. Detroit often gets a bad reputation stemming from difficulties it has faced from the international disruption of the automotive industry, political corruption and infrastructure challenges. These factors lead to a population dip from 1.8 million people in the 1950s to a more recent population estimate of ~760,000 people. However, this is just a small part of Detroit’s story. Detroit is and has always been defined by its roots in Motown, techno, jazz and other genres of music, and is also becoming a hub for urban farming, innovative living and urban planning, technology, and entrepreneurship. You’ll also find that many Detroiters are die-hard sport fans, so whether you’re in town for Hockey, Basketball, Football or Baseball season try to meet up with some locals and join them in cheering on the home team! Oh, and if you’re planning a trip sometime soon, keep in mind that Detroit shares a border with Windsor, Canada and is only a few hour drive from Chicago, Illinois and Cleveland, Ohio. All are great options if you’re looking to expand your travels beyond the Motor City! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-detroit/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfers-guide-to-detroit/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** Travel Tips --- ### [Featured Ambassador: Nadia from Saarbrücken, Germany](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/featured-ambassador-nadia-from-saarbrucken-germany/) **Published:** May 22, 2017 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** **![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/CS-taking-me-around-the-island-in-Hawaii-e1495045494970-242x300.jpg "CS taking me around the island in Hawaii - Couchsurfing Blog")** **Name:** [Nadia](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/nadia83) Curcio **Location:** Saarbrücken, Germany **Countries visited:** 31 **\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_** It is estimated that approximately 80,000 hopeful backpackers enter Australia on a Working Holiday [visa](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Working_holidays_in_Australia) each year. In 2009 Nadia joined the ranks of Australian Working Holiday Makers and enjoyed a full year of Couchsurfing Down Under. Nadia had read up on Couchsurfing when she initially began to plan for her big year abroad. “I signed up for it before I left \[Germany\] but kind of forgot about it. Then a few months into my travel I was reminded of Couchsurfing and tried it and loved it.” Nadia got involved in the Sydney Couchsurfing community while spending four months there, attending events, meetings and organizing trips. From then on she considered her new friends to be her second family. She formed life-long bonds and gained countless travel-buddies. At the end of 2010 Nadia returned home to Germany and felt inspired to start hosting; “I really wanted to pay back all the great experiences I had as a surfer.” > *“I loved traveling Australia so much that I never stopped traveling afterward.”* Her time spent in Australia inspired Nadia to keep moving. She has traveled to many other places around Europe, Asia and the Americas, with extended stays in Australia, Mexico, Spain and the United States. Today she works as a freelancer, giving her the freedom to work from anywhere, continue traveling and attending Couchsurfing events all over the globe. Nadia recalls a recent trip to Malaysia where she spent two months with a fantastic crew of surfers who all bonded over common love of travel. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/Malaysia-300x200.jpg "Malaysia - Couchsurfing Blog")The CS Malaysia CrewWhile home in Saarbrücken, Germany, Nadia keeps herself busy with her involvement in many areas of the Couchsurfing community. She organizes the weekly meetings and spreads the word about Couchsurfing at language exchanges and Universities. While on the road, Nadia manages to stay involved by heading up the online promotional efforts, messaging nearby travelers and contacting foreign University students. > “In summer I usually have a big potluck at my parents house. I regularly visit our \[neighboring\] cities’ monthly potluck and offer rides for the Couchsurfers from my town.” ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/CS-Thanksgiving-2011-at-my-place-300x199.jpg "CS Thanksgiving 2011 at my place - Couchsurfing Blog")CS Thanksgiving at Nadias house in 2011When Nadia isn’t traveling she mainly accepts last minute requests from people who haven’t found a host yet. > “When I host I usually show them around town, take them to the local bakery and tell my guests about German lifestyle and the countryside. Then I take them to CS events in the city and introduce them to other Couchsurfers and friends.” ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/CS-Saarbücken-dinner-meet-up-2013-300x169.jpg "CS Saarbücken dinner meet up 2013 - Couchsurfing Blog")Couchsurfing Saarbrücken dinner meet upFrom her introduction to Couchsurfing in Australia, to her commitment to spreading the word wherever she goes, Nadia has set a wonderful example of what it means to be a Couchsurfing Ambassador. Nadia is certain that Couchsurfing has made a positive impact on her life as she continues to learn and grow from her experiences. > “Couchsurfing makes me trust strangers a lot more easily and it’s nice to be able to meet like-minded people. Through Couchsurfing one can see that the world is a nice place and most people are good.” ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/CS-Mexico-City-300x225.jpg "CS Mexico City - Couchsurfing Blog")Couchsurfing Mexico City### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/featured-ambassador-nadia-from-saarbrucken-germany/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/featured-ambassador-nadia-from-saarbrucken-germany/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** Community, Meet an Ambassador --- ### [Featured Ambassador: Steven from Okawa Village, Japan](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/featured-ambassador-steven-from-okawa-village-japan/) **Published:** May 15, 2017 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/Alex-and-Isis-in-Hong-Kong-e1494869883761-300x257.jpg "Alex and Isis in Hong Kong - Couchsurfing Blog")**Name:** [Steven](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/scholarsteve) **Location:** Okawa Village, Kochi Prefecture, Japan. **Originally from:** Miami, Florida **Words of Inspiration:** “In the future, I hope to make a change in the planet we live. \[To motivate\] more young people to travel and learn about people and culture. And when I say travel, I don’t mean tour buses, 4-5 star hotels, fancy restaurants. I mean: travel with friends or by yourself, explore for yourself, learn how to plan and be out of your comfort zone, eat street and local food, use Couchsurfing to meet some amazing people, and learn!” Steven Carerra, at only 28 years old, has made the most of his time on earth by seeing as much of it as he can. Steven has made several extended trips to Asia, as well as various other countries, and currently lives in Japan. He thanks Couchsurfing for helping him achieve the life he lives today, “Couchsurfing changed my life in many ways. I am where I am thanks to the community of Couchsurfing.” While attending University in Florida, Steven used the 2012 summer break to take a solo trip around East Asia. > “Every day I stayed with someone from CS, sometimes staying 2-3 days at one place. After that first trip in East Asia, the rest is history. As soon as I returned from that trip, I started hosting people with my roommates in Gainesville, Florida where I was a University student. I was lucky my roommates were into meeting people and one of them even joined Couchsurfing as well. When I came back to Gainesville, I wanted to give back to the community and at the same time bring the world to me until I could travel again.” ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/Roommates-Friends-and-Surfers-at-my-place-in-Gainesville-Florida-300x200.jpg "- Couchsurfing Blog")Roommates friends and surfers at Stevens place in Gainesville FloridaSteven took his involvement in with Couchsurfing one step further and began hosting a monthly potluck for the Couchsurfing community in Florida. He kept this tradition alive when he returned to Asia to travel – this time in the South-East region – eventually moving to Beijing where he continued to host surfers as well as potlucks. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/Couchsurfing-Potluck-in-Beijing-China-300x200.jpg "- Couchsurfing Blog")Couchsurfing potluck in Beijing ChinaSteven admits that when he initially heard about Couchsurfing on a trip to Germany, he was a little skeptical. > “Our tour guide had mentioned that he had Couchsurfed through all of Europe and it was amazing. I thought it was a crazy idea to sleep at a complete stranger’s house because I was always taught never to trust a stranger. However, that all changed when I started traveling and growing up.” But before all of his involvement and eventual nomination to become an Ambassador, Steven recalls a trip to Egypt in 2011 when he got his first taste of the Couchsurfing spirit. > “My first actual CS experience was not through surfing, rather it was through a meeting. I thought it would be worth a shot to try meeting someone through Couchsurfing while I stayed at a hostel. It turns out my flight into Cairo was getting in at around 12:00AM. Originally, I was going to wait at the airport until the first bus out to the city but I decided to browse the group page of Couchsurfing and I found a group in Cairo that picks up Couchsurfers from the airport. I gave it a shot and posted a message on the group forums and someone quickly replied. We exchanged messages and contact information. As soon as I arrived at the airport, I called the number and he came to pick me up, took me around Cairo that night, showed me some spots, helped me get a SIM card and finally brought me to my hostel.” That eventful evening was enough to spark something inside of him that would lead to great things down the road. These days, Steven is an excellent example of what it means to be a Couchsurfing member. With 280 references on his profile, his hosts and surfers have nothing but good things to say. Steven and his wife, whom he met in Japan, now live in the countryside in the Okawa Village; a place so rural that he has a hard time receiving mail there. With a population of only 402 people, it is the perfect spot for outdoor enthusiasts and those looking for that small-town feel. Even his current job working for the JET (Japan Exchange & Teaching) Program he can link back to a Couchsurfing experience. > “In Japan, I stayed with a person who was working on the JET Program as an Assistant Language Teacher (ALT). She hosted me for six days, in her apartment in the countryside of Japan. Since she saw I was into academia, she invited me to give a presentation about myself and my trip to her students in a course of two days. This experience allowed me to understand a little bit about the JET Program and about the life at a Japanese public school. Three years later I joined the JET Program and I am now finishing my second year on the program and looking forward to the third year. In addition, I love my life here and look forward to living the rest of my life here with my wife who I met while living and working here.” ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/Surfer-speaking-to-my-studnets-300x225.jpg "Surfer speaking to my studnets - Couchsurfing Blog")One of Stevens surfers who came to talk to his students just as he had done several years prior![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/Kojiro-and-his-family-300x225.jpg "Kojiro and his family - Couchsurfing Blog")My host Kojiro in Kagawa Japan As soon as I moved to Japan I started to plan some travels all around the island I live in My main goal was to meet people all around Japan and of course in my island I did many trips throughout the weekends When I came to Kojiros place I felt right at home Him and his family showed me some amazing udon restaurants the amazing surrounding area and shared with me their life One of their sons just recently joined my school and that is because they know me They are considered part of my big family here in JapanIt’s safe to say that Steven’s life was forever changed by his involvement in the Couchsurfing community. His journey thus far has been nothing short of inspirational. It just goes to show that you never know what kind of a life is waiting for you on the other side of the planet. With a little faith and a lot of courage, Steven changed the course of his life and is never looking back. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/featured-ambassador-steven-from-okawa-village-japan/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/featured-ambassador-steven-from-okawa-village-japan/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** Community, Meet an Ambassador --- ### [Product Update: Couch Request changes](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/product-update-profile-couchrequest/) **Published:** May 1, 2017 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** The Couchsurfing community is based on personal relationships, and we want to make it easier for you to show your host why you chose to send them a Couch Request. We’ve made some changes that allow you to refer to the information in your host’s profile while you write your Couch Request. You can also switch between tabs of the profile you are reading (to view references, photos, and the My Home information, without losing the content of your message. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/Pasted_image_at_2017_05_01_01_20_PM-2-300x261.png "Pasted_image_at_2017_05_01_01_20_PM - Couchsurfing Blog") Right now, this change is only available to a limited number of members as we monitor feedback and make sure the change is working as expected. We hope to make this change available to all members of Couchsurfing over the next few weeks. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/product-update-profile-couchrequest/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/product-update-profile-couchrequest/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** News --- ### [Featured Ambassador: THEINFAMOUSJ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/featured-ambassador-theinfamousj/) **Published:** April 24, 2017 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** **![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/47006_10150283215055463_4337_n-e1492723040848-287x300.jpg "47006_10150283215055463_4337_n - Couchsurfing Blog")** **Name:** [Jen](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/theinfamousj) (aka *TheInfamousJ*) **Location:** Chapel Hill, North Carolina **Member Since:** 2009 **Surfers Hosted:** approximately 80 **One amazing thing she’s done:** Ridden a Zebra **Meet Jen:** A spirited social butterfly whose memorable username, *The Infamous J*, dates all the way back to her high school days. She exemplifies what it means to be a Couchsurfing Ambassador: a community-oriented host with an active social life and plenty of stories to share. Jen is very active in her local Couchsurfing community in the Triangle Area, North Carolina, attending regular camping trips and Couch Crashes, hosting themed parties and community meetings, and helping new Couchsurfing members online. Her playful nature and exuberance for life radiates throughout each word, making every encounter with Jen one to remember. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/33736_10150283216275463_2509184_n-300x224.jpg "33736_10150283216275463_2509184_n - Couchsurfing Blog")Triangle Couchsurfings first ever camping trip stopping for a photo at the Wright Brothers Memorial![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/15000603_10154097941101417_1385849266573599212_o-300x200.jpg "15000603_10154097941101417_1385849266573599212_o - Couchsurfing Blog")The most recent Triangle Couchsurfing camping trip Here we are climbing a light house Because anniversaries are meant to be celebrated by doing at least one new thing**The Beginning** Jen got her unofficial start with Couchsurfing before she was even aware of the website and the impact it would have on her future. While Jen was in college, she joined a coed fraternity that was a part of an informal couchsurfing network. “I have always had the travel bug, and it was extremely convenient for me to contact the nearest fraternity chapter and see who wouldprovide gratis lodging. Naturally, I was one of the first to volunteer to host in return.” After college, Jen was looking forward to completing a hike of her state’s end-to-end trail: the North Carolina Mountains to Sea Trail. “I had helped build sections of it since high school, so completing the trail was an exciting next step”, says Jen. Since the trail organization had limited funds to buy the land, there were long sections along the single-track trail where they didn’t own the land on either side, thus camping was not an option. While trying to find a solution to this problem, Jen uncovered something very familiar. “\[I was\] researching the trail journals of the thru-hikers who had already completed the trail,” she explains. “As it so happened, one of the first 20 thru-hikers was a woman who divulged that she used Couchsurfing to find lodging when in the no-camping section. So I clicked the link to Couchsurfing on her blogger journal entry and read about hospitality exchange. ‘There is a website for this?’ was my first thought. I signed up to host then and there.” ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/58185_455795908960_7203097_n-300x225.jpg "58185_455795908960_7203097_n - Couchsurfing Blog")Triangle Couchsurfings second ever camping trip This one to the NC Mountains Here we are on the Art Loeb trail at the summit of one of the mountains where we had spent the nightOf course, you must be wondering about the story behind her username, *THEINFAMOUSJ*. Jen explains that the nickname started when she was in high school. “I would regularly ‘tag’ my desks and classrooms with a capital J with an accent above it. I would mark the corner of chalkboards as well as the inside corner of the desk or the corner of the desk’s top. Sometimes it would be carved, other times it would be with a permanent marker. The chalkboards were always with chalk. One day, a friend was lingering after he had finished his class in one of the classrooms as I walked in and tagged the chalkboard. He saw me, and said, ‘Oh, so *you’re* the infamous J.’ And so it stuck.” **An Ambassador was Born** > “She simply *demonstrated* community and let it form around me. After experiencing that, how could I ever go back to being *just a member*?” Jen’s journey to ambassadorship all started with a trip to Philadelphia when she learned through example what the Couchsurfing spirit was all about. Working as a teacher at the time, Jen’s school had funded her admission to a Philly-based conference, leaving the travel and accommodation costs to her. Couchsurfing and Megabus ($1 tickets for the win!” recalls Jen), were what enabled her to attend the conference. Olivia Haesloop was Jen’s second host on her Philadelphia trip. “She was to her community what I was to mine when I was offered ambassadorship: a really, really actively involved social member. Because I was coming into town and she’d seen something in my request or perhaps on my profile, she organized a backyard potluck barbecue for dinner and, being the social butterfly that I am, I was thrilled.” Her experience at the potluck inspired Jen to bring this idea home with her to the Triangle Area in North Carolina: a grouping of several cities which operate as one metropolitan area (Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, Cary and Morrisville). “\[Olivia\] is single-handedly responsible for turning me from a “member” to a “*community* member”, even though she didn’t say a word to me about it. She simply *demonstrated* community and let it form around me. After experiencing that, how could I ever go back to just being a member?” These days, Jen prides herself on being a welcoming and knowledgeable host whose favorite thing to do with her surfers is sitting back and listening to their stories. She says that hosting has helped her learn to be more assertive and that it’s okay to have boundaries– something that has helped Jen in all aspects of her life. Jen goes on to explain how having low expectations for her guests and the impact they will have on her (be they good or bad), have really helped her appreciate the more meaningful interactions. “With a guest, I expect that they will sleep in my house and do so without being destructive or intolerably disruptive. Pretty low expectations, right? What this means is that anything above that baseline is something I treasure. It is a gift. It is a pleasant surprise. Perhaps we end up chatting late into the night. Perhaps they want to go explore the area and I end up learning about a new place or sharing the joy of one of my memory-filled landmarks with them. Perhaps we tackle a recipe I thought impossible. Perhaps we stay in and play video games and tell jokes. Each of these is a treasure and a lovely one at that. And not every guest can provide these treasures, which is fine. I don’t resent the ones who don’t, but treasure all the more the ones who do.” **Jen’s Favorite Couchsurfing Memories** > “I now work as a nanny, and earlier today my eldest charge asked me what my favorite song was. I told her that I don’t have a favorite song because there are so many fantastic songs in the world and I haven’t heard all of them, so how can I decide that I prefer one above all the others? I feel the same way about favorite memories. I cherish so many different Couchsurfing related memories that I dare not rank them in a hierarchy.” That being said, Jen did have one pretty great story to share about her experience at the Washington DC Couch Crash of 2016. “As one of the organized events, we had a silent, roving dance party. I am a fan of EDM to begin with, so as dusk was falling on the Washington Monument, I popped in my earbuds and used my LED light-bedecked finger to hit the play button on my phone at the same time as everyone else attending the event. The explosive, heavy beat of the custom dance mix started to thrum in my ears, and it was as if magic itself were loose upon the Earth. We danced our way through the different monuments – taking care to avoid disturbing the gravitas of war memorials – and night fell more heavily. All the tourists that encountered us lit up with giant grins, probably aided by the fact that extra LED finger lights were being given to children as souvenirs of our encounter. From the young to the elderly tourist, we were met with whispered commentating of, ‘I think they are doing \*that thing\*!!!!’ accompanied with pointing fingers and Cheshire cat grins. We were received happily by all who we encountered. And that positive energy was tangible and intoxicating. And I danced. Oh, how I danced. And you can, too! Come to the next Washington DC Couch Crash! Make this memory your memory!” **About Couch Crashes** A [Couch Crash](http://10.9.0.204/diving-into-couch-crashes/), sometimes called Couchsurfing Camps, is when Couchsurfers from all over the world congregate in a city at the same time and participate in organized events. These events could include anything from hikes to trips to the beach or dance-parties! Check out our Couch Crash [Calendar](http://10.9.0.204/couch-crash/) to see upcoming Crashes around the world. Jen is no stranger to the Couch Crash. In fact, last year alone she attended Couch Crashes in DC, Charleston, Seattle and Connecticut (where the locals call it ConnectiCouch). In years past she has attended in Charlotte and Philadelphia as well. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/14188167_10153863243576662_3157052663913425040_o-240x300.jpg "14188167_10153863243576662_3157052663913425040_o - Couchsurfing Blog") The 2016 DC Couchcrash, before the dancing began! \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/11914887_10102997463066808_3423075416696910787_n-300x225.jpg "11914887_10102997463066808_3423075416696910787_n - Couchsurfing Blog")One of the first reverse Couchcrashes my local community ever did We decided that we were going to descend on the North Carolina beaches and force the local community invitation what invitation to show us around And NC Beach Couchsurfing did with styleJen invites you check out the Triangle Couchsurfing Community’s [website](http://trianglecouchsurfing.info/) to stay informed and get involved in Couchsurfing events in the Triangle Area, North Carolina. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/featured-ambassador-theinfamousj/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/featured-ambassador-theinfamousj/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** Community, Meet an Ambassador --- ### [Featured Couchsurfer: Jason from Connecticut, USA](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/featured-couchsurfer-jason-from-connecticut-usa/) **Published:** July 13, 2016 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** [![11452628_l_39ca8ccf937b56b32faa9fa6d7eb3bac](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/07/11452628_l_39ca8ccf937b56b32faa9fa6d7eb3bac.jpg "11452628_l_39ca8ccf937b56b32faa9fa6d7eb3bac - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/07/11452628_l_39ca8ccf937b56b32faa9fa6d7eb3bac.jpg) Name: [Jason Griffing](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/jhg) *Colchester, Connecticut* *Hosted 15 Surfers and surfed over 30 times in 24 cities across the world* **Words of Advice:** “Don’t look at Couchsurfing as a way to travel for free. Look at it as a chance to have unique experiences and create new friendships around the world.” --- Since 2008, Jason has been active on Couchsurfing in every way possible – as a host, a surfer, and an event organizer. For 6 years, he’s organized a Couchsurfing potluck cookout every summer, and a pumpkin carving party in October. Along with a few other Connecticut locals, Jason is organizing Connecticut’s first official Couch Crash to showcase all that Connecticut has to offer. Read more about his Couchsurfing adventures below! [![2015 Pumpkin carving Party!](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/07/a113fcdc-ad68-4a83-8154-f17d8a561fe4.jpeg "a113fcdc-ad68-4a83-8154-f17d8a561fe4 - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/07/a113fcdc-ad68-4a83-8154-f17d8a561fe4.jpeg)2015 Pumpkin carving Party**How did you hear about Couchsurfing?** J: I remember reading a story somewhere about Couchsurfing and thought it sounded really cool. Ironically, in the same week, my old boss (who lived across the country) called me and told me about Couchsurfing. Her son had surfed in Amsterdam with a couple, and that couple was coming to the USA and needed a place to stay in my area so he recommended me. While I did not need to join CS to have them stay it was the perfect opportunity for me to join and begin my CS journey. **Which one Couchsurfing memory has stood out to you over the years?** J: Who can have one! Some brief highlights: 1. One of my first hosts, Jean-Marie, bought me a $100 train ticket in China before I even met him, only had exchanged some CS messages. This showed me the type of great people and trust exhibited in Couchsurfing. Of course, I paid him back! 2. Spending a whole day in Amsterdam, biking with my hosts all over the city and countryside, canals, windmills, stroopwafels, museums, and great beer! 3. Sonia, in South Korea, taking extra time off from work to spend more time with me. We had some crazy experiences, sitting in with Miss Korea contestants and photo bombing a fantasy fashion show. 4. Franco, in Italy, taking me all over Lake Como to mom & pop restaurants for special off the menu meals and incredible sites only a local would know. 5. Deja Surfing with Sonia, Jean-Marie, and Julien – so great meeting up again with hosts who became friends! **Why do you choose to host?** J: Hosting gives me the opportunity to experience cultures from around the world without traveling. Also, it allows me to show off where I live and the great things my state has to offer. I also get the opportunity to create connections for when I travel. **What strikes you as unique about the Couchsurfing community?** J: One of the cool things I find about Couchsurfing is that age is not important. When I host meetups, it’s great to see someone 22 hanging out with someone who is 60. There are no cliques! We are all joined by the common bond of traveling and sharing our lives. When we surf or host we break through our comfort zone to stay with or host ‘strangers.’ I say to everyone – go that extra step and stay with someone out of your age range. You won’t be sorry for the experience it can bring you. **Any advice for new surfers?** J: Don’t look at CS as a way to travel for free, look at it as a chance to have unique experiences and create new friendships around the world. Stay or host surfers for more than one night to really get a great connection. Fill out your profile completely! Don’t rely on Public Trips..there’s nothing like a personal hosting request to help you find a host. Surf off the beaten path and experience more! Lots of surfers go to New York – but how many go to Colchester, Connecticut? Lots of surfers go to Seoul but how many go to Suncheon, South Korea? I have found that when you stay outside the major tourist city not only do you get to see an area that many may not go to but you also have those one of a kind experiences that aren’t in the travel guides. Not only that, but hosts in those off-the-beaten path locations don’t get as many requests, so while every host is great..those that don’t get as many surfers are all the more excited to show you all their area has to offer and go out of their way to make your visit that much more special! **\#1 piece of advice for new hosts?** J: Be flexible and understand your surfer is in an area they are unfamiliar with and things may not go exactly as planned. *Know a Couchsurfer you’d like us to feature? Nominate a host or surfer [here](https://docs.google.com/a/couchsurfing.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfGMobzjNe2OmbhObPMIhvDpqlBwNe_LvU3L642KwOOm7BYag/viewform)!* ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/featured-couchsurfer-jason-from-connecticut-usa/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/featured-couchsurfer-jason-from-connecticut-usa/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts, Community, Meet an Ambassador --- ### [999 Surfers - The Goossens from Dendermonde, Belgium](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/999-surfers-the-goossens-from-dendermonde-belgium/) **Published:** August 11, 2016 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** [![Screen Shot 2016-08-03 at 1.58.09 PM](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/08/screen-shot-2016-08-03-at-1-58-09-pm.png "Screen Shot 2016-08-03 at 1.58.09 PM - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/08/screen-shot-2016-08-03-at-1-58-09-pm.png) Name: [Lieke, Peter, and kids](https://www.couchsurfing.com/users/339841) *Dendermonde, Belgium* *Hosted 999 surfers* **Words of Inspiration:** “We think it is important not to teach our children about hospitality, but to show them. We want them to know that all people are equal, no matter what skin color, religion, ethnicity, culture or language they speak.” --- The Goossens have been hosting since 2007, and to date have hosted an amazing 999 surfers (1,000th is already lined up!). Lieke and Peter decided to start hosting to show their children that the majority of people are good, no matter the color of their skin, their religion, culture, or language. In addition to hosting, they host sing-alongs and other events at their home. Their experiences, perspective, and stories is nothing short of inspiring. Read more about them below! **What made you decide to start hosting?** Lieke: We started with Couchsurfing in 2007. At that time we were already house exchanging to go on holiday with our family of 4 kids. This was an easy, cheap and safe way to travel. But, you do not actually meet your guests. We think that is very important, so I Googled the words ‘hospitality’ ‘travel’ ‘meet’ ‘friends’ and found Couchsurfing. > We do not wish to raise our children to be anxious, not trusting the world. We see a lot of racism in the world and are convinced that this is related to the fear of the unknown. We do not wish to raise our children to be anxious, not trusting the world. We think it is important not only to teach our children about hospitality, but to show them. We want them to know that all people are equal, no matter what skin color, religion, ethnicity, culture or language they speak. People are good and willing to help and share. Of course there are ‘bad people’ out there, but the majority is good. We want to show them our faith in the world, because then you will receive it back. We had no money to travel the world with our 4 kids, so we decided to let the world come to us. We opened our house, our hearts and our lives to strangers. A lot of them became friends for life. [![Couchsurfers from all over convene with the Goossens for a Sing Along evening.](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/08/screen-shot-2016-08-03-at-3-21-33-pm.png "Screen Shot 2016-08-03 at 3.21.33 PM - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/08/screen-shot-2016-08-03-at-3-21-33-pm.png)Couchsurfers from all over convene with the Goossens for a Sing Along evening**How did you choose your first guest?** L: At first we had to understand the website and how it worked. We were on holiday in Denmark and had a spare room. On the website, we found an American Muslim pilot who needed a place for the night in Denmark. We hosted him on our holiday. When we came back to Belgium, we hosted a fantastic couple: a young girl from New Zealand with her little son and a guy from Nice. They were amazing! The little boy was disabled. Seeing the love this young girl had for her son was incredible. It probably inspired our daughter (then 12, now 21) to work with disabled people. **Now that you are an experienced Couchsurfer, what do you look for in a guest, especially as a family?** L: It is different to host as parents than as a young backpacker. We are not searching for the party animals, going out all night long; Of course, this is great too, but not for us. We often host single girls, it feels safe for them being hosted by a family. Also larger groups, since we have a big house with a lot of rooms. But mostly couples or other families with children. We don’t ask our children to join all the time when Couchsurfers are here. Our kids are willing to give up their rooms for strangers (they sleep in the room of their brother or sister then). At the table we ask them to speak English, so conversations are possible for everyone. This way they learn their languages. And sometimes they actually play with the Couchsurfers, swim in the pool or jump on the trampoline together. Depends a bit on the Couchsurfers too, of course. > We love sharing and trying new things. So the first evening we will cook for our guests. We ask them to prepare something from their country the second night. We have a very international kitchen 🙂 For safety reasons we want complete profiles and personal requests. We want to know who we are hosting and why they chose us. We are not a free hostel. We love sharing and trying new things. So the first evening we will cook for our guests. We ask them to prepare something from their country the second night. We have a very international kitchen 🙂 **How has hosting on Couchsurfing changed your (and your kid’s) perspectives?** L: In the beginning we expected to have great moments with our surfers and hosts. After every Couchsurfer you want the next experience to be even better. Of course, that is not possible. Now we’ve learned not to expect anything. Everything you receive then is a gift. We’ve shared wonderful experiences we would never expect. All great, all different. For our children, we know Couchsurfing can be one of the answers against racism. An example I would love to give: One of our first guests was an African-American basketball player: long, tall, huge, black. Very impressive when you open the door as a 4 year old boy. Our son, Bavo, loves sports and this man became his ‘big’ friend. As Bavo was sitting at the table, his little white hand rested next to the big black hand. I asked my son, ‘Bavo, do you see any difference in both hands?’ He looked at me with those wondering eyes, looked back at the hands and started counting the fingers. Is that what mum means? No, he has 5 fingers, just like me. Hmm, then the twinkle in his eyes appeared as he found it! ‘His hand is bigger than mine!’. He made me so happy that day that colors didn’t exist. **Who is going to be your 1000th surfer?** L: We’ve had surfers from all over the world: mainly Europe, a lot of Asian and American, Australian too, even the Middle East, but never from Africa. It is very hard for Africans to get a Visa to travel to Europe. So we are very happy that our 1000th surfer will be from Ghana. He has a medical internship in Hamburg. We’re curious and excited to hear his stories and experiences. **Can you share some memories or tell us about a few of the surfers that have stood out for you over the years?** L: Over the past 10 years, we have organized several sing along parties at our house. About 30-50 people came here, bringing some food and drinks and music instruments if they wanted. We provided booklets with lyrics to well known songs. If you wanted to sing a song, just scream the page number and we all sing and play together. There, the Couchsurfing song was born. A lot of them surfed our place after the party. One evening, we had 36 people sleeping over. The kids woke up in the morning and came to our room: “Where can we play? There are people everywhere!” [![Over 36 people stayed over after the singalong! Here they are pictured having breakfast.](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/08/img_9798.jpg "IMG_9798 - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/08/img_9798.jpg)Over 36 people stayed over after the singalong Here they are pictured having breakfastOne of the guests was Stijn, a Couchsurfer from Belgium. He is one of our best friends now. Enea, our youngest daughter, was only 1.5 years old. when he first came to our house for a barbecue party. She gave him one of her story books and looked at him. He sat down in the doorway to the garden and started reading for her. When they finished the book, she gave it back to him, so he could read it again and again and again. This continued for about an hour. From then on, he was her best friend, she wanted to marry him! [![IMG_5093](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/08/img_5093.jpg "IMG_5093 - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/08/img_5093.jpg)Stijn reads to Enea**What advice do you have for families who are interested in hosting?** L: Do not hesitate. Make a clear profile and take your time to look at the profiles of your future guests/hosts. Join the Family Welcome Group, it can help you finding hosts and guests. When we travel with the whole family, we’ve stayed at wonderful places, but we also make sure to combine it with hostels, house exchange, etc. Children also want some private family time. When we are surfing, they have to share this time with our hosts, which is great, but they also need ‘family time’. When we stay with another family with children, we bring the game [‘Jungle Speed’](https://www.amazon.com/Asmodee-JS01USASM-Jungle-Speed/dp/2914849370). You do not need any language for this game and it still gives a lot of interaction. So we explain the game, (with help from the other parents to translate, if necessary) and off they go. From then on the kids will find a way to communicate and play. *Know a Couchsurfer you’d like us to feature? Nominate a host or surfer [here](https://docs.google.com/a/couchsurfing.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfGMobzjNe2OmbhObPMIhvDpqlBwNe_LvU3L642KwOOm7BYag/viewform)!* ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/999-surfers-the-goossens-from-dendermonde-belgium/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/999-surfers-the-goossens-from-dendermonde-belgium/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts, Community, Meet an Ambassador **Tags:** featured --- ### [Product Update: Creating a Couch Request](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/product-update-creating-a-couch-request/) **Published:** October 12, 2016 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** *Hosts, thanks for your feedback regarding*[ *Host Preferences that were released a few months ago*](http://10.9.0.204/product-update-host-preference-and-search-enhancements/)*. We’ve just released some updates to make sure your Host Preferences are enforced across the Couchsurfing website and apps.* Surfers, next time you send a Couch Request, you’ll notice a few changes. The calendar has been refreshed, and shows when the host you are requesting is unavailable. ![cr-unavailable-dates](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/10/cr-unavailable-dates-1.png "cr-unavailable-dates - Couchsurfing Blog") In addition, if you do not meet the host’s preferences (for example: your group is too big), you’ll be shown a warning to let you know before you send the Couch Request. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Screen-Shot-2016-10-12-at-10.32.03-AM-257x300.png "Screen Shot 2016-10-12 at 10.32.03 AM - Couchsurfing Blog") You’ll no longer be able to send a Couch Request if your host is already booked on the dates you are requesting. In addition, take note that you’ll only be able to send last-minute requests to hosts that have indicated that they can accommodate last minute requests. **What does this mean?** By only sending requests to hosts that are available, you’ll be able to find a host for your next Couchsurfing adventure faster! Be sure to use the date picker at the top of the Host Search page to save more time, and only view hosts that are available to host during the dates of your trip. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Screen-Shot-2016-10-12-at-9.54.01-AM-300x111.png "Screen Shot 2016-10-12 at 9.54.01 AM - Couchsurfing Blog") **I’m having trouble finding a host. What should I do?** **1. Read every profile (including references and the My Home section) before you send a Couch Request.** Hosts are more likely to accept members that demonstrate that they have read their profile in it’s entirety – it shows you actually want to meet them! It’s also an important safety step – reading their profile and references will help you know what to expect *before* you arrive. If something about a host’s profile or references makes you feel uncomfortable, *don’t send the Couch Request. [Read more about Safety.](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/articles/200639130-How-can-I-have-a-safer-Couchsurfing-experience-)* **2. Fill out your own profile.** Hosts want to know who they are inviting into their home. Help them feel more at ease by thoroughly completing your profile, so your hosts can get a better picture of who you are before accepting your request. Be sure to add pictures that clearly display who you are. **3. Create a Public Trip.** **Let hosts know you’re coming by [creating a Public Trip](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/articles/203512760-How-do-I-Create-or-Delete-a-Public-Trip-). When you do, you’ll be displayed as an Upcoming Traveler, and hosts in that area can offer to host you.** ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/product-update-creating-a-couch-request/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/product-update-creating-a-couch-request/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts, News --- ### [Enter the 2017 Couchsurfing Calendar Contest!](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/enter-the-2017-couchsurfing-calendar-contest/) **Published:** October 17, 2016 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** [![calendar-main-image](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/10/calendar-main-image-1.png "calendar-main-image - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://couchsurfingcalendar.hscampaigns.com) We love seeing your travel photos on [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/couchsurfing) and [Instagram](https://www.instragram.com/couchsurfing), and want the world to see them, too! Share your favorite photos with the Couchsurfing community for a chance to be featured in the 2017 Couchsurfing Calendar and to win a Couchsurfing T-shirt! **How it works:** 1. Submit your favorite Couchsurfing photo from 2016 to the [Contest Page](http://couchsurfingcalendar.hscampaigns.com) by October 26, 2016 at 11:55am PST. 2. Voting begins on October 26, 2016 at 12:00pm PST, and runs until November 2, 2016 at 12:00AM PST. Make sure to share your submission with your friends and family so that they vote for your photo! Each person can vote one time per day. 3. The top 13 winners will be featured in the 2017 Couchsurfing Calendar! If you’d like to purchase one, you may do so at the [Couchsurfing Store](https://store.couchsurfing.com). The top 5 winners will also receive a Couchsurfing T-shirt! [![enter-now](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/10/enter-now-1.png "enter-now - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://couchsurfingcalendar.hscampaigns.com) **Frequently asked questions:** **What will I win?** All 13 winners will be featured in the calendar and receive a free calendar. In addition, the top 5 winners will receive a free Couchsurfing T-shirt, and the Grand Prize winner will be featured on the cover of the calendar. Even if you don’t win, you may see your photo in the calendar! Our staff favorites will be featured elsewhere in the calendar. **How will I win?** When voting starts on October 26th at 12pm PST, people from all over the world will be able to vote for their favorite photo [here](http://couchsurfingcalendar.hscampaigns.com). Be sure to share your picture with your family and friends to get more votes! Each person may vote once a day. Voting will run until November 1st, 10am PST. **What are the contest rules?** Your photo should be horizontal, high quality, and align with the [Couchsurfing Member Conduct and Content Guidelines](http://www.couchsurfing.com/about/terms-of-use/). You must have an active Couchsurfing profile to be eligible. Please note that every entry will be reviewed by a Couchsurfing admin before it will be published, and we will disqualify any photo that does not align with the Couchsurfing Member Conduct and Content Guidelines. **How can I get a Couchsurfing Calendar?** You can pre-order your copy of the calendar now at the [Couchsurfing store](http://store.couchsurfing.com/). They’ll make great gifts for your favorite host, or your closest Couchsurfing friend! Pre-ordered calendars will be shipped in early December to arrive in time for January 1, 2017. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/enter-the-2017-couchsurfing-calendar-contest/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/enter-the-2017-couchsurfing-calendar-contest/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts, News --- ### [Thank You for a Wonderful Year, Couchsurfing!](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/thank-you-for-a-wonderful-year-couchsurfing/) **Published:** December 22, 2016 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** 2017 is quickly approaching, and here at Couchsurfing HQ, we find ourselves reflecting on everything that has happened over the past year. From Couchsurfing [Hangouts](http://10.9.0.204/product-update-make-a-new-friend-with-couchsurfing-hangouts/) to improved tools for our Trust and Safety team, it’s been a really exciting year! **What made us proud to be on the Couchsurfing Team this year:** “Hearing [Lieke’s story](http://10.9.0.204/999-surfers-the-goossens-from-dendermonde-belgium/) was so inspiring to me. Four kids and they’ve hosted over 1,000 surfers! When I have kids, I will make it a priority to host Couchsurfers so that my children have the same exposure to different cultures, languages, and food that the Goossens did. I also loved [the ProjectOneLife video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_FRoqmoi7YE&t=20s) about his first experience Couchsurfing. I probably watched it 50 times.” — Zareen, Community “[Hangouts has been such a success](http://10.9.0.204/product-update-make-a-new-friend-with-couchsurfing-hangouts/) – every day, as many people use Hangouts as attend Couchsurfing events! We are bringing more locals and travelers together than ever before, which feels great.” — Mitch, Product Manager “The highlight of my year has been building relationships with members around the world, learning about [their unique Couchsurfing experiences](https://voyagingvagabond.com/2016/12/02/my-first-couchsurfing-experience/), and listening to their feedback about how we might be able to improve the site and community in the future. There’s really no community like this one, and I love that a core part of my job involves being a part of it.” — Alli, Marketing “Creating [the Host Calendar](http://10.9.0.204/product-update-introducing-the-host-calendar/), building Hangouts, and [improving the Couch Request system](http://10.9.0.204/product-update-creating-a-couch-request/) was a lot of work, but totally worth it. It was so rewarding to release these changes and watch the reviews in the[ iOS App Store](https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/couchsurfing-travel-app/id525642917?mt=8) get close to a 5-star rating. It means we’re making our members happy!” — Aryan, iOS Engineer “This year my job was fueled by so much inspiration from our community. [My favorite was an amazing picture of 4 girls who together speak 21 languages!](https://www.facebook.com/couchsurfing/photos/a.428482462851.213707.57133737851/10153880578192852/?type=3&theater) The introduction of hangouts has made making these impromptu connections while traveling easier than ever. Not only are surfers able to explore a country through the eyes of a local host but also through the perspective & culture of other travelers. It’s photos like these that remind me of how many incredible connections and lasting friendships Couchsurfing creates every year! “ — Amanda, Trust and Safety “We improved detection mechanisms that help our team prevent bad experiences before they happen, and [the Reference updates we released at the end of 2015 ](http://10.9.0.204/product-update-maps-praise-and-references/)allow us to follow up on negative experiences faster than ever. During a company-wide Trust and Safety hackathon, the team even created a brand-new warning system. We want to make Couchsurfing a safer, more trusted place, and this year, we made big steps in that direction!” — Don, Trust and Safety ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/TahoeTrip-collage-300x162.jpg "TahoeTrip collage - Couchsurfing Blog")After the Hackathon we celebrated by going hiking and kayaking“[I had my first Couchsurfing experience this year! ](http://10.9.0.204/exploring-sydney-in-the-wild-with-iryna/)My stay in Sydney with Helen and Chris was unforgettable. They inspire me to make our platform the best it can be for everyone that loves Couchsurfing like they do!” — Iryna, Engineering “Being a Couchsurfer for a couple years, I naturally gravitated towards community events when I moved to San Francisco. I decided to attend several San Francisco [Couch Crash](http://10.9.0.204/diving-into-couch-crashes/) events to explore the city and meet locals and travelers. Little did I know that I would also meet the down-to-earth staff members (both the human and canine variety) and learn that they were hiring for the exact role I’d been searching for!” — Shridhar, Engineer ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/Screen-Shot-2017-02-03-at-11.11.22-AM-300x225.png "Screen Shot 2017-02-03 at 11.11.22 AM - Couchsurfing Blog")Iryna and Blanche work together to test some bug fixes“I was pretty proud when the Couchsurfing Android Application was awarded the “Top Developer” badge! We saw a huge increase in the number of Android devices that have the Couchsurfing app installed. This year, we really focused on listening to feedback and reviews from the community, and that definitely paid off!” — Nico, Android Engineer “2016 marked my 8th year of helping hosts and surfers with support and safety related questions. I can honestly say that this has been the most impressive year in so many ways: New features for our members, better tools for Support and Safety, increased community interaction, reviving the Ambassador program, and improved internal policies and procedures. These improvements made 2016 very special for me and I couldn’t be more excited for 2017 because I know we can be even better!” — Florian, Trust and Safety What made you proud to be a member of Couchsurfing this year? Let us know by tagging #couchsurfing2016 on Instagram and Twitter. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/thank-you-for-a-wonderful-year-couchsurfing/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/thank-you-for-a-wonderful-year-couchsurfing/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts, News --- ### [In times of uncertainty, remember these words.](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/in-times-of-uncertainty-remember-these-words/) **Published:** January 30, 2017 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** This message is the first thing Couchsurfing employees see as they walk into work: it constantly reminds us of the value of diversity, the importance of building a global community, and why Couchsurfing exists. Couchsurfing is about sharing your life, your experiences, your journey, and your home. In times of uncertainty and division, we take our commitment to connecting the world more seriously than ever. We urge you to do the same. Remember, you do have an impact: your spirit of generosity has the power to profoundly change the world. If you are looking for ways to help, we believe that the best method is inclusion and a willingness to listen. Welcome a jetlagged stranger into your home. Invite travelers to share a holiday or family dinner. Learn about other cultures by making it a point to reach out to people who are different from you. When we open our doors, we build bridges to connect the world and start to tear down the walls that divide us. And to the Couchsurfing community that lives and breathes generosity and tolerance – we’ve never been more proud to work for you. Thank you for sharing your lives and homes with strangers from every corner of the world. Thank you for helping to show others the value of doing the same. Thank you for helping the world become a better place. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/in-times-of-uncertainty-remember-these-words/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/in-times-of-uncertainty-remember-these-words/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts, News --- ### [Postcard Contest: Show us why you love Couchsurfing for the chance to win $100!](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/postcard-design-contest/) **Published:** March 21, 2017 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/11145212_10153088037717852_6541909913373666441_n-300x300.jpg "11145212_10153088037717852_6541909913373666441_n - Couchsurfing Blog")Photo by iswandiesaputraDraw or design a compelling image that represents a favorite moment you’ve had while Couchsurfing, or that shows what Couchsurfing means to you! We’re looking for new designs for the Couchsurfing postcard we send to Verified members to confirm their address. We want the postcard to represent and celebrate the Couchsurfing Community – so who better to design it than you? The Couchsurfing Team and the community together will pick the three winning designs. Each winner will receive $100 and their submission will be featured on the postcard! ### To Enter Email your submission to social@couchsurfing.com with the subject **“Postcard Contest Submission”**. In the body of the email, please include a caption or the story behind the design, your name, and a link to your Couchsurfing profile! Email submissions by April 5, 2017 at 11:59 PM PST to qualify. [Before submitting your design, be sure to read the contest’s Terms and Conditions! ](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1CD7o4P7o80uzAxdpIn7PSGYLEB3deQSUMMr1WJIiRyU/edit#) ### How to Win Design a beautiful postcard that represents Couchsurfing. Your submission could be a photograph, drawing, painting, etc – if it fits on a postcard, we’d love to see it! Once the submission deadline has passed, the Couchsurfing Team will pick their favorite submissions. Then, we’ll post our favorites to Facebook so that the Couchsurfing community can vote on the final winners! The top three submissions will each receive $100 and be featured on the postcard sent to Verified members to confirm their address. ### Qualifications As the winning designs will be featured on our postcard, all submissions must be horizontal. The postcards are 6.25 x 4.25 inches (1875 x 1275 px) with a green banner across the top. The submission should be 6.25 x 3.59 inches (1875 x 1076 px) to account for the banner. If the winning image is a different size, unfortunately the image may have to be cropped to fit properly. Any submission smaller than the above will be disqualified. As with any contest, all submissions must be in line with all of Couchsurfing’s values. There is a limit of one submission per person. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/verification_postcard_front-1-300x204.png "verification_postcard_front (1) - Couchsurfing Blog")The current Verification postcard ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/postcard-design-contest/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/postcard-design-contest/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** News --- ### [16 Places to Couchsurf in 2017](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/top-16-places-to-couchsurf-in-2017/) **Published:** March 20, 2017 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** Where are you going this year? We’ve scoured Couchsurfing and put together this list of amazing places to visit in 2017. Hang out with locals, learn about other cultures, and have an overall fantastic trip. Each of these cities has an active Couchsurfing community of hosts and a vibrant culture, making them the best places in the world to Couchsurf this year based on several different factors. Comment below to let us know what’s on your travel list this year. #### 16. Phnom Penh, Cambodia > [A post shared by Meas Soksophea-Official (@meassoksophea\_official)](https://www.instagram.com/p/BRx4E2cDpaQ/) on Mar 18, 2017 at 5:22am PDT Phnom Penh, once known as the “Pearl of Asia”, is home to picturesque temples, the National Museum of Cambodia, and 1500 Couchsurfing hosts. While you’re there, don’t miss the Couchsurfing Phnom Penh Weekly Meetup every Wednesday at 8pm to share travel stories and meet locals from the Phnom Penh Couchsurfing community. [Explore Phnom Penh](https://www.couchsurfing.com/place?utf8=%E2%9C%93&search_type=place&country=&latitude=11.5448729&longitude=104.8921668®ion=&search_query=phnom-penh%2c-cambodia) #### 15. Victoria, Canada > [A post shared by Jim Flood (@jimflood)](https://www.instagram.com/p/BR35rAcjfZE/) on Mar 20, 2017 at 1:32pm PDT Looking to spend some quality time outdoors? Check out Victoria and explore stunning gardens, vineyards, and even the Victoria Bug Zoo! Don’t forget to visit Fol Epi, a bakery highly recommended by Couchsurfing’s Victoria community, for coffee and great bread. [Explore Victoria](https://www.couchsurfing.com/place?utf8=%E2%9C%93&search_type=place&country=&latitude=48.4284207&longitude=-123.3656444®ion=&search_query=victoria%2c-bc%2c-canada) #### 14. Hanoi, Vietnam > [After some strong mochas at a local joint, a few of us went to check out the absolutely stunning Tran Quoc Pagoda. It’s the oldest Buddhist temple in Hanoi, and is nearly 1,500 years old! Luckily everyone in our group was wearing pants today – if you’re wearing shorts, you’ll be turned away! ? – Alli #couchsurfing #vietnam #buddhism](https://www.instagram.com/p/BMVwKcVjhG8/) > > A post shared by Staff In The Wild (@couchsurfinginthewild) on Nov 3, 2016 at 12:37am PDT Hanoi always has numerous Couchsurfing events scheduled, from language exchanges to tours hosted by locals. Couchsurfing Staff member Alli recommends that you “get out of the touristy “Old District” and meet a local with Couchsurfing Hangouts to show you the local spots! Don’t forget to wear a helmet on your motorbike, and check out the Women’s Museum.” [Explore Hanoi](https://www.couchsurfing.com/place?utf8=%E2%9C%93&search_type=place&search_query=hanoi%2c-ho%C3%A0n-ki%E1%BA%BFm%2c-hanoi%2c-vietnam&latitude=21.0277644&longitude=105.8341598&country=®ion=) #### 13. Jaipur, India > Our incredible [@couchsurfing](https://twitter.com/Couchsurfing) experience – celebrating [\#diwali](https://twitter.com/hashtag/diwali?src=hash) with a family in [\#Jaipur](https://twitter.com/hashtag/Jaipur?src=hash) [pic.twitter.com/WRT1KkTXnD](https://t.co/WRT1KkTXnD) > > — Oh Dark Thirty (@OhDarkThirtyUK) [November 18, 2016](https://twitter.com/OhDarkThirtyUK/status/799419101747683330) The capital of Rajasthan, Jaipur is famous for it’s pink avenues, painted in 1876 to welcome the Prince of Wales. Couchsurfing locals recommend that you check out Hawa Mahal and the Amber Palace, two picturesque palaces steeped in history and elegance. [Explore Jaipur](https://www.couchsurfing.com/place?utf8=%E2%9C%93&search_type=place&country=&latitude=26.9124336&longitude=75.7872709®ion=&search_query=jaipur%2c-rajasthan%2c-india) #### 12. Porto, Portugal > Arrived in [\#Porto](https://twitter.com/hashtag/Porto?src=hash) yesterday. Found an amazing [@Couchsurfing](https://twitter.com/Couchsurfing) host in Porto and spending the day exploring. [\#cycle](https://twitter.com/hashtag/cycle?src=hash) [\#Portugal](https://twitter.com/hashtag/Portugal?src=hash) [\#thanks](https://twitter.com/hashtag/thanks?src=hash) [\#sun](https://twitter.com/hashtag/sun?src=hash) [pic.twitter.com/yolSxzAf96](https://t.co/yolSxzAf96) > > — SirPeter (@sirpeter) [October 2, 2016](https://twitter.com/sirpeter/status/782591077593350149) With weekly Couchsurfing meetings every Wednesday, and over 9,000 hosts, Porto has a vibrant Couchsurfing community that showcases Porto’s unique culture. Combine that with the beautiful weather, stunning architecture, port tasting, and tapas, and you have a trip you’ll never forget. [Explore Porto](https://www.couchsurfing.com/place?utf8=%E2%9C%93&search_type=place&country=&latitude=41.1579438&longitude=-8.6291053®ion=&search_query=porto%2c-portugal) #### 11. Marrakesh, Morocco > [A post shared by marrakesh (@visit\_marrakesh)](https://www.instagram.com/p/BR3-MDwlCsA/) on Mar 20, 2017 at 2:11pm PDT Riddled with snake charmers, bazaars, and exotic music, Marrakesh is a unique city that thrills many adventure-loving travelers. Be sure to ask your Couchsurfing host for the best restaurants and markets to find a delicious bite and souvenirs off the beaten path. Don’t forget to stroll through the Medina. [Explore Marrakesh](https://www.couchsurfing.com/place?utf8=%E2%9C%93&search_type=place&country=morocco&latitude=31.5628076&longitude=-7.9592863®ion=marrakesh-tensift-el-haouz&search_query=marrakesh-tensift-el-haouz%2c-morocco) #### 10. Auckland, New Zealand > Fun [@Couchsurfing](https://twitter.com/Couchsurfing) meeting last night in [\#Auckland](https://twitter.com/hashtag/Auckland?src=hash), met really cool people, locals & from different parts of the world! > > — Alejandro (@AlexeRP) [March 27, 2014](https://twitter.com/AlexeRP/status/448985148273340416) Grab a drink with locals and travelers at the weekly meeting every Wednesday. Visit the penguins at Hauraki Gulf. Find a hiking partner with Couchsurfing Hangouts and check out the 16 kilometer Coast-to-Coast trail. Over 2500 Couchsurfers visited Auckland hosts last year. Become one of them! [Explore Auckland](https://www.couchsurfing.com/place?utf8=%E2%9C%93&search_type=place&country=&latitude=-36.8484597&longitude=174.7633315®ion=&search_query=auckland%2c-new-zealand) #### 9. Honolulu, USA > Couchsurfing with Marissa and her family in Honolulu. First night: Brie and I helped make gnocchi. [pic.twitter.com/rlaMYxpprc](https://t.co/rlaMYxpprc) > > — Justin Butner (@itinerantics) [December 14, 2015](https://twitter.com/itinerantics/status/676472101545480192) There’s much more to Honolulu than the beach – the culture is what makes it shine. Stay with a Honolulu local and immerse yourself in the Hawaiian way of life. Head early to Iyasume Musubi for a musubi, and don’t miss the chance to explore Waikīkī! If you need any more recommendations, don’t hesitate to ask a Couchsurfing host for advice. [Explore Honolulu](https://www.couchsurfing.com/place?utf8=%E2%9C%93&search_type=place&country=&latitude=21.3069444&longitude=-157.8583333®ion=&search_query=honolulu%2c-hi%2c-usa) #### 8. New Orleans, USA > [A post shared by ReggaeSlim Wilson (@reggaeslim)](https://www.instagram.com/p/BR3-r36lLzx/) on Mar 20, 2017 at 2:15pm PDT Famous for Jazz, jambalaya, and Mardi Gras festivities, there’s no where in the world quite like New Orleans. The people in New Orleans march to a different beat – you won’t be able to experience the true New Orleans vibe unless you stay with one of over 5500 Couchsurfing hosts. Thrillist named New Orleans the Best Food City in America – but don’t forget to ask your Couchsurfing host for recommendations to their favorite restaurant. Treat them to a meal to show your appreciation for hosting you in The Big Easy! [Explore New Orleans](https://www.couchsurfing.com/place?utf8=%E2%9C%93&search_type=place&country=&latitude=29.9510658&longitude=-90.0715323®ion=&search_query=new-orleans%2c-la%2c-usa) #### **7. Christchurch, New Zealand** > [@Couchsurfing](https://twitter.com/Couchsurfing) Fun breakfast times in [\#Christchurch](https://twitter.com/hashtag/Christchurch?src=hash)! 6 people all from 4 different continents 🙂 [pic.twitter.com/IVPnX1cNQR](http://t.co/IVPnX1cNQR) > > — Borders & Backpacks (@W1lsonWill) [January 15, 2014](https://twitter.com/W1lsonWill/status/423596352816160768) As a hub for travelers on New Zealand’s stunning South Island, Christchurch has the perfect mix of big-city amenities and small-town charm. For unforgettable views, head to Taylor’s Mistake Bay, and for a glimpse into Christchurch’s history, check out the local earthquake memorial and the Canterbury Museum. [Read this story for more tips! ](https://travelabrodge.wordpress.com/2014/11/06/couchsurfing-success-in-christchurch/)[Explore Christchurch](https://www.couchsurfing.com/place?utf8=%E2%9C%93&search_type=place&country=&latitude=-43.5320544&longitude=172.6362254®ion=&search_query=christchurch%2c-new-zealand) #### 6. Santa Marta, Colombia > [A post shared by Shane Suksangium (@sauksangium)](https://www.instagram.com/p/BR369Z2AAwl/) on Mar 20, 2017 at 1:43pm PDT This cozy beachside city is the perfect place to wind down while exploring Colombia. Gaze out at the Caribbean Sea from the shore of Cristal Beach, and head to Tayrona National Park for incredible coastal views, jungle trekking and secluded beaches fringed by massive boulders. [Explore Santa Marta](https://www.couchsurfing.com/place?utf8=%E2%9C%93&search_type=place&country=&latitude=11.2403547&longitude=-74.2110227®ion=&search_query=santa-marta%2c-magdalena%2c-colombia) #### 5. Las Vegas, Nevada, United States > Great evening in Las Vegas, with our couchsurfing host generously making us homemade enchiladas with local chiles > > — Megan L Thomsen (@Viv\_MegRoadtrip) [June 13, 2014](https://twitter.com/Viv_MegRoadtrip/status/477460031181307905) Las Vegas is the dice-rolling, party capital of America, and there’s no other city that puts so much emphasis on having a good time. Balance that with a robust community of locals (including over 8,000 hosts), tons of unique weekly events, and you have the ingredients for a trip to remember! [Explore Las Vegas ](https://www.couchsurfing.com/place?utf8=%E2%9C%93&search_type=place&country=&latitude=36.1699412&longitude=-115.1398296®ion=&search_query=las-vegas%2c-nv%2c-usa) #### 4. Cancun, Mexico > [beautiful day, beautiful people?? #cancun #monterrey #belgium #couchsurfing #CS #traveling #beach more surfers??](https://www.instagram.com/p/9KNj0fL_sR/) > > A post shared by nidia (@vsnidia) on Oct 22, 2015 at 5:12pm PDT Cancun, with its pristine beaches and impressive resorts, is the ultimate beach getaway. Swim in cenotes, explore Playa Delfines and road trip your way to Tulum for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Don’t forget to ask your Couchsurfing hosts for tips on the best places to eat![Explore Cancun](https://www.couchsurfing.com/place?utf8=%E2%9C%93&search_type=place&country=&latitude=21.1902642&longitude=-86.8198375®ion=&search_query=cancun%2c-76%2c-77527-canc%C3%BAn%2c-q.r.%2c-mexico) #### 3. Kashan, Iran > [A post shared by Myriam Ldh (@m\_irahdal)](https://www.instagram.com/p/BR3TCPODAHo/) on Mar 20, 2017 at 7:54am PDT An archaeological gem, Kashan is a dream destination for people who enjoy off-the-beaten path adventures. This desert city is easily accessible from Tehran, and visitors will find plenty of unique mosques and markets to explore. [Explore Kashan](https://www.couchsurfing.com/place?utf8=%E2%9C%93&search_type=place&country=&latitude=33.9850358&longitude=51.4099625®ion=&search_query=kashan%2c-isfahan-province%2c-iran) #### **2. Arequipa, Peru** > Back in [\#Arequipa](https://twitter.com/hashtag/Arequipa?src=hash) after a great trip to Colca Canyon. Staying with [\#Couchsurfing](https://twitter.com/hashtag/Couchsurfing?src=hash) friends – they shared a new sport! > > — Noah Van Loen (@noahv) [October 21, 2012](https://twitter.com/noahv/status/259966074567667713) Flanked by three volcanoes, Arequipa is known as the “white city” because of the scores of whitewashed buildings that line the streets. Spanish colonial architecture is also found throughout this culturally-rich place. See Arequipa’s most famous markets, religious sites and cultural attractions with help from your local Couchsurfing host. #### [Explore Arequipa](https://www.couchsurfing.com/place?utf8=%E2%9C%93&search_type=place&country=&latitude=-16.4090474&longitude=-71.537451®ion=&search_query=arequipa%2c-peru) #### 1. Cusco, Peru > Attended Couchsurfer’s Meeting in [\#cusco](https://twitter.com/hashtag/cusco?src=hash) last Thursday. Have you tried [\#couchsurfing](https://twitter.com/hashtag/couchsurfing?src=hash)? [\#travel](https://twitter.com/hashtag/travel?src=hash) [\#Peru](https://twitter.com/hashtag/Peru?src=hash) [@Couchsurfing](https://twitter.com/Couchsurfing) [pic.twitter.com/x49tSMY0if](https://t.co/x49tSMY0if) > > — Backpackways (@backpackways) [October 18, 2016](https://twitter.com/backpackways/status/788481723591983104) Cusco is the main take off point for visiting Machu Picchu, Peru’s most famous tourist attraction. Situated at 11,000+ feet above sea level, travelers often find that it takes a bit of time to adjust to this lively city. However, once you’re up to exploring, you’ll find that it’s easy to fall in love with Cusco’s cobblestone streets, mountainside homes and colorful markets. [Explore Cusco](https://www.couchsurfing.com/place?utf8=%E2%9C%93&search_type=place&country=&latitude=-13.53195&longitude=-71.9674626®ion=&search_query=cusco%2c-peru) ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/top-16-places-to-couchsurf-in-2017/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/top-16-places-to-couchsurf-in-2017/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** Travel Tips --- ### [Couchsurfing Staff Are Heading Out into the Wild](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-staff-are-heading-out-into-the-wild/) **Published:** September 4, 2013 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** Our Mobile Software Engineer, [Nathaniel](https://www.couchsurfing.org/people/thewolfpack/), spent over [two years](http://www.pairofbackpacks.com/) surfing with his wife, Kim, around the world. [Dylan](https://www.couchsurfing.org/people/dylanc/), a member since 2005 (and another of our software engineers), practiced yoga on a rooftop overlooking the Ganges River with a group of Couchsurfers. ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/rWjoEaddX0e-tTumS_SgqZ50IECRH3wugNZMcG82c62c8yFunqQul6kvCgX0nyG5izxMrcejoYGaWfUDzCsqgGgTKuyE3qlNeXHmThEBdFuzKLM8-llwg5lm)Nathaniel hitching a ride to the Dusseldorf airport with his host, Niels. There are countless others. And they (ahem – *we*) have been spending most of our time in front of our computers. So starting this Friday, September 6th, Couchsurfing HQ is sending staff out into the world of Couchsurfing. There will be someone away from the office – surfing every week of the year – making sure we are always connected to the community. (And also ensuring we get away from our desks once in awhile.) Every week we’ll be featuring the story of a staff member here on our blog. [Subscribe here](http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=CouchsurfingNews&loc=en_US) to keep up-to-date with who’s out surfing and when. We hope to see you out there! [![Dylan working on standing desk](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2013/09/screen-shot-2013-12-16-at-4-53-52-pm.png)](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2013/09/screen-shot-2013-12-16-at-4-53-52-pm.png) Dylan working away at his standing desk. Should we come to your city? [Fill out this form to request a visit](https://docs.google.com/a/couchsurfing.com/forms/d/1q2XrEOasLhf7SSA9u0-k3VUa-_8yK_xa3mbpJLAFfHc/viewform). ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-staff-are-heading-out-into-the-wild/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-staff-are-heading-out-into-the-wild/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts, Community, Travel Tips **Tags:** staff in the wild --- ### [How to Couchsurf Through Mexico: In the Wild with Martina](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/how-to-couchsurf-through-mexico-in-the-wild-with-martina/) **Published:** September 17, 2013 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** *[Staff in the Wild](http://10.9.0.204/couchsurfing-staff-are-heading-out-into-the-wild/) is a Couchsurfing program that seeks to connect the staff at HQ with the community at large. We’re hosting travelers, organizing events and will be out surfing every week of the year. [Request a staff member in your city!](https://docs.google.com/a/couchsurfing.com/forms/d/1q2XrEOasLhf7SSA9u0-k3VUa-_8yK_xa3mbpJLAFfHc/viewform)* **[![Martina Steinmann Couchsurfing](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2013/09/screen-shot-2013-09-17-at-8-57-59-am.png "Martina Steinmann Couchsurfing - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2013/09/screen-shot-2013-09-17-at-8-57-59-am.png)Name**: Martina Steinmann **Role**: Community Manager **Where to?** Mexico City and Oaxaca, Mexico **Couchsurfing makes me…** a more tolerant and understanding person – – #### Why Mexico? I set out to explore a place, culture and environment I had never been while improving my long-lost Spanish. #### The People Found Along the Way I came to Mexico without a guidebook. And apart from basic transportation, all I needed was to trust the advice of the people I met. Some people have a talent for making anyone feel instantly welcomed in their home. My hosts Ale, Ivan and Pat all had this talent of understanding me to the point that they knew what was good for me before I even realized it myself! They mastered the art of hosting, inspiring me to become a better host myself. [![Martina Couchsurfing Oaxaca, Mexico](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2013/09/screen-shot-2013-09-17-at-9-04-31-am.png "Martina Couchsurfing Oaxaca, Mexico - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://instagram.com/p/eNgMLhFqCc/) After a road trip to the ruins of Xochicalco we returned in a car of six Couchsurfers. Right before leaving the car, my host stopped us and said “no, wait, car picture!” This call to capture the moment in all its non-splendor (six tired travelers squeezed into one car) surprised me. Despite its simplicity, it was so clear how much my hosts also valued the small moments, the shared experiences and their guests. [![Couchsurfing Mexico Xochicalco](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2013/09/screen-shot-2013-09-17-at-9-04-11-am.png "Couchsurfing Mexico Xochicalco - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://instagram.com/p/eU7zXWFqDe/) #### Embracing Curiosity I spent a week in Mexico. Through the travelers and locals I met, I was taught Mexican and Colombian slang, got lost in a local market, tried food I’d never heard of, danced until I dropped, followed my nose upon arrival in Oaxaca and learned how to make colors from natural ingredients. I’m mostly vegetarian, but ignoring this for the sake of curiosity led me to eating grasshoppers, tentatively sip drinks with worms bathing in them, have meat tacos for breakfast (I really liked them!) and get to know incredible people. **I was reassured that curiosity is much more rewarding than any guidebook could ever be.** #### Heading Home Again It never failed to amaze me how warmly I was welcomed by not only my hosts, but my host’s friends and friends of *their* friends. I was rewarded with great conversations about the beauty of travel and why this type of travel is so contagious. The most memorable experience was when – on the morning of my departure – I realized I was actually leaving. Every inch of me wanted to stay and spend more time with my new friends. Luckily, the world is small enough! [![Couchsurfing Mexico pyramid](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2013/09/screen-shot-2013-09-17-at-9-04-54-am.png "Couchsurfing Mexico pyramid - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2013/09/screen-shot-2013-09-17-at-9-04-54-am.png) ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/how-to-couchsurf-through-mexico-in-the-wild-with-martina/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/how-to-couchsurf-through-mexico-in-the-wild-with-martina/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts, Community, Travel Tips **Tags:** mexico, mexico city, oaxaca --- ### [Couchsurfing Route 66 as a Family: In the Wild with Alex](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-route-66-as-a-family-in-the-wild-with-alex/) **Published:** September 24, 2013 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** *[Staff in the Wild](http://10.9.0.204/couchsurfing-staff-are-heading-out-into-the-wild/) is a Couchsurfing program that seeks to connect the staff at HQ with the community at large. We’re hosting travelers, organizing events and will be out surfing every week of the year. [Request a staff member in your city!](https://docs.google.com/a/couchsurfing.com/forms/d/1q2XrEOasLhf7SSA9u0-k3VUa-_8yK_xa3mbpJLAFfHc/viewform)* [![alex headshot](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2013/09/alex-headshot.jpg "alex headshot - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2013/09/alex-headshot.jpg) **Name**: [Alex Woolf](https://www.couchsurfing.org/people/alex-woolf/) **Role**: Senior iOS Engineer **Where to?** Kingman, Arizona and Las Vegas, Nevada **Couchsurfing makes a me a better…** father – – #### **Why Kingman?** My eldest son, Chance, is a big fan of the Pixar movie *Cars* (set in a fictional town near Kingman) and I’m a huge fan of the Southwest landscape. More importantly though, I wanted to get off the beaten path and [Kingman](https://www.couchsurfing.org/n/places/laughlin-nevada-united-states/united-states_arizona_kingman) is one of our smallest Couchsurfing communities. #### **The People You Meet Along the Way** Our hosts in Kingman, Nick and Anie, are the sweetest couple. They welcomed Chance with a picture of his favorite movie character and when we first arrived, Anie sat on the floor and helped him build a puzzle. It was so touching to see her hold his hand to cross the street and help him into his car seat during our time there. Nick and Anie were also brimming with interesting travel stories. In their guest room they’ve splayed out dozens of tourist attraction flyers, travel magazines and other fun reading material. [![Route 66 Couchsurfing](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2013/09/screen-shot-2013-09-24-at-10-11-20-am.png "Route 66 Couchsurfing - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2013/09/screen-shot-2013-09-24-at-10-11-20-am.png) Our next host, Shanya, has an amazing farm in Northwestern Las Vegas. As soon as we arrived, we were part of the family. I now think everyone should spend time on a farm and witness an emu’s combination of speed and awkwardness! ![Couchsurfing farm nevada](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2013/09/screen-shot-2013-09-24-at-11-30-39-am.png "Couchsurfing farm nevada - Couchsurfing Blog") Before arriving at Shanya’s, Chance had picked out candy in the shape of Lego and refused to eat it because he loves building things so much. Since there were animals around, I told Chance he couldn’t play with his candy in the house. Hearing this, Shanya surprised us with her older son’s giant box of Legos. Her son had just recently moved out and after seeing pictures of Chance playing with his toys, he made an extremely generous offer to sell them to us. **He decided to let go of a piece of his childhood in order to fulfill Chance’s.** It makes me tear up again just writing this. Shanya even loaned us luggage to carry all the pieces home. I am floored and Chance is in heaven. #### **Creating Connection** Couchsurfing means so many things to me, but the most fascinating is watching it mold my sons. Last year Chance was in a large, loud daycare. He was a chatterbox at home but almost silent at daycare. Now that he is becoming a Couchsurfer (and we fixed the daycare situation), he’s learning how fun and easy it can be to make new connections. He is becoming a more confident boy, opening up to new people and having a lot more fun in the process. ![Couchsurfing with children](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2013/09/screen-shot-2013-09-24-at-10-16-03-am.png "Couchsurfing with children - Couchsurfing Blog") At Nick and Anie’s we took a trip Route 66 to the town of Oatman, an old gold minding town populated with burros and kitschy shops. In one of the stores Chance found a tacky (and very shiny) hair clip. He whispered to me asking if we could buy it for Anie. It was $6 and hideous. I almost said no but then it dawned on me what was happening. It melted my heart to see Chance returning the generosity Anie and Nick have shown to us. Back at their home, Chance presented the hair clip to Anie. It could not be more beautiful, and I could not be more proud. [![Couchsurfing reference](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2013/09/screen-shot-2013-09-24-at-11-03-34-am.png "Couchsurfing reference - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2013/09/screen-shot-2013-09-24-at-11-03-34-am.png) ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-route-66-as-a-family-in-the-wild-with-alex/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-route-66-as-a-family-in-the-wild-with-alex/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts, Community, Travel Tips **Tags:** arizona, families, kingman, las vegas --- ### [Cultural Connections in Thailand: In the Wild with Connor](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/cultural-connections-in-thailand-in-the-wild-with-connor/) **Published:** October 16, 2013 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** *[Staff in the Wild](http://10.9.0.204/couchsurfing-staff-are-heading-out-into-the-wild/) is a Couchsurfing program that seeks to connect the staff at HQ with the community at large. We’re hosting travelers, organizing events and will be out surfing every week of the year. [Request a staff member in your city!](https://docs.google.com/a/couchsurfing.com/forms/d/1q2XrEOasLhf7SSA9u0-k3VUa-_8yK_xa3mbpJLAFfHc/viewform)* [![Connor_Schmidt](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2013/10/connor_pic.jpg "Connor Schmidt, Couchsurfing Community Team - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2013/10/connor_pic.jpg) **Name**: [Connor Schmidt](https://www.couchsurfing.org/people/yukonnor/) **Role**: Community Support Lead **Where to?** Bangkok and Chiang Mai, Thailand **Couchsurfing makes a me a better…** sharer. #### Why Thailand? I’ve always wanted to visit South East Asia and ended up choosing Thailand based on recommendations from friends. #### The People He Met Along the Way Having never been to South East Asia before, Thailand was a big culture shock for me. However, my first hosts, Terrence and Aaron, immediately made me feel at ease with their welcoming spirits. Upon my arrival, I was immediately invited to eat a meal that Aaron prepared and both of them had some great tips about what I should and shouldn’t do with my time in Bangkok. During my second night, Terrence showed me around Bangkok’s largest meat market. It was unlike anything I’d ever seen and is one of my host’s favorite places to take people to. **“It’s now my second day in Bangkok and I’ve never been so blown away!”** [![Screen Shot 2013-10-16 at 9.58.39 AM](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2013/10/screen-shot-2013-10-16-at-9-58-39-am.png "Screen Shot 2013-10-16 at 9.58.39 AM - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2013/10/screen-shot-2013-10-16-at-9-58-39-am.png) Still in awe from my time in Bangkok, I set out to Chiang Mai to meet my second host, Jin. I was quickly becoming more and more comfortable with the way of life in Thailand and it didn’t hurt that Jin quickly introduced me to her large network of friends in the area. The third night I was there, Jin’s mother kindly prepared a dinner that comprised of dishes I would never have found in any restaurant. While in the area, I was also able to escape the city setting and had a great trek through the rainforest, seeing breathtaking waterfalls, giant spiders and ending up in a small village where locals grow rice and coffee. #### [![Screen Shot 2013-10-16 at 9.58.12 AM](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2013/10/screen-shot-2013-10-16-at-9-58-12-am.png "Screen Shot 2013-10-16 at 9.58.12 AM - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2013/10/screen-shot-2013-10-16-at-9-58-12-am.png) My favorite parts of the trip mostly involved all of the great food I enjoyed and visiting local markets. Late at night, my host took some of us to get coconut smoothies and as we walked through the stalls, she taught me the Thai words for fruits and veggies. Though I forget many of the words now, I really felt like I was actively being integrated into the culture. #### Creating Connection I was traveling alone, but by staying with Couchsurfing hosts, I was immediately welcomed into their network of friends that were at all times there to help me. My host Jin who runs an English school company introduced me to a lot of her teacher friends, some of whom had just arrived to Thailand and others that had been there for years. **“All of the people I met made my trip.”** [![Screen Shot 2013-10-16 at 9.55.15 AM](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2013/10/screen-shot-2013-10-16-at-9-55-15-am.png "Screen Shot 2013-10-16 at 9.55.15 AM - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2013/10/screen-shot-2013-10-16-at-9-55-15-am.png) #### Heading Home Again To me, Couchsurfing is a way to jump right into other people’s way of life. It’s cultural exchange through opening your home and livelihood to others and is great way to meet new friends around the world. By the end of the trip, through staying with some amazing hosts and being fully integrated into the culture, I started to really appreciate the “Thai way of life” and would love to go back for an extended stay! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/cultural-connections-in-thailand-in-the-wild-with-connor/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/cultural-connections-in-thailand-in-the-wild-with-connor/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts, Community, Travel Tips **Tags:** bangkok, couchsurfing, staff in the wild, thailand, travel --- ### [Community Living in Scandinavia: In the Wild with Paige](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/community-living-in-scandinavia-in-the-wild-with-paige/) **Published:** November 15, 2013 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** *[Staff in the Wild](http://10.9.0.204/couchsurfing-staff-are-heading-out-into-the-wild/) is a Couchsurfing program that seeks to connect the staff at HQ with the community at large. We’re hosting travelers, organizing events and will be out surfing around the globe. [Request a staff member in your city!](https://docs.google.com/a/couchsurfing.com/forms/d/1q2XrEOasLhf7SSA9u0-k3VUa-_8yK_xa3mbpJLAFfHc/viewform)* [![Screen Shot 2013-11-14 at 1.38.49 PM](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2013/11/screen-shot-2013-11-14-at-1-38-49-pm.png "Screen Shot 2013-11-14 at 1.38.49 PM - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2013/11/screen-shot-2013-11-14-at-1-38-49-pm.png) **Name**: [Paige Haverstock](http://www.couchsurfing.com/n/people/paige.haverstock) **Role**: Community Team **Where to?** Stockholm, Sweden and Copenhagen, Denmark **Couchsurfing makes a me a better…** explorer. #### Why Sweden and Denmark? I have always dreamed of visiting Scandinavia and when the community home “Collective Sunshine” in Sweden requested a [Staff in the Wild trip](http://10.9.0.204/couchsurfing-staff-are-heading-out-into-the-wild/) to visit, it couldn’t have been more perfect! #### Living and Sharing With 11 Couchsurfers In Stockholm, I lived in Collective Sunshine, home to 11 (soon to be 12!) incredible Couchsurfers. On my first night, my main host Magnus (aka the creator of the collective) took me out to a cemetery to check out the candles from the All Saints’ Night celebration. After this unexpected cemetery stop, we went straight to a halloween-themed salsa dance party – what a fun way to start the trip and to get to know my host! [![Screen Shot 2013-11-11 at 12.55.38 PM](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/Screen-Shot-2013-11-11-at-12.55.38-PM.png)](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/Screen-Shot-2013-11-11-at-12.55.38-PM.png) ****“I already miss each and every one of the Couchsurfers of Collective Sunshine!”**** During the course of my time in Collective Sunshine, I met and spent time with each member of the house and some of their visiting friends and families, too. We shared meals, laughs, cooked brunches and dinners together, celebrated a house member’s birthday, and strolled around Södermalm with friends. I was invited to join parties, to meet up for lunches during the work days, and felt more welcomed than I could ever have imagined. **[![Screen Shot 2013-11-04 at 5.34.51 PM](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2013/11/screen-shot-2013-11-04-at-5-34-51-pm.png)](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2013/11/screen-shot-2013-11-04-at-5-34-51-pm.png)** **“Exploring colorful Stockholm without a map led me straight to the Alfred Nobel Museum in Gamla Stan, the old town of Stockholm.”** Curious to learn more about the Swedish way of life, I attended the weekly Couchsurfing event in Stockholm, the Sunday fika, which is a traditional Swedish meeting to get a coffee and chat. I love that they have a special word for that! #### Copenhagen Connection Still blown away by my experiences in Stockholm, I hopped on a train to Copenhagen to see what another Scandinavian city is like. Kia, my Danish host, and I got along so well and, frankly, I wish we lived in the same city! [![Screen Shot 2013-11-14 at 5.06.53 PM](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2013/11/screen-shot-2013-11-14-at-5-06-53-pm.png "Screen Shot 2013-11-14 at 5.06.53 PM - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2013/11/screen-shot-2013-11-14-at-5-06-53-pm.png) **“Kia, my second host, has a wall in the room where her Couchsurfers sleep that she gets all of her surfers to sign at the end of their stay.”** #### Back Home The day after my return, one of my hosts messaged me to make sure I had returned safely. He was telling me that he and a friend were watching a movie “in your room.” This kind gesture made me feel even more a part of Collective Sunshine and I was overwhelmed by the thoughtfulness yet again. My Couchsurfing trip introduced me to friends I didn’t even know I had, in places I had never been before. It made my travels more personable and memorable than I could have ever hoped or imagined they could be! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/community-living-in-scandinavia-in-the-wild-with-paige/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/community-living-in-scandinavia-in-the-wild-with-paige/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts, Community, Travel Tips **Tags:** collective sunshine, copenhagen, couchsurfing, couchsurfing collective, denmark, paige, staff in the wild, stockholm, sweden --- ### [Sharing Sweets in the "Big Apple" - In the Wild with Thomas](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/sharing-sweets-in-the-big-apple-in-the-wild-with-thomas/) **Published:** December 6, 2013 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** *[Staff in the Wild](http://10.9.0.204/couchsurfing-staff-are-heading-out-into-the-wild/) is a Couchsurfing program that seeks to connect the staff at HQ with the community at large. We’re hosting travelers, organizing events and will be out surfing around the globe. [Request a staff member in your city!](https://docs.google.com/a/couchsurfing.com/forms/d/1q2XrEOasLhf7SSA9u0-k3VUa-_8yK_xa3mbpJLAFfHc/viewform)* ![Screen Shot 2013-12-03 at 1.31.59 PM](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2013/12/screen-shot-2013-12-03-at-1-31-59-pm.png) **Name**: [Thomas Donohoe](http://www.couchsurfing.com/n/people/thomas.p.donohoe) **Role**: Product Manager **Where to?** New York, United States **Couchsurfing makes a me a better…** person. #### Why New York? I love being surrounded by skyscrapers. #### The People Along the Way The very first thing I saw when I arrived at my host Angie’s apartment was her and the other Couchsurfers sitting around a table covered in candy from all over the world. Right away, I knew this was going to be special. The candy, brought by Couchsurfers who had stayed with Angie before, was from countless countries and multiple continents. **“Right away, I knew this was going to be special.”** Luckily, I had brought San Francisco’s most famous chocolate (Ghirardelli) to contribute to the pile of hand selected sweets. That night, we sat around eating candy and talking about travel, food, and our Couchsurfing experiences into the early morning hours! #### Board Games With Friends My incredible host Angie had put up hundreds of travelers before and invited me in spite of her already hosting 3 other Couchsurfers. Angie is not just a passionate host, she’s so much more. Angie is a jack-of-all-trades: she is a talented artist, photographer, dedicated [Couchsurfing Ambassador](https://www.couchsurfing.org/n/ambassadors), tour guide, investor, business consultant, gamer and seasoned traveler. She is open to try anything and seemingly insightful about everything. [![angie and thomas_ny](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2013/12/angie-and-thomas_ny.jpg)](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2013/12/angie-and-thomas_ny.jpg) **“Angie is not just a passionate host, she’s so much more.”** One of my most memorable experiences during my trip was playing the board game ‘Cards Against Humanity’ with Angie, her roommate, and 4 Couchsurfers. Because the game is all about understanding who you are playing with and what they appreciate (humor? wit? spontaneity?), I really got to know everyone as the game went along. [![Catan Board Game with Couchsurfers](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/catan_thomas_ny.jpg)](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/catan_thomas_ny.jpg) **“Having a great time during a round of ‘Settlers of Catan’.”** #### Leaving it Better Than I Found It Because I was sleeping right smack in the middle of the living room, I knew it was very important to clean up after myself and put away my things. Angie’s generosity went far beyond just a place to sleep, and I was thrilled to be able to contribute to her collection of board games (I brought her ‘Risk’). It made my experience much more fulfilling to share a thing that I love with her and leave her wonderful place at least a little better equipped than I found it. #### Upon Goodbye Just before I left, Angie had me contribute a signed polaroid of myself to her collection of polaroids. She takes one of Couchsurfer who stay with her. Such a cool idea that has inspired an interesting idea for a feature I hope to add to Couchsurfing soon! [![polaroidofsurfers_thomas](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2013/12/polaroidofsurfers_thomas.jpg)](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2013/12/polaroidofsurfers_thomas.jpg) **“Me (bottom right) surrounded by the polaroids of my brilliant co-Couchsurfers.”** #### What Couchsurfing Means to Me Couchsurfing is about sharing experiences with people from all over the world. Even if it is just sharing your candy. It is about understanding different cultures to appreciate what makes them special… whether you be surfing, hosting or attending an event like the fun NYC weekly meetup. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/sharing-sweets-in-the-big-apple-in-the-wild-with-thomas/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/sharing-sweets-in-the-big-apple-in-the-wild-with-thomas/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts, Community, Travel Tips **Tags:** couchsurfing staff, host experience, new york, product manager, staff in the wild, thomas --- ### [School and Safari in Kenya: In the Wild with Gemma](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/school-and-safari-in-kenya-in-the-wild-with-gemma/) **Published:** January 8, 2014 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** *[Staff in the Wild](http://10.9.0.204/couchsurfing-staff-are-heading-out-into-the-wild/) is a Couchsurfing program that seeks to connect the staff at HQ with the community at large. We’re hosting travelers, organizing events and will be out surfing around the globe. [Request a staff member in your city!](https://docs.google.com/a/couchsurfing.com/forms/d/1q2XrEOasLhf7SSA9u0-k3VUa-_8yK_xa3mbpJLAFfHc/viewform)* [![Screen Shot 2014-01-07 at 4.09.29 PM](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/Screen-Shot-2014-01-07-at-4.09.29-PM.png "- Couchsurfing Blog")](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/Screen-Shot-2014-01-07-at-4.09.29-PM.png) **Name**: [Gemma Barlow](https://www.couchsurfing.org/people/gemmakbarlow) **Role**: Senior iOS Developer **Where to?** Nairobi, Kenya **Couchsurfing makes a me a better…** communicator. #### Why Nairobi? *“They say it’s impossible, we say ‘we’re Kenyan’” – ‘Kenya Amazing Race’ promotional slogan* I chose Nairobi for two reasons. Firstly, as an iOS developer I had heard about Kenya’s unique mobile-first technology landscape and, secondly, I have a family connection to the region. For several years, my Mom has raised funds for a school in the Kibera slum – I wanted to see a similar environment first-hand and be able to convey to her what life in the city was really like, reinforcing her contribution. #### The People Along the Way The first person that I met on my CS trip was my host for my entire stay. She had been waiting at the airport for several hours holding a sign with my name on it – an amazing gesture. Jomo Kenyatta International Airport is the busiest airport in East Africa, but has not fully recovered from a massive fire in August, forcing non-ticketed visitors to stand outside. Due to the Christmas holiday, the crowds were particularly chaotic the evening I landed, and my host seemed as relieved to see me as I was her! She greeted me with a giant hug, the first of many I was to receive during my time in Africa. ****[![Screen Shot 2014-01-07 at 4.07.59 PM](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/Screen-Shot-2014-01-07-at-4.07.59-PM.png "- Couchsurfing Blog")](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/Screen-Shot-2014-01-07-at-4.07.59-PM.png)**** **“My host had been waiting at the airport for several hours – what an amazing gesture!”** #### Volontourism My host is a mother of four, an avid host of Couchsurfers and the founder of a Foundation which runs a school in the slum near the Komarocks region for approximately 35 students. The kids range from ages 3 to 12 and are taught by volunteers, sourced through various homestay and voluntourism sites. She loves having a busy, bustling home and also invites Couchsurfers to come and assist at the school for a day or so. The current set of desks used by the students were built by a previous Couchsurfing group, and serves as the only furniture in the school’s temporary location – a shed. **[![Screen Shot 2014-01-07 at 4.56.50 PM](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/Screen-Shot-2014-01-07-at-4.56.50-PM.png)](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/Screen-Shot-2014-01-07-at-4.56.50-PM.png)** **“My host is a mother of four, an avid Couchsurfing host, and the founder of a organisation which runs a school for kids in the slum.”** People living and working in the house bond quickly and I was lucky enough to meet some fabulous Couchsurfers and travelers during my time there. Billy from Utah had previously been traveling in Tanzania and was just stopping in Nairobi for a few nights before heading to the coastal town of Mombasa; the kids loved his tattoos and the older boys, in particular, responded well to a male presence in the school who spoke excellent Swahili. Sam, a recent Law graduate from New Zealand, was brilliant company. She loaned me money for the bus (matatu) and helped me work through language confusion and figure out cultural practices such as shaking everyone’s hand upon entering a room to greet them, rather than just as an introduction. With a bit of luck, she’ll be surfing my couch in San Francisco soon! #### [![Screen Shot 2014-01-07 at 4.09.13 PM](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/Screen-Shot-2014-01-07-at-4.09.13-PM.png)](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/Screen-Shot-2014-01-07-at-4.09.13-PM.png) **Visiting the Kenyan International Conference Center with other members of my CS household.** After heading out on safari organized by Debby, both a Couchsurfer and travel agent, I also met Jun, who was in Kenya working as an Chinese-English translator for a Kenyan-Indian construction company. There is much travel diversity in Africa; the challenges of daily life seem to intrigue the most adventurous of people, who are usually exploring the continent solo. I also had the opportunity to meet several Maasai warriors. They dress in traditional robes but wear a belt with room for both a traditional knife and a tiny cell phone. ****![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/hgnwnT6JkUqa9n7jXGhu7cwNS3L8oqv-GrBhmCMQ_q6d_aBVUX81H14ZwESrEpczWIlpETHeazlBcYPpcUFBaG98CFffyDMbL1X3YKFH-tEnYzVlofdLfidIyA)**** **“I also had the opportunity to meet several Maasai warriors.”** One of the most memorable experiences during my stay was my final dinner at my host’s house – spaghetti bolognese, hungrily consumed by the 11-person household. We watched the Nairobi news which, interestingly enough, includes live International Signing for the Deaf in the bottom-left corner of the broadcast, and discussed the most dramatic story of the day, an horrific train crash in the Kibera slum. Debate led to further discussion of world politics as we traded Australian, Kiwi, Kenyan and Finnish perspectives on world politics (and the lives and loves of the British Royal Family). #### *[![gemma-photo](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2014/01/gemma-photo.jpg)](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2014/01/gemma-photo.jpg)* **“My final dinner at my host’s house – spaghetti bolognese, hungrily consumed by the 11-person household.”** #### Leaving it Better Than I Found It During my stay with my host, I felt I wanted to do something to make the lives of future volunteers at her foundation easier. Towards the end of the week I felt more comfortable navigating on my own and whilst wandering found a mall, where I purchased exercise books, writing materials and storybooks for use when school returns in the New Year. Hopefully this will make the challenge of teaching with no permanent space, no set curriculum, a few battered books and a language barrier a little bit easier for visitors (not to mention the students). I was hoping to surprise my host by leaving them and have her find the stash later, but she caught me and gave me a big hug! #### What Couchsurfing Means to Me To me, Couchsurfing is the most authentic way of traveling; moving through a location and experiencing what it would truly be like to live there. I witnessed first-hand many of the challenges of daily life in Nairobi that would have remained hidden if my chosen accommodation was a large hotel in the center of the city. I also learned a great deal about Kenyan culture. I would never have giggled at my host telling the taxi driver over the phone that she ‘want(ed) you here at 6am, not 6am African time. Remember Europeans keep time well’. I would have never learned that everyone drinks instant coffee as its export price is so high it makes it incredibly expensive within Kenya itself. I would never have been startled by the phenomenon of the singing Kenyan answering machine. I would never have been followed around the estate by two tiny kids wanting to check if my freckles would wipe off. I would also have missed out on meeting some incredibly inspiring people. Kenya is an awesome place and my trip to Nairobi was a fabulous introduction to Africa and the people that live and work there. Local knowledge is key when traveling in more challenging locations and the support of Couchsurfers and other travelers was so important to me during my stay. I intend to return to Africa as soon as possible, confident that I now have the experience to plan a much longer trip. **Nairobi, I’ll miss you. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/school-and-safari-in-kenya-in-the-wild-with-gemma/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/school-and-safari-in-kenya-in-the-wild-with-gemma/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts, Community, Travel Tips **Tags:** couchsurfing staff, cshq, gemma, kenya, senior ios developer, staff in the wild --- ### [Sharing San Francisco through Food and Fog: Staying with Staff](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/sharing-san-francisco-through-food-and-fog-staying-with-staff/) **Published:** March 25, 2014 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** *[Staff in the Wild](http://10.9.0.204/couchsurfing-staff-are-heading-out-into-the-wild/) is a Couchsurfing program that seeks to connect the staff at HQ with the community at large. We’re hosting travelers, organizing events and will be out surfing around the globe. [Request a staff member in your city!](https://docs.google.com/a/couchsurfing.com/forms/d/1q2XrEOasLhf7SSA9u0-k3VUa-_8yK_xa3mbpJLAFfHc/viewform)* [![Screen Shot 2014-01-13 at 12.02.02 PM](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2013/10/screen-shot-2014-01-13-at-12-02-02-pm.png "Screen Shot 2014-01-13 at 12.02.02 PM - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2013/10/screen-shot-2014-01-13-at-12-02-02-pm.png) **Name**: [Martina Steinmann](https://www.couchsurfing.org/people/martlmartl) **Role**: Community Manager **Hosting travelers from…** Prague, Czech Republic **Couchsurfing makes me…** more curious. #### Why do you host? Hosting allows me to bring the world into my home when I can’t be traveling myself. (It helps ease the travel itch a bit). Couchsurfers carry that contagious energy of a curious traveler into my daily life. #### What unforgettable moments did you share with your Couchsurfers? My guests Daniela and Tadeas made me learn to appreciate my neighborhood more. Together, we discovered a tiny, family-run honey store nearby that I now go to frequently. The couple was on the search for a present for their next host and we had a sweet time choosing between dozens of honey samples. Having picked our favorites, we walked home to celebrate our find with homemade pizza. The next day, we set out to explore the beach that lines the city of San Francisco. As we reached the far end of the sandy shore the fog suddenly closed in on us in what felt like a split second. Surprised and dazed, we started a small scavenger hunt to get a glimpse at the famous Golden Gate Bridge. (We were successful!) [![Ocean Beach with Couchsurfer Daniela](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2014/03/screen-shot-2014-03-24-at-10-18-24-am.png "Ocean Beach with Couchsurfer Daniela - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2014/03/screen-shot-2014-03-24-at-10-18-24-am.png) **“**Little did we know that within minutes, fog would build up and close in on us.**”** [![Couchsurfers Daniela and Tadeas chasing the Golden Gate Bridge](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2014/03/screen-shot-2014-03-24-at-4-35-58-pm.png "Couchsurfers Daniela and Tadeas chasing the Golden Gate Bridge - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2014/03/screen-shot-2014-03-24-at-4-35-58-pm.png) **My Couchsurfers Daniela and Tadeas, chasing the perfect picture of the Golden Gate Bridge towering out of the fog.** Soon after, our empty stomachs led us to a delicious burger restaurant. [![Belly Burger Restaurant](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2014/03/screen-shot-2014-03-24-at-4-39-14-pm.png "Belly Burger Restaurant - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2014/03/screen-shot-2014-03-24-at-4-39-14-pm.png) **Hunting down some truly American food, “Belly Burgers” sounded like perfect choice, right?** #### How can you be a better host? I was glad that I got to spend a lot of time together with my Couchsurfers, and I hope to keep doing that when I host in the future. One small thing I am working on is making my home a little more traveler-friendly. One of my past hosts had a little basket full of shampoo and soap samples set up just for her surfers. As small a gesture as that may seem, I remember those kinds of amenities feeling like the most luxurious things when you’re on the road. #### What does Couchsurfing mean to you? When I first learned about Couchsurfing, I was thrilled to hear that there was an entire community of people out there that were opening their homes to strangers. I only really believed it once I experienced it myself and it did strengthen my faith in people. The trust, kindness, and friendship I experienced was overwhelming and continues to amaze me. *Curious to hear more? Our Community Manager Martina spoke with Travis of the travel podcast Extra Pack of Peanuts about travel safety, common sense, and the most interesting Couchsurfing stories she’s ever heard!* [![Podcast with Martina](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2014/03/screen-shot-2014-03-24-at-5-00-24-pm.png "Podcast with Martina - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://www.extrapackofpeanuts.com/couchsurfing-martina-steinmann-travel-podcast/ "Podcast with Martina and Travis Sherry") ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/sharing-san-francisco-through-food-and-fog-staying-with-staff/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/sharing-san-francisco-through-food-and-fog-staying-with-staff/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts, Community, Travel Tips **Tags:** community, couchstories, couchsurfers, couchsurfing hq, couchsurfing staff, fog, host experience, san francisco, staff in the wild --- ### [Travel and Roll in Oakland: Staying with Staff](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/travel-and-roll-in-oakland-staying-with-staff/) **Published:** March 28, 2014 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** *[Staff in the Wild](http://10.9.0.204/couchsurfing-staff-are-heading-out-into-the-wild/) is a Couchsurfing program that seeks to connect the staff at HQ with the community at large. We’re hosting travelers, organizing events and will be out surfing around the globe. [Request a staff member in your city!](https://docs.google.com/a/couchsurfing.com/forms/d/1q2XrEOasLhf7SSA9u0-k3VUa-_8yK_xa3mbpJLAFfHc/viewform)* [![Kate and Nate Totten](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/Screen-Shot-2014-03-12-at-11.22.10-AM.png "- Couchsurfing Blog")](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/Screen-Shot-2014-03-12-at-11.22.10-AM.png) **Name**: [Kate and Nate Totten](https://www.couchsurfing.org/people/mrs.katetotten/ "Couchsurfers Kate and Nate Totten") **Role**: Operations Manager **Hosting travelers from…** La Rochelle/Poitiers, France **Couchsurfing makes me…** more thoughtful and understanding #### Why do you host? We host because we love opening our home up to the world. We are pretty settled with our careers, a home, and two dogs, so hosting us allows to see the world from the comfort of our couch! This time we hosted Anne-Laure and Geoffrey from France. They are a wonderful couple who brought great conversation, laughter, and delightful food into our home. I recommend that everyone checks out their awesome website [Travel and Roll](http://www.travelandroll.com/ "Travel and Roll") to follow their world travels. [![Couchsurfing Van and Couchsurfers](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2014/03/img_20140307_130916496.jpg "Couchsurfing Van and Couchsurfers - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2014/03/img_20140307_130916496.jpg) **Anne-Laure and Geoffrey spent 10 days traveling California in this van. It even has a kitchen in the trunk!** #### What unforgettable moments did you share with your Couchsurfers? We had a fantastic picnic at Lake Merritt in Oakland with my coworker Martina and some other friends. We feasted on fresh bread, cheeses, sweets, and more. It was so relaxing to sit in the sun with lovely people and talk about our travel adventures. But I’d have to say my favorite moment was just sitting around my dinner table with my husband and our surfers. Discussing our lives, our passions, our hopes for the future, and telling both the stories of how we fell in love. “Share your life” has to be my favorite Couchsurfing value! [![Couchsurfing picnic at lake Merritt](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2014/03/screen-shot-2014-03-21-at-4-30-15-pm.png "Couchsurfing picnic at lake Merritt - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2014/03/screen-shot-2014-03-21-at-4-30-15-pm.png) **Check out all these happy Couchsurfers. You can’t see it in this photo, but we had quite the spread of delicious food from the Lake Merritt Farmers’ Market.** #### How do you say goodbye? Saying goodbye to them was bittersweet. We had such a great connection, so it was sad to see them go. I definitely had tears in my eyes. But it was also so exciting to think about all their upcoming travels and adventures. Being open and caring is the best way to be a good host, so I’m just going to keep striving for that. #### What made them such awesome guests? These two have got their Couchsurfing manners down pat! They are so considerate, helpful, and wonderful. They brought us food, made us dinner and desserts, and always were willing to help out. I couldn’t have asked for better surfers! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/travel-and-roll-in-oakland-staying-with-staff/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/travel-and-roll-in-oakland-staying-with-staff/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts, Community, Travel Tips **Tags:** couchsurfers, couchsurfing friends, couchsurfing staff, fun, host experience, hosting, oakland, picnic, san francisco, van --- ### [The Motorcycle Diaries: Staying with Staff](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-motorcycle-diaries-staying-with-staff/) **Published:** May 3, 2014 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** *[Staff in the Wild](http://10.9.0.204/couchsurfing-staff-are-heading-out-into-the-wild/) is a Couchsurfing program that seeks to connect the staff at HQ with the community at large. We’re hosting travelers, organizing events and will be out surfing around the globe. [Request a staff member in your city!](https://docs.google.com/a/couchsurfing.com/forms/d/1q2XrEOasLhf7SSA9u0-k3VUa-_8yK_xa3mbpJLAFfHc/viewform)* [![](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2014/05/alex-on-bus.png)](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2014/05/alex-on-bus.png) **Name**: [Alex Paul](https://www.couchsurfing.org/people/alex-paul-1/ "Couchsurfer Alex Paul") **Role**: Engineer **Hosting travelers from…** Liaoning, China **Couchsurfing makes me…** a better member of our planet. #### Why do you host? I host to meet new people and learn where I should travel to. One of my surfers from New Zealand showed me a video of his time there and it really inspired me to check it out and visit him there. #### What unforgettable moments did you share with your Couchsurfer? One thing I will never forget about my guest [Yiya](https://www.couchsurfing.org/people/wangyiya/) is our impromptu motorcycle ride to the East Bay. We just sort of set out riding until we got lost in the hills. Along the way, we enjoyed some great sushi and spent a while discussing the philosophy of societies, comparing China to the United States, and especially the differences in how children are raised. We both learned a lot from each other about how Asian and American families approach a child’s education in different ways. ![Sushi with Yija](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2014/05/sushi-with-yija.png) **Sushi and smiles accompanied our talk about education in Asia and the United States.** With our stomachs filled, we went along one of my favorite nearby twisty roads, and – by chance – discovered a new favorite place to pitch a hammock on top of a hill. Halfway there, we found some dragonflies and studied them for a solid 10 minutes. They had really cool metallic-blue reflective bodies, and interesting patterns on the wings. Some were completely transparent. Yiya must still have dozens of great pictures of them! [![Alex and Yija](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2014/05/alex-and-yija.png "Alex and Yija - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2014/05/alex-and-yija.png) **Curious to see what a motorcycle ride is like, we set out to the hills! (and in case you’re wondering, Yija was wearing a helmet for the ride, just not when we took this photo as it doesn’t flip out of the way!).** The best part was just talking with Yiya, and hearing about her life and her goals for the future. We talked about the importance of education (and discovered that we both dropped out), and came to agree that a commitment to continuously learning aggressively is the key to happiness as opposed to the more mainstream “I have my degree now, so I’m done learning, and it’s time to start working and adulthood” approach to education. I admired that my surfer Yiya was so curious and loved to learn about pretty much everything. Since we are both huge fans of nature, we decided to leave the city again for a hike in a state park where we found some very friendly goats, sheep, and horses, along with a beautiful lake. The horses really liked us. They had eaten down all of the grass in their reach and acknowledged our feeding efforts with a look that seemed to say: “Oh, hello my new best friend”. [![Yija and horse](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2014/05/yija-and-horse.png)](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2014/05/alex-on-bus.png) **“Oh, hello my new best friend”.** While hiking in the woods, we ran into an old acquaintance of mine from Mississippi. It might have been a complete coincidence but we decided to believe that Couchsurfing truly makes the world feel smaller and more connected than ever before. #### How can you be a better host? It’s sometimes hard to juggle hosting with the rest of daily life, but it gets easier with practice. I hope to get even better at spending as much time as I can with my future guests. #### What does Couchsurfing mean to you? Couchsurfing reminds me how interconnected we all are, and how people from a completely different location, culture, and lifestyle turn out to be so similar in their hopes and their fears. It is the best way I have heard of to connect people from dramatically different walks of life. It serves to enrich my life with a variety of experiences and allows people to have experiences that otherwise would be impossible. It brings a taste of the world to my couch. #### **Want to open your home to Couchsurfers?** #### **Check out our [Hosting Tips](https://www.couchsurfing.org/n/resources/hosts "Resource Center - Hosting Tips")!** ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-motorcycle-diaries-staying-with-staff/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-motorcycle-diaries-staying-with-staff/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts, Community, Travel Tips **Tags:** couchstories, couchsurfing friends, couchsurfing hq, couchsurfing staff, dragonfly, east bay, hosting, motorcycle, san francisco, staff in the wild, team --- ### [Couchsurfing in Austin: In the Wild with Jen Billock](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/in-the-wild-with-jen-billock/) **Published:** October 15, 2014 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** [Staff in the Wild](http://10.9.0.204/couchsurfing-staff-are-heading-out-into-the-wild/) is a Couchsurfing program that seeks to connect the staff at HQ with the community at large. We’re hosting travelers, organizing events, and will be out surfing around the globe. [Request a staff member in your city!](https://docs.google.com/a/couchsurfing.com/forms/d/1q2XrEOasLhf7SSA9u0-k3VUa-_8yK_xa3mbpJLAFfHc/viewform) [![jennifer-billock](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/FuqYCDUeQb1em3PW0yN010_QxvDzxBoK0kfvnwFL0g_RWBXHGmyqBA9oiuUC2pu3_WVbsnLy1UI9juPwVUWHY6HxdoQcYYFjGP0Xbc4n_hAidONH6vVYQpqRmPJsk14MOw)](https://docs.google.com/a/couchsurfing.com/forms/d/1q2XrEOasLhf7SSA9u0-k3VUa-_8yK_xa3mbpJLAFfHc/viewform) **Name:** [Jennifer Billock](https://www.couchsurfing.org/people/mountaingirl415/)**Role:** CEO **Where to?** Austin, Texas **Couchsurfing makes me…** think about this quote: “Imagine what is possible when you’re willing to share your life.” – Casey Fenton #### What unforgettable moments have you shared as a Couchsurfer? I recently visited Austin, Texas and not only Couchsurfed in a unique space, but also met some great folks at a locally organized Couchsurfing event. I’m always amazed by how generous, interesting, and kind Couchsurfers are. I’ve hosted plenty of Couchsurfers, but wanted to try my hand at being a guest. And who did I choose to Couchsurf with in Austin? The (in)famous [Jeff Wilson](https://www.couchsurfing.org/people/jeffwilson/). If you don’t know him from [Ok Cupid’s Craziest Date Ever](http://www.salon.com/2013/11/12/the_craziest_okcupid_date_ever/), you might have heard about the [36-square-foot dumpster he lives in ](http://www.theatlantic.com/features/archive/2014/09/the-simple-life-in-a-dumpster/379947/)on Huston-Tillotson University’s campus. And if you haven’t been privy to either of those media frenzies, you might have been one of Jeff’s Couchsurfing hosts (after all, he’s Couchsurfed in more than 60 countries). I felt like I was a TV star during most of my stay (Jeff has a camera at the ready and is a stellar documentarian) and I so enjoyed learning about [the dumpster project](http://dumpsterproject.org), as well as his partner Clara Benson’s forthcoming book, “No Baggage,” to be published by Running Press. It documents the pair’s three-week adventure with zero luggage and no plans. [![Jeff Wilson and Jen Billock in front of the Dumpster Project](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Screen-Shot-2014-10-15-at-2.36.25-PM.png "- Couchsurfing Blog")](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Screen-Shot-2014-10-15-at-2.36.25-PM.png) **Jeff Wilson and Jen Billock in front of the Dumpster Project** Jeff, Clara, and I stayed up comparing stories and talking about life into the wee hours of the night. The next morning, Jeff greeted me with an Austin “breakfast taco” followed by an introduction to his dad, who told me, “Couchsurfing has really changed my son’s life.” After bidding Jeff farewell, I stopped in at a local Couchsurfing event where I met [Sheila](https://www.couchsurfing.org/people/sheilaforeala/), a new Couchsurfing ambassador. When I arrived, she handed me a gift bag full of local goodies from Austin and the printed local guide that she gives to all of her Couchsurfing guests. How thoughtful! [![Couchsurfing Event in Austin](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/image-2.jpeg "- Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/image-2.jpeg) **Couchsurfing Event in Austin** At the event, I also met [Palmer Stevens](https://www.couchsurfing.org/people/palmermi/), who is an RV park host who hosts Couchsurfers in a few of his RVs near Austin. And what would my trip be without meeting 23-year-old [Stephen Tranovich](https://www.couchsurfing.org/people/stephentranovich/), a recent graduate of Yale, who was Couchsurfing across the country on his way toward relocating to San Francisco. I also met with many other upbeat Couchsurfers from Austin and other places in world – all and all, there were more than 30 people at the event. [![Sheila (a Couchsurfing Ambassador in Austin) & Palmer, the RV Host](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/image-5.jpeg "- Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/image-5.jpeg) **Palmer, the RV Host & Sheila (a Couchsurfing Ambassador in Austin)** I loved experiencing both the unusual and the everyday as a Couchsurfer – and I look forward to doing it again soon. #### What does Couchsurfing mean to you? Couchsurfing helps me experience people living in cultures around the world that turn out to be not so different from my own. Even when we don’t speak the same language or come from similar backgrounds, there is so much about being human that is connective, borderless, and ultimately universal. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/in-the-wild-with-jen-billock/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/in-the-wild-with-jen-billock/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts, Community, Travel Tips --- ### [Our First Time: It's Like Hosting Old Friends - Staying with Staff](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/our-first-time-its-like-hosting-old-friends-staying-with-staff/) **Published:** February 25, 2016 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** **[![Mitch and Ellaine climbing](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/02/mitch-and-ellaine-climbing.jpg "Mitch and Ellaine climbing - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/02/mitch-and-ellaine-climbing.jpg)** *We’re hosting travelers, organizing events and will be out surfing around the globe.* **Name:** Mitch and Ellaine **Role:** Product Manager **Hosting Travelers from…** Wellington, New Zealand --- You know how when a great, old friend comes to visit, time flies as you tell stories, share meals, and enjoy each other’s company? That’s what it felt like hosting our first Couchsurfers, Michelle and Ian. I started working with Couchsurfing a few weeks ago, so my wife Ellaine and I decided to host some travellers coming to San Francisco. When Michelle and Ian joked that they mostly just wanted to meet our dog, Sierra, but would appreciate a place to stay after, I suspected they might be a good match. **Our Guests** > “We were looking to meet and hang out with locals.” Michelle and Ian are a young, professional married couple from Wellington, New Zealand. Not sure what to expect as first time Couchsurfers, they decided to try staying with a host for just a couple nights of their trip. Ian explained that more than saving money, the biggest reason he and Michelle wanted to Couchsurf was to have a more authentic travel experience by staying with locals. [![The four of us in Dolores Park](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/02/surfers-michelle-and-ian-visit.jpg "Surfers - Michelle and Ian Visit - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/02/surfers-michelle-and-ian-visit.jpg)The four of us in Dolores Park**Our First Time Too** As equally naive first-time hosts, Ellaine and I were a bit nervous and unsure of what to expect of the experience. Rather than being a burden at all, however, it turned out to be a delight. It was fun hearing about life in New Zealand and explaining what it’s like to live in SF. Unlike hosting long-time friends, after hanging out for dinner and a drink on our front stoop, it was easy to simply say “I need to catch up on some work.” It was clear they both appreciated hanging out and had no expectation of us entertaining them all night. **Beyond a Place to Stay** Wanting to make the most of our first time hosting, we shared a dinner out with Michelle and Ian, which was definitely worthwhile. We learned a lot about them, and got in a lot of good laughs while trying a new neighborhood ramen place. When Ian told me he was training for a half marathon, we decided to wake up early the next morning to get in a workout. I took him on one of my favorite routes, up to a viewpoint overlooking all of San Francisco. It was a fun way to get in some exercise, and it was clear Ian was stoked to get a personal running tour of the city. ![300bfa63-0712-4bc8-8ade-99678dd91a54](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/02/300bfa63-0712-4bc8-8ade-99678dd91a54.jpeg "300bfa63-0712-4bc8-8ade-99678dd91a54 - Couchsurfing Blog")Michelle and Ian with our dog SierraWith a baby on the way in just a few weeks, Ellaine and I probably won’t have time to host again for a little while, but I’m already looking forward to our next time! *Have your own Couchsurfing story you’d like to share?* [*Tell us!*](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/articles/200641200-How-can-I-share-my-Couchsurfing-story-) ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/our-first-time-its-like-hosting-old-friends-staying-with-staff/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/our-first-time-its-like-hosting-old-friends-staying-with-staff/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts, Community, Travel Tips --- ### [Exploring Sydney - In the Wild with Iryna](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/exploring-sydney-in-the-wild-with-iryna/) **Published:** March 25, 2016 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** *[![Iryna Australia](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/03/iryna-australia.jpg "Iryna Australia - Couchsurfing Blog")](https://www.instagram.com/couchsurfinginthewild/)* *We’re hosting travelers, organizing events and will be out surfing around the globe!* **Name:** Iryna **Role:** Engineering Team **Surfing in…** Sydney, Australia --- > My journey to Sydney was like a dream came true. Australia has always felt distant to me, almost like another planet, like Venus or Mars. **Looking for a Host** It turned out that finding a host in Sydney wasn’t easy! It was the end of summer, and a lot of tourists come to visit Australia during that time. Most of the hosts I sent requests to already had surfers coming to stay with them! The moment I saw [Helen’s profile](https://www.couchsurfing.com/users/504130), I knew that I would really like to stay with her and her husband Chris to listen to their beautiful and romantic story – how they met through Couchsurfing. I read in Helen’s profile that she and Chris were not hosting for the dates that I needed, but I wrote them a message anyways, explaining why I wanted to stay with them and hoping that they might have some time. And a miracle happened – they responded that they liked my message and would love to host me! **My Hosts** I felt so happy and flattered when they accepted my request and I felt really grateful to meet this amazing family – they are truly an asset to the Couchsurfing community. Ever since Helen and Chris discovered Couchsurfing in 2007, they have been both hosting and surfing. Together with their daughter, Evie, they have surfed on many couches around the world and have hosted people from Bulgaria, France, Germany, the States, the Czech Republic, Slovenia, Puerto Rico,Hong Kong, Portugal, Latvia, Poland, Iceland, France, Switzerland, Italy, South Korea, Holland, Brazil, Belarus, Sweden and Hungary. Helen, her husband Chris, and little Evie were simply wonderful. They went above and beyond and from the very first moment I felt really at home and part of their family. Chris even played guitar and sang for me! I have never met such an open and social child as Evie, probably due to all of her Couchsurfing experience. When she saw me for the first time she gave me a big hug and started to show her toys, telling me stories about them. They have a very positive attitude towards life, very social and happy personalities. Our open conversations, jokes, walking together in the city, and homemade dinner were much appreciated! One of the best highlights of my trip was reading books to Evie and being amazed by her open, friendly and curious personality. **Exploring Sydney** Mina, a family friend of Helen and Chris, was staying on their couch at the same time when I was Couchsurfing. We got along so well and started to explore Sydney together. It was wonderful to have someone to share my awe of the beauty of the city. We had so many adventures together: took a ferry to Manly beach, one of the most popular beaches in Sydney with miles of lovely sand, walked to the Shelly Beach, and saw some water dragons. We enjoyed the breathtaking views of Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge, browsed through Botanical Gardens and were amazed by Gothic style architecture of St. Mary’s Cathedral .It was great to discover the amazing places and then in the evening to come home and discuss what we have seen with our hosts. [![On the Ferry to Manly Beach!](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/03/screen-shot-2016-03-25-at-10-30-20-am.png "Screen Shot 2016-03-25 at 10.30.20 AM - Couchsurfing Blog")](https://www.instagram.com/couchsurfinginthewild/)On the Ferry to Manly BeachAnother highlight of my trip was racing on a boat on Sydney Harbour. The event organizer, Scott Francis Scott, is an experienced sailor with a lot of great and inspiring sailing stories. He gave us all tips on how to get around the city and what is good to see. Everyone on the boat was very welcoming and informative. I was able to speak to many Couchsurfing members during the event and have been gathering valuable feedback about our website while Celestial was racing. During the race, we moved from one side of the boat to another as human weights! We had an awesome time. [![Boat Racing in Sydney Harbour!](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/03/iryna-boat.jpg "Iryna Boat - Couchsurfing Blog")](https://www.instagram.com/couchsurfinginthewild/)Boat Racing in Sydney Harbour> My trip to Sydney was so memorable, mostly because of the people that I have met and was surrounded with all the time in Australia. I’m already looking forward to my next Couchsurfing adventure! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/exploring-sydney-in-the-wild-with-iryna/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/exploring-sydney-in-the-wild-with-iryna/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts, Community, Travel Tips --- ### [Exploring Japan - in the Wild with Connor](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/4654-2/) **Published:** April 8, 2016 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** [![921471_10102191567009005_5842069392412030501_o](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/04/921471_10102191567009005_5842069392412030501_o.jpg "921471_10102191567009005_5842069392412030501_o - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/04/921471_10102191567009005_5842069392412030501_o.jpg) *We’re hosting travelers, organizing events and will be out surfing around the globe!* **Name:** Connor **Role:** Community Team **Surfing in…** Japan --- > Japan has been on my travel list for some time now, and I was so excited when I found out I would be able to go Couchsurfing there! After my solo travel in Thailand in 2013, I found that Couchsurfing is the only way I’d consider traveling alone again. **Finding Hosts** Again, people… taking the time to find a good match and writing thoughtful, personal Couchrequests really pays off. I was able to find 3 hosts in a matter of a couple days with a minimal amount of requests by taking the time to find active account, read through their interests and preferences (and dates they weren’t available), and to send thoughtful requests. That said, places can get busy. Because it is cherry blossom season, I had no luck finding a host in Kyoto. Either hosts were booked or out of town to avoid the crowds. It was also a challenge to find hosts in more rural areas. It ended up not mattering though because I was able to find awesome hosts elsewhere! **My time in Tokyo** What an amazing city. The thing I appreciated most was how the city was laid out. Even though there are millions or residents, it was easy to escape down a narrow street, and then down a narrow alley and find yourself in a quiet and cozy paradise. [![44eb6a18-2c22-4137-8e2b-09f0177818d1](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/04/44eb6a18-2c22-4137-8e2b-09f0177818d1.jpg "44eb6a18-2c22-4137-8e2b-09f0177818d1 - Couchsurfing Blog")](https://www.instagram.com/couchsurfinginthewild?utm_source=connor&utm_medium=blog&utm_campaign=Staff%20in%20the%20Wild) I met my first host in Yokohama. He had to work until midnight and had to wake up early the next morning for a flight, and still met me with a cheery attitude and took me out for a drink. There we talked a lot about Couchsurfing and how it changed his whole perspective on how life could be lived. Before he traveled using Couchsurfing, he was feeling stuck in the pressures of work in the Japanese culture. Even though we were just able to hang out for a few hours, I was sad to leave his home, and we made time to meet again the next weekend before I left Japan. I’ll always remember the inspiring conversations about life that we had. [![a223a930-7fdc-4d8d-9443-36463751a15c](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/04/a223a930-7fdc-4d8d-9443-36463751a15c.jpg "a223a930-7fdc-4d8d-9443-36463751a15c - Couchsurfing Blog")](https://www.instagram.com/couchsurfinginthewild?utm_source=connor&utm_medium=blog&utm_campaign=Staff%20in%20the%20Wild) After another day of exploring, I met my second host at his Tokyo apartment, which was located in an area with a lot of historical narrow alleys and has become a hotspot for dining out. He took me out to one of his favorite restaurants, where I discovered my new favorite Japanese food: okonomiyaki. We tried multiple styles of it, and my stomach was in love. The next day, after exploring more of Tokyo on my own, he took me out to yet another restaurant, this time a very special and historic place, a place I never would have discovered on my own. The restaurant was small, packed, and filled with cigarette smoke. The walls were covered in old painted menus and old sake bottles, and there was an elder woman in the corner tallying receipts with an abacus. My host ordered a set of both traditional and unique dishes (things I never would know how to begin ordering), which included the shira-ko (sperm sack) of fugu (blowfish) and nato (slimy fermented soy beans). When we wrapped up the meal, both my host and the owner of the restaurant gave me gifts – it was a meal that I’ll never forget. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/5a825ac2-e745-4027-984a-5925e3715530-300x300.jpg "5a825ac2-e745-4027-984a-5925e3715530 - Couchsurfing Blog") **My Time in the Mountains** While I had an amazing time in Tokyo, and found it to be much more quiet and approachable than I originally expected, I was also excited to travel to the mountains of Japan. [![0633d2f7-bd8c-466c-889c-1cd214caab86](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/04/0633d2f7-bd8c-466c-889c-1cd214caab86.jpg "0633d2f7-bd8c-466c-889c-1cd214caab86 - Couchsurfing Blog")](https://www.instagram.com/couchsurfinginthewild?utm_source=connor&utm_medium=blog&utm_campaign=Staff%20in%20the%20Wild) I was lucky to find a host in Kiso, a beautiful old mountain town about 90 minutes from Nagoya. Within minutes of meeting him, he offered to take me to the local onsen (hot spring) where we had a relaxing soak. We then went to a little restaurant where, again, I was treated to some fantastic Japanese cuisine, eating things I would have never known to order without him. This host manages a campground and I offered to spend the next day working with him to prepare the site for the upcoming camping season. We worked on leveling an area for more tent sites, splitting wood, and I even got to cut down a tree that was in danger of falling. It felt so good to put in a day of work and knowing that I was giving back to my host in a fun and fulfilling way. That night, we had a big dinner with some other Couchsurfers and hosts, with yet again, some new dishes that I had never tried. Everything was fantastic. We got to wash it down with some tasty unfiltered sake that my host’s boss made. Following dinner, we hit the local karaoke bar and sang our lungs out. Again, a stay I’ll never forget. [![Campgroundguy](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/Campgroundguy.jpg "- Couchsurfing Blog")](https://www.instagram.com/couchsurfinginthewild?utm_source=connor&utm_medium=blog&utm_campaign=Staff%20in%20the%20Wild) **And then it was time to leave.** My trip to Japan was inspiring in countless ways and I’ll always remember the hospitality and kindness of everyone I met. As for Japan as a whole, the mixture of cultural tradition, ultra-modern technology, and investment in infrastructure are all things I really appreciated, and it was great to see how seamlessly they all fit together. This trip also re-confirmed that I will always use Couchsurfing when traveling. I really can’t think of any other way I could have had all of the amazing experiences. I can’t wait to go back and I’m so happy to have met these people. [![23ed5d0f-d5ae-49f1-8f65-4020b95c9fcf](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/04/23ed5d0f-d5ae-49f1-8f65-4020b95c9fcf.jpg "23ed5d0f-d5ae-49f1-8f65-4020b95c9fcf - Couchsurfing Blog")](https://www.instagram.com/couchsurfinginthewild?utm_source=connor&utm_medium=blog&utm_campaign=Staff%20in%20the%20Wild)Cherry blossoms in Kyoto### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/4654-2/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/4654-2/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts, Community, Travel Tips --- ### [Exploring Athens and Paros - in the Wild with Zareen](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/exploring-athens-and-paros-in-the-wild-with-zareen/) **Published:** May 20, 2016 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/11825206_10204887412198963_8365396267562329505_n-300x300.jpg "11825206_10204887412198963_8365396267562329505_n - Couchsurfing Blog") *We’re hosting travelers, organizing events and will be out surfing around the globe!* **Name:** Zareen **Role:** Community Team **Surfing in…** Greece > --- > > I’ve been to over 20 countries, but never have I felt like I *understood* a country in the same way as I did during my Staff in the Wild trip to Greece. Staying with locals opened my eyes to Greece in a whole new way. Rather than chatting with my friends and family, visiting tourist locations, and missing the local spots and people, I was able to truly embrace the Greek culture and get glimpses of several other cultures at the same time. **My Hosts** This was my first solo travel experience, but at no point while I was Couchsurfing did I ever feel alone! My three hosts welcomed me with open arms, and with each host I saw a different perspective of Greece. Rather than having a cookie cutter experience in hotels, I had three very unique Couchsurfing experiences with three very unique people. *Aristide* Even before I met Aristide, he made me feel comfortable and safe. Without me asking, he sent me detailed messages before my trip, telling me exactly how to get to his work and home from the airport, down to the exact bus numbers and metro line that I would need. He told me which restaurant to wait at until he could meet me, and exactly what to order if I wasn’t sure. He completely erased my initial worries about traveling alone in Greece, a new country where I couldn’t even read most of the signs, let alone speak the language. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/Screen-Shot-2017-02-24-at-4.10.11-PM-300x300.png "Screen Shot 2017-02-24 at 4.10.11 PM - Couchsurfing Blog")My host a Couchsurfer from Palestine and I on a ferry in NafplioAristide loves meeting new people from other countries, and that’s why he hosts. Not only did he offer me a safe bed to sleep in, he took several hours out of his day to get to know me and make me comfortable. We made homemade orange juice (the best I’ve ever tasted!), walked around Kallithea and ate amazing donuts (I thought Krispy Kremes had the best donuts – I was wrong). We also went to Nafplio and Mycenae with three other Couchsurfers that he had invited to come along, a couple from France and a girl from Palestine who has spent the last few semesters studying in Athens. *Daphne* Daphne, a Chemistry student, lives a little bit outside central Athens with her sister. Her house was spacious and cozy at the same time, and exuded personality. Her sister is an artist, and she has used the walls in the house as her personal canvas, bringing the house to life! ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/Screen-Shot-2017-02-03-at-11.02.58-AM-300x298.png "Screen Shot 2017-02-03 at 11.02.58 AM - Couchsurfing Blog")Murals on Daphnes walls made her house come aliveDaphne and I spent a relaxing and comfortable evening together. We made some pasta with pesto for dinner, then went to admire a different perspective of Athens from a beautiful outdoor restaurant. This restaurant was a 20-25 minute drive past the end of the metro line, well off the beaten path, but provided fantastic views of Athens. While we talked about the political climate of Greece, her studies, and gossiped about boys, we watched the sun set over the Parthenon and the ocean. Afterwards, we went back to her house, listened to records and watched *Friends* – even though we grew up a continent apart, we still had the same favorite TV show! *Anna* I don’t know why, but I felt as if I had known Anna for several years. In fact, I felt so at ease with Anna that I fell asleep while we were relaxing 30 minutes after getting to her house! Her apartment in Paros is in the typical Greek Island style – white with blue accents. Her studio apartment was comfortable, welcoming, and very sunny. Another Couchsurfer from India, Neha, was staying with Anna at the same time as me. Together, we walked around Paros, admiring shop windows, eating Souvlaki, and relaxing on the beach. Anna took us to a outdoor bar where she used to work, where we sipped on hot chocolate while watching the moonlight fall on the water. I wish I had spent more than two nights with Anna. I felt so at home at her house, and in Paros. [![Anna and I on a nightwalk in Paros.](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/05/thumb_img_6349_1024.jpg "thumb_IMG_6349_1024 - Couchsurfing Blog")](https://www.instagram.com/couchsurfinginthewild/)Anna and I on a nightwalk in Paros**Final Thoughts** As Neha, Anna and I discussed creativity, societal expectations and our routines on Anna’s porch, Anna paused thoughtfully and said: > “I feel as if I have three continents sitting here on my porch.” While I was physically only in Greece on this vacation, through Couchsurfing, I was able to get to get a glimpse of life in Romania, Canada, France, Italy, Palestine, Israel and India, as well as Greece. I explored ancient Greek quarries next to a new friend from Canada, learned some new French words from a French couple while we walked through Mycenae (I never learned *fourmi* meant “Ant” in my high school French classes!), and goofed around taking pictures on a ferry ride with someone from Palestine and my Romanian host. I hung out on the beach and walked around Paros with a girl from India. I stuffed my stomach full of stuffed tomatoes, fried zucchini balls, and tzatziki in the company of girls from five different countries. These are experiences I’ve never had before, and they were only made possible through Couchsurfing. It’s made me realize that it doesn’t matter if you can’t host, or if you can’t travel – it’s always possible to meet new people from different cultures. Going forward, I’m going to take a page out of Aristide’s book, and try to work small Couchsurfing outings and events into my weekly routine to spice up the daily grind. Couchsurfing can change your life if you let it – you just have to learn to open your heart and your mind. *Check out more of Zareen’s photos and adventures on Instagram by following [@couchsurfinginthewild](https://www.instagram.com/couchsurfinginthewild/)!* ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/exploring-athens-and-paros-in-the-wild-with-zareen/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/exploring-athens-and-paros-in-the-wild-with-zareen/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts, Community, Travel Tips --- ### [Couchsurfing with an Infant - in the Wild with Mitch](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-with-an-infant-in-the-wild-with-mitch/) **Published:** August 16, 2016 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** [![Fox Family](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/08/fox-family.jpg "Fox Family - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/08/fox-family.jpg) *We’re hosting travelers, organizing events and will be out surfing around the globe.* **Name:** Mitch, Ellaine, and Sydney **Role:** Product Manager **Surfing in…** Montreal, Canada --- > “I wouldn’t have guessed that having a 4 month old with us would actually make our Couchsurfing experience better, but it absolutely did. > > Hosts welcomed us in, their kids were excited to play with the baby, and the relaxed and unplanned pace of exploring a city without an agenda was a perfect fit for vacationing as new parents.” **Finding a Host** I wasn’t sure we were going to be able to find a host. “My wife and I, and our four month old daughter, are visiting Montreal…” At first I’d even considered leaving out the mention of my daughter, Sydney, until after someone had accepted us. “Oh, and I have an infant who occasionally screams when she’s tired or hungry…” I decided that it was better to be upfront about it. It worked out well – just three very deliberately targeted Couch requests and one Public Trip post, and I had four hosts. I was shocked! My strategy when searching for hosts was to explicitly target locals who: 1) said they were kid-friendly; 2) I had something [unique in common](http://10.9.0.204/product-update-mutual-interests/) with; and 3) has logged in within the last week. **The Filipina – Rhyme** My wife was born in the Philippines and moved to the U.S. as a teenager. When we saw there was a new host in Montreal who spoke Tagalog, had references, and was accepting guests, we sent a request right away. Rhyme accepted our request and we spent our first two nights with her. [![Mitch, Ellaine, and Sydney with Rhyme](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/08/screen-shot-2016-08-15-at-4-33-37-pm.png "Screen Shot 2016-08-15 at 4.33.37 PM - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/08/screen-shot-2016-08-15-at-4-33-37-pm.png)Mitch Ellaine and Sydney with RhymeShe was extremely sweet and accommodating with our baby daughter. Like many Filipinos, Rhyme grew up surrounded by a large extended family including many young nieces and nephews and cousins; she was a total natural holding and playing with Sydney. She gave us a private room and suggested activities and places to eat where baby-induced interruptions weren’t a hassle. We ate at a popular micro-brasserie, for instance, where music was playing and little baby squeals wouldn’t interrupt fellow diners. It was interesting to see Montreal through the eyes of a relatively recent immigrant (Rhyme moved to Canada less than two years ago as a working adult), and to compare that to my wife’s experience immigrating to the U.S. as a teenager. Rhyme showed us around downtown Montreal, took us to Mont Royal for an amazing view of the city, and to see a fireworks show on the waterfront with some Filipino friends of hers. What an amazing time![![Screen Shot 2016-08-15 at 4.43.53 PM](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/08/screen-shot-2016-08-15-at-4-43-53-pm.png "Screen Shot 2016-08-15 at 4.43.53 PM - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/08/screen-shot-2016-08-15-at-4-43-53-pm.png) **The Family Man – Santiago** Our second host was Santiago, a PhD student who has lived in Montreal for over six years with his wife and two kids. As a parent, he had great suggestions for spending our time together and exploring the city. We went to a free showing of Shakespeare’s “Julius Caesar” in the park near his home, and when Sydney got fussy, we just snuck back home. One of the treats about staying with Santiago was that his mother was visiting from Colombia. As young parents, there’s nothing better than a grandmother who wants to hold and play with baby while we got a little time to chat with Santiago about living in Quebec. His mother’s own world travels, including four years living in an ashram in India, were amazing stories as well. The other big treat was meeting Santiago’s two little kids. Anastasia, 10, and Saren, 7, were precocious, extroverted, energetic kids. They wanted to know all about baby Sydney, showed us the art they’d made all over the house, played songs on the piano, and just made us laugh and smile with their antics. [![Screen Shot 2016-08-15 at 4.44.30 PM](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/08/screen-shot-2016-08-15-at-4-44-30-pm.png "Screen Shot 2016-08-15 at 4.44.30 PM - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/08/screen-shot-2016-08-15-at-4-44-30-pm.png)Anastasia and Saren snuggling Sydney**The Photographer – Amin** Our final Couchsurfing experience of the trip was a walking tour of Montreal’s Plateau and Mile End neighborhoods with Amin, his friend and fellow Couchsurfer Michael, and another Surfer – Chad, from Adelaide, Australia. First off, a mid-afternoon walking tour was a perfect Saturday activity with baby Sydney. She basically just slept in her stroller for two hours – score! Second, it was a great way to see the unique character of the city. It turns out there’s a ton of unique street art all over these neighborhoods, and having a local host point it out made us realize just how abundant and creative it was. The juxtaposition of beautiful old buildings with vibrant artwork covering their flanks and façades was really neat. After our walking tour we stopped for drinks on a cool back patio in a popular neighborhood cafe and shared stories from Couchsurfing adventures. Michael was an avid hitch-hiker, Chad had traveled all over Europe Couchsurfing, and Amin was a central and active member of the Montreal Couchsurfing community – organizing a couple CS meetups almost every week. [![Screen Shot 2016-08-15 at 4.45.53 PM](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/08/screen-shot-2016-08-15-at-4-45-53-pm.png "Screen Shot 2016-08-15 at 4.45.53 PM - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/08/screen-shot-2016-08-15-at-4-45-53-pm.png) **Couchsurfing with Kids – A Future Plan?** While traveling with an infant isn’t a piece of cake, and while my wife and I had some anxiety about the uncertainty of Couchsurfing with locals with whom we had no explicit “booking” or “contract” other than a generous response to our messages, it turned out to be easier than we could have expected. In fact, seeing how our host Santiago uses Couchsurfing as a deliberate way to expose his kids to travelers from different cultures opened our eyes to how we might use Couchsurfing as a way to enrich our daughter’s own development. Rather than being a burden to Couchsurfing, having a child may become one of our greatest motivations for hosting and surfing again in the future. [![Sydney had an amazing time Couchsurfing!](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/08/screen-shot-2016-08-15-at-4-54-42-pm.png "Screen Shot 2016-08-15 at 4.54.42 PM - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/08/screen-shot-2016-08-15-at-4-54-42-pm.png)Sydney had an amazing time Couchsurfing*Interested in hosting with your family? [Read about the Goossen’s experience. ](http://10.9.0.204/999-surfers-the-goossens-from-dendermonde-belgium/)* ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-with-an-infant-in-the-wild-with-mitch/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-with-an-infant-in-the-wild-with-mitch/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts, Community, Travel Tips --- ### [Adventures in Vietnam: In the Wild with Alli](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/adventures-in-vietnam-in-the-wild-with-alli/) **Published:** November 15, 2016 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/Screen-Shot-2017-02-24-at-3.56.49-PM-300x300.png "Screen Shot 2017-02-24 at 3.56.49 PM - Couchsurfing Blog") We’re hosting travelers, organizing events and will be out surfing around the globe! **Name:** Alli **Role:** Marketing Team **Surfing in…** Vietnam > --- > > From the white-sand beaches on Phu Quoc Island to the bustling narrows street in the Old Quarter district in Hanoi, I was able to see so much of Vietnam that I would have missed without the hosts and locals I met through Couchsurfing. I was blown away by the storied history of the country, the generosity of my hosts and other locals, and, of course, the food! > > Safe to say, it’s more fun to travel like a local. I’ve wanted to travel to Vietnam since a good friend visited there a few years ago, and raved about the bustling markets, the tasty meals from street vendors, and incredibly hospitable locals. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/Screen-Shot-2017-02-03-at-11.14.15-AM-1-300x223.png "Screen Shot 2017-02-03 at 11.14.15 AM - Couchsurfing Blog") In my week there, I tried to fit in as much as I could! Between visiting the fascinating Women’s and Hỏa Lò Prison museums, and riding a motorbike through both crowded city streets and more peaceful rural ones, it was definitely a trip to remember! **In Hanoi with Giang** Giang was my host while I was in Hanoi, and I couldn’t have asked for a better one! Giang was so accommodating, friendly, and thoughtful – in many ways, your typical Couchsurfing host. Her house was located in a maze of relatively quiet and narrow city side-streets. When I first arrived, I got myself a bit lost trying to navigate to the address. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/Screen-Shot-2017-02-24-at-3.50.47-PM-300x300.png "Screen Shot 2017-02-24 at 3.50.47 PM - Couchsurfing Blog") I must have looked pretty confused, since an older woman insisted I tell her where I was going, and proceeded to walk me the 15 minutes from where we stood to my host’s doorstep. Can’t beat Vietnamese hospitality! I was greeted by Giang’s roommate, Sam, and his girlfriend, Teesta, and we shared a cup of tea over conversations about our travels. People from Australia, South Africa and India all lived in Giang’s house. My last night there, they hosted a traditional South African “braii,” or barbeque. We all contributed different portions of the meal (Giang’s housemate Emma and I collaborated on a watermelon drink) and enjoyed conversations about politics, life as an “expat” versus a local, and more. Perhaps the most surprising snack: bananas wrapped in bacon, grilled. Surprising, but tasty! **In Phu Quoc with Dory** ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/Screen-Shot-2017-02-24-at-3.53.06-PM-300x226.png "Screen Shot 2017-02-24 at 3.53.06 PM - Couchsurfing Blog") Anna, called Dory by her friends, lived in Phu Quoc, a small island off the south coast of Vietnam. Dory is full of life: bubbly, goofy, and overall a ton of fun. Similar to Giang, she lives down a maze of side streets –though her neighborhood was a bit more rural than Giang’s. Though it’s hard to tell with the multitude of resorts now on the island, Phu Quoc didn’t have electricity until about 4-5 years ago! With much quieter streets than Hanoi, I felt confident renting a motorbike to explore the remainder of the island (don’t tell my mom!). Besides a few detours down muddy, bumpy roads, all went well, and I successfully made it the 45 minutes or so to the white sand Bin Sao beach that Dory had recommended. Dory had hosted Nick and Stacia, two Couchsurfers from Colorado, just a few days prior. They were still on the island, and they joined Dory and I at the infamous night market in Phu Quoc. The highlight was grabbing some yoghurts from a local shop that we’d easily have walked right past without Dory’s local intel. Though we intended to try a flavor each, we ended up with about 15 flavors on the table when all was said and done. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/Screen-Shot-2017-02-24-at-3.52.37-PM-295x300.png "Screen Shot 2017-02-24 at 3.52.37 PM - Couchsurfing Blog") **Meeting other Travellers and Locals with Hangouts** Besides my hosts, I was able to find other Couchsurfers to meet up with using the Hangouts feature on the Couchsurfing app. I was able to meet up with Alex, on a several month travel adventure after a few years working in Zurich, to check out the Women’s museum in Hanoi before enjoying a beer at a local joint near the west lake in Hanoi. I was also able to meet up with Jek, who’s from the Phillipines and currently works on a cruise ship. We went for a short walk along the lake and participated in an impromptu interview about the weather and food from college students for one of their assignments. After, we met up with two other surfers: Lexa, from Romania, and Brian, from Hanoi. Brian offered some fascinating perspective on his job as a tour guide, his upbringing, politics, and more. Later in the week, Brian invited me to come check out his hometown (about an hour outside of Hanoi) and do a hike nearby and check out some historical pagodas. After getting a snack at his house and chatting with his parents (Brian served as the translator), we were on our way. The views and the company didn’t disappoint! ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/Screen-Shot-2017-02-24-at-3.51.50-PM-300x225.png "Screen Shot 2017-02-24 at 3.51.50 PM - Couchsurfing Blog") ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/adventures-in-vietnam-in-the-wild-with-alli/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/adventures-in-vietnam-in-the-wild-with-alli/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts, Community, Travel Tips **Tags:** featured --- ### [Product Update - Find the best places to go, all over the world.](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/product-update-find-the-best-places-to-go-all-over-the-world/) **Published:** September 29, 2016 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** Looking for the best place to grab a beer in Santiago? One of the biggest benefits of Couchsurfing while you travel is having a local host who can share their favorite places in town. [We recently added](http://10.9.0.204/product-update-share-your-favorite-places-to-go/) a new tab onto your profile to allow you to showcase your favorite places, both locally and from your travels. Now, you can find those recommendations for any place in the world! We’ve added collections of Favorite places to every Explore page. Whether you’re looking for a quiet place to read, the best bar to socialize in, or a hike with fantastic views, you can find it by searching with tags: “quiet”, “bars”, “hike”, or “views”. By viewing the map on the right, you’ll also be able to see where these places are located, to make it easy to plan out your day. See a place listed that you’d recommend as well? Click “Add to My Favorites” to quickly add the location to your Profile. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/Screen-Shot-2016-09-29-at-3.20.14-PM-300x276.png "Screen Shot 2016-09-29 at 3.20.14 PM - Couchsurfing Blog") What are you waiting for? [Check out the best places to go in your hometown](https://www.couchsurfing.com/place/mine). *Verified members have beta access to this feature. To verify your account and see Favorites Collections first, click* [*here*](http://www.couchsurfing.com/get_verified)*.* ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/product-update-find-the-best-places-to-go-all-over-the-world/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/product-update-find-the-best-places-to-go-all-over-the-world/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts, News --- ### [Featured Couchsurfer - Syril from Bern, Switzerland](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/featured-couchsurfer-syril-from-bern-switzerland/) **Published:** August 3, 2016 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/8dfe01b9-72c5-46b2-bfb8-22cace3571f7-300x169.jpeg "8dfe01b9-72c5-46b2-bfb8-22cace3571f7 - Couchsurfing Blog") Name: [Syril Eberhart](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/syrileberhart) *Bern, Switzerland* *Surfed in over 14 countries and hosted over 20 surfers* **Words of Inspiration:** “\[Couchsurfing\] gave me another image of foreigners, it made me more tolerant and taught me that money is not as important as many people think it is, and that sharing is better than possessing!” --- Syril traveled from Switzerland to Timor Leste, Couchsurfing along the way. Over 7 months later, he returned home with a changed perspective and a passion for learning about the world and for Couchsurfing. Now, he organizes excursions for other Couchsurfers, taking them on amazing hikes and adventures in the Swiss Alps. Check out his stories below! **You took a long trip recently. How much did you Couchsurf during it?** S: My goal was just to start at home and go as far as I could without using a plane. I had 6 month for my trip and my plan was to travel to Australia. But it took much more time than I expected, so I arrived in Timor Leste after 7.5 months of traveling. As I couldn’t take more time, I had to return to Switzerland (this time by plane) and couldn’t go on to Australia. I’m not exactly sure with how many different people I stayed with, but I had a total of 96 CS nights on my trip, so I stayed for almost half of the time with some Couchsurfers. Normally I stayed only one or 2 nights at the same place. The longest was 5 nights. And in every county I crossed, I Couchsurfed at least 1 time. **Can you tell me about one host that stood out to you on this trip, and why your stay with them was unique?** S: Oh I had many really amazing hosts! But I think one of the best of all CS experiences was still the one in northern Siberia (Novy Urengoy). He told me that I was the first tourist that he had seen in this city. Not only is it a very cold city (in winter) with nothing for tourists, but it is also a restricted area of Russia. So normally I would not have been allowed to go there without asking for a permit well in advance. But as I was traveling by train, bus, and hitchhiking, I didn’t know and nobody checked me! I surfed his place for 5 days, and he and his family were really amazing hosts, even though they didn’t speak English. It was a family with 2 kids (8 and 10 years at that time). We tried Banja (Russian Sauna) where we jumped out in the snow at -36°C. He took me to a trip with huskies (where I could ride on a sledge behind the dogs). ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/2014118132522-300x206.jpg "2014118132522 - Couchsurfing Blog")Dog sledding in northern SiberiaOn the 19th of January we participated in the traditional orthodox event where men take a bath in an ice hole in a frozen river. It was -34°C and I succeeded in putting my head 3 times below water while swimming in the ice hole, like the Russians! Something I will always remember! When I was playing monopoly with the kids they taught me Russian numbers and colors. That’s the moment when I really started liking the Russian language, and maybe one of the reasons I started learning a little bit of Russian last year. It was really cool to be integrated in a family, even though nobody spoke my language! And it’s only thanks to Couchsurfing I could do some activities so far in the north of Siberia, because there are no tourist agencies or any information available in English in this town. **Why did you decide to organize adventures to the Alps?** S: That’s something I started when I came back from my round the world trip. There are several reasons. One is for sure to give back to the Couchsurfing community a part of what I experienced on my trip. And then by doing these trips with Couchsurfers from all around the world it’s like bringing my holidays to my home. I mean, I am now working and I don’t have much time for traveling. But doing these mountain adventures with all these people from different cultures is almost like being back on my round the world trip. It’s also a really great pleasure for me to show the beautiful places of Switzerland to some tourists. Especially places that tourists would never reach without a local Couchsurfer. And for me giving is as beautiful as taking. I have already had several Couchsurfers tell me that my mountain adventure was the best experience they have had in their whole life. And to hear that and see in their face how happy they are is just one of the best feelings you can have! It always reminds me of many of my experiences on my round the world trip. I mean it was really hard to go swimming at -34°C, but to have succeeded was a really memorable experience that I will remember for all my life. It’s kind of the same for the Couchsurfers who join my mountain adventure: many of them are coming close to their limits by hiking so much up and then back down. They will be really tired at the end of their trip and have burning muscles. It’s often the first time they did such a big hike. But at the end they are so very proud that they could do it, impressed by the beautiful scenery and have an experience they never forget! **Can you tell me one memory from your trips to the Alps that has stood out for you?** S: The trip with 4 Indians was quite cool, when we went camping on a frozen lake in half a meter of snow. One Indian saw snow for the first time! Or the Igloo trip, where we hiked by snow shoes far out in the nature, far away from all civilisation and built on a 2’000 m high mountain an Igloo. We underestimated the time of building an igloo, so at the end we couldn’t finish it and we had an igloo with roof window 😉 But this was the best that could happen to us. Before sleeping we just watched at the stars for half an hour! It was so beautiful and the stars were so clear and close! Or the trip to Lake Seebergsee. Before we went there we were looking forward to go swimming in the beautiful mountain lake. But we didn’t expect the lake to be frozen for 90% of its surface! And when we came there, we decided to go swimming even if it was frozen. And we got some cool pictures on top of the ice shells. [![Swimming in a frozen lake!](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/08/img_3457.jpg "IMG_3457 - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/08/img_3457.jpg)Swimming in a frozen lakeAnd another really cool experience was the trip to Stockhorn. When we were on top, there was an amazing view of fog below us. Everybody was amazed by the beautiful sunset, maybe one of the most beautiful I’ve ever seen! ***[Read more about this experience.](http://livinpuravida.com/2015/11/08/swiss-alps-camping/)*** [![View of the fog](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/08/view-of-the-fog.jpg "View of the fog - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://livinpuravida.com/2015/11/08/swiss-alps-camping/) **What have you learned through Couchsurfing?** S: It made me much more open minded. And it helped me understand many other cultures. If I couldn’t understand the way of thinking in different cultures before, I can understand it now. It gave me another image of foreigners, it made me more tolerant and taught me that money is not as important as many people think it is, and that sharing is better than possessing! **What advice do you have for travelers using Couchsurfing?** S: Just try it, don’t be afraid! I have never had a bad experience! Check the references before you go there, so you will have a safe stay. Don’t expect anything more than a couch, like that you will never be disappointed, but in most cases you will be heavily surprised to the good, because it’s almost always much more than only a couch! And it’s sure you will have many very good experiences you could never have had without Couchsurfing! *Know a Couchsurfer you’d like us to feature? Nominate a host or surfer [here](https://docs.google.com/a/couchsurfing.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfGMobzjNe2OmbhObPMIhvDpqlBwNe_LvU3L642KwOOm7BYag/viewform)!* ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/featured-couchsurfer-syril-from-bern-switzerland/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/featured-couchsurfer-syril-from-bern-switzerland/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts, Community **Tags:** featured --- ### [Featured Couchsurfer - Lynette from Wellington, New Zealand](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/featured-couchsurfer-lynette-from-wellington-new-zealand/) **Published:** July 29, 2016 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** [![071c3fe0-994a-4c6b-b881-808107af5e89](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/07/071c3fe0-994a-4c6b-b881-808107af5e89.jpeg "071c3fe0-994a-4c6b-b881-808107af5e89 - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/07/071c3fe0-994a-4c6b-b881-808107af5e89.jpeg) Name: Lynette Strawbridge *Wellington, New Zealand* *Hosted over 100 surfers* **Words of Advice:** “Life isn’t always about monetary gain.” --- Lynette, from Wellington, New Zealand, has hosted an astonishing number of people since she joined the community at the beginning of this year. Since January, 2016, she’s opened her home to over 140 people from about 22 countries. When describing her, Couchsurfers use words like “bubbly”, “we found our pearl”, and “most hospitable woman” – see why! [![Lynette and 5 of her Couchsurfers ... on a couch!](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/07/screen-shot-2016-07-21-at-4-10-33-pm.png "Screen Shot 2016-07-21 at 4.10.33 PM - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/07/screen-shot-2016-07-21-at-4-10-33-pm.png)Lynette and 5 of her Couchsurfers on a couch**How did you hear about Couchsurfing?** L: I first found out about Couchsurfing through my son, who has been teaching in Turkey. I’ve always had an open door in my home, and when I found out about Couchsurfing thought it sounded like something I would enjoy doing. Since starting on January 7th, 2016, I have met so many wonderful people. If I can’t see the world, I will bring the world to me. **What is one of your favorite memories from Couchsurfing?** L: I want to share this photo with you. It’s taken with one of my Couchsurfers on my 60th birthday. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/13585137_10154347451758593_4663343076892950340_o-Copy-300x201.jpg "13585137_10154347451758593_4663343076892950340_o-Copy - Couchsurfing Blog")This angel literally scooped me off the floor of uncertainty on my first couple days in New Zealand plunked me in front of a table full of pancakes and tea convinced me everything was going to be alright and then joined me in singing the entire soundtrack to the Sound of Music as a means of celebration People like me do NOT survive in new countries without people like THIS one of Lynettes Couchsurfers**Why do you host on Couchsurfing?** L: I am meeting people I would never have met otherwise, and thoroughly enjoy talking to some travelers who have sold up and are traveling the world. I like the diversity of cultures and ages. Different philosophies and life ideals. I have had some coming back twice! One was my guinea pig for making Ratatouille for the first time. They signed their message in my guest book “from the guinea pigs!” **What do you do with your Couchsurfers?** L: I don’t usually do any activities with them, but quite often will have a shared meal if there is quite a group. I bought an upside down map which I have laminated. I have asked my guests if they can send me a postcard from their hometown when they get home. I display these around the map. Sometimes I cook for them and sometimes not. I love the idea that there is no pressure and if you don’t want to have anyone stay, you can choose. **Any funny stories from your experience hosting?** L: Recently, I ended up with 3 guys called Leo staying at the same time! One from France, one from Italy, and one from Germany. Also, my second name is Pearl, and I love the saying “The world is your Oyster.” One of my Couchsurfers from Latvia designed my own personalized poster. [![The personalized poster Lynette received as a gift from her Latvian Couchsurfer.](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/07/13441525_10206107134549483_1485504663_o-1.jpg "13441525_10206107134549483_1485504663_o 1 - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/07/13441525_10206107134549483_1485504663_o-1.jpg)The personalized poster Lynette received as a gift from her Latvian Couchsurfer*Know a Couchsurfer you’d like us to feature? Nominate a host or surfer [here](https://docs.google.com/a/couchsurfing.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfGMobzjNe2OmbhObPMIhvDpqlBwNe_LvU3L642KwOOm7BYag/viewform)!* ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/featured-couchsurfer-lynette-from-wellington-new-zealand/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/featured-couchsurfer-lynette-from-wellington-new-zealand/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts, Community --- ### [7 Things Learned While Couchsurfing in Iran](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/7-things-learned-while-couchsurfing-in-iran/) **Published:** October 26, 2015 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** Couchsurfing hosts open their homes every day to travelers and adventurers alike in nearly every country in the world. When people travel through Couchsurfing, they often gain access to places where travel is not always easy without the knowledge and insight of a local guide. One country where it can be difficult to travel without local connections – and which has a lot of Couchsurfing activity – is Iran, where over 20,000 Couchsurfing hosts receive travelers from all over the world. One of these recent travelers was German Couchsurfer Stephan Orth, author of the book [„Couchsurfing im Iran“](http://stephan-orth.de), which he wrote after a two month journey in Iran. Stephan, who has been a member of Couchsurfing for over ten years and has traveled to more than 30 different countries using Couchsurfing, said that his trip to Iran was his best yet because “the hospitality of the people was just stunning, and I really felt like I was part of the local life for those weeks, not just a tourist.” As someone who experienced a life-changing Couchsurfing journey, Stephan shares with us 7 discoveries he made during his trip to Iran: 1\. The people of Iran are incredibly hospitable. [![IMG_0018](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2015/10/img_0018.jpg "IMG_0018 - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2015/10/img_0018.jpg) “This is breakfast with my wonderful CS host on Kish island – with his wife on the right, her cousin and the cousin’s two kids. We’re having bread, goat cheese, honey and tea, all you need for a perfect start into the day. I stayed there for three nights. The kids enjoyed practicing their English with me and taught me some Farsi, we celebrated Iranian new year together, and we went fishing all night, catching some quite huge catfish from the Persian Gulf.” 2\. There are incredible local traditions to discover through Couchsurfing – even if you don’t know the language! “I went to the magnificent tomb of Hafez, one of the most famous persian poets. Lots of young people go there with their lovers, some recite verses near the grave. A friend of these three girls read some poems to me – I didn’t understand a word, but still the tone and rhythm of the words made me feel the greatness of Hafez’ art.” 3\. Following the advice of locals can lead you to experiences you never would have discovered otherwise. [![IMG_0013](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2015/10/img_0013.jpg "IMG_0013 - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2015/10/img_0013.jpg) “The cartoon shows me. The wife of my Couchsurfing host on Kish island in the south of Iran introduced me to her art teacher – a cartoonist working in one of the many huge shopping malls of the place. I would never have gone there without the local’s advice – but this way, I got one of the best souvenirs of the whole trip (and for a discounted price because after the introduction, I was a friend of the cartoonist!).” 4\. Straying from your original plans and opening yourself up to new experiences may present you with amazing opportunities. [![IMG_1069 edit](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/IMG_1069-edit.jpg "- Couchsurfing Blog")](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/IMG_1069-edit.jpg) “This was my taxi driver in a place near Kerman in southeastern Iran. Besides his striking resemblance to German actor Armin Mueller-Stahl, this guy was special in another way, too: Every three or four minutes he stopped his car and asked me to take a photo of him. I was happy to obey because he looked gorgeous and the evening light was magic. On the one-hour-trip he offered me cigarettes and Halva sweets, and we had a wonderful drive even though there was a language barrier.” 5\. Your host might have different interests and expertise than you, so Couchsurfing can be a great opportunity to learn something new. [![IMG_6908](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2015/10/img_6908.jpg "IMG_6908 - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2015/10/img_6908.jpg) “This is my host in Hamadan with one of his friends. We took a tour on an ancient motorcycle to look for some rare flowers, both of them were absolute flower experts. As you can see, they were happy with the stuff they found, later they would sell the flowers on the local market.” 6\. The Iranian people will go above and beyond to show hospitality and generosity with their time. [![IMG_0808](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2015/10/img_0808.jpg "IMG_0808 - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2015/10/img_0808.jpg) “This is in Kaluts desert region near Kerman. My host introduced me to his friend who was doing a day trip to the desert with her CS guests. So I went with her (who took a day of sick leave from her job just to show visitors a place she had visited more than 20 times before – I think that tells a lot about Iranian hospitality), her daughter and an Australian couple. The sandstone hills in the desert were totally amazing – for dozens of kilometers there were sights like this, a really magical place far off the common tourist trails.” 7\. A willingness to participate actively and engage with the people you encounter will further enrich your travel experience. [![IMG_6131](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2015/10/img_6131.jpg "IMG_6131 - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2015/10/img_6131.jpg) “I met these boys in the Kurdistan area in western Iran, not too far from the border to Iraq. They had just finished school and were playing soccer. I joined the game and had a great time. Obviously my soccer skills were not that bad – after a few minutes (and after I told them which country I’m from) they gave me the nickname “Schweinsteiger”.” ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/7-things-learned-while-couchsurfing-in-iran/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/7-things-learned-while-couchsurfing-in-iran/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts --- ### [Featured Couchsurfer: The 78 year old who has biked 10,000 miles](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/featured-couchsurfer-the-78-year-old-who-has-biked-10000-miles/) **Published:** February 24, 2017 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Ethel-225x300.jpg "Ethel - Couchsurfing Blog")Ready to be inspired? Meet Ethel MacDonald, a 78-year-old sweetheart from Montana who has traveled over 10,000 miles in Europe and the U.S. on her bright pink bicycle. “People say that I inspire them. That’s nice if I can inspire more people to bike and stay active.” Ethel was a high school French teacher in Montana and began traveling to France every other year while she was teaching. Soon, however, she decided to stop teaching and start traveling. “I just wasn’t having a whole lot of fun anymore,” Ethel says. “I thought, well, I could be biking right now and I have already done two or three biking trips. I finished off the school year and didn’t look for anything else.” ## Couchsurfing to the Rescue! During her second bike trip, Ethel was traveling in France, just north of Paris. She was using a service similar to Couchsurfing that is geared towards cyclists. She soon ran into a problem – she couldn’t find any hosts on that site within the next 50 miles. The host she was currently staying with said, “Why don’t you try Couchsurfing?” So, that’s exactly what MacDonald did. She quickly created a profile and connected with her first Couchsurfing host in France. She found a nice couple who gladly took her in. They swapped travel stories and Ethel was particularly interested in hearing how her hosts had learned about Couchsurfing: In 2010 the couple was traveling in Iceland when there were volcanic eruptions that caused enormous disruption to air travel across western and northern Europe. They couldn’t fly home, so they utilized Couchsurfing to find locals that were willing to let them stay in their homes. Ethel has had many great hosts over the years including an artist in Denmark, an avid traveler from Amsterdam and a retired couple in California, to name a few. Ethel has a collage that she calls her “Guest Book.” It includes photos and stories from all the hosts and guests she meets. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/ethel-mcdonald-guest-book-300x168.jpg "ethel-mcdonald-guest-book - Couchsurfing Blog") ## Traveling Solo All of the biking trips that Ethel takes are solo. She prefers to go alone for a few reasons. “I tend to be an impatient person,” she explains. “When I was a freshman in college, I learned that if I wanted to do things, I should just do them and not wait for somebody to do them with me.” She remembers not needing to have a friend with her to explore new things. Whether that’s attending a new academic club on campus, visiting a church, or going on a class trip, she learned to just do things by herself. When it comes to biking she claims, “I just get on my bike and do it.” And with travel, “I just really like doing something when I feel like it. I’m used to just getting up, having my coffee and oatmeal, and let’s go!” It’s not to say she doesn’t enjoy the company of other people, but when it comes to her preferred type of travel, she explains “I like to do things when and how and where I like to do them.” Talk about an independent woman! “I’m not averse to meeting people along the way and biking together or camping together for a while, but I just like the freedom of not being tied to another person’s needs and plans. When you travel alone, there is nobody to blame but yourself when you make mistakes. It’s up to me whether or not I let something bother me.” ## “People love to be kind” -Willie Weir Ethel admires some quotes from a popular travel writer named Willy Weir. She explains that from her personal experience, “When you’re on a bike, everybody is friendly. People everywhere are nice and they love doing favors. Especially for an old lady on a bike.” She continues explaining a concept that Weir introduced to her called “initiating kindness.” It’s the idea of asking someone for help which leads to a kind gesture. For example, asking for directions and someone offers a ride. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Screen-Shot-2017-02-17-at-3.22.33-PM-300x122.png "Screen Shot 2017-02-17 at 3.22.33 PM - Couchsurfing Blog") Ethel describes Couchsurfing as a way of initiating kindness. “If I host someone, I’m being kind to them and they thank me and tell me how wonderful I am, and that makes me feel good, and everybody feels good!” If you haven’t already, you can easily create a profile on [Couchsurfing.com](http://www.couchsurfing.com/) to meet some amazing people from all over the world. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/featured-couchsurfer-the-78-year-old-who-has-biked-10000-miles/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/featured-couchsurfer-the-78-year-old-who-has-biked-10000-miles/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** Community --- ### [Product Update: Introducing the Host Calendar!](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/product-update-introducing-the-host-calendar/) **Published:** October 30, 2016 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** **Update February 21, 2017: This feature is now available on Android devices as well as iOS.** Here at Couchsurfing HQ, we want to help you coordinate your next life-changing, unforgettable Couchsurfing experience easily and efficiently. We understand that your life is busy, and you don’t want to have to constantly decline requests on dates that you cannot host. To that end, we’re excited to share what we’ve been working on recently – your Couchsurfing Host Calendar. We recently asked a few thousand hosts why they decline requests, and learned that the single largest reason Couch Requests are declined is because the host is busy, whether they have other plans, are travelling themselves, or are already hosting surfers. This is frustrating to the host, who keeps receiving requests they cannot accept. It’s frustrating to the surfers, who, even with the most perfect request and the most complete profile, may not have a chance of being accepted for reasons they couldn’t foresee. The Host Calendar gives you more control over the requests you receive, and ensures that [you’ll only receive requests when you are able to host](http://10.9.0.204/product-update-creating-a-couch-request/). ![img_0106](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/10/img_0106.jpg "img_0106 - Couchsurfing Blog") Right now, this feature is only available on Couchsurfing mobile applications for iOS and Android devices. Tap the Couch icon in the lower bar of the Couchsurfing app. You’ll see your Hosting calendar, where your upcoming guests will be displayed, along with your hosting status. To block off dates you are not able to host, simply tap on the date and you’ll see the date become unavailable. Plans get cancelled? No problem – just tap on the date again to make it available again. If you need to block off an entire week, drag your finger along the whole row to mark the entire week as unavailable. In the next coming months, we’ll make adjustments based on your feedback and bring the Host Calendar to the rest of the Couchsurfing community. If you have any feedback about the calendar or anything else, please share your feedback [here](https://docs.google.com/a/couchsurfing.com/forms/d/1rtg5CcZSHVDDY1_2QEDl2eTeP-TXm5vdrjthATcW6rE/edit?usp=drive_web). ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/product-update-introducing-the-host-calendar/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/product-update-introducing-the-host-calendar/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts, News **Tags:** featured --- ### [Product Update: Limited Introductions](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/product-update-limited-introductions/) **Published:** February 3, 2017 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** When you are Couchsurfing, it’s not about the places you stay, but the people you meet. Couchsurfing can be the best way to create lifelong friendships and unforgettable adventures, but sometimes our hosts feel overwhelmed by impersonal requests from new community members. To encourage our surfers to spend more time selecting hosts they’d like to meet and reading hosts’ information before sending a request, we will be limiting the number of messages and Couch Requests you can send. This change will be rolling out to all Couchsurfing members over the next few weeks. Each member will have 10 “Introductions” they can use each week. An Introduction is used any time you initiate a conversation with a member for the first time with a message or Couch Request. Verified members are able to send unlimited Introductions. We have been testing this system over the last few weeks and have seen that members with a limited number of Introductions have more success finding a Couchsurfing host than member with unlimited requests. In addition, we’ve received overwhelmingly positive feedback from hosts, who report that the Couch Requests they receive are warmer, more detailed, and more personal as members invest more time crafting each message. **How do I find a host with Limited Introductions?** Finding a host with Limited Introductions should be done in the same way as before. We encourage all members to follow the below steps to find an amazing host easily: 1. **Completely fill out your profile.** Your profile is the first impression you’ll give to both potential guests and hosts! Make it count. Fill out every section and include multiple pictures of yourself so that other Couchsurfing members have a good idea of who they are interacting with before they meet you. 2. [**Post a Public Trip.** ](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/articles/203512760)Once you have created a Public Trip, you will appear as a Traveler in that city during the dates you have specified. Hosts in that area receive email notifications about Travelers visiting that area, and can offer to host you. 3. **Use the date filter.** When you filter by your arrival and departure date, you will only see hosts that are available during your trip. Hosts that are already hosting, or have otherwise indicated that they are busy, will not appear in your search results. 4. **Adjust other search filters.** Click “More Filters” to narrow down your search results further. You can find hosts that have similar interests as you, or have qualifications you are looking for. To increase your chances of a response from your host, you may want to filter by “Last Login Date”. 5. **Make sure that you meet your host’s Host Preferences**. Be sure that you have read your host’s profile and My Home information, to ensure that you meet your host’s rules and preferences. Checking this before you send a Couch Request will increase your chances of being accepted by your host. 6. **Write personalized requests.** Let your host know that you respect and value their time by writing personalized requests that clearly explain why you want to meet them. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/product-update-limited-introductions/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/product-update-limited-introductions/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts, News --- ### [Product Update: Mutual Interests](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/product-update-mutual-interests/) **Published:** June 2, 2016 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** [![Mutual-Interests-GifGrey](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/Mutual-Interests-GifGrey.gif "- Couchsurfing Blog")](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/Mutual-Interests-GifGrey.gif) > You have friends all over the world, you just haven’t met them yet. > > Let’s make it easier! A few months ago, with Friends in Common, we showed you how you’re connected to other members in the Couchsurfing community through the friends in your network. But even without any mutual friends, you have something in common with thousands of Couchsurfers around the world: your interests and hobbies. You’ll now easily be able to see if you have mutual interests with Couchsurfing members that appear in your next host search. [![Screen Shot 2016-06-01 at 6.19.11 PM](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/Screen-Shot-2016-06-01-at-6.19.11-PM.png "- Couchsurfing Blog")](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/Screen-Shot-2016-06-01-at-6.19.11-PM.png) We want to make it as easy as possible to find members you’ll enjoy sharing time with. With Interests, it will be that much easier to choose a host who will want to go rock climbing with you, swap backpacking stories, or compare recipes. You can scroll through the search results to see who shares the same hobbies as you, or you can use the search filters to refine your search by anyone who has any mutual interests, or search for specific interests. Right away, you’ll have something to talk about, and you can make your Couch Request more personal. > “Hi Esteban – so cool that you are also into mountaineering! I’m coming to Quito next Thursday. Want to tackle a local peak next weekend and chat about your trip to Nepal? That’s the next destination on my list!” To get you started, we’ve guessed your interests based on the content of your profile. If you’d like to add additional interests or remove any, you can do so by [editing your profile](https://www.couchsurfing.com/members/edit). The next time you search for a host, you’ll be able to see how many mutual interests you have. *If you have any feedback about our new changes, please send us your feedback* [*here*](https://docs.google.com/a/couchsurfing.com/forms/d/1rtg5CcZSHVDDY1_2QEDl2eTeP-TXm5vdrjthATcW6rE/viewform)*.* ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/product-update-mutual-interests/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/product-update-mutual-interests/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts, News --- ### [Product Update: Local Advice](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/product-update-local-advice/) **Published:** July 28, 2016 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** The Couchsurfing community is a treasure trove of people who understand the challenges of traveling and are passionate about their hometown – who better to ask for advice? From transportation tips to the best place to buy tickets, you’ll soon be able to find advice easily on Couchsurfing. The concept of Local Advice is simple: ask a question, get an answer. We’ve included several features to ensure you receive the most accurate and up-to-date Advice as quickly as possible: ****Search for Advice**** Don’t wait for answers if someone else has already asked it. You’ll now be able to easily search the Local Advice page for questions with great answers. ****Follow Questions**** See a question you’re curious about? Simply follow that question to receive updates as locals respond and give their own advice. ****Attach Locations**** You’ll be able to write more helpful responses with the ability to tag a location, such as a restaurant or a landmark, to your response. Other members can easily click to find it on Google Maps. [![Screen Shot 2016-07-28 at 1.25.21 PM](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/07/screen-shot-2016-07-28-at-1-25-21-pm.png "Screen Shot 2016-07-28 at 1.25.21 PM - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/07/screen-shot-2016-07-28-at-1-25-21-pm.png) ****Comment on Responses**** Have something to add to someone else’s response? Now, you’ll be able to comment on their response to add your own related advice, or ask a follow-up question. **Upvote Responses** When you find a particularly good response, help others easily find the same great advice by upvoting it. With constant feedback from both travelers and locals, you can trust that the advice you are receiving is up-to-date and accurate. Not only will you be able to receive advice for your next travel destination, you could learn something new about your own hometown. If you see another question you know the answer to, pay it forward and help your fellow Couchsurfer out with some Advice! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/product-update-local-advice/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/product-update-local-advice/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts, News --- ### [Featured Couchsurfer: Psychotraveller from Birmingham, England](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/featured-couchsurfer-psychotraveller-from-birmingham-england/) **Published:** August 8, 2016 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** [![Screen Shot 2016-08-08 at 4.00.38 PM](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/08/screen-shot-2016-08-08-at-4-00-38-pm.png "Screen Shot 2016-08-08 at 4.00.38 PM - Couchsurfing Blog")](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bKQCmoCicOA) Name: Aly (aka Psychotraveller) *Birmingham, England* *Traveling for nearly 3 years* **Words of Inspiration:** “The most precious moments in life are free. I’m not talking about the free accommodation, but the connections, the laughs, the stories, the beer shared on the balcony. You can’t buy those moments and they are the ones which will stick with you forever.” --- Aly has been traveling for nearly three years now, spending significant amounts of time in New Zealand, Australia, Thailand, and Indonesia. She runs a popular [Youtube](https://www.youtube.com/user/psychotraveller) channel and [blog](http://www.psychotraveller.com/), providing great advice to other solo travelers, backpackers, and first time travelers. She also loves Couchsurfing – read why below! **How did you get started Couchsurfing? Did you have any experience Couchsurfing before you left on your trip?** Aly: I can’t remember how I first heard about Couchsurfing, I just remember being super intrigued by the prospect of staying with locals! Australia was my first destination to try it out and I had no idea what to expect, but it was fantastic. I expected just a sofa when I arrived, but my host gave me my own room and then told me that we had an entire beach just 20 steps from the front door. He then insisted on cooking for me, and was happy for me to extend my stay. We stayed up every night chatting on his veranda and sipping on cold beers. From that moment, I got hooked! **You have a number of videos giving advice to other travelers. What is the number one thing you wish someone had told you before you left on your trip?** A: You don’t need to plan everything! Before I left for my big trip 3 years ago I took smaller solo trips around Europe where I would pre-book absolutely everything. 6 years ago, no one had heard of bloggers and YouTube was just for cat videos. I was terrified of being homeless and stranded. I actually missed out on a lot of opportunities by manically pre-booking everything. Now, I just go with the flow and see what happens! **Are you working on any big projects?** A: At the moment I am working on the end stages of writing my first ever book! In short the book will be an uncut, raw version of my travels throughout Australia. There is so much that my audience never got to know or see. The ultimate highs and some drastic lows which never made it onto the Internet get revealed. I really don’t hold back to show people life beyond the rainbow tinted glasses that sometimes travel can be shown through. **Who is the most inspirational person you’ve met via Couchsurfing, and why?** A: It would have to be my host in Darwin. The best thing about Couchsurfing is getting a glimpse into local life. He was the typical Aussie! So laid back and happy go lucky. It was something so simple but really stuck with me: as nothing was a stress, there is never a need to rush and this lifestyle was the opposite of what I had been living for so long! **What has Couchsurfing taught you?** A: The most precious moments in life are free. I’m not talking about the free accommodation, but the connections, the laughs, the stories, the beer shared on the balcony. You can’t buy those moments and they are the ones which will stick with you forever. **What are some of the best memories you have of your time with your Couchsurfing hosts?** A: When I was staying in [Byron Bay](http://www.psychotraveller.com/byron-bay-nudity-bob-marley-and-inner-peace/), my host asked me if I wanted to go swimming, to which of course I shouted yes. Being a beach-side town, I expected the classic sandy beach but when he turned his ute offroad I got super confused as we were heading away from the sea. He soon pulled up to the most incredible sights I had ever seen. The hinterlands wrapped around a pristine lake with pelicans floating on top. My mouth dropped. I must have spent a good hour floating on my back squealing whenever a pelican swam right next to my head! **How long do you normally stay in a place, and how long do you think you’ll continue traveling for?** A: For me, I have to travel slow for two reasons. Firstly, I [work online](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QWiFpaUyCPE) so moving place to place quickly is super exhausting and I get very little work done. But secondly I truly believe that if you travel slow, you see so much more. I love to spend a day people watching from a cafe. Or wandering around huge markets for hours on end. I want to really experience the culture and I don’t believe you can when you race so quickly through countries! Either way I try to balance it out, couple of months in one place then onto a huge adventure, then back to another month or so somewhere else. **Anything else you’d like to share with the Couchsurfing community?** A: Treasure the tiny moments in life. Whether you are at home with your family, or hiking the [Tongariro Crossing in New Zealand](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=45NKj651UEE). Take the smallest moments and hold onto them wherever you are in the world. [![](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/08/screen-shot-2016-08-08-at-4-02-52-pm.png "Screen Shot 2016-08-08 at 4.02.52 PM - Couchsurfing Blog")](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qMHE3vxgeQY)Aly and her boyfriend island hopping in the Phillipines ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/featured-couchsurfer-psychotraveller-from-birmingham-england/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/featured-couchsurfer-psychotraveller-from-birmingham-england/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts, Community --- ### [Product Update: Share your favorite places to go!](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/product-update-share-your-favorite-places-to-go/) **Published:** September 7, 2016 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** Ditch the guidebook and find the places that Couchsurfing hosts and travelers recommend and enjoy! With the new Favorites tab on your profile, you can now create a personal guidebook to share your favorite places with your guests and friends. **Where are your favorite places to go?** *My Local Favorites* You’re an expert in your city – share the wealth! Click **Add a Favorite Place** to share your favorite place to cross-country ski, the best curry stand, and your favorite hike. Don’t forget to leave a tip to let everyone know what you love about that place. [![Screen Shot 2016-08-30 at 10.10.17 AM](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/09/screen-shot-2016-08-30-at-10-10-17-am.png "Screen Shot 2016-08-30 at 10.10.17 AM - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/09/screen-shot-2016-08-30-at-10-10-17-am.png) *My Travel Favorites* After you come back from your trip, you can also share the best spots from your trip in the *My Travel Favorites* section of the Favorites tab. When your friends are headed to the same destination, they’ll be able to check out all your favorite places, and read your insider tips. [![Screen Shot 2016-08-30 at 10.18.51 AM](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/09/screen-shot-2016-08-30-at-10-18-51-am.png "Screen Shot 2016-08-30 at 10.18.51 AM - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/09/screen-shot-2016-08-30-at-10-18-51-am.png) **Need ideas?** Figuring out the best places to go is hard, especially when you are in a new city. Find hosts that you have a lot in common with, and see the places they frequent! You’ll hear about cool restaurants, favorite spots to fish, and the best place to find a warm gulab jamun. Have questions? Message your host to ask them for more advice. Favorites is a great ice breaker that will bring you one step closer to making a new friend. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/product-update-share-your-favorite-places-to-go/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/product-update-share-your-favorite-places-to-go/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** News --- ### [Product Update: Profile Completeness Percentage](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/product-update-profile-completeness-percentage/) **Published:** October 26, 2016 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** Your profile acts as your face to the Couchsurfing community. It’s how Hosts decide whether they’d like to host you, who they’ll expect to see at the Event you’ve joined, etc. We want Couchsurfing profiles to be vibrant, complete, and be the core way you’re able to tell members you haven’t met yet who you are and what you’re about. The “Profile Completeness” scoring system was created as a way to ensure that every member on Couchsurfing fills out their profile before using Couchsurfing to look for hosts, guests, or events to attend. For every action new members take to improve their profile, they receive a higher score, allowing them greater access to the entire Couchsurfing website. In order to improve the quality of profiles across the site, we’ve update the scoring for “completeness” of your Couchsurfing profile, and you may have seen your Profile Completeness score change. If your percentage has dropped, you should see a list of the steps you can take to make your profile fully complete. For example, you can add your interests to your profile, or ask a friend in the Couchsurfing community to leave you a Personal reference. **![pasted_image_at_2016_10_19_03_47_pm](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/10/pasted_image_at_2016_10_19_03_47_pm.png "pasted_image_at_2016_10_19_03_47_pm - Couchsurfing Blog")** **Why do I need to complete my profile to send Couch Requests, and take other actions around the site?** It’s important for your future hosts and guests to know who they will be inviting into their home, or who they will be staying with. As such, you must have a minimum of 50% profile completeness to take most actions on the site. Some, such as creating Groups or Events, require an even more complete profile. **What has changed?** We’ve analyzed data and listened to feedback from our dedicated Ambassadors about what most influences a host’s choice to accept a particular guest. These are some of the key changes: - Adding a profile photo is now required - The score for your first reference increased from 10% to 15%; scoring for one additional reference increased from 5% to 15% - The score for connecting your Facebook decreased from 35% to 5% - The score for describing yourself in the “About Me” section increased from 5% to 15% - New additions to the scoring calculator include adding interests, adding a friend, and adding a phone number - Other areas were brought slightly up or down to support these goals **But how do new members get references?** One of the most important things a host looks from in a guest is a positive reference from someone within the community. You earn references from prior guests (as a host) and prior hosts (as a guest). If you’re new to the community, you can ask people in your network that are already on Couchsurfing to leave you a Personal reference. If you don’t know anyone on Couchsurfing, you can attend[ local events](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events) to get to know the community and build up your Couchsurfing reputation. While this change may be an adjustment, we hope that this will decrease the number of requests our hosts receive from incomplete profiles. In the coming months, we’ll be exploring more ways we can make the Couchsurfing website easier to use for both hosts and surfers. If you have any feedback about the Profile Completeness scoring system or other areas of the Couchsurfing website, please feel free to share your feedback [here](https://docs.google.com/a/couchsurfing.com/forms/d/1rtg5CcZSHVDDY1_2QEDl2eTeP-TXm5vdrjthATcW6rE/edit). ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/product-update-profile-completeness-percentage/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/product-update-profile-completeness-percentage/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** News --- ### [Product Update: A new look for your Inbox!](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/product-update-a-new-look-for-your-inbox/) **Published:** November 16, 2016 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** We’ve just updated the design to make the Inbox cleaner and more visually appealing. This redesign gives us a strong foundation for making upgrades to the Inbox in the future. While we haven’t changed or added any major features with this launch, we always appreciate your feedback on which ones you’d like to see next. Enjoy! ![screenshot-for-inbox-blog](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/Screenshot-for-Inbox-Blog-1.png "- Couchsurfing Blog") ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/product-update-a-new-look-for-your-inbox/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/product-update-a-new-look-for-your-inbox/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts, News --- ### [Product Update: Enhancements to the Reference System](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/product-update-enhancements-to-the-reference-system/) **Published:** October 15, 2015 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** Each month, hundreds of thousands of Couchsurfers have real-world experiences with one another. References are a powerful snapshot of these experiences, and our community writes more than 1 million references each year. People write references to express gratitude or provide helpful feedback, and they read references to learn more about people they haven’t met yet. Because we believe references should be as timely, honest, and relevant as possible, we’re happy to announce that we’re rolling out some enhancements to the way references work on Couchsurfing. **1. If you use Couchsurfing to host someone or find a host, we’ll now ask you directly to submit feedback about your experience, rather than hoping you’ll remember! You’ll only see these prompts and be able to leave a “Host” or “Guest” reference if you’ve planned and communicated via Couchrequest or Public Trip.** “Host” and “Guest” references should accurately reflect real-world experiences. We can’t prompt you to write a reference if we don’t know that you planned your stay on Couchsurfing. When you’re planning to meet someone, use Couchrequests to discuss and finalize your dates. If you don’t plan your stay via Couchrequest, you’ll be unable to leave references as a Host or Guest. You’ll still be able to leave a Personal reference. **2. You have 14 days to write a Host/Guest reference. References are published when a host and guest have both written a reference, or after 14 days have passed.** References should be honest and timely, so we want to allow you to write your own reference about your experience, without influence from what your Host or Guest has to say. We also don’t want to let too much time pass so you can write your reference while your stay is still fresh in your mind! **3. You’ll no longer be able to edit or delete a reference.** All references, including Personal references, should be a snapshot of a past experience, rather than a continually evolving post with updates. We want to eliminate the back and forth nature of references so other Couchsurfers can trust that what they see more accurately reflects how each of you felt about your stay. If someone stays with you or you stay with someone more than once, you can now write them more than one Host/Guest reference. You can still only leave one Personal reference. **4. You can now leave private feedback.** There are some situations where you may want to provide additional feedback about your stay for our team to review. This confidential feedback option allows you to tell our team anything about your stay that you may prefer not to post publicly. We’re excited about improving the accuracy and timeliness of references. We look forward to [your feedback](http://goo.gl/forms/iZEztnKlH2). ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/product-update-enhancements-to-the-reference-system/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/product-update-enhancements-to-the-reference-system/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts, News --- ### [Our Hearts Are With Paris](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/our-hearts-are-with-paris/) **Published:** November 20, 2015 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** It is with the heaviest of hearts that we begin to reflect on the violence and tragedy that struck our world last week, and which has unfortunately become all too commonplace. The events in Paris last week were the latest in a long string of tragedies impacting the international community. As a global travel network, we have Couchsurfers in every corner of the world, and no one is exempt from the impact. American television personality [Fred Rogers](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fred_Rogers) once said, “When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, ‘Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping’”. In the face of such tragedy, there is still hope and inspiration to be found in the helpers who are providing ongoing support. [![paris](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2015/11/paris.jpg "paris - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2015/11/paris.jpg) We encourage members in affected areas to help others in need in times of trouble. Last week, hosts with extra space in safe sanctuary around Paris created posts on Couchsurfing offering to take in Couchsurfers in need of refuge. Even as details of the attacks were still unfolding, the #PorteOuverte, or #OpenDoor, hashtag was trending on Twitter to help match those in need of shelter with safe places to stay. In the wake of the incident, an outpouring of thoughts, prayers, and condolences for the Parisian community from Couchsurfers living all over the world has sprung up on the [Paris discussion board](https://www.couchsurfing.com/nearby/threads/20180031/48.856614/2.3522219/Paris,%20France). If you would like to get involved, there are numerous charities that would be grateful for your support as we put the pieces back together. If you know of any Couchsurfers who might have been impacted and you’d like to let us know, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our team. We need to take care of each other, now more than ever. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/our-hearts-are-with-paris/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/our-hearts-are-with-paris/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts --- ### [12 Holiday Gifts For Every Couchsurfer On Your List](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/12-holiday-gifts-for-every-couchsurfer-on-your-list/) **Published:** December 8, 2015 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** The end of the year is a time to reflect on the people we met and the many experiences and memories we shared. The holidays are a great excuse to reach out to those people and recognize the impact they had in our lives, and gifts or kind gestures are a wonderful way to do just that. Here are 12 gifts we think are sure to delight every Couchsurfer on your list this holiday season! **1. A map to chart their travels.** [![Screen Shot 2015-12-08 at 4.18.50 PM](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/Screen-Shot-2015-12-08-at-4.18.50-PM.png "- Couchsurfing Blog")](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/Screen-Shot-2015-12-08-at-4.18.50-PM.png) For the surfer who has traveled all over the globe, or the host who has welcomed countless guests, a map is a perfect way for them to visually track all the far-reaching places their Couchsurfing experience extends. **2. The book “No Baggage” for the literary traveler.** [![Screen Shot 2015-12-08 at 4.35.33 PM](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/Screen-Shot-2015-12-08-at-4.35.33-PM.png "- Couchsurfing Blog")](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/Screen-Shot-2015-12-08-at-4.35.33-PM.png) Couchsurfer Clara Bensen traveled to eight countries in three weeks without any hotel reservations, any concrete plans, or even a change of clothes! She detailed her adventures in her new book, “No Baggage,” out January 5th and [available for preorder](http://bit.ly/csnobaggage) for the wanderlusting traveler on your list. **3. A new shirt with the Couchsurfing logo.** [![grey-shirt_large](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2015/12/grey-shirt_large.png "grey-shirt_large - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2015/12/grey-shirt_large.png) Around the holidays we are all wearing our hearts on our sleeves already, so why not let your favorite traveler wear their love for Couchsurfing right on their chest? Gifting them a [t-shirt with the Couchsurfing logo](http://bit.ly/csshirts) is the perfect way to help them do just that. **4. A passport cover to decorate and protect that prized possession.** [![il_570xN.421189560_sc6t](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2015/12/il_570xn-421189560_sc6t.jpg "il_570xN.421189560_sc6t - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2015/12/il_570xn-421189560_sc6t.jpg) Some travelers have so many stamps on their passport, they just need a great place to keep it, and that’s where your gift can come in handy! The jet-setter in your life will be thrilled to [keep their passport](http://bit.ly/cspassport) in a new cover, selected just for them. **5. Baked goods to indulge a sweet tooth.** [![IMG_6635](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2015/12/img_6635.jpg "IMG_6635 - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2015/12/img_6635.jpg) There is nothing sweeter than the gift of something sweet over the holidays! From a traditional family recipe for cookies or cake, to a custom-made gingerbread house of your host’s home, a sweet treat is sure to delight. **6. “My Couch is Your Couch” for your travel photographer.** [![51rXP6yrPmL](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2015/12/51rxp6yrpml.jpg "51rXP6yrPmL - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2015/12/51rxp6yrpml.jpg) With stunning photographs and equally inspirational stories accompanying each image, photographer Gabriele Galimberti’s book [“My Couch is Your Couch”](http://bit.ly/csmycouchis) would be the ideal gift for anyone on your list. **7. An original song to honor a Couchsurfer.** [![IMG_6637](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2015/12/img_6637.jpg "IMG_6637 - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2015/12/img_6637.jpg) If you’re musically-inclined, a personalized travel song for a favorite host or surfer would make an incredible and priceless gift! If you aren’t in town to perform it for your Couchsurfer, a video of you playing their song would surely make them smile. **8. A water bottle to keep in their travel kit.** [![bottle_large](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2015/12/bottle_large.jpg "bottle_large - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2015/12/bottle_large.jpg) It is important for all travelers to keep hydrated and refreshed when they travel, hike, or hit the road. [This 24 ounce water bottle](http://bit.ly/cswaterbottle) can help your favorite Couchsurfers keep their New Year’s Resolutions to take better care of themselves! **9. Postcards or souvenirs from home.** [![IMG_6642](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2015/12/img_6642.jpg "IMG_6642 - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2015/12/img_6642.jpg) Sending a postcard or a small souvenir from your home to theirs is another great way to surprise a Couchsurfer over the holidays. **10. A charitable donation in their name.** A great way to pay it forward for generosity and kindness shared throughout the year is to literally pay it forward by [making a donation](http://bit.ly/cscharity) in your Couchsurfer’s name. You can pick a cause near and dear to your heart, or ask them for their favorite charity! **11. A scrapbook or travel journal.** [![il_340x270.603318549_5e8q](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2015/12/il_340x270-603318549_5e8q.jpg "il_340x270.603318549_5e8q - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2015/12/il_340x270-603318549_5e8q.jpg) Documenting travel adventures and sharing them with new Couchsurfing friends is a favorite activity for hosts and surfers. Gift your Couchsurfers with [a travel journal or scrapbook](http://bit.ly/csjournals) to fill with all their favorite memories. **12. The book „Couchsurfing im Iran“ for your German surfers.** [![IMG_1069 edit](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/IMG_1069-edit.jpg "- Couchsurfing Blog")](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/IMG_1069-edit.jpg) For the German-speaking traveler on your list, Stephan Orth’s [book „Couchsurfing im Iran“](http://bit.ly/csimiran) is the perfect gift. Written after a [transformative two month journey in Iran](http://bit.ly/irancs), Stephan’s tale is sure to prompt some serious travel envy. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/12-holiday-gifts-for-every-couchsurfer-on-your-list/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/12-holiday-gifts-for-every-couchsurfer-on-your-list/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts --- ### [Couchsurfing With No Baggage](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-with-no-baggage/) **Published:** January 5, 2016 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** *Guest post by Clara Bensen* [![photo1](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/photo1.jpg "- Couchsurfing Blog")](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/photo1.jpg) My partner Jeff and I like to do this thing where we jump on planes headed overseas with not much more than the clothes on our backs. It’s an experiment of sorts—one that we’ve tested five times, across 16 countries over the past three years—buy a ticket into one country and out of another a few border stops away; show up with no plans and (almost) no stuff; see what happens next. On the surface, our baggage-less travel experiments are an exercise in extreme minimalism, (and, in a sense, they are a test of how little one needs), but at a deeper level we’re playing with the themes of uncertainty and disorientation, which—as any good traveler knows—the road is more than willing to supply. We have a few rough guidelines—keep it low budget, stay with locals, avoid itineraries—but the basic goal is to create a state of openness where any path is equally welcome and interesting (barring physical harm and/or active war zones). [![photo 2](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/photo-2.jpg "- Couchsurfing Blog")](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/photo-2.jpg) From our very first trip (Istanbul to London via the Balkans) Couchsurfing has featured heavily in our experiments. It’s got all the elements we set out to explore: chance, surprise, spontaneity, goodwill, and wacky connections with strangers. You learn a lot about someone by showing up on their doorstep blurry-eyed and unshaven, in the exact same clothes you’ve been wearing for the last two weeks. Not surprisingly, the Couchsurfing folks who’ve hosted us on three different continents have been an open-minded lot who totally “get” our quest for the gritty surreal. They’ve helped us out in practical ways, offering showers and washing machines (and even an ex-boyfriend’s old t-shirt to borrow while our lone outfits were in the wash). Even better, the instant friendships almost always lead to the “interesting” element we’re after. Here are a couple of my most memorable Couchsurfing moments from our trips. (And for the bigger tale, check out my new book, [No Baggage](http://www.amazon.com/No-Baggage-Minimalist-Tale-Wandering/dp/0762457244) (*Running Press, January 2016*), the tale of how a [chance online date](http://www.salon.com/2013/11/12/the_craziest_okcupid_date_ever/) turned into the strangest journey of my life.) [![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/photo-3-smaller.jpg "- Couchsurfing Blog")](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/photo-3-smaller.jpg) **1) RUSTAVI METALLURIGICAL PLANT: Tbilisi, Republic of Georgia** Brian and Nino, our Couchsurfing hosts in Tbilisi, Republic of Georgia mentioned a giant, semi-abandoned steel plant on the outskirts of town—one of Stalin’s largest during the Soviet era—that they’d always wanted to visit but had never managed to get inside. It was difficult to get access, but they knew some friends who’d made it in the gate. Brian contacted the current owners (who still produce steel re-bar in a couple of the 64 factories that cover a crumbling complex the size of three football fields). At first they said no. Then, after a long email exchange, the PR director abruptly changed his mind. (We later found out he’d agreed because Brian had alluded that we were WTO nuclear scientists. Thanks for that, Brian.) Cue a bizarre tour, one that involved vaguely pretending to be a nuclear scientist while skirting around vats of molten steel and peering into desolate Soviet warehouses. We also got a free Rustavi coffee mug. You can see the company PR pics [here](https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.672319702881922.1073741846.221225144658049&type=3&pnref=story). [![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/photo-4-smaller.jpg "- Couchsurfing Blog")](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/photo-4-smaller.jpg) **2) THE ROAD TO SARAJEVO: Budapest, Hungary** When Jeff and I surfed with Dorottya in her cozy Budapest flat we hadn’t decided how we were going to make it to our flight out of southern Croatia two days later. Over homemade goulash, Dorottya suggested her preferred mode of travel—hitchhiking. I knew hitchhiking was common in Europe compared to the US, but the idea of a woman hitchhiking alone (and loving it) surprised me. Inspired by our host, Jeff and I decided we would try to hitchhike 550 kilometers to Sarajevo, Bosnia-Herzegovina—a plan that proved way too ambitious for a slow Sunday morning. In the end, we hitched 250 kilometers before a violent summer storm forced us onto a bus. Still, Dorottya would have been proud of our beginner’s attempt. We hitched with a Hungarian ice cream maker, a Croatian language teacher, a tank driver named Igor, and an older guy who we thought was a wine maker until he pulled over, walked us to the edge of a minefield, and plugged his ears, simulating a bomb blast. It was a lost in translation moment—he worked with mines, not ‘wines.’ [![photo 5](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/photo-5.jpg "- Couchsurfing Blog")](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/photo-5.jpg) **3) THE WHOLE SQUID: Tokyo, Japan** It’s common knowledge that U.S. interpretations of international cuisine are often a far cry from what’s actually served in the country of origin (one of the most popular North American past times is finding a way to incorporate cheese into any dish). Still, as someone who regularly frequents U.S. Japanese restaurants, I wasn’t prepared for the wild variety of the Tokyo culinary scene with its curries, pastry shops, and specialty ramen houses. Thankfully Jeff and I had a guide in the form of our host Ryo, who let us surf in his traditional tatami mat apartment. Ryo began the Tokyo culinary tour at a fish house where he started off easy with grilled shrimp and vegetables before pulling out the big guns: an entire raw squid, raw octopus, and a row of silver smelt fish (eaten whole off the grill). No cheese in sight. The next day, on lunch break, Ryo and a coworker took us to a tiny, 8-seat ramen shop where we performed the ritual of ramen, complete with noisy slurps. We finished out the tour at a tempura restaurant that deep-fried just about everything to a fluffy, golden crisp, including lotus root and—you guessed it—more squid tentacles. Couchsurfing’s brilliance is that it introduces you to the bizarre and the surreal from the inside, a local’s perspective. You get into the kind of experiences Fodor’s or Lonely Planet, by their very nature, can’t guide you into. They flow naturally out of the moment—no baggage required. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-with-no-baggage/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-with-no-baggage/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts --- ### [Product Update: Maps, Praise, and References on your Profile](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/product-update-maps-praise-and-references/) **Published:** January 19, 2016 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** For active hosts like Simon in Clara, Ireland, Couchsurfing is “an exchange of ideas from other cultures, fostering an understanding between people of different ethnicities.” When he moved to Clara 6 years ago, he didn’t have any family or friends in the area, but “by hosting travelers from around the world on Couchsurfing, I am never alone and have discovered new friends from around the world that I would never have gotten to meet any other way.” For Simon, Couchsurfing is about the people. The stories he tells are all about the connections he made while hosting and traveling – and now, his profile does a better job of doing just that, too. [![Simon_profile](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/01/simon_profile.png "Simon_profile - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/01/simon_profile.png) \*\**We take your safety seriously and continuously work to improve the Couchsurfing experience. Check out what we have been doing to keep the community safe in the section below.*\*\* We believe that you should be the focus of your profile, so we’ve added some new features to highlight your Couchsurfing experiences and tell your travel story. Your profile is now more about you than ever, and when you make meaningful connections with the hosts and surfers you encounter, that will shine through on your profile. Your map (mobile only) is a way to show off all of your Couchsurfing experience at a glance! The more you host and surf, the more shaded regions you’ll have in your map. Checking the map on a potential host or surfer’s profile is a fun way to find out if they have hosted or stayed with people from the places you’ve hosted or stayed. You can get a sense of someone’s Couchsurfing experience just by looking at their map. Along with hosting and surfing references, we’ve been collecting praise about your Couchsurfing experiences and now your profile will display it! This is a way for you to highlight and reward the great experiences you’ve had. The praise you receive is prominently featured on your profile so other Couchsurfers can learn more about you, too. Reading references is a great way to learn about a Couchsurfer, but because people have mixed and varied experiences, we removed the “positive” and “negative” designations going forward. Instead, your reference highlights when you say you would stay with or host someone again. You can refine your view with a new filter on the reference tab. We also introduced reference responses to allow for follow up or explanation where needed. [Download our iOS app to see your new profile map today!](https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/couchsurfing-travel-app/id525642917?mt=8) A note about safety: In the past several months, we have made a number of changes to our safety processes and systems. Some are small, like improved clarity of site content. Others are internal, such as the refinement of internal processes, policies, procedures, and detection. And many have been both visible and significant, such as: - **New Reference System** – Members are often hesitant to leave honest assessments of their experience due to a fear of retaliation. No one wants to risk an undeserved stain on their reputation driven only in response to honest feedback. In October, we moved to a “double-blind” reference system. A double-blind system is one in which neither reference is revealed until both references have been left, which allows people to leave honest assessments without risk of retaliation. This is also why we no longer allow references to be edited. - **Private Feedback** – Added an option to leave Private Feedback to the Trust and Safety team within the Leave a Reference flow. This is presented in cases where the member has indicated that they did not feel completely safe during an experience. Private Feedback allows our Trust and Safety team to be more proactive by enabling them to investigate and take action more quickly when risk is identified. - **Tags** – After a stay, members can now select tags that represent their experience. These tags can be used to highlight awesome traits or identify potentially risky ones. - **New Member Profile** – The new Member Profile provides a quick view of a member’s experience. The new profile also better highlights the relevance of Host/Surf references. - **Leave Reference Reminders** – Members are now prompted to leave a reference, increasing the rate at which references are left. We believe these changes will result in more references, more honest references, and more risk inputs to the Trust and Safety team. This update builds up on this foundation as we strive to make Couchsurfing a great place to visit and safe way to travel. We have received a great deal of feedback and will continue to refine these systems in the coming months. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/product-update-maps-praise-and-references/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/product-update-maps-praise-and-references/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts, News --- ### [Product Update: Thanks for Your Feedback about the Reference System!](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/product-update-thanks-for-your-feedback-about-the-reference-system/) **Published:** January 29, 2016 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** Over the past several months, we have made many changes to both Member Profiles and to our Reference System, and we’ve received lots of excellent feedback from the Couchsurfing community. Here’s a recap of some of the new features: - **New Reference System** – Members are often hesitant to leave honest assessments of their experience due to a fear of retaliation. In October, we moved to a “double-blind” reference system, in which neither reference is published until both references have been written. This allows members to leave honest assessments without risking retaliation. For similar reasons, we no longer allow references to be edited or deleted. - **Private Feedback** – We added an option to send Private Feedback to the Trust and Safety team when you leave a Host or Guest reference. When a member indicates that they did not feel completely safe during a stay, they are presented with the option to leave Private Feedback about their experience. Private Feedback allows our Trust and Safety team to be more proactive by enabling them to investigate and take action more quickly when risk is identified. - **Tags and the New Member Profile**– The new Member Profile provides a quick view of a member’s experience. After a stay, members can now select tags that represent their experience. These tags can be used to highlight awesome traits or identify potentially risky ones.The new profile also better highlights the relevance of Host/Surf references. - **Leave Reference Reminders** – Members are now prompted to leave a reference, increasing the rate at which references are left. - **Reference Designation Display** – We changed how Positive, Negative, and Neutral references are displayed to emphasize references that are linked to confirmed stays and to reflect the varied experiences of our members. As a result of these changes, we’ve seen an increase in the number of references left after a stay, as well as an increase in confidential reports to the Trust and Safety Team. Some of these updates have caused unanticipated confusion and made some members feel less safe. Thank you for your feedback. We are working to address some of these new challenges and will be making changes to address some of your concerns. We’ll release more details in the near future – stay tuned! We are excited to continue improving these features using your feedback. If you have any additional feedback about our new updates, please share it with us [here](https://docs.google.com/a/couchsurfing.com/forms/d/1rtg5CcZSHVDDY1_2QEDl2eTeP-TXm5vdrjthATcW6rE/viewform)! If you have questions about these changes, please see [this article](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/articles/212679127-Updates-to-the-Reference-System). The members that make up our vibrant, caring community are the cornerstone of Couchsurfing. Thanks again for your input and for helping to make Couchsurfing the best it can be! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/product-update-thanks-for-your-feedback-about-the-reference-system/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/product-update-thanks-for-your-feedback-about-the-reference-system/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts, News --- ### [Announcing the Couchsurfing Store!](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/announcing-the-couchsurfing-store/) **Published:** February 10, 2016 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** Love to show off your Couchsurfing pride? Now you can take your Couchsurfing game to the next level! We are excited to announce the launch of the [Couchsurfing Store](http://store.couchsurfing.com/). Here you will find awesome gifts for yourself, your friends, and your hosts! [![Pictured: CS Employees show off their Couchsurfing pride!](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/02/staffshirts21.jpg "Staffshirts2 - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/02/staffshirts21.jpg)Pictured CS Employees show off their Couchsurfing pride***From now until 2/29/2016, use the code “WELCOMECSSTORE1” to get 10% off your purchase!*** ***Here’s what’s in stock right now:*** **“Share Your Life” Couchsurfing T-shirt** [!["Share Your Life" Couchsurfing T-Shirt](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/02/syl-black-shirt2_large.png "syl-black-shirt2_large - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://store.couchsurfing.com/products/tee)Share Your Life Couchsurfing T ShirtShare Your Life, and your Couchsurfing pride, with this awesome T-Shirt! This is a staff favorite. The world would be a better place if everyone shared a bit of their life – encourage people to share their stories by wearing this great shirt! *[Buy it here!](http://store.couchsurfing.com/products/tee)* **Gray Couchsurfing T-Shirt** [![Couchsurfing T-Shirt - Gray](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/02/grey-shirt_large.png "grey-shirt_large - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://store.couchsurfing.com/products/couch-surfing-grey-t-shirt)Couchsurfing T Shirt GrayComfortable and versatile, this basic t-shirt is a great staple to any wardrobe. Show everyone that you are a member of Couchsurfing while you run errands or go for a walk in the park. Grab a few today to bring along on your next adventure! *[Buy it here!](http://store.couchsurfing.com/products/couch-surfing-grey-t-shirt)* **Couchsurfing Racerback Tank Top** [![Women's Couchsurfing Racerback Tank](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/02/black-tank_large.png "black-tank_large - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://store.couchsurfing.com/products/couchsurfing-triblend-racerback-tank)Womens Couchsurfing Racerback TankWhether you’re hiking up Machu Picchu or watching football, this cute Racerback Tank Top is a comfortable way to exhibit your Couchsurfing pride. Roll this up in your backpack or suitcase – it can fit into the smallest nook! *[Buy it here!](http://store.couchsurfing.com/products/couchsurfing-triblend-racerback-tank)* **Couchsurfing Bracelets** [![Couchsurfing Bracelet](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/02/wristband_large.jpg "wristband_large - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://store.couchsurfing.com/products/wristband)Couchsurfing BraceletWear it as a bracelet, use it as a slingshot – or get inventive! Amelia, from our Trust and Safety team, slips it around her water bottle as a quick way to identify it. This little bracelet is made for durability and versatility, and is easy to pack as a gift for your host! *[Buy it here](http://store.couchsurfing.com/products/wristband)!* **Couchsurfing Water Bottle** [![Couchsurfing Water Bottle](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/02/bottle_large.jpg "bottle_large - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://store.couchsurfing.com/products/couchsurfing-24oz-h2go-bolt)Couchsurfing Water BottleHate disposable water bottles? So do we! Reduce waste, help the environment, and buy a Couchsurfing water bottle to accompany you on all your travels. This water bottle was born ready to accompany you to walk the Great Wall of China or climb Mount Everest, but will also sit at your desk and calmly remind you that it’s time to start planning your next Couchsurfing trip. *[Buy it here!](http://store.couchsurfing.com/products/couchsurfing-24oz-h2go-bolt)* [![Blogcodeboxfinal](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/02/blogcodeboxfinal.jpg "Blogcodeboxfinal - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://store.couchsurfing.com/collections/all) ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/announcing-the-couchsurfing-store/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/announcing-the-couchsurfing-store/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts --- ### [Couchsurfer Hosted 120 People & Traveled the World for 1,000 Days](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/host-120-people-travels-1000-days/) **Published:** February 23, 2016 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** [Tomislav Perko](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/tomislav.perko), 30, had a career as a stockbroker. After quitting his job during the financial crisis in 2008, he decided to hit the road and become a travel writer. In 1,000 days of travel, Tomislav managed to wander around the world with just a little bit of money in his pocket by Couchsurfing, hitchhiking, and volunteering along the way. Before he started traveling, Tomislav experienced Couchsurfing as a host – hosting 120 people in his home city of Zagreb, Croatia. And during his adventure, Tomislav Couchsurfed in every country he visited, including Iraq, Pakistan, Mauritius, Malawi, and more. Tomislav was so inspired by his journey that he gave a [TEDx talk](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R7vmHGAshi8). In the 18 minute clip, he explores what worked, what didn’t, and how you can explore the world without breaking the bank. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/host-120-people-travels-1000-days/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/host-120-people-travels-1000-days/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts --- ### [10 Things to Do in . . . San Francisco!](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-things-to-do-in-san-francisco/) **Published:** March 17, 2016 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** San Francisco, California is one of the world’s most vibrant, unique cities. Any San Francisco guidebook can show you a number of awesome places to visit, from gazing at the Golden Gate Bridge to exploring Alcatraz… … but here at Couchsurfing, we know that locals can teach you more about their city than any guidebook! Want to experience San Francisco the way the locals do? Look no further. We asked the Couchsurfing staff here in San Francisco where they love to bring their Couchsurfing guests – check out their responses! **1. Go to [Zeitgeist](http://goo.gl/INSdJZ)** “I bring every visitor here. A great bar with a huge beer selection, giant back patio, and a great cross section of SF culture.” – *Connor, born and raised in the Bay Area* **2. People watch at [Mission Dolores Park](http://goo.gl/DswcLI)** [![dca4143b-1e20-45c2-8853-72f2d4834be0](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/03/dca4143b-1e20-45c2-8853-72f2d4834be0.jpg "dca4143b-1e20-45c2-8853-72f2d4834be0 - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/03/dca4143b-1e20-45c2-8853-72f2d4834be0.jpg)Product Manager Mitch his wife Ellaine and their Couchsurfing guests at Dolores Park“It is quite a scene on a sunny day. Stop by [**Bi-Rite**](http://goo.gl/UMsZmy) market and pick up some beer or wine and some food and then head to the park for some amazing people watching. There’s also a really nice view from the Southwest corner of the park. Also, [**Tartine Bakery**](http://goo.gl/cwCvN0) is nearby. Tartine makes amazing baked goods that are delicious!” – *Patrick, in the Bay Area for 13 years* **Pro Tip: “**Check out **[Free Movie Night](http://goo.gl/yKt2yN)**!” – *Sarah, in the Bay Area for 8 years* **3. Listen to [The Wave Organ](http://goo.gl/YQDGlV)** “A hidden local gem and voted “Best of” 2013! Through a series of pipes, the wave organ interacts with the waves of the bay and conveys their sound to listeners at several different stations. The effects produced vary depending on the level of the tide but include rumbles, gurgles, sloshes, hisses, and other more typical wave sounds. The structure incorporates stone platforms and benches where you can sit near the mouths of pipes, listening.” – *Billy, in the Bay Area for 11 years* **4. Eat at [SOMA StrEAT Food Park](http://goo.gl/uElacn)** “It has such a cool & unique atmosphere! People are able to have their pick from at least a dozen different types of cuisine from all over the world, drink some local beer and chill out on the turf! Food trucks are a fun way to explore all the great food SF has to offer in one place!” – *Amanda, in the Bay Area for 3 years* > [![Office dog Blanche and a young guest check out the view at the end of Land’s End Trail.](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/03/img_64901.jpg "IMG_6490 - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/03/img_64901.jpg)Office dog Blanche and a young guest check out the view at the end of Lands End Trail **5. Hike [Lands End Trail](http://goo.gl/7FjLHS)** “A beautiful scenic trail and then a walk on the beaches with cliffs and caves. You can end up at the Sutro Bath Houses or the Lands End Labyrinth – or both, if you are looking for a longer hike! It’s also a great place to the Golden Gate Bridge. Bonus: it’s dog friendly!” – *Don, in the Bay Area for 3 years* **Pro Tip: “**Make reservations for brunch at **[Outerlands](http://goo.gl/A8wEKB)** afterwards!” – *Patrick, in the Bay Area for 13 years* **6. Tour [The San Francisco Armory](http://goo.gl/xko342)** “It’s a huge old military fortress (complete with a shooting range, drill court), built by the National Guard. It looks like a castle. If you’re interested in military history, it’s a must-see. The basement is so deep that you can see Mission Creek running through it. An even more interesting is the fact that it was purchased in 2006 by Cybernet LLC, a pornographic production company, and is home to tons of gorgeous, elaborate sets. They offer regular tours there- tours are 18+, but their **[tour site](http://goo.gl/xko342)** is safe for work. You’ll be surprised at how chill and professional everyone is, and their tour guides are extremely informative and will put you at ease. It’s definitely an “only in San Francisco” tourist spot! “ – *Denise, in the Bay Area for 6 years* **7. Explore the Museums during [Nightlife](http://goo.gl/ij06vw) and** [**AfterDark**](http://goo.gl/T37RhN) “Nightlife at the Academy of Sciences and AfterDark at the Exploratorium are both fun ways to see the museums without navigating through throngs of families. Plus, what is better than exploring a museum with a drink in your hand?” *– Zareen, born and raised in the Bay Area* ****8. Walk the [Marin Headlands](http://goo.gl/4etaMF)**** [![unnamed](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/03/unnamed.jpg "unnamed - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/03/unnamed.jpg)Office dog Sierra takes in the Marin Headlands“Best view of the bridge and looking back on the city” – *Jenn, in the Bay Area for 5 years* **Pro Tip:** “Walk or bike over the Golden Gate bridge to Sausalito!” – *Andrew, in the Bay Area for 9 years* **9. Relax at [Kabuki Springs & Spa](http://goo.gl/3q8FXE)** “Traditional hot springs bathhouse in the heart of Japantown. You can buy an inexpensive day pass and melt away all of your traveling stress in a variety of pools or splurge on spa treatments.” – *Sarah, in the Bay Area for 8 years* **10. Go to the [Castro Theater Singalong](http://goo.gl/UxYAFj)** “An authentic SF experience, unique, funny and engaging in such a historical neighborhood.” – *Nico, in the Bay Area for 5 years* *“*This only made #10? You guys… Just go there to see Grease and we will redo the ranking afterward.” *– Nico* **San Francisco Pro Tip:** “Make sure to visit some of the neighborhood centers, like the Marina (Chestnut Street), the Mission (Valencia Street), the Castro (Castro Street), Russian Hill (Polk Street) to see the parts of the city where locals actually hang out and eat out – most of us don’t visit Union Square or Embarcadero except during the day or for work dinners and the like.” – Mitch, in the Bay Area for 10 years *Agree with Nico about the Castro Singalong or want to share more ways to explore San Francisco? Join the discussion below!* ![Final2](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/03/final21.png "Final2 - Couchsurfing Blog") ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-things-to-do-in-san-francisco/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-things-to-do-in-san-francisco/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts --- ### [Product Update: Introducing "Friends in Common"!](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/product-update-introducing-friends-of-friends/) **Published:** March 29, 2016 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** [![Friends of friends](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/03/friends-of-friends1.png "Friends of friends - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/03/friends-of-friends1.png) > You’re connected to Couchsurfers all over the world – and now you can see how. We’ve recently reintroduced a popular feature to show how you connect to other Couchsurfing members. You’ll now be able to see at a glance whether you have any friends in common with people who show up in search results, as well as on their profiles. When you navigate to a profile you’ll now see a list of the Couchsurfing friends you have in common with that member. It’s a great way to see how the Couchsurfing community is connected, and a great conversation starter. > “Hey Don! I see that you know Andrew. Andrew and I went to high school together! How did you guys meet? I’m coming to Egypt this May – I’d love to meet up with you for lunch and swap Andrew stories!” You’ll be able to see Friends in Common in other places on Couchsurfing as well, such as Host Search, your messages, and your Couchrequests. When you receive a Couchrequest, you’ll see your Friends in Common in the Member Overview. Adding Couchsurfing Friends will now enhance your Couchsurfing experience in a way it hasn’t in the past. Be sure to [connect your Couchsurfing account to your Facebook](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/articles/200639710) to see which of your friends are also on Couchsurfing! Once you connect your Facebook account, you’ll be able to see which of your Facebook friends have Couchsurfing profiles in the Friends tab of your profile. Of course, your Facebook friends are private to you. No one else will be able to see who you’re connected to until you add friends on Couchsurfing. The [Host Preferences](http://10.9.0.204/product-update-host-preference-and-search-enhancements/) and Friends in Common features are just the beginning of our mission to make the Couchsurfing community more personal, and we’re excited to explore the next steps! Every Couchsurfing member has the potential to be your new best friend – and we want to make it as easy as possible to find that Couchsurfer you’ll keep in touch with for many years to come. [![Don_Couchrequest](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/03/don_couchrequest1.png "Don_Couchrequest - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/03/don_couchrequest1.png)The Friends in Common feature within a message or Couchrequest*If you have any feedback about our new changes, please send us your feedback* [*here*](https://docs.google.com/a/couchsurfing.com/forms/d/1rtg5CcZSHVDDY1_2QEDl2eTeP-TXm5vdrjthATcW6rE/viewform)*.* ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/product-update-introducing-friends-of-friends/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/product-update-introducing-friends-of-friends/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts, News --- ### [Re-Introducing ... City Pages!](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/re-introducing-city-pages/) **Published:** April 20, 2016 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** [![Screen Shot 2016-04-20 at 5.19.50 PM](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/04/screen-shot-2016-04-20-at-5-19-50-pm.png "Screen Shot 2016-04-20 at 5.19.50 PM - Couchsurfing Blog")](https://www.couchsurfing.com/place?utf8=%E2%9C%93&search_type=place&country=&latitude=48.85661400000001&longitude=2.3522219®ion=&search_query=Paris%2C+France) Finally! You’ve saved up, booked your flights and are ready to begin your next Couchsurfing adventure. What’s your first step? Your trip centers around your destination – and now Couchsurfing does too. We are excited to re-introduce City Pages – a Couchsurfing visitor’s center! Now you can see a city’s upcoming Events, Hosts, Travelers, and Local Discussions, all in one place. Couchsurfing offers many ways to engage with locals and other travelers, but we’ve heard from new members that they weren’t sure where to start. Rather than searching for Hosts, Events, Local Discussions, and Travelers individually, we’ve designed City Pages as a central hub that will give you a starting point for your Couchsurfing adventure – wherever it may be. For surfers, City Pages makes it easy to see who to meet and what to do. From any City Page, a surfer can: 1. Check out interesting upcoming Events, such as local Couchsurfing meetups and potlucks 2. See what other Travelers will be in the area when you are, so you can explore together 3. Browse the list of potential Hosts 4. Read through Local Discussions, to ensure you know the best restaurants to try and the coolest parks to explore For hosts, City Pages allows you to quickly drop in and see what’s happening in your hometown. At a glance, you can: 1. See which Travelers are planning to visit the area, so you can reach out to them if you want to offer to host them or show them your favorite spot in your city 2. Browse through other Hosts in your area, to get to know other local Couchsurfers 3. Add to a Local Discussion, so visitors to your town are privy to the local favorites! 4. Check out interesting upcoming Events, to stay connected to the Couchsurfing community even if you can’t host [![Screen Shot 2016-04-20 at 5.31.15 PM](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/04/screen-shot-2016-04-20-at-5-31-15-pm.png "Screen Shot 2016-04-20 at 5.31.15 PM - Couchsurfing Blog")](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/search?latitude=48.843495&longitude=2.346481&search_query=Paris&search_type=event) Don’t worry – you’ll still be able to search specifically for Hosts or Events in your area, if you choose. However, the default search bar has changed to search for a City Page under Explore. Type the name of the location you want to visit into the search bar, and you’ll be taken to that City Page. Like the Friends in Common feature introduced a few weeks ago, City Pages are another step towards making the Couchsurfing community more personal. Stay tuned – there’s more on the way soon! We’re excited to explore the next steps to make it easy to see what’s happening in a new location like never before. **Click to Explore These Popular Destinations!** [![Screen Shot 2016-04-20 at 5.30.44 PM](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/04/screen-shot-2016-04-20-at-5-30-44-pm.png "Screen Shot 2016-04-20 at 5.30.44 PM - Couchsurfing Blog")](https://www.couchsurfing.com/place?utf8=%E2%9C%93&search_type=place&search_query=Tokyo%2C+Tokyo%2C+Japan&country=&latitude=35.7090259&longitude=139.7319925®ion=) [![Screen Shot 2016-04-20 at 5.29.26 PM](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/04/screen-shot-2016-04-20-at-5-29-26-pm.png "Screen Shot 2016-04-20 at 5.29.26 PM - Couchsurfing Blog")](https://www.couchsurfing.com/place?utf8=%E2%9C%93&search_type=place&search_query=Los+Angeles%2C+CA%2C+USA&country=&latitude=34.0522342&longitude=-118.2436849®ion=) [![Screen Shot 2016-04-20 at 5.28.48 PM](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/04/screen-shot-2016-04-20-at-5-28-48-pm.png "Screen Shot 2016-04-20 at 5.28.48 PM - Couchsurfing Blog")](https://www.couchsurfing.com/place?utf8=%E2%9C%93&search_type=place&search_query=Amsterdam%2C+Netherlands&country=&latitude=52.3702157&longitude=4.895167900000001®ion=) *We are continually adapting the Couchsurfing website. If you have any suggestions on how we can improve our existing features, or ideas for new features that will make Couchsurfing better, please fill out our* [*feedback form*](https://docs.google.com/a/couchsurfing.com/forms/d/1rtg5CcZSHVDDY1_2QEDl2eTeP-TXm5vdrjthATcW6rE/viewform)*.* ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/re-introducing-city-pages/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/re-introducing-city-pages/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts, News --- ### [Where are you celebrating International Couchsurfing Day on June 12?](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/where-are-you-celebrating-international-couchsurfing-day-on-june-12/) **Published:** June 2, 2016 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** [![Birthday_candles](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/06/birthday_candles.jpg "Birthday_candles - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2016/06/birthday_candles.jpg) On June 12, 2004, the Couchsurfing website launched with the goal of connecting travelers to a global network of people willing to open up their homes and share their lives with strangers. Since its beginning, Couchsurfing has touched the lives of over 12 million people in over 200,000 cities and in all seven continents. At Couchsurfing HQ, we’re in awe of the extraordinary generosity we see every day throughout the world. [![ICSD-Gif](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/ICSD-Gif1.gif "- Couchsurfing Blog")](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/ICSD-Gif1.gif) On June 12, we’re celebrating 12 years of openness, sharing, and hospitality. If you can’t make it to [our celebration in San Francisco](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/international-couchsurfing-day-san-francisco) on June 11, there are Couchsurfing events happening all over the world that weekend. Check out the list below to find a Couchsurfing event near you! Don’t see your event on the list? Let us know in the comments and we’ll add it to the list! Can’t find one nearby? Don’t let that stop you from celebrating! [Organize an event ](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events)today, and be sure to share pictures on Instagram or Twitter with the hashtag #internationalcsday2016. **Australia** - [ Music, Fun and Drink in Cronulla!](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/796192) Cronulla, New South Wales, Australia - [Perth CS Roving Meetup](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/785937) Northbridge, Western Australia, Australia **Colombia** - [Voluntariado Niñ@s en JARDÍN BOTANICO](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/803234) Antioquia, Colombia **Czech Republic** - [Weekly Saturday International Meet-up Prague](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/790043) Prague, Czech Republic **Finland** - [CS Helsinki Boat Party @ Helsinki archipelago 11.6](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/794094) Helsinki, Finland - [CS Helsinki Hangover Picnic in Suomenlinna](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/796198) Helsinki, Finland **France** - [Join BW in Beauduc Beach Kamp](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/802885) Arles, France - [GIANT PICNIC CS MEETING ABOVE THE SEINE RIVER](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/796301) Paris, France **Germany** - [International CS Day](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/801124) Nuremberg, Germany - [♥♥♥ CS Berlin weekly Saturday Cocktail Party♥♥♥](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/793693) Berlin, Germany **Hong Kong** - [International CS Day Celebration in Hong Kong 2016](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/795133) Hong Kong Island, Hong Kong **Hungary** - [SUNday M-ing ….SUNDAY SUNSET …. meeting](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/762612) Budapest, Hungary **India** - [MUMBAI SECOND SATURDAY MEETUP](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/773015) Mumbai, India - [MUSSU (Kolkata)](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/794148) Kolkata, India **Indonesia** - [CS Bogor Monthly Gath : International CS Day 2016](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/799859) Bogor, Indonesia - [CS Tangsel Monthly Gathering: International CS Day](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/800432) Tangsel, Indonesia - [CS Bekasi Monthly Gathering : INTERNATIONAL CS DAY](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/799631) Bekasi, Indonesia - [CS Depok Monthly Gathering: International CS Day](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/803017) Depok, Indonesia - [CS Tangerang Monthly Gathering: Int’l CS Day](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/800860) Tangerang, Indonesia - [gathering Couchsurfer Sukabumi :](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/800240) Sukabumi, Indonesia **Italy** - [CS Toga Invasion Party II Edition](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/779502) Milan, Italy **Japan** - [CS Tokyo: Mid-Month Meetup](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/801342) Tokyo, Japan **Mexico** - [Salida a Xochimilco, CDMX](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/793848), Puebla, Mexico - [Escape to Xilitla](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/797809) Santiago de Querétaro, Mexico - [Salida a Xochimilco, CDMX](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/793854) Federal District, Mexico **Morocco** - [CS Weekly Regular Meeting](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/782799) Casablanca, Morocco **Poland** - [Open people meeting – Picnic with Chopin music](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/793088) Warszawa, Poland - [CSaturday Night Party! Warsaw Meeting Point](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/796466) Warszawa, Poland **Portugal** - [“SUMMER BARBECUE II”, 12th June, Sunday, 11am](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/782952) Porto, Portugal **Russia** - [Anti-boring PAINTBALL BBQ SAUNA](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/800995) Moscow, Russian Federation - [WEEKLY CS FRISBEE](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/782084) Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation **Singapore** - [CS Beach Volleyball](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/768303) Singapore **Spain** - [Free Weekly Juggling Meetup-Workshop](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/792631) Barcelona, Spain - [BMM – Coffee & boardgames / Café y juegos de mesa](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/785339) Bilbao, Spain - [BMM Lindy hop & Jazz Steps](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/793041) Bilbao, Spain - [BMM – Saturday Party at Frentealgua!](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/785337) Bilbao, Spain - [hiking BERMEO – SAN JUAN GASTELUGATX – BAKIO (BBM)](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/790450) Basque Country, Spain - [de PORTUGALETE a SOPELA](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/790485) Basque Country, Spain - [BMM – Beach volley and basque sports on the beach](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/784089) Solondota, Spain - [BMM – Comida Sabado / Saturday Lunch BMM2016](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/784032) Sopelana, Spain **Switzerland** - [Dutch pancake night in Basel – Saturday 11 June](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/768624) Basel, Switzerland - [Sightseeing in Basel – Saturday 11 June](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/768622) Basel, Switzerland **Thailand** - [♥ CSfing Weekly Cooking, Eating, Meeting Bangkok♥](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/774819) Bangkok, Thailand **United Kingdom** - [CouchSurfing picnic](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/796692) Hull, United Kingdom - [CS International Picnic and Volleyball](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/795698) London, United Kingdom **United States** - [International Couchsurfing Day!](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/799980) San Francisco, CA, United States - [Monthly Potluck Picnic at Lake Eola](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/796618) Orlando, FL, United States - [Intl’ CS Day! Pizza in the Square – CT Meetup #9](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/intl-cs-day-pizza-in-the-square-ct-meetup-9) New Haven, CT - [CS VIP Cruise Brunch Party NYC \*\* Sunday June 12th](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/797209) New York, NY, United States - [Saturday Night CS VIP Party NYC \* June 11th\*](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/774913) New York, NY, United States - [CS Volunteers!](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/801408) Seattle, WA, United States **Vietnam** - [Couchsurfing Saigon Weekly Meet-up](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/767952) Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/where-are-you-celebrating-international-couchsurfing-day-on-june-12/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/where-are-you-celebrating-international-couchsurfing-day-on-june-12/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts --- ### ["Not Just Tourists" Shares Medical Supplies through Travelers](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/not-just-tourists/) **Published:** March 25, 2015 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** [![image3](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/1 "- Couchsurfing Blog")](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/1) A massive amount of valuable medical supplies get thrown away every day in Canada, and at the same time people around the world suffer from a lack of access to them. [“Not Just Tourists”](http://njt-pqt.org/english/view.asp?x=1) is a grassroots organization that collects these surplus medical supplies, packs them into 20 pound suitcases and gives them to travelers to take on vacation. The travelers then deliver the suitcases to remote clinics which are often neglected and in desperate need of life saving supplies. A mere twinkle of an idea last March, “Not Just Tourists” has provided 100+ volunteers supply-packed suitcases. In 2014, “Not Just Tourists” sent 6,000 lbs of supplies to 14 countries including: Cuba, Honduras, India, Haiti, Kenya and Congo. By giving Canadians a means to connect with the countries and locals they visit, “Not Just Tourists” hopes to make travel more meaningful. “It’s about love! All the work is done by volunteers. We are non-political, non-religious and do not receive ANY funding (volunteers cover their own expenses),” says Avi D’Souza, the Toronto Coordinator for “Not Just Tourists.” Are you a [Couchsurfer](http://www.couchsurfing.com) from Canada or passing through? [Take some medical supplies on your next Couchsurfing journey](http://njt-pqt.org/english/view.asp?x=1). And even if you don’t live in or plan to make a stopover in Canada, we hope that you’re inspired by the idea of travelers spreading generosity and underutilized resources to out of the way places! ![image1](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/2 "- Couchsurfing Blog") ![image2](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/3 "- Couchsurfing Blog") ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/not-just-tourists/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/not-just-tourists/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts **Tags:** canada, peer-to-peer --- ### [Couchsurfing with a Family in Paris](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-with-a-family-in-paris/) **Published:** April 6, 2015 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** [![couchsurfing with family in paris](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/2 "- Couchsurfing Blog")](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/2)**The Appleford family and their Couchsurfing hosts in Paris** Learn how the Appleford family visits Paris and Couchsurfs along the journey! From [TravellingApples.com](http://www.travellingapples.com/2015/04/06/sightseeing-in-paris-better-when-couchsurfing/): “[Couchsurfing](https://www.couchsurfing.com/ "Couchsurfing") is a truly magical concept. People around the world are willing to open their homes to complete strangers for nothing in return other than the opportunity to share their experiences and the satisfaction they must feel for helping someone enjoy their visit just that little bit more. In our experience so far, the host has always cooked us dinner on the first night, given us a key so we could come and go as we pleased (even when they’re not there), and provided us with excellent information about where to go and what to do that only a local would know. Not to mention the great company and conversation that we probably wouldn’t have experienced had we stayed in a hotel.” The family was able to get in a fair amount of site seeing, including the Louvre, Notre Dame, the Eiffel Tower, and more. [![couch surfing family eiffel tower](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/3 "- Couchsurfing Blog")](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/3) [Read more about their journey to Paris](http://www.travellingapples.com/2015/04/06/sightseeing-in-paris-better-when-couchsurfing). Ready to take your own trip? [Find your next adventure](http://www.couchsurfing.com/) on [Couchsurfing](http://www.couchsurfing.com/). **Do you have a Couchsurfing story to tell?** [Submit your story](http://couchsurfing.tumblr.com/submit-your-story)! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-with-a-family-in-paris/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-with-a-family-in-paris/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts --- ### [How Brandon Couchsurfed During His Book Tour](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/china-adventure-book-tour/) **Published:** May 7, 2015 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** ![IMG_20150402_162334](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/1 "- Couchsurfing Blog")Couchsurfer, [Brandon Ferdig](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/bran_dig) with a Couchsurfing event attendee in Brainerd, Minnesota and his book, [Life Learned Abroad – Lessons Learned on Humanity from China](http://www.amazon.com/Life-Learned-Abroad-Lessons-Humanity/dp/0615944981/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1430256226&sr=8-1&keywords=life+learned+abroad) “You should try Couchsurfing,” said Brandon’s friend Maggie weeks before taking off for an 8 month stay in Tanzania. His charter? To work at a village school teaching adolescent students how to use computers for *the first time*. One month later, in the quiet, agricultural village in central Tanzania, Brandon found himself hungry for more human interaction. Brandon says “I wasn’t sure about this idea to impose in people’s homes, however. And oddly, I also thought Couchsurfing would hinder my chance to meet people, as I assumed it less social than a hostel.” By the end of his 8 months working at the village school, he [signed up at Couchsurfing](http://www.couchsurfing.com). **Good move.** Brandon tells us, “From Arusha to Zanzibar, I enjoyed the hospitality, local insights, and worldly perspectives from hosts from Slovenia, Cambodia, Chile, and Holland. Later, I enjoyed native hosts in Kampala, Uganda and Nairobi, Kenya, getting to know each and learning about their lives, enjoying parts of their cities I wouldn’t have seen otherwise, and having powerful experience like teaching at a host’s school in the slums of Nairobi (see below).” ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/13 "- Couchsurfing Blog") Brandon teaching at his Couchsurfing hosts school ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/12 "- Couchsurfing Blog")Doug Monene, Brandon’s host, showing him how it’s done “I had moved to East Africa to teach, experience their world, and then write about my experiences and insights/observations. And because of that, this network of travelers and hospitable, inquisitive, global-minded people was a perfect fit,” remembers Brandon. After returning to Minnesota, Brandon arranged a book tour for his book *Life Learned Abroad: Lessons on Humanity from China,* a collection of stories and essays from a year living in and exploring China. For these tour stops, he needed lodging and to build an audience. Couchsurfing, USA? Brandon decided to reach out to Couchsurfers, thinking they would also enjoy his presentation, thoughts, and ideas. Besides searching for a couch, Brandon also arranged [Couchsurfing events](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events) in all six stops on his tour. The Couchsurfing community proved to be mutually beneficial! [![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/11 "- Couchsurfing Blog")](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/11)Brandon giving a talk where two people in the audience were his Couchsurfing hosts [![IMG_0107-1024x768](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/15 "- Couchsurfing Blog")](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/15)Mr. Jensen & Ms. Jensen, also Couchsurfing hosts of Brandon’s Brandon shows gratitude for the community “Just like when abroad, I got a lot more than a couch from Couchsurfing.” And he describes the people and serendipity he experienced along the way “A middle-aged nurse with a love of Norway awaited me in Duluth. A retired travel executive embarking on a post-career in woodworking hosted me in Brainerd. “ ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/14 "- Couchsurfing Blog") One of Brandon’s Couchsurfing event attendees in Duluth was Beth who, too, had been to Tanzania-20 times(!) for mission work Brandon’s final thoughts on Couchsurfing: > …the richness and vastness of the community that Couchsurfing has tapped into shapes travelers and those passionate about new experiences, the lives of others, and knowledge about their world. Are you working on an interesting project and using Couchsurfing on your journey? Have you had a life changing experience on Couchsurfing? [Tell us your story](http://couchsurfing.tumblr.com/submit-your-story) and you might just end up on our blog! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/china-adventure-book-tour/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/china-adventure-book-tour/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts --- ### [Testing New Features for More Successful Connections](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/testing-new-features-for-more-successful-connections/) **Published:** September 15, 2015 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** In an ongoing effort to improve the Couchsurfing experience, we’re testing a new search feature in a handful of test cities: Paris, Seoul, Istanbul, Salt Lake City and Mexico City. We’re hoping that this feature will lead to more successful connections between surfers and hosts. Couchsurfers write over 66,000 Couchrequests per day. In a recent analysis, we found that travelers tend to request similar dates. This means that hosts inevitably end up with multiple requests for the same dates, sometimes for dates that they’re already hosting. Many hosts have also given us the feedback that they’re getting more Couchrequests than they can handle. Furthermore, some hosts aren’t receiving as many Couchrequests as they’d like. This test should begin to address all of these issues and is the first step toward building a host calendar, a feature many of you have been waiting patiently for! If you’re searching for hosts in one of these test cities, we ask you for the dates of your trip. If you’re just browsing, or don’t have dates in mind yet, these dates are optional — you’ll still be able to browse host search results as usual. If you give us the dates if your trip, we won’t show you hosts who are already hosting their maximum number of Couchsurfers on those dates. We’ll use the results of this test to help us continue to make enhancements and new features that improve the hosting and traveling experience on Couchsurfing. We look forward to learning from the results! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/testing-new-features-for-more-successful-connections/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/testing-new-features-for-more-successful-connections/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts --- ### [Remembering Dahlia](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/remembering-dahlia/) **Published:** September 8, 2015 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** We are deeply saddened to learn of the tragic and untimely death of Dahlia Yehia, an American Couchsurfer who went missing last month while traveling in Nepal. On behalf of the entire Couchsurfing community, we extend our sympathies and condolences to Dahlia’s family and friends for their unthinkable loss. By all accounts, Dahlia was a compassionate and caring global citizen committed to helping others. A [beloved art teacher](https://www.facebook.com/scitechprep/posts/1107224835973012) in Austin, Texas, Dahlia is said to have volunteered to travel to Nepal to support humanitarian efforts in the aftermath of last April’s devastating earthquake. As her family [so eloquently noted](https://www.facebook.com/finddahliayehia/posts/127721110908891), Dahlia was “a giver, lover, and humanitarian, who devoted her life to others less fortunate both domestic and abroad.” She was truly a role model for all of us. We believe people everywhere, and women in particular, have the right to explore the world safely. We will continue to work tirelessly toward that end. Jennifer Billock, CEO, Couchsurfing [![Photo credit: Facebook](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/dahlia.png "- Couchsurfing Blog")](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/dahlia.png)Photo credit Facebook### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/remembering-dahlia/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/remembering-dahlia/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts --- ### [Product update: here's the latest](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/product-update-heres-the-latest/) **Published:** July 1, 2015 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** Periodically we like to let the Couchsurfing community know what we’re working on and why. As you may know, we relaunched our entire platform last November with countless improvements from end-to-end. Since then, we have been working through a long list of features we’re looking forward to adding. A very long list. We use a straightforward framework to make decisions about what to work on — we listen to feedback, we look for patterns in data, and we align tasks with the core goals of our business. We’re continually improving Couchsurfing for a hugely diverse global community — against the backdrop of building a thriving business. Last December, shortly after launching the new system, [we blogged about what we were planning to work on next](http://10.9.0.204/whats-next-on-couchsurfing/). Since then, we’ve made over 1,400 improvements over 160 days. Many of the changes we’ve made (and the things we work on each day) are invisible to our users. Here are the ones you’re likely to have seen or used: - [New inbox](http://10.9.0.204/announcing-the-new-inbox/): layout, filters, archiving, message templates - [Events improvements](http://10.9.0.204/whats-new-next-event-invites/): emails to members about upcoming events, the ability to add Couchsurfing friends to events, event promotion tools (Featuring, Traveler Invite), allowing mobile users to invite their phone contacts - Verification updates: allowing SMS verification, specifying verification types on member profiles - [Host search refinements](http://10.9.0.204/product-updates-travelers-nearby-events-and-radius-search/) (these are ongoing) - A number of back-end safety, abuse prevention and management tools that are vitally important to the overall health of our system - Tweaks to improve user experiences for both [advertising and recurring verification](http://10.9.0.204/ask-the-ceo-revenue-at-couchsurfing/) We mentioned some other features in our December blog post that we haven’t yet released: Inbox Search and Saved Profiles. **Inbox:** Inbox Search: We determined that the cost:benefit of building search in conjunction with the other inbox revisions was too high relative to other priorities. It’s unlikely that we’ll be adding search to inbox this year, though we’ll keep it on our list of desired improvements for 2016. **Contacts:** Before November 2014, you could bookmark the profiles of other Couchsurfers for easy access. We mentioned in January that we’d be bringing this back soon, but we haven’t yet re-introduced this community feature. Instead, we have focused on improving the Couchsurfing hosting experience. **Hosting improvements (the good stuff):** We spend a great deal of time seeking out and listening to user feedback, but some of the most clear feedback we get comes directly from the data the Couchsurfing community generates on a daily basis. Among hundreds of data-oriented observations we were able to make about the system (and compare to the performance of the old one), we realized that - There was an increase in the overall number of Couchrequests being sent - Despite this increase in volume of requests, fewer number of hosts received any request at all - The Couchrequest response rate (the number being responded to, at all) was up We needed to monitor the system a bit longer to see how these changes were impacting the overall trip success rate. We’ve identified several potentially beneficial changes that we’re going to begin testing in the host search algorithm. Our generous hosts and the hospitality they offer to like-minded travelers are the linchpin of the Couchsurfing community. We’re working directly with hosts to better meet their needs. You may have received the host survey last month. With this qualitative data, along with the quantitative data, we determine the roadmap of host features. Host preference settings and calendar features ranked the highest. In addition to scoping tools like a calendar, we are working to improve Host Search. Some of these changes (improvements to our search algorithms) won’t be noticeable to most Couchsurfers. In the short term, we’re running some tests that you may notice. We know that many Couchsurfing hosts receive multiple Couchrequests for the same nights, even after they’ve accepted or confirmed guests on those nights. We’ll soon be asking travelers to provide us with the dates of their trips before they even begin writing Couchrequests. These dates will help us shift Host Search results to display hosts who aren’t already hosting Couchsurfers. We’ll be looking at the data from this test to help us prioritize what host/surf features to build next. We love hearing from you. Please let us know if you have feedback. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/product-update-heres-the-latest/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/product-update-heres-the-latest/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts, News --- ### [International Couchsurfing Day at CSHQ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/international-couchsurfing-day-2015/) **Published:** June 22, 2015 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** [![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/18 "- Couchsurfing Blog")](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/18) We’re happy to have had over 300 people attend International Couchsurfing Day (or #CSDay) at Couchsurfing Headquarters on Friday, June 12th. Couchsurfers came from far and wide – volunteering to take photographs, play music, and otherwise contribute to this great event. The party, which felt more like a festival was full of interactive music, food, and art. We had a live painter, a canvas painting station, incredible music by [the Genie](http://www.thegeniemusic.com), collaborative grilled cheese (Couchsurfers brought creative D.I.Y. toppings), [the Gillibus](http://www.gillibus.com/) (a converted bus), and even a Guatemalan food truck! ![1525248_10152972420027852_1855792490687961161_n (1)](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/25 "- Couchsurfing Blog") ![11407170_10152972320982852_4447867082759705281_n](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/23 "- Couchsurfing Blog") [![Screen Shot 2015-06-17 at 3.08.36 PM](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/20 "- Couchsurfing Blog")](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/20) With couches sprung about, people mixed, mingled, and felt the Couchsurfing vibe throughout the building and even onto the street. There was chalk art on the street and people having a jovial time hanging out on the cushions in the bus. ![11401425_10152972563067852_7825517246721844480_n](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/22 "- Couchsurfing Blog") And of course, what would a party be without a photo booth? When Couchsurfers entered the party, there was a self-operated photo booth complete with chalk boards, magical wands, sunglasses, and an orange Couchsurfing banner. Here are some of our favorite photo booth snaps: [![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/26 "- Couchsurfing Blog")](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/26) [![Screen Shot 2015-06-17 at 2.47.08 PM](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/2 "- Couchsurfing Blog")](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/2) [![Screen Shot 2015-06-17 at 2.44.42 PM](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/5 "- Couchsurfing Blog")](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/5) [![Screen Shot 2015-06-17 at 2.44.26 PM](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/6 "- Couchsurfing Blog")](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/6) [![Screen Shot 2015-06-17 at 2.44.11 PM](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/7 "- Couchsurfing Blog")](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/7) [![Screen Shot 2015-06-17 at 2.43.21 PM](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/8 "- Couchsurfing Blog")](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/8) [![Screen Shot 2015-06-17 at 2.43.03 PM](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/9 "- Couchsurfing Blog")](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/9) [![Screen Shot 2015-06-17 at 2.42.49 PM](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/10 "- Couchsurfing Blog")](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/10) [![Screen Shot 2015-06-17 at 2.42.35 PM](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/11 "- Couchsurfing Blog")](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/11) [![Screen Shot 2015-06-17 at 2.42.15 PM](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/12 "- Couchsurfing Blog")](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/12) [![Screen Shot 2015-06-17 at 2.42.03 PM](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/13 "- Couchsurfing Blog")](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/13) ![Screen Shot 2015-06-17 at 2.41.33 PM](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/15 "- Couchsurfing Blog") See the entire [photo booth collection](https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10152984890637852.1073741829.57133737851&type=3) on Facebook, and feel free to tag yourself! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/international-couchsurfing-day-2015/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/international-couchsurfing-day-2015/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts --- ### [Top 10 Things to Do in London](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/top-10-things-to-do-in-london/) **Published:** May 13, 2015 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** *Top 10 Things is a new series the top things to do in cities all over the world, ![carolina-are](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/7 "- Couchsurfing Blog")written by Couchsurfing Ambassadors who love where they live and want to share local favorites, unique hot spots, and random nooks with other adventurous Couchsurfers.* The author is [Carolina Are](https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/carolina_are), a Couchsurfing Ambassador living in London. In 2014, she Couchsurfed across the U.S – you can read about her adventures on [her blog](http://couchsurferreviews.com/about/). --- So you’re in London. But how do you live it like a true Couchsurfer, forgetting the touristy bits to take in the city’s real essence? ![street-feast-by-yoyumtum](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/10 "- Couchsurfing Blog") **1 – Go to a street food party** Be it winter or summer, may it rain or may it shine, Londoners do love the outdoors. When in town, don’t miss out on the street food events showing off the city’s incredible melting pot of cultures, from Caribbean to Korean, from Peruvian to Italian, all blended in with great music, a fun crowd and the understated London coolness mixing bankers with creatives, students with workers. [Street Feast](http://www.streetfeastlondon.com/) in Dalston, happening each season either in- or outdoors, the [Urban Food Fest](http://www.urbanfoodfest.com/) in Shoreditch and [Night Tales](http://www.nighttales.co.uk/) near Old Street are some of the best examples of this never-ending trend. Cheap enough for a Couchsurfer yet perfect to try out different kinds of food, these events are generally free-entry and will give you the chance to mingle with the real Londoners. ![ddc2](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/11 "- Couchsurfing Blog") **2 – Have a cocktail** If you like a good tipple, you’re in the right place. London is the speakeasy heaven, the mixology spot, the place where you will find what you need, whether it’s in a car park or in a secret room behind a fridge. Sure, cocktails here are damn expensive, but they’re generally worth it. To avoid wasting your £9 (that is, alas, the average price of a cocktail in the capital), make sure you try the decadent Kahlua Espresso Martinis or the tasty Amaretto Sours at the [Dead Dolls Club](http://www.thedeaddollsclub.com/The_Dead_Dolls_Club/welcome.html) in Islington or Bethnal Green. Try the Alice In Wonderland cocktails at the [Looking Glass Cocktail Club](http://lookingglasslondon.co.uk) in Hackney Road, where you’ll be able to hide in the secret room behind the mirror, or wander around [Chinatown](http://www.chinatownlondon.org/) to check out one of its many speakeasies. You’re not a Londoner if you haven’t tried at least one over-priced cocktail! **3 – Pick up a free magazine** How do Londoners find out about all the amazing places to eat at or the events to attend? It’s simple: they religiously pick up, each week and without fail, a copy of the free [TimeOut London Magazine](http://www.timeout.com/london) and [Evening Standard Magazine](http://www.standard.co.uk/lifestyle/esmagazine/). If you’re not around on Tuesday morning and Thursday night (which is when they come out and run out), follow them on Twitter to be on top of London’s events and happenings. **4 – Couchsurf** Londoners can be lovely, but if there’s one thing that they hate, well… that’s tourists. Wandering around, not having a clue, queuing to take a picture at the puzzling M&M’s world shop in Leicester Square… You’re doing it wrong! As an adopted Londoner, I can honestly said I have never loved the city more than when I started experiencing it like a local. So instead of checking in the next Travelodge in the outskirts of the capital, try [Couchsurfing](http://www.couchsurfing.com) and have a real Londoner show you how we like to have fun in the City. **5 – Go to a free exhibition** Stereotypes say Londoners are particularly good at queuing, and that becomes very true each weekend at one of the capital’s marvelous free exhibitions. So join the queue (DON’T jump it, for your own sake) and go see some of the city’s best art on display. I’m talking Tate Modern Gallery on the South Bank, showing modern art from all over the world including De Chirico and Dalì, or the Welcome Collection, now showing exhibition on crime and the study of sex. Or just wander around one of the many indie galleries around town – you’ll run into one on every other street. ![IMG_6740](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/8 "- Couchsurfing Blog") **6 – Live East** Forget the over-crowded Oxford Street – it may be the biggest shopping area, but it’s also the most crowded and most obnoxious. East London is where the fun is at: market, bars, restaurants and pop-up shop make it the neighborhood you need to be checking out…and, ideally, finding a host in. ![VRz00xm-Ne](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/9 "- Couchsurfing Blog") **7 – Embrace the British humor** Black humor is something the British do marvelously. So embrace it by checking out kinky live shows in former pleasure district Soho or by having a drink at [La Bodega Negra](http://labodeganegra.com), the cocktail bar hidden behind what looks like a strip club. Or simply marvel at the cleverness behind street signs, ads and reminders – my favorite is Norman 9 Fingers at the London Zoo. He tried to feed the monkeys… **8 – Eat out** Sure, street food in London is great, but if you don’t eat in a restaurant you’d be missing out. Have a traditional British Sunday Roast in some of the city’s best pubs, like [The Water Poet](http://www.waterpoet.co.uk/) in Spitalfields, or some pie and mash at [Pieminster](http://www.pieminister.co.uk/), or an afternoon tea with scones, jam and clotted cream in tearooms all across London. **9 – Take a walk** Everybody wants to try the London Tube, but truth is London is extremely walkable. Take in the city’s charm by walking as much as you can – it will help your pockets and it will prevent you from gaining too much weight after all the food I’ve suggested. If you want to join a love for walking with your thirst for knowledge, sign up for a London walk and go explore every bit of the city with one of [The London Walks’](http://www.walks.com/) incredibly clued-up tour guides. Far from being touristy, their tours are so good even Londoners join them during their days off. I recommend the [Jack The Ripper walk](http://www.walks.com/London_Walks_Home/Mondays_Walks/default.aspx#12790), which will take you in some of the eeriest areas of the capital to follow Jack’s blood trail. **10 – Yeah, I know, you have to… Do the touristy bits.** The Big Ben, The Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, Hyde Park, Regent’s Park… You just have to see all those. But I know you will. You don’t need my advice on that. **Bonus **–**** Check out [Couchsurfing Events in London](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/search?utf8=✓&search_type=event&search_query=London%2C+UK&latitude=51.5073509&longitude=-0.1277583). Have a jolly good time! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/top-10-things-to-do-in-london/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/top-10-things-to-do-in-london/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts --- ### [What's New & Next - Adding Friends & Event Invites](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/whats-new-next-event-invites/) **Published:** May 11, 2015 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** We roll out updates to Couchsurfing’s services on a regular basis – here are some of the new features we recently released: - New profile overview “at a glance” – this helps Couchsurfers easily see reviews and missing fields, which should prompt more fully filled out profiles and give Couchsurfers quick insight on a specific Couchsurfer.![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/3 "- Couchsurfing Blog") - You can now [add your Facebook friends who use Couchsurfing with one click from your dashboard](https://www.couchsurfing.com/dashboard). After you click to add them, your friend will get a request on Couchsurfing to add them as a Couchsurfing friend. - When you create an event, you can invite your Couchsurfing friends! Simply click the invite button once you’ve created an event and either “select all” or choose the specific friends you’d like to attend your event. [![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/4 "- Couchsurfing Blog")](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/4) - There is now an email confirmation requirement for all accounts – no one can use Couchsurfing to communicate without having a valid email address on file. This helps prevent spam and maintain a high integrity of user accounts. If you’re having issues with logging into your account and can’t reset your password for some reason, please [contact support](http://bit.ly/1c35fmt). What’s next? - City pages – you’ll have the ability to follow a place to see what’s happening with local events and discussions all in one spot! Let us know if you have [feedback](http://bit.ly/1uKzpHR%20) on the changes and [feel free to reach out to support](http://bit.ly/1c35fmt) if you run into any issues. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/whats-new-next-event-invites/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/whats-new-next-event-invites/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts --- ### [17 Ways Couchsurfers Show Gratitude](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/how-couchsurfers-say-thank-you/) **Published:** April 27, 2015 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** Recently, [we asked Couchsurfers how they thank their hosts](https://www.facebook.com/couchsurfing/posts/10152861099977852) and the responses were nothing short of inspiring. Since Couchsurfing is based on generosity and cultural exchange (no money ever changes hands between surfers and hosts), people find unique and meaningful ways to say thank you. Need ideas on how to show your Couchsurfing host gratitude? Here are some of our favorites: “A big hug!” Evelyn K. “I just bought mine some toilet paper. She was overjoyed!” – Rachel K. “We almost always cook an Indonesian dish, if time permits.” – Michael D. [![caligraphy](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/6 "- Couchsurfing Blog")](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/6) “We write Chinese Calligraphy to our host!” – Pan P. “Host them back??” – Hani I. ![art](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/8 "- Couchsurfing Blog") “I gave one of this to each host, is nice to know they are all around Europe now.” – Shatan B. “I show my magic trick to my host and if they want to learn the trick, I teaching them.” – Yacho K. ![candle](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/7 "- Couchsurfing Blog") “Meaningful candle: Live Well, Laugh Often, Love Much and Dream Always.” – Paula K. “I’ve cooked several times my favorite special food from south of Germany everywhere in the world it’s called Spätzle.” – Gabriel S. “I always have a gift for my hosts, I try to give something they will like, you can tell a lot about a person from their profile or when you stay with them, i like to keep it personal and not something I’ve bought ten of.” – Alana W. “Give them some chilean postcard/souvenir and cook something for them.” – Ambrosio C. “I make hot pepper popcorn.” Bonnie C. “We left notes, I illustrated them and my boyfriend wrote a nice verse or a poem about our stay, or anything nice that we wanted to say to our wonderful hosts.” – Anni C. “Polish Vodka..!” – Thom P. “My favorite way to thank my Couchsurfing host is to host them at Burningman in return! I’ve done this for two hosts from Europe so far and it’s extremely gratifying to share that experience together.” – Colleen S. “Smile.” – Erdem K. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/how-couchsurfers-say-thank-you/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/how-couchsurfers-say-thank-you/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts --- ### [Couchsurfing & The Language of Kindness](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-language-of-kindness/) **Published:** April 20, 2015 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** [![jordan-quote](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/4 "- Couchsurfing Blog")](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/4) Jordan Phoenix is walking the West Coast by foot, sojourning to better understand social issues like poverty, housing, and underemployment – and along the journey, he’s Couchsurfing! [![Jordan](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/2 "- Couchsurfing Blog")](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/2)**[Jordan Phoenix](https://www.couchsurfing.com/users/1467385/profile) on West Coast Walking / Couchsurfing Adventure** “By far, the most inspiring thing that I’ve discovered during the journey is how amazing the Couchsurfing community has been. From Vancouver, to White Rock, Bellingham, Everett, Seattle, Tacoma, Olympia, Portland, Salem, Corvallis, Eugene, Eureka, San Francisco, Oakland — words can’t even express how grateful I am to have met so many generous souls along the way. Over a dozen times, I’ve been blown away by how willing people have been to support me on my journey. They’ve opened their homes to me, cooked delicious food, and we shared in lots of laughs, deep conversations, and great times. I’ve even had people offer to let me stay in their homes when they were leaving town to travel themselves. We hear a lot in this day and age about how it’s dangerous to talk to strangers, but I think this paradigm has made us feel paranoid, isolated, and lonely. Couchsurfing is such an amazing concept, as it reminds us of the sense of connectedness and community that we are all seeking deep down. I’ve stayed with people from all different backgrounds, and all different walks of life — Black, White, Latino, Asian, men, women, couples, families, employed, unemployed, straight, gay, extroverted, introverted, young and old. This journey has confirmed to me what I’ve known all along: Deep down, none of these external labels matter. The one thing I’ve found throughout these experiences that bonds everyone together is kindness. > Kindness is a language that everyone understands. Beyond all of the labels, we are all just human beings who love good food, good music, our families and friends, and want to live happy lives.” Ready to see what Couchsurfing is all about? [Find your next adventure on Couchsurfing](http://www.couchsurfing.com). Other stories we’ve highlighted recently: [Couchsurfing with a Family in Paris](http://10.9.0.204/couchsurfing-with-a-family-in-paris/)[6 Pieces of Travel Wisdom from Couchsurfing the World](http://10.9.0.204/6-pieces-of-travel-wisdom/) **Do you have a Couchsurfing story to tell?** [Submit your story](http://couchsurfing.tumblr.com/submit-your-story)! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-language-of-kindness/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-language-of-kindness/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts --- ### [6 Pieces of Travel Wisdom from Couchsurfing Around the World](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/6-pieces-of-travel-wisdom/) **Published:** April 1, 2015 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** [![6-pieces-travel-wisdom-couchsurfing](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/1 "- Couchsurfing Blog")](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/1) Couchsurfer [Kate Ashley](https://www.couchsurfing.com/users/1000267273/profile) set off to chase a dream last year: traveling around the world via Couchsurfing and public transit. Six months later she emerged with a shorter haircut, a taste for catfish poboys, and an arm’s-length list of pointers for voyaging like a pro. Couchsurfing is part of how Kate found her sense of place, over and over, as she journeyed across continents. ![kate_ashley](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/3 "- Couchsurfing Blog")“I was standing at Manchester Airport, waiting to catch my flight to Rio de Janeiro. People must do things like that all the time, but for me, it was wild. I couldn’t wait to get on the plane. I couldn’t wait to meet my first Couchsurfing hosts, I couldn’t wait to see Brazil, and I couldn’t wait to begin,” she says. “The idea of extending hospitality to like-minded strangers is brilliant. Couchsurfing can foster tolerance, interest in the world around you; it’s a global community.” “Sometimes securing a place to stay can be difficult. You might not get on with your host. But Couchsurfing is one of those things where, when it works, it *really* works, and feels so worthwhile.” Here’s some of the travel wisdom she shared from the road for Couchsurfers and those with the Couchsurfing spirit: **1: Challenge your beliefs. Try new things, recklessly and relentlessly.** “During this trip I’ve stayed with hippies and hipsters, revolutionaries and ex army, liberals and musicians and marathon runners,” Kate says. “They have shown me amazing things; I’m incredibly grateful.” **2: Learn how to choose and book transit tickets efficiently.** “One of the questions I was always sure to hear when talking about traveling through the states was ‘You’re hiring a car, right?’ Wrong. I have taken a few Megabuses, three or four journeys via Amtrak, one lift from a Couchsurfing friend, and many, many Greyhounds,” Kate says. [![20140628_130241](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/5 "- Couchsurfing Blog")](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/5)“If anyone ever wants to write a novel but is struggling for inspiration, all you need to do is get on a Greyhound. I swear I have seen more crazy on these buses than anywhere else in the whole of South and Central America. And I saw some *really* strange stuff on my way up to the U.S..” **3: Make good meals out of limited ingredients, sparse kitchens and the deadline of departure kept in mind** “As I gained experience, I refined my behavior as a guest,” Kate says. “This changes depending on the host; how outgoing they are, how they like to spend their time and what they enjoy talking about. *My favorite way of thanking hosts is to cook for them – I find it a more personal way of giving back a little something.*” **4: Carry everything you need, throw away the things you don’t, and keep track of your belongings.** “Items I bought: New watch, books, soap, tylenol, headband, toothpaste, moisturizer *“*Items I lost: My watch. Ended up having to carry my travel clock around in my pocket like something out of Alice in Wonderland.” **5: Pay attention to how other people make you feel, and act accordingly to maximize your own safety** “When people ask whether Couchsurfing is dangerous, I usually say that its similar to any large network of people,” Kate says. “There are people of all types, including some not so nice ones. This means you have to be fairly savvy [about how you use the site](http://about.couchsurfing.com/safety/), but reading reviews and talking to the person you want to stay with/host can help you establish mutual trust.” **6: Realize what sort of place you’ll want to live in, and treasure the parts of home you respect the most** “Although I have surfed a little in England, I feel like traveling internationally has given me a much greater awareness of what it takes to be a good host. That’s something I can use when I get home,” Kate says.![image1](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/4 "- Couchsurfing Blog") “I firmly reject the idea that to travel makes you “better.” Any changes it brings are due to *trying* and to enjoying different perspectives, rather than travel in and of itself. That’s what it’s all about though – trying enough things to actually know what you think. To allow yourself to change your mind.” Read more about Kate’s adventure, and her journey home, at [kookooburra.co.uk.](http://kookooburra.co.uk/) Ready to try out her wisdom yourself? [Find your next adventure](http://www.couchsurfing.com) on [Couchsurfing](http://www.couchsurfing.com). **Do you have a Couchsurfing story to tell?** [Submit your story](http://couchsurfing.tumblr.com/submit-your-story)! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/6-pieces-of-travel-wisdom/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/6-pieces-of-travel-wisdom/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts --- ### [Wanderlust or Genetics: Are You Born to Travel?](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wanderlust-or-genetics/) **Published:** March 27, 2015 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** [![wanderlust-couchsurfing](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/13 "- Couchsurfing Blog")](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/13) There seem to be some people that have an inherent need to hit the road, while others aren’t all of that mesmerized by the opportunity to cross seas and experience new cultures. It’s as if we’re not all programmed the same way. New research suggests that there is a gene specific to “wanderers,” making them more motivated than the average to pile possessions on their back, heading into the unknown with wide-eyed curiosity and the zeal of wonderment. Here’s an excerpt from a recent [Elite Daily](http://elitedaily.com/life/culture/wanderlust-gene-people-born-travel/953464/) article: “As told on one psychology blog, the inherent urge to travel can be traced back to one gene, which is a genetic derivative of the gene DRD4, which is associated with the dopamine levels in the brain. The gene itself, which is identified as DRD4-7R, has been dubbed the “wanderlust gene,” because of its correlation with increased levels of curiosity and restlessness, for the most part.” The study suggests that those with the DRD4-7R gene are “more likely to take risks; explore new places, ideas, foods, relationships…” describing people who typically possess this gene as those who, “generally embrace movement, change, and adventure.” **What do you think? Wanderlust, genetics, or perhaps a combination of both?** ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wanderlust-or-genetics/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wanderlust-or-genetics/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts **Tags:** wanderlust --- ### [Announcing the "New Inbox" on Couchsurfing](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/announcing-the-new-inbox/) **Published:** March 24, 2015 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** We roll out [updates to Couchsurfing on a regular basis](http://10.9.0.204/product-updates-travelers-nearby-events-and-radius-search/) – this time we’re releasing an entirely new inbox! [![inbox](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/10 "- Couchsurfing Blog")](http://www.couchsurfing.com/messages) The [new inbox](https://www.couchsurfing.com/messages) has many features, including: - Message templates – you can create your own custom message templates for things like: fun things to do in your city, house rules, directions, etc. Once you save a message template, you can directly insert the text inside your message with the click of a button! This will save you time and help you keep your Couchsurfing communications consistent and organized. - Thread archiving – you’ve been asking for ways to keep your inbox clean and now archiving has arrived. Once you archive a specific message, the thread will no longer show up inside of your main inbox. Archived messages can be located anytime by opening the archived messages folder. - Profile overview in message thread – now you can see a Couchsurfer’s profile overview inside of the message thread, including: the number and type of references, age and gender, languages spoken, year joined, profession, and [verification status](http://www.couchsurfing.com/get_verified), as well as important safety contact information. Of course, you can still click on a given profile to see their full bio as well. - Filters for messages from hosts and surfers – tired of sifting through messages out of context? Now your messages are automatically sorted according to whether they are threads with guests or hosts. If you want to see all of your messages in one place, simply click into the “Everyone” tab at the top of your inbox. - Visibility of message history – you can click into a message and directly reply to a thread with the ability to see what’s been said previously directly below the reply box. - Thread overview of couch requests – at a glance, you can now see the date and status of any given couch request. [![message-thread](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/11 "- Couchsurfing Blog")](http://www.couchsurfing.com/messages) If you’d like to have a direct impact on the product, [please request an invite to our beta panel](http://bit.ly/1BcCgLz). You can also submit your suggestions and feature requests [here](https://docs.google.com/a/couchsurfing.com/forms/d/1p5NzgxJ34cTPkbmfQ9Jjd8AZyJ8S9UNkXIKrhpBpApU/viewform). The best way to report specific issues or bugs is to [write to support](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/requests/new?category=support). ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/announcing-the-new-inbox/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/announcing-the-new-inbox/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts, News --- ### [Why we Couchsurf: Join the circus? Travel to foreign lands? Redefine normal.](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/why-we-couchsurf-join-the-circus-travel-to-foreign-lands-redefine-normal/) **Published:** February 12, 2015 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** Couchsurfers write in to us every day with stories of how we can see the world through each other (re)define what’s possible. **Rethinking Normal** Paolo left southern Italy in September and started a worldwide hitch hiking tour. Before he left, he said, “for me it was strange that someone could host strangers in their own house. Well, right now, I just think the opposite: it’s strange someone is not hosting strangers. ![reimagine_couchsurfing](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/1 "- Couchsurfing Blog")“During this travel I’m learning about being really … normal. Yes, that’s the word. Normal. “It’s normal to help each other, it’s normal to know different cultures, it’s normal to travel. I love to be normal :)” Last time we checked, he had reached Morocco by way of Italy, Spain and France! Learn more about the start of his story here: **More on Couchsurfing this month:** - “They’d probably prefer I join the circus than wander into strangers’ homes in foreign lands” – [a woman traveler on how to find the right fit with prospective hosts ](http://www.chantae.com/traveling-girl-guide-couchsurfing) - “Do they want to spend most of the time with us? Or just a little? Are we being good guests?” – [three adventures show that the “perfect” guest will find every couch is different](https://argentineexpat.wordpress.com/2015/01/25/my-experience-with-couchsurfing-scary/) - “So this was a tactical maneuver, to allow Chris onto the couch” – [9 years on, Couchsurfing leads to lasting love and a new life in Australia](http://www.abc.net.au/radionational/programs/rnafternoons/bil-and-chris/6041754) **Have their experiences inspired a memory or thought of your own?** [**Share your Couchsurfing story with the community.**](http://couchsurfing.tumblr.com/submit-your-story) ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/why-we-couchsurf-join-the-circus-travel-to-foreign-lands-redefine-normal/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/why-we-couchsurf-join-the-circus-travel-to-foreign-lands-redefine-normal/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts --- ### [Product Updates: Travelers Nearby, Events and Radius Search](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/product-updates-travelers-nearby-events-and-radius-search/) **Published:** February 2, 2015 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** We roll out updates to Couchsurfing’s services on a regular basis – here are some of new features you might have noticed recently: - Event Notifications by Email: Notifications about Couchsurfers looking for hosts, planning events and having discussions near you. Since we started sending notifications earlier this month, we’ve seen event RSVPs increase around the world. - Android App/”Travelers Near You”: The Android App now includes a “travelers near you” feature – try it [here](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.couchsurfing.mobile.android&hl=en). - Featured Event Request: Organizers can request that their event be featured from the event page. - Radius Search: Couchsurfers can search for a host or traveler using a “radius search” filter to expand or contract their geographic search area beyond a city center. - More Effective Host Rankings: Host search results now better reflect a host’s experience, level of activity and proximity to the geographic area being searched. - Event Sorting: Now with a glance you can see the most popular events in a city or search for events taking place while you are in town. Other updates: - Some members who use Hotmail email accounts experienced delayed delivery of Couchsurfing notifications and emails for part of last month. This is a known issue we’re addressing with Hotmail. We are sorry for the inconvenience! - We’re expanding the Verification process to include multiple currencies. - And we welcomed a new front end engineer to the office this week – you’ll start seeing her work across the site. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/product-updates-travelers-nearby-events-and-radius-search/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/product-updates-travelers-nearby-events-and-radius-search/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts, News --- ### [Ask the CEO: Revenue at Couchsurfing](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/ask-the-ceo-revenue-at-couchsurfing/) **Published:** January 19, 2015 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** When people ask me how Couchsurfing will make money, my answer is pretty simple: we’ll experiment with well-understood monetization models to see what works best for the community and the company. Experimenting means we’ll test, iterate and learn. Couchsurfing’s revenue, at present, comes from its [Verification service.](https://www.couchsurfing.com/get_verified) Members have been asking for a long time about our plans for monetization. The answer wasn’t very illuminating but it was the truth: until now, we hadn’t been particularly focused on monetization. **Build a strong foundation first** When I started leading the company in 2013, the team and I determined that a full-scale re-write of Couchsurfing’s services was the only sensible way to move forward. That became our main (basically only) priority. We now have a platform that we can iterate on, develop new features for and continue to improve. Without question, there’s a lot to do on the site and mobile apps. [Here’s what we’re working on next](http://10.9.0.204/whats-changed-whats-next-language-inbox-calendar/). Some of the tools Couchsurfers regularly request (such as web-based map search) cost money not only to develop but also to run on an ongoing basis. So building our revenue streams is an important part of building features. **Test and Learn** We’re beginning the process of building additional revenue streams for Couchsurfing. There are three main ways that consumer Internet/mobile companies make money: - Freemium/subscription - Advertising - Transaction fees You’ll see us begin experimenting with two of these in the near future: - Freemium/subscription – the Verification service that’s been offered to date falls into the “freemium” category. It’s an optional way to add to your Couchsurfing identity and improve the safety and trust of the network as a whole. We’ll begin making changes and upgrades. - Advertising – we’re testing display advertising. Some of you might see an ad soon! We’ve run tests to help us build preliminary revenue models and understand Couchsurfing’s business potential in the past. We’re picking that work up again now. We’ve previously said we wouldn’t focus on an advertising model – but it’s a sensible way for us to learn and begin creating additional revenue to fund the ongoing development of this service. We’ll update you here as we progress. – Jennifer Billock ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/ask-the-ceo-revenue-at-couchsurfing/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/ask-the-ceo-revenue-at-couchsurfing/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts --- ### [What’s Changed & What’s Next? Language, Inbox, Calendar](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/whats-changed-whats-next-language-inbox-calendar/) **Published:** January 13, 2015 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** We’ll be making changes and additions to Couchsurfing more or less daily. Here are some of the things we’ve added or changed in the past few weeks. - Calendar connections – add travel and event information to your calendar of choice. You can choose to sync individual events or all of your Couchsurfing activity with Google, iCal or Outlook. ![calendar_tool](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/1 "- Couchsurfing Blog") - Localization/translation – you can now use the service in French, German, Spanish, Chinese, Polish, Italian, Portuguese or English. We’ll add more languages and refine translations over time. - Other small but oft-requested changes – you can now edit your hosting status from the dashboard, see your upcoming guests in order of who’s coming to stay soonest, and messages are listed by most recent interaction There’s much more to come – gathering input from Couchsurfing members [helps us prioritize what we build each week](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/articles/203904640) and helps us understand what you need as we continue to develop the service. We also watch our analytics carefully to see what is and isn’t working on a macro scale. **Some of what we’re working on now:** - An better inbox with filters, message templates, the ability to archive messages and(eventually) search. And a better window to type in. We hear you on that one – and apologize. - Events features – we’ll be sending out digest emails of upcoming events, providing a way to feature events and better showcasing of featured events. And yes, there’s a lot more to do with Events. - Search refinements – we’ve seen a stable number of Couchrequests being sent since launch, but they are going to fewer hosts, overall. And there are a variety of other issues with search that we’re working to address. - Saved profiles are returning – we’ve stored all the profile information that Couchsurfing members had bookmarked in contacts lists, and it’s coming back soon in a new format. You can submit your suggestions and feature requests [here.](https://docs.google.com/a/couchsurfing.com/forms/d/1p5NzgxJ34cTPkbmfQ9Jjd8AZyJ8S9UNkXIKrhpBpApU/viewform) The best way to report specific issues or bugs is to [write to support](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/requests/new?category=support). You can explore elsewhere on the blog for a big-picture roundup of [what’s changed](http://10.9.0.204/whats-changed-on-couchsurfing/) at Couchsurfing and [what will be coming next.](http://10.9.0.204/whats-next-on-couchsurfing/) ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/whats-changed-whats-next-language-inbox-calendar/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/whats-changed-whats-next-language-inbox-calendar/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts --- ### [What’s next on Couchsurfing?](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/whats-next-on-couchsurfing/) **Published:** December 3, 2014 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** We made [major changes to Couchsurfing](http://10.9.0.204/whats-changed-on-couchsurfing/) this month. As a small team with limited resources, we prioritized bringing you the service’s most important features in rebuilt form. We launched the new platform without having replicated all of the features of the old one. But we’re working on adding new settings and tools over time. Some of the elements we’re continuing to develop include: - Support for additional languages (including Russian and German) and improved translations - New inbox filters - Saved message templates - Guest instructions (from hosts) - Bookmarked profiles (the Couchsurfers you want to remember) - Friends in common with another Couchsurfer - Batch event editing and series management - Adding Events to an existing series - Group photo uploading and editing - Group moderation features - Keyword search for posts on Local Discussions (formerly known as Place Pages) - Related local groups on Local Discussions - Map-based search for hosts and events Please continue to [make suggestions](https://docs.google.com/a/couchsurfing.com/forms/d/1p5NzgxJ34cTPkbmfQ9Jjd8AZyJ8S9UNkXIKrhpBpApU/viewform). Your feedback helps us prioritize what to build first – after all, we’re building it for you! You can learn more about what’s already changed on Couchsurfing [here.](http://10.9.0.204/whats-changed-on-couchsurfing/) ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/whats-next-on-couchsurfing/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/whats-next-on-couchsurfing/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts --- ### [What’s changed on Couchsurfing?](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/whats-changed-on-couchsurfing/) **Published:** November 19, 2014 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** Short Answer? Everything. We rebuilt the entire platform, from the web servers to the databases. The previous website was built – largely by volunteers – over a ten-year period. As a result, we accumulated a lot of “tech debt” (engineering-speak for inefficiency due to poor or outdated systems and infrastructure), which meant that the site was slow, unreliable, expensive to run, and difficult to improve. We had to start from scratch to [create a modern platform for Couchsurfing](http://player.vimeo.com/external/112123518.hd.mp4?s=27dff0ea048cb89334f703417c0ed853). And in addition to fixing our technical infrastructure, we took the opportunity to re-envision Couchsurfing from a product and design perspective, making it faster, prettier, more intuitive, more useful, and hopefully more fun. [![The New Couchsurfing](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2014/11/11_18_14_new_site.png "The New Couchsurfing - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2014/11/11_18_14_new_site.png) Here are just a few of the highlights (of the thousands of things that have changed): - Couchsurfing works better on mobile devices and low bandwidth connections. - Search is much more relevant, highlighting members with complete profiles and who have recently logged in. Keyword search is now supported and “Search by Map” is coming soon. - A unified inbox combines messages and Couchrequests in one place, with threaded conversations. Templated responses and the “include directions” feature are coming in the next few weeks. - You’ll see a dashboard with relevant local events, reminders, and action items on your home page. - You can connect your Facebook account to find your Facebook friends on Couchsurfing. We’ll be adding a “friends in common” feature soon. - We’ve made it easier to leave references for friends on Couchsurfing. - ‘Place Pages’ are now ‘Local Discussions’, and they’re defined by proximity instead of fixed geographic locations. - New members can join using their full name or first name and last initial; Couchsurfers who currently have a “username” can continue to use it. - We’ve simplified groups settings to make things easier for users to understand. - We now highlight upcoming events near the destinations you’re traveling to (or near your home location if you’re not traveling). We’ve simplified events, too, by removing the “follow” option. - Event hosts will be able to create recurring events for up to 3 months at a time. We’re building features that allow hosts to build and edit multiple events at the same time, and to add future occurrences of a repeating event, stringing events together in a series over months or years.[![Couchsurfing on IOS](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2014/11/couchsurfing_ios.jpg "Couchsurfing on IOS - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2014/11/couchsurfing_ios.jpg) - We’re working on making it easier for members to discover relevant events and building tools to make it easier for event organizers to promote them. - When Couchsurfing was originally designed, HTML was the tool of choice for customizing user profiles (MySpace, LiveJournal), but that’s no longer the case, and HTML doesn’t display consistently across modern devices. We’ve simplified and streamlined the site so that it works consistently for everyone on all devices and that meant removing most HTML customizations from profiles. We now support links and are working on adding rich content to member profiles. - Profile completeness is important to building trust and improving the Couchsurfing community – since other members are much less likely to respond or reach out to members with skeletal profiles, we’re encouraging members to complete their profiles to improve the quality of the Couchsurfing experience for all. Requiring profile completeness also limits the potential for spam posts within Couchsurfing and serves as a checklist for new members who are learning how to participate. We’re working on allowing members to ‘dismiss’ the profile completeness module if they’re content with their profiles. - Location Verification has been removed and we no longer send Verification postcards. Members who are Location Verified will retain that status. We’re building better methods of identity, account, and location verification. - Your contacts list will be temporarily inaccessible while we rebuild the Contacts tool, which we’ll release in about six weeks. - ![couchsurfing_android](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2014/11/couchsurfing_android1.png "- Couchsurfing Blog")We’re translating the site into multiple languages – it’s not all there yet, and will get better over the next few days. - We’ve simplified our site by removing the vouching feature since references are the primary way to endorse other members. We’re preserving existing vouches and the vouched icon, though. - We removed “Last Login Location” since it was sometimes inaccurate and raised member privacy concerns. - The gender option “Several People” has been replaced with “Other” to comply with best practices regarding gender. We’re working on ways for couples or travel partners to connect their profiles. - We’re working on adding a world map of where you’ve travelled and whom you’ve hosted to share on your profile. These are just a few of the changes you’ll discover – we also hope you’ll notice that the site is: 1. faster 2. more reliable 3. easier to use, and 4. much easier for us to improve and modify. We’d like to thank: Jim Nist, Alex Paul, Andrew Sotzing, Antonio Rodrigues, Sylvain Niles, Travis Forden, Gemma Barlow, Donna McCulloch, Nicolas Milliard, Kateryna Sytnyck, Nathaniel Wolf, Aryan Ghassemi, Eric Steen, Tom Herrick, Charlie Killian and Richard Mitchell for their hard work in rebuilding our entire site. Hass Lunsford, Maisy Samuelson and Steven Stegman for their hard work in redesigning our entire site. And Connor Schmidt and Jen Wong for organizing testing, and our amazing beta testers from the Couchsurfing community, who provided feedback and invaluable help testing our site. We ask for your patience in this transition – we’ve written 75,000 lines of code, migrated 2,200,000,000 database records, and made thousands of design decisions in a very short time with a very small team. We’re proud of what we’ve been able to accomplish, which has been akin to rebuilding and upgrading an airplane in flight. We know that there will probably be things that don’t happen according to plan. And we’ve almost certainly made changes that not every one of you will agree with. This is just our first step down a new path. Couchsurfing’s platform will evolve. It will become more stable, it will gain features, and it will get better over time. We appreciate your patience, and we want your feedback so that we can make it better. After all, we’re building it for you. Please [tell us what you think and report any bugs you encounter.](http://bit.ly/1qTnlyt) Couchsurfing is – at its heart – a community. We’re glad we were able to build this site for you, and we’re excited about what it will allow us to build for you in the future. Thank you! Jennifer Billock, CEO, on behalf of the entire Couchsurfing Team ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/whats-changed-on-couchsurfing/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/whats-changed-on-couchsurfing/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts --- ### [The future of Couchsurfing is on the way!](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-future-of-couchsurfing-is-on-the-way/) **Published:** November 18, 2014 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** We’re about to launch a brand new Couchsurfing – a new website, new mobile apps, and a completely new technical infrastructure. Hear what CEO Jennifer Billock has to say about what Couchsurfing means for the world and how we’ll build the future of the service together with the global community. Follow us on [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/couchsurfing) and [Twitter](http://www.twitter.com/couchsurfing) for updates about when we expect to have the service restored. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-future-of-couchsurfing-is-on-the-way/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-future-of-couchsurfing-is-on-the-way/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts --- ### [An all new Couchsurfing is coming next week](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/an-all-new-couchsurfing-is-coming-next-week/) **Published:** November 12, 2014 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** Big changes are coming to Couchsurfing. Next week we’ll be unveiling an entirely new website and updated iOS and Android apps – we have rebuilt our entire technical infrastructure from the ground up. Couchsurfing’s services will be temporarily inaccessible next week while we switch over to the new system. **You will not be able to access Couchsurfing’s site or mobile app during the migration, which could last up to 48 hours. Please plan accordingly.** We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and will post specific outage times on the site, so check there for details. [![IMG_4740](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/IMG_47402.jpg "- Couchsurfing Blog")](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/IMG_47402.jpg) Please also note that with this launch, there will be changes to Groups Privacy Settings. **If you moderate or have posted in private groups, please read more about the changes [here](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/articles/203435900).** More detailed information about the rebuild and new system can be found [these FAQs](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us/sections/200636790). This project has been in the works for many months and is an essential step in bringing Couchsurfing into the future. Couchsurfing creates a more connected world, and we are inspired each day by the beauty that connection creates across the globe. Thank you for being part of our journey, and allowing us to be part of yours. May we create a bright future for Couchsurfing together! Jennifer ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/an-all-new-couchsurfing-is-coming-next-week/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/an-all-new-couchsurfing-is-coming-next-week/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts --- ### [Inside the Rebuild – Couchsurfing engineers and beta testers at work](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/inside-the-rebuild-couchsurfing-engineers-and-beta-testers-at-work/) **Published:** November 4, 2014 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** We’ve written before about why Couchsurfing’s technology needs an update – and about the members who continue to test and provide feedback on our new site. Let’s take a behind-the-scenes peek at the small team of engineers who’ve been working on these changes from our office in San Francisco, with the help of beta testing members here and around the world. ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/hs4RStarlk9peUg59HyenpKW54roZ_boNIKEmc_NN7gXJKxpMkt7-xBdHpr4Nd3sfOmK6LuDx16MYOTNng3-LaG2skaIW__3Gk_Ucwnow0lFOOR9DiI79jXJxqW7mzMKig) **Beta testers log in from around the world to keep us on track and provide invaluable input – and they are also generous enough to visit us at Couchsurfing Headquarters in San Francisco, so we can explore site changes together in person.** Over the last several months been focused on developing a new foundation for Couchsurfing’s site and apps, building a modern, straight-forward service that improves how members connect to travelers and information. ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/CeSN2q7XSz9vgGdbthypwp1DXnwhWyFk3vbc6g-Wq5mJOYvAcfhxeXuqQ2SO2mm0Z5fdYSGeOd5sZ_36G_aLKOrpBtxFUFsVxMhGXK27h9bhCCGk5bw6GSsiA1CmzoYk0w) For Couchsurfing’s engineers, one of the biggest benefits of the rebuilt site is that it unlocks the future – our ability to rapidly iterate and tune technology like our search relevance algorithm. We’ve always listened to data and feedback from our users – now we can act on it much more quickly and effectively. ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/lrk-0HpSNkWl1Wo6E7lkWqU3k7b-RrnvDAZAvNaVYTDTNgFOhPomRfCrOIvhPdtJkxvX3h7-EkxjcDmBB0qXYqIL-fEj6XKQZ22ZaUDwTuCJWybC2xf4NzQNZ8sVd92Z4w) **The dogs get tired, but we keep working. Keeping the Couchsurfing service running for 9 million members and at the same time rebuilding in the background has been a huge project.** We’re going to continue adding new features, settings and tools over time. We’re a small team and with a long list of improvements that we’re eager to strike off one by one in the weeks and months to come. There’s a lot more to do – but now we have the technical platform on which to do it. ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/59osCvrj_9TWpHriK5m4x52c3ciBXDs8qRfLQxpFqdV7d7mEaAHYVpkJCVU3EOMHqaw-ULZrVbct1_Rq8bSa_xKJQZszPznZGrrv6FW2I8wNSZt6qgQnGjdNX9MR4HkL_g) **The office dogs bring energy (and the occasional cuddle) to Couchsurfing’s office – plus, taking a pup for a walk brings a breath of fresh air to a long day at work.** ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/inside-the-rebuild-couchsurfing-engineers-and-beta-testers-at-work/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/inside-the-rebuild-couchsurfing-engineers-and-beta-testers-at-work/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts --- ### [Rebuilding our technical infrastructure](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/weve-been-listening-our-major-website-rebuild-and-what-it-fixes/) **Published:** October 22, 2014 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Excerpt:** The Couchsurfing website is a powerful tool that members use to make incredible connections each day. But its infrastructure is old. Really old – Couchsurfing’s codebase dates back a decade (approximately an eternity, in website time). We’ve been rebuilding the site’s infrastructure (which also powers our mobile applications) behind the scenes for the past several months. **Content:** The Couchsurfing community uses our site and mobile apps to make incredible connections each day. The site and the systems underlying the entire service are old, really old. Soon they’ll be new. We’ve been rebuilding our entire technical platform (from the ground up) for the past several months in order to bring a modern, streamlined set of systems to our members. Systems that will lay the foundation for the future of Couchsurfing and allow us to build better features more reliably and quickly. [![](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/frankencar.png "Rebuild or keep on patching")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/frankencar.png) **The old system is a little like this – a bunch of different parts built at different times, held together by somewhat dubious connections. We can’t drive it very fast. Or very far.** We know, [we’ve said it before](http://10.9.0.204/bringing-our-website-up-to-date/), but this time it’s really going to happen. In fact, the entire system (web, iOS and Android) has been in Beta for many weeks. One way of thinking about the new platform is that it’s a foundation for the future of Couchsurfing. It lays the groundwork for us to truly deliver on what our community needs to continue making powerful connections and creating great travel experiences across the globe. We’re addressing a few key issues with the new release: - We’re fixing search. We’ve been using old technology that produces sub-par results. That’s about to change. - We’re optimizing the site for limited/low bandwidth situations and smaller devices. Because low bandwidth happens and, increasingly, our traffic comes from more mobile devices and tablets - We’re encouraging profile completion. The community functions better on virtually every front when members provide and have access to more information. Our new system restricts access to certain features for profiles that haven’t been completed to a certain level. ![nathaniel](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/nathaniel.png) - And finally, we’re upgrading the friends and references systems. They’re a big part of what make Couchsurfing work well. *And that’s really just the beginning*. The new Couchsurfing (Android, iOS apps and website) will have updated, cleaner interfaces, among other enhancements designed to make it easier to use. **From there, together, we’ll build the future of Couchsurfing!** As we develop features and applications, we work closely with the community from beginning to the end. Members are currently beta testing every aspect of the new site – if you’d like to get an advance look too, sign up at [here](http://bit.ly/1BcCgLz "Beta Sign-Up Form"). Special thanks to our beta testers! We couldn’t do this without you. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/weve-been-listening-our-major-website-rebuild-and-what-it-fixes/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/weve-been-listening-our-major-website-rebuild-and-what-it-fixes/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts --- ### [Beta testing is underway!](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/beta-testing-is-underway/) **Published:** September 24, 2014 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** Feedback from the Couchsurfing community is always a critical part of our process as we make changes (and hopefully improvements) to the website and mobile apps. Every time we work on a major change, we involve members. Whether it’s bringing Couchsurfers into the office to review early designs or forming a full beta panel to test around the world, community input is part of our process from start to finish. And we need your help![![Beta testing Couchsurfing](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2014/09/beta_blog.jpg "beta_blog - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2014/09/beta_blog.jpg) Right now, we’re rebuilding Couchsurfing’s technology (more on that soon), and we’re taking feedback, making changes and fixing bugs on the new site and mobile apps. We want every feature road-tested by many Couchsurfers before we roll it out. Your feedback directly and consistently informs what we build and how we prioritize. We’re gradually adding to a “beta panel” of Couchsurfing members who test changes to the Couchsurfing website and mobile apps – if you’re interested in taking an advance look and providing feedback, you can sign up [here](http://bit.ly/1BcCgLz "Beta Tester Signup Form"). We’ll get in touch with you directly as we continue to add beta testers. We all share the same goal: making Couchsurfing better. Working together, we’re making that happen! – Jen ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/beta-testing-is-underway/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/beta-testing-is-underway/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts --- ### [Thanks to two stars in our community](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/thanks-to-two-stars-in-our-community/) **Published:** August 14, 2014 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** Couchsurfing Headquarters is saying farewell – for now – to two members of our staff. [Massimo Bennardo](https://www.couchsurfing.org/people/massimo_bennardo/) and [Martina Steinman](https://www.couchsurfing.org/people/martlmartl/) both left their full time positions with the company this month, and we wanted to take a moment to thank them for their huge contribution to the company’s work over the last two years. They’re both still part of Couchsurfing’s extended family and we hope you run into them as they travel around the world over the next few months on their own individual adventures. Even if you don’t cross paths with one or both of them in some corner of the globe, you’ll continue hearing their voices throughout the community. ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/sjNT174hm6tXTRilnofpN-jRJzN6CBqTdv1dIy2rP7R-TUOQ7u8txkOvbuHbTctvNPIuxO_S1XyrzcXXXEpUrDWLchPlpnIID0-gsKpwhhrcH0KK8oQ6oVnfoGxOP5W3GQ) Massimo joined us at a critical time in Couchsurfing’s history, and as the company matures he has been a powerful and ongoing voice for the community’s values. But you also can’t keep him sitting still in a chair at HQ in San Francisco! He will continue to be an important part of CSHQ’s extended community as he travels the world, and we look forward to having his help on various projects in the future. Here’s Massimo in his own words: “The last year was the best of my entire life, it was great to work for the site I had been actively using for over 7 years. By far the best job I could have ever dreamed of! I will continue being an active Couchsurfer, hosting, surfing, attending and organizing events.” ![](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2014/08/martina.jpg) Martina spent a year and a half here at headquarters serving as a bridge between the wide world of Couchsurfers and the day-to-day work of keeping the platform running. She translated across more than just languages, helping to build connections between members, staff and the community as a whole. She’s changing countries of residence so we weren’t able to keep her here at headquarters, but we’re deeply grateful for her work as community manager and we expect to collaborate with her in the future, too! Our community team at HQ will be taking on Massimo and Martina’s workload in the near term and we’re always looking for new staff to support and celebrate Couchsurfing’s members. We’re a small team at Couchsurfing HQ and we’re committed to only hiring those who – like Martina and Massimo – demonstrate their belief in Couchsurfing’s values. We know how important it is to hire people who understand the community and host/surf themselves. You can learn more about the Couchsurfing team [here](https://www.couchsurfing.org/n/team), and explore our current [job openings in San Francisco. ](https://www.couchsurfing.org/n/jobs)Keep an eye out, as there will be more opportunities added in the weeks and months to come. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/thanks-to-two-stars-in-our-community/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/thanks-to-two-stars-in-our-community/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts --- ### [Couchsurfing HQ Leadership Update](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/leadership-update/) **Published:** August 11, 2014 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** Last October, I took on the role of Interim CEO during a time of extraordinary change at Couchsurfing. Since then I’ve been working with our team to address longstanding technical challenges. Our goal: to make the site easier to use and more helpful for members as they travel and connect. Today I’m delighted to accept the Couchsurfing Board of Directors’ offer to remain the company’s CEO in the long term, and to welcome two extraordinary new members to the company’s board – experienced leaders who bring tremendous perspective and wisdom to our extended team. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/staff-photo-for-blog.jpg) **The team at Couchsurfing HQ** Transitioning Couchsurfing from a community-organized global movement to a mission-driven technology company has been a challenging road, but the Couchsurfing community continues to thrive despite those challenges. Since October we’ve radically increased the stability of the website, built and shipped the first mobile updates in over two years (tripling the service’s daily mobile activity in just under two months), and begun the necessary process of (finally) rebuilding the service’s technologies from the ground up. The community is now 9 million strong. In many ways, our work is just beginning. Delivering the world class service that the community deserves and building a sustainable business model that is in line with Couchsurfing’s core values will take time, dedication, focus, and a good amount of experimentation and learning. Couchsurfing continues to benefit from the strong backing of top investors. Joel Cutler recently joined our Board of Directors, and today we’re delighted to welcome Erik Blachford, who will be joining Couchsurfing’s board as Executive Chairman. Both Erik and Joel have extensive experience in and passion for the travel industry. They also bring a native understanding of how technology can be used to make travel experiences more personal and responsive. Joel sits on the boards of many consumer Internet companies, co-founded National Leisure Group (one of the largest travel technology and distribution companies in the U.S.) and served on the board at KAYAK. Erik – a former CEO at Expedia – advises numerous travel-related startups and sits on the boards of Zillow, Glassdoor and Choose Energy, among others. He has also served as president and CEO of Terrapass, IAC Travel and Butterfield & Robinson. I couldn’t ask for better additions to our Board and look forward to continued success together. I’m thrilled to continue in this position and humbled by the acts of kindness that Couchsurfers around the world show each day. – Jennifer \*Couchsurfing’s current Board of Directors includes: Couchsurfing founders Casey Fenton and Daniel Hoffer, Benchmark General Partner Matt Cohler, Managing Partner at General Catalyst Joel Cutler, travel industry veteran Erik Blachford and Couchsurfing CEO, Jennifer Billock. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/leadership-update/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/leadership-update/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts **Tags:** couchsurfing hq, couchsurfing management --- ### [Hammertime Post Office](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/hammertime-post-office/) **Published:** July 9, 2014 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** #### Why The same conclusion has been arrived at a few times: the site and its underlying technologies need to be rebuilt. And attempts to rebuild it have been initiated more than once. Which is part of the current problem: we’re managing a system that is a complex web of multiple sites in various states of repair, that need to talk to one another. It relies upon very old versions of software and other outdated technologies, its database design is no longer cogent nor intended to handle the number of Couchsurfers who use the site. It’s time to rebuild it. Really, this time. I joined Couchsurfing in late 2012, when another rebuild project was in its early stages. It wasn’t completed for a variety of reasons, but provided a good learning experience for those of us who had the opportunity to watch the process unfold. #### How it will be better Believe me, we feel your pain when you ask for seemingly simple, more modern and useful features, like improved search and more accurate geospatial & place data. We also recognize that the world has changed and evolved substantially since Couchsurfing was conceived of and built. Trust and transparency have radically evolved since the early days of the “Vouch” and the “Friending” network that exists inside of Couchsurfing. Standard interface conventions have changed substantially, too. And, perhaps most importantly, the community’s growth has created a need for a system that rewards positive community behavior and activity and automatically limits the privileges of members who, for whatever reasons, aren’t sufficiently invested in Couchsurfing. And Finally, the current site and back (back end?) was not designed or built to render properly on mobile devices, which can be problematic for travelers. #### {KEY FEATURES} ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/hammertime-post-office/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/hammertime-post-office/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts **Tags:** ceo, company news, couchsurfing management, cshq, jen billock, new feature, product news, site changes, website update --- ### [International Couchsurfing Day, June 12 2014!](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/international-couchsurfing-day-june-12-2014/) **Published:** June 19, 2014 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** On June 12th, we celebrated International Couchsurfing Day. Ever since its beginnning, Couchsurfing has touched the lives of over eight million people across the world. Last week many of us came together to celebrate 15 years of an incredible community. Here at the Couchsurfing Headquarters, International Couchsurfing Day was a huge success! [![](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2014/06/screen-shot-2014-06-18-at-11-58-35-am.png "International Couchsurfing Day Staff")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2014/06/screen-shot-2014-06-18-at-11-58-35-am.png) **Sharing travel stories with Couchsurfers from all the corners of the world.** With face painting, bubbles, jump rope, [Savourie Streets](http://www.savouriestreetstruck.com/) food truck, the way cool [Gillibus](http://www.gillibus.com/) parked outside, the [Photomatica](http://www.photo-matica.com/) photo booth, and live performances from [They Run By Night](https://www.facebook.com/theyrunbynight) and our in-house DJ Deaf Child, we celebrated years of Couchsurfing in style! [![Jen and Casey at International Couchsurfing Day](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2014/06/screen-shot-2014-06-18-at-10-15-59-am.png "Jen and Casey at International Couchsurfing Day - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2014/06/screen-shot-2014-06-18-at-10-15-59-am.png) [![Couchsurfers at International Couchsurfing Day](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2014/06/screen-shot-2014-06-18-at-10-16-25-am.png "Couchsurfers at International Couchsurfing Day - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2014/06/screen-shot-2014-06-18-at-10-16-25-am.png)[![Two future Couchsurfers at Intl CS Day](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2014/06/screen-shot-2014-06-18-at-10-14-53-am.png)](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2014/06/screen-shot-2014-06-18-at-10-14-53-am.png) **Founder Casey with Jen, four happy Couchsurfers, and our two youngest guests!** Find and download all the photo booth pictures of International Couchsurfing Day on Photomatica’s website [here](http://www.photo-matica.com/international-couchsurfing-day-san-francisco-photo-booth/). View the complete photo album on our [Facebook page](https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10152209910472852.1073741826.57133737851&type=3). Couchsurfers & photographer Dustin Cantrell made sure to capture the magic of the event. (Dustin also takes [amazing portraits of Couchsurfers](https://www.facebook.com/couchsurferportraits)). [![Gillibus inside](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2014/06/gillibus-inside.png "Gillibus inside - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2014/06/gillibus-inside.png) **Couchsurfers enjoy a bite from our food trucks inside the [Gillibus](http://www.gillibus.com/).** [Couchsurfers from around the globe](http://couchsurfing.tumblr.com/post/88687357595/happy-international-couchsurfing-day-2014-our) celebrated the day with their own special events. Check out this wonderful birthday cake the Indonesian Couchsurfing community prepared! [![Couchsurfing Birthday Cake](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2014/06/screen-shot-2014-06-19-at-1-32-01-pm.png "Couchsurfing Birthday Cake - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2014/06/screen-shot-2014-06-19-at-1-32-01-pm.png) **Couchsurfers in Yogyakarta, Indonesia, celebrated with this beautiful cake!** Over 200 Couchsurfers, including the founders [Casey](https://www.couchsurfing.org/people/CASEY) and [Dan](https://www.couchsurfing.org/people/hoffer/), attended the event and had a fantastic time sharing stories and smiles: “I loved the vibe at the party. It was so awesome to see the presence of and the enthusiasm for the game “[Hammerschlagen](http://instagram.com/p/pXR9y3lqAV)” – such a delightfully ridiculous game – and the fact that people were blowing bubbles and jumping rope in the middle of the office without a care in the world. This quirkiness, authenticity, innocence, and spirit of fun are all hallmarks of true CS culture in both community and staff and I found it inspiring and heartening to see them so present and celebrated last night.” – Dan, Co-Founder of Couchsurfing “Thanks for hosting this event! CS has certainly brought a lot of wonderful moments into my life.” –[David](https://www.couchsurfing.org/people/Shadrack64), Couchsurfer Thanks to everyone who traveled from near and far to be here for International Couchsurfing Day. Make sure to mark June 12 on your calendars for next year. We’re sure to have an even bigger birthday party then! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/international-couchsurfing-day-june-12-2014/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/international-couchsurfing-day-june-12-2014/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts **Tags:** birthday, couchsurfing hq, couchsurfing management, cs day, event, international Couchsurfing Day --- ### [Hosting a Band on Tour: Couchsurfer Tom hosts the “BOATS”](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/hosting-a-band-on-tour-couchsurfer-tom-hosts-the-boats/) **Published:** June 18, 2014 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** *Have you ever hosted a band? Tom has and he loved it. Couchsurfing is a great opportunity for musicians to connect with people who know the local music scene. At the same time, it spares bands the boredom and cost of a hotel and allows them to spend their budgets on what they do best: music. The benefits for musicians are clear, so we were wondering: what’s in it for a host?* *Couchsurfing host and Australian expat [Tom Fitzgerald](https://www.couchsurfing.org/profile.html?id=EWK7OXK "Couchsurfing Host Tom") loves music so much, he invited a band called “BOATS” to couchsurf with him. Read all about Tom’s unique hosting experience in his own words:* #### Hosting a Band on Tour Shortly after moving to an apartment in San Francisco with a spare couch in the living room, I started to host on Couchsurfing again. I get so much out of it – meeting new people, learning about other walks of life, and a steady stream of fascinating stories over a pint or two at the local pub. [![Couchsurfing Hosts Tom and Victoria](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2014/06/screen-shot-2014-05-29-at-1-54-03-pm.png "Couchsurfing Hosts Tom and Victoria - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2014/06/screen-shot-2014-05-29-at-1-54-03-pm.png) **“This is me (Tom) and my girlfriend Victoria.”** I get a good range of Couchsurfers: some couples, the frequent groups of friends, and occasionally the solo traveler passing through San Francisco. Something I really want to do more of though is to host bands on tour, as that’s something I got hooked on just over a year ago. One late night after viewing my weekly ‘Some Couchsurfers looking for a host’ email, I sent a rambling message to a 5 person rock band from Winnipeg. They accepted my invitation and we met two weeks later. #### Backstage with my 5 Guests My guests – the band BOATS – were fronted by Mat Klachefsky who uses a mix of Couchsurfing and Motels to keep a roof over the band while on tour. They were passing through San Francisco near the beginning of their six week tour of Canada and the US. On the night Boats were set to play at a local bar in San Francisco, Mat messaged me saying my name plus one was on the venue door entry list. I couldn’t help myself from sharing with the door man that I was ‘hosting the band.’ **[![Couchsurfing Band BOATS](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2014/06/img_1135.jpeg "Couchsurfing Band BOATS - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2014/06/img_1135.jpeg)“Want free entry to a Rock Show? Host the band.”** As Boats were setting up the stage, frontman Mat found me and took me backstage. Do you know what happens backstage at a rock show? Yep – Couchsurfers and free beer. Mat introduced me to the rest of the band. Most of the other members had played with Mat for a while, but this tour was different with the addition of an energetic 19 year old drummer who had been playing with the band for only two months. I asked Mat if it was hard keeping the band together. “It can be. A few have panicked that this rock thing won’t pay off so they flee to college to get a degree,” he said, chuckling. After BOATS rocked out on stage, the instruments were packed up and loaded onto their well-traveled Chevy tour van. I sat up in the front passengers’ seat giving the drummer directions back to my place. The drummer later told me that the venue owner didn’t want him to play tonight because he was under 21 and shouldn’t be backstage with the free beer. Frontman Mat had convinced the owner it would be OK, as the 19 year old wasn’t just the band drummer but also the designated driver for the evening. #### Sharing my space with the BOATS Once home, the wifi password was shared along with hot showers and a barrage of questions I’ve always wanted to ask a band (I finally learned what a producer does!). For me, talking to surfers who work in a completely different field from mine is one of the most enjoyable things that I could get out of Couchsurfing. So I unloaded my few dozen questions to everyone as we kicked back in my living room and put on a few records. [![Couch](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/Screen-Shot-2014-05-29-at-1.59.05-PM.png "- Couchsurfing Blog")](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/Screen-Shot-2014-05-29-at-1.59.05-PM.png) **“You know, I have to say that hosting this band was very easy. [BOATS](http://www.yeahboats.com "Couchsurfing Band the Boats") only stayed for one night and they all had sleeping bags. I borrowed an extra air bed in addition to my couch and all 5 members were comfortably put up for the night.”** #### Upon Goodbye Morning came with an early rise, and I was still buzzing from the previous evening’s entertainment as I cooked everyone an English breakfast (complete with baked beans). Hugs were given all around as the van was loaded and multiple points of the suspension were tested by bouncing the guitarist on the hood. [![Tour van BOATS](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2014/06/img_1149.jpeg "Tour van BOATS - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2014/06/img_1149.jpeg) **The band’s well-travelled tour van goes by the Couchsurfing-worthy name “Explorer”.** Mat handed me a warm handshake and a copy of their new CD “[A Fairway Full of Miners](http://yeahboats.bandcamp.com/album/a-fairway-full-of-miners "Couchsurfing Band the boats").” The band had about 6 hours of driving ahead of them to get to the next town. I’m not sure if they made it all the way back around to San Francisco but I would jump at the chance to host them again. Super nice, down-to-earth folks, and I have to say – very enjoyable music! BOATS definitely got me hooked to the idea of hosting more touring bands. *If you have any experience hosting a band, artist or traveling musician – get in touch with us [here](https://docs.google.com/a/couchsurfing.com/forms/d/1Gcib_AThQJweqCNYsp4c5EAKbEUW5nDC03kfbT87gXY/viewform "Band Musician Artist on Couchsurfing")!* ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/hosting-a-band-on-tour-couchsurfer-tom-hosts-the-boats/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/hosting-a-band-on-tour-couchsurfer-tom-hosts-the-boats/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts **Tags:** backstage, band, couchstories, couchsurfer, couchsurfing experience, couchsurfing host, hosting, rock band, san francisco, the boats, united states, usa --- ### [Couchsurfing: there’s an app for that!](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-theres-an-app-for-that-android-beta-starts-today/) **Published:** June 10, 2014 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** Nearly two years ago, the Couchsurfing team built mobile applications (for iOS and Android platforms) supporting the basic functions of the service. This week marks the first of many product announcements we’ll have this year – we’ve got new apps! **Download the newest version of the Couchsurfing app here:** [![Google Play Store Button](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2014/06/play-store-86542205216977bdb32631026728c400.png "play-store-86542205216977bdb32631026728c400 - Couchsurfing Blog")](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.couchsurfing.mobile.android#?t=W251bGwsMSwyLDIxMiwiY29tLmNvdWNoc3VyZmluZy5tb2JpbGUuYW5kcm9pZCJd "Play Store Couchsurfing") [![app-store-cfd6db12ed8545f6c6a2b11decf5c782](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2014/06/app-store-cfd6db12ed8545f6c6a2b11decf5c782.png "app-store-cfd6db12ed8545f6c6a2b11decf5c782 - Couchsurfing Blog")](https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/couchsurfing/id525642917 "Couchsurfing Travel App App Store") #### What’s new? The new apps support searching for and joining Couchsurfing Events, and allow members to find hosts, exchange messages, and interact via the couch request system. There are many other new features, too, including photo uploads and notifications. We’ll ship regular fixes and updates, so the apps will get better over time – they are still talking to a relatively old back-end, so at places they’re a bit quirky. We’ll be fixing that later this year.\* ![Android Beta App Events ](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/Android-Screenshot-3-2.png) Very special thanks to our early Beta Testers: [Ashle](https://www.couchsurfing.org/people/jade000/)[y](https://www.couchsurfing.org/people/jade000/), [Barbora](https://www.couchsurfing.org/people/Barena22/), [Beau](https://www.couchsurfing.org/people/beauol/), [Gerrit](http://www.couchsurfing.org/people/deterts/), [Isabel](https://www.couchsurfing.org/people/isadolphin/), [Nolan](https://www.couchsurfing.org/profile.html?id=69DEDJP), [Tino](https://www.couchsurfing.org/people/regenpfuetze/), [Valerija](https://www.couchsurfing.org/people/venjka/), [Yuki](https://www.couchsurfing.org/people/xuyuan/), [Zach](https://www.couchsurfing.org/people/underminedsk/), [Gonzalo](https://www.couchsurfing.org/people/gonzalo.rodriguez/), [Celia](https://www.couchsurfing.org/people/punky_bruster/), [Remy](https://www.couchsurfing.org/n/people/Fanagame), [Jazmina](https://www.couchsurfing.org/people/pasinerva/), [Daniel](http://www.couchsurfing.org/people/daniel182), [Kira](https://www.couchsurfing.org/people/kira.tverskaya/), [Geoffrey](https://www.couchsurfing.org/people/jojobombardo/), [Alfonso](https://www.couchsurfing.org/n/people/almorsen), [Ciro](https://www.couchsurfing.org/people/toNy5oo), [Dave](https://www.couchsurfing.org/people/wvrent/), [Jørgen](http://www.couchsurfing.org/people/Jorgen), [Roy](https://www.couchsurfing.org/members/roymarvelous), [Santiago](https://www.couchsurfing.org/people/ingsmurf/), [Pedram](https://www.couchsurfing.org/profile.html?id=T4GPHU0), [Claus](https://www.couchsurfing.org/people/engelen/), [Don](https://www.couchsurfing.org/n/people/THERIEL), [Elena](https://www.couchsurfing.org/people/martynez/), [Eliza](https://www.couchsurfing.org/people/elizachu/), [Stefano](https://www.couchsurfing.org/profile.html?id=1GL3KWU), [Andreia](https://www.couchsurfing.org/people/andreiaengelberg/), [Sara](https://www.couchsurfing.org/people/kinkajue/), [Ellyse](http://www.couchsurfing.org/people/ellyse), [Jorge](https://www.couchsurfing.org/people/jorgerieraflores/), [Nicola](http://www.couchsurfing.org/people/nicolakojoferrarese), [Filippo](https://www.couchsurfing.org/people/filipek), [Gilles](https://www.couchsurfing.org/people/krikkong/), [Marga](https://www.couchsurfing.org/people/margarita1/), [David](https://www.couchsurfing.org/people/cocytus/), [Mariana](https://www.couchsurfing.org/people/mariscp/), [Gianna](https://www.couchsurfing.org/people/giannabennardo/), [Jordan](https://www.couchsurfing.org/profile.html?id=26J14XF), [Giampiero](http://www.couchsurfing.org/people/calabrus/), and [Jorge](https://www.couchsurfing.org/people/jorgegr/). Happy summer travels, everyone! \*Note: If you’re one of our wonderful active hosts who relies on the mobile app to search for travelers near you, we’ve removed that particular feature from this version of the mobile apps. It will appear in an upcoming release in an improved form that we believe will better serve the entire community. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-theres-an-app-for-that-android-beta-starts-today/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-theres-an-app-for-that-android-beta-starts-today/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts, News **Tags:** android app, android beta, beta app, couchsurfing app, Couchsurfing app launch, couchsurfing hq, couchsurfing mobile app, iOS app, mobile app, mobile app iphone, mobile app launch, mobile app release, news, product news, traveler app, travelers app --- ### [Hailey's Journey - A Solo Woman Traveler Explores the World](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/haileys-journey-a-solo-woman-traveler-explores-the-world/) **Published:** May 8, 2014 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** *What is it like to use Couchsurfing as a young solo female traveler? *We talked to Hailey about her passion for traveling and her experience using Couchsurfing* as a solo woman traveler. [Hailey](https://www.couchsurfing.org/profile.html?id=11EU0I4F) joined Couchsurfing in October 2012 and recently set off for a 4 month trip to Iceland, Greece, India and Cambodia. You can follow her adventures and photography on her *blog [Not From Home](http://www.notfromhome.com/aout/ "Hailey's Blog Not From Home").** **“There are opinions in regards to traveling alone. There are stronger opinions in regards to being a woman and traveling alone.” ~[Hailey’s blog](http://www.notfromhome.com/aout/ "Hailey's blog")** #### Hailey, when did you know that you had a love for travel? I grew up in a conservative town where it was rare to even just hear of anyone leaving the country. I believe that this fact sprung a curiosity within me when I was about 8 years old. I wanted answers to questions that no one could give me. This is when I started sifting through photographs of foreign places. No one seemed to be talking about this world that apparently existed outside of Idaho. I decided it was crucial for me to see the world, to answer the questions I had. Since that time, traveling has become the way that I learn about myself and the world. It has taught me to open my mind to those things unfamiliar and has made me realize that the world is so small, yet so big and diverse and full of incredible people. It helped me understand that I am but a very small part of the world, which I find to be very humbling. *[![ Hailey Etheredge](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2014/05/hailey.png)](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2014/05/hailey.png)* ****“My name is Hailey Etheredge and I am a woman traveling alone.”**** #### What do you like about Couchsurfing? I think that the idea of opening your home to a complete stranger is one of the most human things a person can do, and this act creates a bit of vulnerability that each is willing to share with the other. The experiences that follow are some of the most true and unguarded. Couchsurfing offers a way to connect with people that seems to have gotten lost somewhere along the way in the past few decades. #### How has Couchsurfing changed the way you travel? I have found myself in situations that would not have been possible without the recommendations of a host and their connections within a city. I spend significantly more time in the presence of locals who soon become good friends when Couchsurfing. It completely alters the overall experience in a foreign place. #### What is your favorite Couchsurfing experience? It is impossible to sift through the experiences that I have been lucky enough to have in the past year: from my first host in Iceland cooking dinner for me nearly every night and insisting I sleep in his bed while he stayed on the couch, to arriving in Manhattan and within minutes laughing hysterically over a game of Cards Against Humanity until 5 am, to spending a week with endless mimosas in the snow while hosting a surfer from London, to arriving in Vancouver, BC and almost immediately being welcomed with bowls of Halloween candy and X Files movie marathons — I think it is safe to say that I have had multiple ‘best’ experiences.[![Hailey and her Couchsurfing Host in Reykjavik](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2014/05/hailey-and-her-couchsurfing-host-in-reykjavik.png "Hailey and her Couchsurfing Host in Reykjavik - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2014/05/hailey-and-her-couchsurfing-host-in-reykjavik.png) **“My amazing first host in Iceland cooked dinner for me nearly every night and insisted I sleep in his bed while he stayed on the couch.”** #### Why are these your most memorable experiences? These experiences were crucial in my realization that people, in general, are good. I think that it is easy to become caught up in the bad that exists in the world and these experiences I have had through Couchsurfing have helped to outweigh the bad. These experiences were possible because of people letting down their guard and allowing me to be a part of their life. I believe this act to be incredibly healthy, though difficult in this day and age. So, when this does happen, the experiences that follow are the most true and memorable. #### What are ways to incorporate the [Couchsurfing Values](www.couchsurfing.com/n/values "Couchsurfing Values") into your everyday life? Sharing my life allows others to discover something new. It allows me to further appreciate each unique factor that makes my life precisely what it is. I don’t believe that I can stress enough the importance of creating connections. I have benefited countless times because of the connection I have made through Couchsurfing. Though the world certainly seems immense, it truly is very small and the people that each one of us share it with are connected in more ways than one. [![Couchsurfing Values](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2014/05/couchsurfing-values.png "Couchsurfing Values - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2014/05/couchsurfing-values.png) Offering kindness is our instinct and we should always be aware of the force that brings us to do such things. The smallest amount of kindness has the strongest capabilities. Never forgetting that our acts affect those around us is a true and good power. Staying curious is the force behind travel. Personally, it is my reason for the persistent urge to discover the cultures of the world. To leave it better than you found it is an excellent example of a simple act of kindness that goes a long way. #### How do you think Couchsurfing has had an impact on the world and you? I think it would be safe to say that Couchsurfing has forever changed the worlds of those who participate. Since the Couchsurfing community is made up of like-minded individuals, I believe that each person is actively looking for ways in which to share their world and to be a part of another’s. This act alone is impactful and capable of making changes that at first may seem subtle, but eventually grow to alter one’s views and opinions of the act of traveling. Every Couchsurfing experience I have had so far has taught me to be more aware of my actions and to be more grateful, open, and accepting. #### What’s your advice to fellow women travelers who want to try Couchsurfing for the first time? Simply to be aware. Especially in the situations of being a woman traveling alone, it is essential to be aware of your actions and the cultural customs which you may be unfamiliar with. Equally as important, to not be afraid. Fear is capable of shaping experiences and it is important to be aware of this, but to not let it negatively affect your travels and decisions. Use common sense, take risks, and always know that everything works out in the end. #### Visit our [Safety Center](https://www.couchsurfing.org/n/safety_tips) for additional safety tips! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/haileys-journey-a-solo-woman-traveler-explores-the-world/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/haileys-journey-a-solo-woman-traveler-explores-the-world/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts **Tags:** couchstories, couchsurfer, couchsurfing, couchsurfing host, female travelers, hailey, iceland, reykjavik, safety, solo, solo woman, travel stories, travelling alone --- ### [Website Stability Improvements](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/website-stability-improvements/) **Published:** April 16, 2014 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** *Remember [when we said](http://10.9.0.204/wondering-what-were-up-to-at-cshq/ "Wondering what we are up to at cshq") we would make the website more stable and more reliable? Well, we have been working hard on making our platform just that: more stable and more reliable.* We recognize that no matter what we do with new and improved features, if the site is not available and speedy, it is not serving the needs of our members and keeping them warm, dry and connected while they travel. To that end, we have migrated our server infrastructure to a new hosting provider that has allowed us to upgrade servers in a timely fashion and will allow us flexibility to respond to increased traffic over time. Over the past several months, our engineers have been working day and night to ensure these improvements go as smoothly as possible. ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/lqUlY8m58iQ0rVJhkCev-z5etg8y0Tw9dd94TL0I4xWRqolbREahIpBgLqjtv5a9F72oak0L5qKELhDWj1wk7jQN35Ea2sdGm_DE7LJbcMk8FQlWAL5z_sUgDPR7MplKfQ) **Andrew and Alex during the main migration to our new service provider.** [The (very long) night we moved many of our servers](http://instagram.com/p/kn5ZDVFqBE/ "Service Provider Migration Night"), we were impressed by the support of the Couchsurfing community: these [two Couchsurfers from Auckland (New Zealand)](https://twitter.com/CSAuckland/status/436335964487569408/photo/1 "Couchsurfing Twitter Auckland Members"), found a creative and kind way to inquire about the downtime – thank you for hanging in there! A huge thank you also to this compassionate [member](https://twitter.com/chinoyon/status/436368316052307969 "Couchsurfing Twitter Member Support Migration Night") who sent us a [virtual cup of coffee](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/1/16/Classic_Cappuccino.jpg "Virtual Coffee") to stay awake – it was both much needed and very much appreciated! ### Stability – Improved! We’ve improved overall performance and dramatically reduced the number of unplanned outages. It will now, for example, be possible to copy large amounts of data from production servers for analysis/backup without bringing the site down. Our Technical Operations Manager, Sylvain explains what issues were eliminated with the migration to new servers: “Repeated network problems at our old hosting provider led to the site being unusable for 15-60 minutes several times per week. That’s no longer the case. Hardware failures required us to replace failing hardware on a monthly basis. That’s fixed. Before the move we spent ~95% of our time just keeping the site running with very little time to make improvements. One of us is always on-call and would consistently get woken up in the middle of the night 2-3 times a week as well as have their daily work interrupted several times a day. Now we spend ~90% of our time on site improvement projects with a late night (but non-emergency) alert once every month.” [![WebOps and dogs](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/WebOps-and-dogs.png "- Couchsurfing Blog")](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/WebOps-and-dogs.png) **We’re happy that Sylvain and his team – including Couchsurfing office dogs Albus and Buddy – will no longer be woken up in the middle of the night (at least when it comes to dealing with the site).** The table and chart below show the dramatic improvement in site stability after the night when we moved to the new hosting provider, which happened at the end of February. They also illustrate the trend of faster load times. This is an area that we are going to continue to focus on in the near future as we continue to re-architect our back end systems for scalability, security, and speed. Operations incidents correlate to downtime and general site issues that affect our members. [![Website stability improvementsWebsite stability improvements](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2014/04/website-stability-improvements.png "Website stability improvements - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2014/04/website-stability-improvements.png) **[![Website performanceimprovements](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2014/04/screen-shot-2014-04-16-at-2-15-08-pm.png)](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2014/04/screen-shot-2014-04-16-at-2-15-08-pm.png)** ### What’s Next? #### **Speed Improvements** The recent stability improvements allow the team to focus on next steps: faster load and response times outside the United States. The code that runs our site is being updated with a focus on minimizing network latency and round trips per page – meaning faster load times everywhere. #### **Mobile App** As [we announced](http://10.9.0.204/wondering-what-were-up-to-at-cshq/ "Wondering what we are up to at cshq") back in the fall, we’re focused on mobile. The first version of the new mobile app – for Android and iOS – is about to go into the first testing phase. A group of Couchsurfers will participate in our beta testing efforts and we are looking forward to working together to create a mobile experience that helps travelers couchsurf from their mobile devices. More news on that in the coming weeks! *Thank you again for your tremendous patience over the past few months! Every day, we are inspired by our awesome community to push harder, improve the site and keep going to new and interesting places!* ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/website-stability-improvements/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/website-stability-improvements/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts, News **Tags:** couchsurfing hq, couchsurfing staff, coushurfing website, improvements, load times, migration, service provider, site speed, site stability, staff members, website performance --- ### [Family Couchsurfing with Bruno](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/family-couchsurfing-with-bruno/) **Published:** February 4, 2014 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** *Couchsurfing with a family is a bit different. But what is it like?* *We interviewed [Couchsurfing Ambassador](https://www.couchsurfing.org/n/ambassadors) Filippo about about his experiences Couchsurfing with his family. [Filippo Occhipinti](http://www.couchsurfing.org/people/filipek) joined Couchsurfing in 2005 and has hosted hundreds of travelers in his home in Palermo (Sicily, Italy). His life changed radically when he married fellow Couchsurfer Marianna and their son Bruno was born* ***We were curious to find out how Bruno’s birth has affected their Couchsurfing activity.*** [![Bruno with globe](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2014/02/bruno-with-world.png "bruno with world - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2014/02/bruno-with-world.png) **“Planning with Bruno to reach Nordkapp by car!” (Photo taken 2 months after Bruno’s birth)** **Filippo, since you have a family, have you been travelling and Couchsurfing less than before?** No, my travelling habits haven’t changed that much since I have a family. Obviously, having fun is no longer partying until late as it used to be in the past; it can also be going to bed early and listening to my son telling me his personal story about the funny dragons he saw in the forbidden city, or still getting excited with him because each time the airplane is sooo cool! With my wife Marianna and my son Bruno, we have travelled in several countries within Europe, but also in other continents. We drove from Sicily to Nordkapp (Norway), crossed Turkey, visited Georgia and Armenia, and travelled through Iran and China. During all these trips we were hosted by Couchsurfers. I believe that if you are able to take care of your children at home, you can also do that while travelling in another country, you simply must be organized and flexible. **[![iran family couchsurfing_bruno](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/iran-family-couchsurfing_bruno.png "- Couchsurfing Blog")](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/iran-family-couchsurfing_bruno.png)** **“I believe that if you are able to take care of your children at home, you can also do that while travelling in another country, you simply must be organized and flexible.”** **As a guest with a family, was it more difficult to find a host?** As an active member of Couchsurfing, I never had problems finding a host, and it’s even easier now that I travel with my family. Especially in Iran and China, our experiences were extremely positive as we were hosted by Couchsurfers who also had a family. **As a host, have the kind of people you welcome to your home changed?** I’d rather say the kinds of requests we receive have changed. Now we mostly receive requests from families, couples or girls who travel alone and feel more comfortable to be hosted by a family. **What is the reaction of your son Bruno when new people arrive at your house?** Our son loves hosting Couchsurfers at home! He thinks all these travellers are friends. Bruno likes to play and interact with other Couchsurfers even if they often don’t understand each other because of existing language barriers. He also likes surfing other people’s couches a lot; during our last trip to Turkey, Georgia, and Armenia, each time we left our host’s house he was sad but he was also excited to meet our next host. It made him believe we have thousands of friends! **[![body language_bruno](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/body-language_bruno.png "- Couchsurfing Blog")](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/body-language_bruno.png)** **“Bruno likes to play and interact with other Couchsurfers even if they often don’t understand each other because of existing language barriers.”** **Overall, do you recommend Couchsurfing for a travelling family and a hosting family?** Of course I do. It is a great experience to host or be hosted by other families, especially because our children can learn to be open minded and have a positive attitude towards strangers. **What role do you want Couchsurfing to play in your children’s education?** It is very important for us that Bruno can grow up meeting different people in different cultures. Couchsurfing allows him to learn how to respect other people’s diversity. He already recognizes many countries in the globe and also knows many flags. It is a game for him. For Nirvana, Marianna’s 18 years old daughter who also lives with us, Couchsurfing is an opportunity to practice and improve her knowledge of other languages, as she is majoring in French and English. **Do you think Bruno will become a Couchsurfer, too?** I don’t know. It will be up to him to decide. Parents often think they know what is best for their children, but children may grow up having a different opinion. The point isn’t whether he will be a Couchsurfer or not; what my wife and I hope is that he will learn from the experiences he lives through Couchsurfing to be curious and to respect all the wonderful cultures and people that live in the world. He already has many friends around the world… the people we met as hosts and guests. If he decides to travel like we do, he already has many friends waiting for him! **[![bruno on shoulders](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2014/02/bruno-on-shoulders.png "bruno on shoulders - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2014/02/bruno-on-shoulders.png)** **“My wife and I hope is that he will learn from the experiences he lives through Couchsurfing to be curious and to respect all the wonderful cultures and people that live in the world.”** #### Do you have children? Read our [Family Couchsurfing tips](https://www.couchsurfing.org/n/resources/families)! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/family-couchsurfing-with-bruno/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/family-couchsurfing-with-bruno/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts **Tags:** bruno, couchsurfers, couchsurfing, couchsurfing friends, couchsurfing with children, family couchsurfing, filippo, italy --- ### [Your new "Home" Page is here](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/your-new-home-page-is-here/) **Published:** October 31, 2013 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** There’s a something new on our website you should check out! We listened to your input: you need to be able to view your upcoming Couchsurfing activities at one glance and use the core features of the website more easily. As of today, your “home” page is no longer your local Place Page but a dashboard of your activities on Couchsurfing. [![Screen Shot 2013-10-23 at 5.31.31 PM](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2013/10/screen-shot-2013-10-23-at-5-31-31-pm.png "Screen Shot 2013-10-23 at 5.31.31 PM - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2013/10/screen-shot-2013-10-23-at-5-31-31-pm.png) #### **What’s the new home page all about?** Your new home page gives you an overview of your upcoming personal Couchsurfing experiences. It allows you to view and manage: - incoming and confirmed surfers - responses from hosts and confirmed hosts - events you are invited to or attending The dashboard also shows you how to take additional action, e.g. invite guests, post a travel plan, look for events or find Couchsurfers in your area to meet up (Place Pages). As requested by many users, you may now also look for a couch directly from the dashboard. You will be reminded to write a reference for your previous hosts or guests. On the left panel you may edit your profile, see your pending friend requests and the recently visited groups, with an invitation to join them if you haven’t already. In the future, the dashboard will be your default home page on the website. You can always go right back to it by clicking on the “Home” button in the navigation bar. [![Screen Shot 2013-10-23 at 5.20.35 PM](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2013/10/screen-shot-2013-10-23-at-5-20-35-pm.png)](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2013/10/screen-shot-2013-10-23-at-5-20-35-pm.png) A big thank you to our dedicated beta testers who have given us feedback and helped us find and fix bugs in the process. Have fun exploring your dashboard and we hope you like it! -Best The Couchsurfing Product and Community Team ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/your-new-home-page-is-here/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/your-new-home-page-is-here/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts **Tags:** couchsurfing, dashboard, home page, new feature --- ### [Our Couchsurfing Ambassador Program](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/our-couchsurfing-ambassador-program/) **Published:** October 16, 2013 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** We recently launched a new program to appreciate and highlight some of our most engaged members, our Couchsurfing Ambassadors. Ambassadors live and breathe Couchsurfing and embody our [Core Values](https://www.couchsurfing.org/n/values) – every day. They have been chosen to participate in this program because of the amazing ways in which they participate in Couchsurfing and their passion for creating more cultural understanding and respect in the world. [![Screen Shot 2013-10-15 at 1.20.08 PM](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2013/10/screen-shot-2013-10-15-at-1-20-08-pm.png "Screen Shot 2013-10-15 at 1.20.08 PM - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2013/10/screen-shot-2013-10-15-at-1-20-08-pm.png) Over the last weeks, we’ve added over 1000 Ambassadors to the program and we will continue to add amazing people starting in January 2014. Our current Ambassadors live all over the world and between them they speak over 163 languages. They all have inspiring stories to tell and we’re happy to [feature some of our Ambassador’s stories here](https://www.couchsurfing.org/n/ambassadors). [![ambassadors-random-cs-meeting-chile1](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2013/10/ambassadors-random-cs-meeting-chile1.jpg "ambassadors-random-cs-meeting-chile1 - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2013/10/ambassadors-random-cs-meeting-chile1.jpg) Couchsurfing Ambassadors organize spontaneous beach camps and [start education projects](http://couchsurfing.tumblr.com/post/61336487974/everyone-can-do-something-200-days-in-africa%20) or collect clothing to support local communities. They are the kind of people who would treat their guests (yes, guests!) with a bouquet of flowers. Out of pure kindness. Ambassadors are that extraordinary. And they truly understand that Couchsurfing is about “sharing your life with someone and including that someone in your everyday activities. Making them part of your family, part of your group of friends, part of you!” Our Couchsurfing Ambassadors inspire us every day, both from home and on the road. [![Screen Shot 2013-10-15 at 1.57.10 PM](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2013/10/screen-shot-2013-10-15-at-1-57-10-pm.png "Screen Shot 2013-10-15 at 1.57.10 PM - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2013/10/screen-shot-2013-10-15-at-1-57-10-pm.png) ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/our-couchsurfing-ambassador-program/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/our-couchsurfing-ambassador-program/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts **Tags:** ambassador, couchsurfers, couchsurfing, couchsurfing hq, values --- ### [Increasing Website Stability](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/increasing-website-stability/) **Published:** October 14, 2013 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** One of our main priorities as a company right now is increasing the stability and performance of our website. It’s not as reliable as it needs to be, and it’s important for us to change that. One of our main problems currently is with one of our hosting providers and their hardware. We’ve kicked off a project to move all of our servers to AWS, which will give us greater reliability and the ability to recover more quickly when things do fail. Want more details? Read the detailed interview below with our Director of Dev Ops, Sylvain Niles **What needs to be fixed to make the website more reliable?** > Years ago, aspects of our site were built for 30,000 members. Now we have 7 million. The solution that worked for the Couchsurfing website then is different from is needed now. > > Because of Couchsurfing’s nonprofit origins, the company had to go with a super cheap data center provider and built the website around that provider. Now, years later, we regularly have issues with their servers and networking hardware, both of which bring our servers down. The original Couchsurfing site has a lot of things hardcoded into it that relate to our existing data center, making it difficult to simply move to a newer cloud provider. So not only do we need to change providers, but we need to rewrite a big part of the website before we can move. > > Our longer downtimes (around 6 hours) are almost always related to server or network hardware failure. Shorter downtimes (20 minutes to 2 hours) are usually due to network issues with our provider. Server failure can be improved by moving to newer servers with the existing provider and we’ve been doing this proactively. Network downtime – like the one this weekend – is out of our control until we’re able to move all services to a reliable cloud provider. **What are you and the team working on?** > For now, the process to increased website stability is done in baby steps. The team is replacing older servers with newer ones so that at least we’re lessening server failure. This doesn’t help us with networking hardware though, which can only be fixed by moving to a new provider. We can’t move to a new provider until we rewrite the code. > > For now, our goal in moving to newer hardware is to have less frequent downtime related to server failure. **How do you plan on increasing website stability?** > We’re adding more detailed monitoring to help us detect failures – and the conditions that lead to failures – sooner. We’re writing scripts that check metrics on the servers that indicate there’s going to be a problem. We’re also changing portions of the new site to rely less on the old site. > > Recently we added a feature that automatically updates [our Twitter account](https://twitter.com/couchsurfing) when we turn on the downtime page, both when the site goes down and when all systems have been restored. This should help keep members informed as early as possible. > > Unlike new companies, every time we implement a new feature or move from the old site code to newer code, it needs to be able to support 7 million users on the first day. That’s time-consuming. For example, with something like messages, we’ll need to include all old messages and couchrequests, translate them to the new system and allow them both to work at the same time during the migration. And that’s just messaging! When you think of all the other Couchsurfing features it becomes this huge task (and hopefully explains why it feels like these changes are taking a long time to implement!) **When are you hoping to have more reliable servers?** > As we finish these individual projects, the site will get more reliable and you’ll see some big improvements within a month and a half. We’re hoping to be 100% migrated from the old to the new provider within three months. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/increasing-website-stability/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/increasing-website-stability/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts **Tags:** couchsurfing, site stability, website performance --- ### [Changes at HQ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/changes-at-hq/) **Published:** October 10, 2013 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** This morning, Couchsurfing’s leadership team announced some changes to the staff that we wanted to pass along to the community. A letter from Tony Espinoza: > Dear Couchsurfing – > > Couchsurfing began as a global movement, and I am honored to have been part of its transformation into a mission-driven startup with a deep sense of purpose. The past 18 months serving as CEO have yielded some of the most meaningful and powerful experiences of my 20 year career building technology. Today as I step down as CEO I’m proud that Couchsurfing is poised for the future with a great team, substantial funding, strong investor backing, and a passionate, growing community. > > I remain in awe of the CS community which has grown in every dimension, doubling in size to 7M members just since I joined the company. Along the way we raised significant financial support from investors who are aligned with the CS mission to make the world better through travel and travel richer through connection. > > Late last year, I realized Couchsurfing’s rapid organic growth required that we crystalize and strengthen our core values — the foundation for everything we do. It was at this time that I reached out to long-time colleague, Jen Billock, whose proven track record as a compassionate startup leader made her the perfect candidate to focus on our community and transform the way we work from the inside out. She immediately championed the voice of the community and led key initiatives such as the new Ambassador program and an integrated approach to all communication channels, building the scaffolding for Couchsurfing’s evolving brand and member experience. > > The board of directors and I are pleased to announce Jen’s appointment as interim CEO. The board will soon commence a search for a long-term CEO, and Jen has graciously accepted our request for her to step in at this important moment. We have a great deal of faith in her ability to lead the company through the next phase. I look forward to continuing to partner with her in the coming months as we double down on mobile and continue driving Couchsurfing’s mission. > > Please join me in welcoming Jen to her new role! > > Tony A response from Couchsurfing’s interim CEO Jennifer Billock: > Thank you, Tony. I’m deeply grateful to have spent the past 11 months working so closely with you, and look forward to our continued work together. > > And to the rest of the Couchsurfing team… > > I came here to Couchsurfing to work with Tony. It’s not every day that one gets to work for a trusted friend and mentor. I am grateful to Tony for that fateful text message (I leapt at the opportunity via text before even speaking to him) because I landed a job that I knew I would LOVE, and it’s changed my life for the better in countless ways. I’m most grateful for being given the opportunity to work with such a talented team in service of Couchsurfing’s inspiring and passionate community. Working with a stellar team is what gets me up in the morning. And to be able to do that for Couchsurfing and its community has been both amazing and humbling. There is nothing in the world that I value more than the power of human connection, and, like a good tech start-up junkie, I believe in the power of technology to facilitate that and to make the world a more open place. Couchsurfing does that in profound ways. I have the pleasure of seeing it every day. Under Tony’s leadership, the global CS community has doubled, which has been incredible to watch. > > I’m honored to be offered this opportunity, and to shepherd Couchsurfing, along with all of you, as the board conducts a search for a long-term CEO. Thanks for being here with me. I look forward to spending time with you all in the next few days as we continue to build momentum. My door is always open, and I’m always happy to talk, day or night. > > Jen ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/changes-at-hq/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/changes-at-hq/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts **Tags:** couchsurfing hq, couchsurfing management, couchsurfing staff --- ### [Wondering what we’re up to at CSHQ?](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wondering-what-were-up-to-at-cshq/) **Published:** October 3, 2013 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** We are always working to make Couchsurfing a better place for you to find hosts, surfers and events. Here’s what we’re focused on right now: #### New Dashboard Our next release will de-emphasize Place Pages, instead bringing users to a new dashboard as their “home” screen. The dashboard will allow you to quickly and easily see: - Your hosting and surfing status – all pending requests and upcoming surf and host commitments. - Upcoming events – see your invitations, events you’re attending and other events of interest. [![Couchsurfing New Dashboard](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2013/10/dashboard-highresmock-r0-131002.png "Couchsurfing New Dashboard - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2013/10/dashboard-highresmock-r0-131002.png) Many of you have asked for it, and we hope you’re going to find it useful! It will be a much easier experience for new users to navigate, as well. #### Stability Site outages and slow site response times are extremely inconvenient for our members, the site is inaccessible too often. Speed and stability will be the web team’s main focus in the coming months, rather than new features. #### New Mobile App While we focus on website stability and reliability, we will put our “new feature” efforts into the mobile side of the Couchsurfing service. Early next year, there will be better apps for iOS and Android devices that make mobile Couchsurfing easier to use. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wondering-what-were-up-to-at-cshq/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wondering-what-were-up-to-at-cshq/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts **Tags:** couchsurfing, dashboard, mobile app, site stability --- ### [A New Way to Discover Couchsurfing Events Around the World](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-new-way-to-discover-couchsurfing-events-around-the-world/) **Published:** September 9, 2013 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** Couchsurfing is a way of life, not just a way to travel. We’ve seen Couchsurfers [fly to Mongolia](http://www.pinaytraveljunkie.com/2013/07/ulaanbaatar-mongolia-couchsurfing-ger.html) specifically to stay with a specific host and visit Berlin just to attend the local [Couch Crash](http://instagram.com/p/cXcziClqAW/). In our quest to not only create connections that last, but inspire them in the first place, we’ve launched [Global Events](https://www.couchsurfing.org/n/events) so you can plan your travels around the incredible Couchsurfing events happening across the globe. [![Events_-_Couchsurfing](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2013/08/events_-_couchsurfing.jpg "Events_-_Couchsurfing - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2013/08/events_-_couchsurfing.jpg) Previously, members had to visit each city’s page to view upcoming events. And since many cities have so many events, you often couldn’t browse more than a few days in advance without feeling overwhelmed. Now, you can find any public event listed on the site by going to [Global Events](https://www.couchsurfing.org/n/events) by clicking the “Events” button at the top of any Couchsurfing page. [![Global Events Couchsurfing](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2013/08/global-events-couchsurfing.jpeg "Global Events Couchsurfing - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2013/08/global-events-couchsurfing.jpeg) Members may also vote for events to be featured on the [Global Events](https://www.couchsurfing.org/n/events) page. To do this, go to the event that you would like to vote for and click on the “Want this event featured?” button. [![Free_Farm__-_Couchsurfing](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2013/08/free_farm__-_couchsurfing.jpg "Free_Farm__-_Couchsurfing - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2013/08/free_farm__-_couchsurfing.jpg) The more votes an event receives, the higher the chance it will be featured on Global Events. Please note that the criteria will likely be different for different events and locations. We hope this new feature will make events easier to find and the jobs of event creators even easier. We’ll be improving featured events over time, so hold tight if you don’t see your event listed right away. And, as always, if you have any additional feedback, [we’d love to hear it](https://www.couchsurfing.org/n/help). Happy surfing! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-new-way-to-discover-couchsurfing-events-around-the-world/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-new-way-to-discover-couchsurfing-events-around-the-world/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts **Tags:** events, featured events, global events, new feature --- ### [Say Hello to Community Manager, Massimo Bennardo](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/say-hello-to-community-manager-massimo-bennardo/) **Published:** August 6, 2013 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** *We’re so excited to welcome long-time member [Massimo Bennardo](https://www.couchsurfing.org/people/massimo_bennardo/) to the Couchsurfing team. Massimo joins us as a Community Manager, where he’ll work with the rest of the Community team to develop a strong connection between HQ and our members. We’ll let him introduce himself; please join us in wishing him a warm welcome (that’s what the comments are for!).* I come from Sicily, a place where hospitality is sacred, almost a law. Since before Couchsurfing even existed I have always traveled on a low budget, meeting new people and accepting their generous hospitality. When I found out about Couchsurfing in 2007 I was living alone in enormous Tuscan villa on top of a hill surrounded by olive trees. ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/oqhKro3xEQTf6-xDtEiRTJzPY2cpnZR8UvP3RYT6FFredz0lXHq74mkCcQsMp80qfDxnPP438BIM1wfyKIuG6tQ0WnynC1uz4kBsmcIx2jlchkNq8SNdxEU2)Tuscan Hilltops Couchsurfing was perfect for me: meeting people from all over the world, sharing my home, my passions and the prospect of traveling freely. So I started hosting many people, sometimes up to ten at a time! After a few months I attended my first International Couchsurfing meeting, Midsummer Night in Latvia, where I met some of my best friends: - [Baiba](https://www.couchsurfing.org/people/bagrii/), who lives in Australia. I introduced her to her partner and am now godfather to her daughter - [Florian](https://www.couchsurfing.org/people/flohfish/), my little brother. He and I have visited sixteen different countries together. - [Filippo](https://www.couchsurfing.org/people/filipek/), from Sicily. He is now married and has a beautiful little boy who has already traveled to Norway, China and Iran. Since then I have dedicated the majority of my time to being a hyper-active Couchsurfer. ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/hLQx0P7P_hE8VYg_VQtSdJRE87EuZIXc-6qyvgdF8VRo-fmiv6Hmj8pPafo4HVfy4r0DPvMWqVpCBqZ6mq_b2rpIx0O7sxShElSnqs5n_o0vf7mFpJ7OL0xP)Massimo hosting four cyclists and their bicycles When the CEO, Tony, contacted me with the opportunity of actually working for Couchsurfing, I thought I was dreaming! I accepted immediately. Being part of the Couchsurfing crew is the completion of 6 years of dedication to the project. I can finally help improve this wonderful tool we have and continue my Couchsurfing life through traveling, hosting, surfing and meeting great people! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/say-hello-to-community-manager-massimo-bennardo/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/say-hello-to-community-manager-massimo-bennardo/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts **Tags:** team --- ### [The Future of Couchsurfing](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-future-of-couchsurfing/) **Published:** July 2, 2013 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** Dear Couchsurfers, For the past few months I’ve been surfing, hosting and spending time in the Ambassador’s forum answering questions. I’ve met some incredibly inspiring Couchsurfers along the way — people who literally live and breathe CS. I also went out of my way to spend time with those who are deeply critical of headquarters. After countless detailed and passionate conversations, I’m happy to report that my belief in the future of CS is stronger than ever. I’m thankful for this opportunity to continuously question myself. The next step is to take everything we’ve learned and make changes in order to better serve our global community. Here’s what I’m thinking: ## **1) Let’s reaffirm our shared values.** Couchsurfing makes a difference in the world and these values are what give CS it’s meaning. **Share Your Life:** Couchsurfing is about sharing your life, your experiences, your journey, your home, your extra almonds or a majestic sunset. We believe that the spirit of generosity, when applied liberally, has the power to profoundly change the world for the better. **Create Connection:** Humans are made happier and healthier by the power of meaningful connection. Connecting with and accepting the kindness of “strangers” can strengthen our faith in our fellow human beings and help us all to become better people. **Offer Kindness**: Tolerance, respect and appreciation for differences are all embodied in kindness. It’s about being willing to share yourself and being willing to learn, all while giving others the benefit of the doubt. **Stay Curious:** We appreciate and share a desire to learn about one another, about the world and about how we can grow as people and become better global citizens through travel. **Leave It Better Than You Found It:** This applies to the world, to relationships, to your host’s home or to the sidewalk you meander down on your way to a coffee shop. We’re here to make the world better, to enhance each other’s lives and to become stronger in that purpose by coming together. ## **2) Let’s change the way we build the service.** Couchsurfing is more than a website. But a functional, easy-to-use site is the vital platform we all depend on to travel, stay connected and share our experiences. My top priority in 2012 was to build a team that could create a new site in a new technology that would serve Couchsurfing for the next 10 years. But building a team and migrating the technology is not enough. Some say we’ve moved too fast. Others argue we haven’t moved fast enough. I think there’s truth in both statements and it’s time to pull our learning together and synthesize a new approach. The biggest lessons are clear: We need to work as closely with the community as possible in building and migrating the site. I need to ensure the team here has more time (and encouragement) to surf and host continuously — to live and breathe CS. We also must admit that we are missing key team members with greater Couchsurfing experience. I am moving to address these issues immediately. **Here are more specific priorities for the site in the second half of 2013:** - Active hosts should receive more high-quality requests. - Surfers should connect with great hosts without writing dozens of requests. - The goal is quality, not quantity. New members must contribute more and share more about themselves in order to fully participate on the Couchsurfing site. - Event creators need stronger tools to create and promote meaningful events. - Place Pages need a redesign and stronger moderation. We will be listening for feedback and engaging in constant, direct conversation to aid us making better decisions. In many cases we need to move slower in order to benefit from the feedback and ensure systems work for members the first time they use them. For example, we have delayed the release of the new surf/host engine to make it easier to use. Next week we will begin with a limited release in a small number of cities. Once the feedback is positive from both hosts and surfers, we will launch in more cities. ## **3) Let’s change the way we communicate.** Over the past few months we’ve answered a lot of questions and yet I’m sure there will always be more. Couchsurfing is all about openness and we will embrace that value by transparently communicating our plans to members. In the coming months we will continue the conversation about how CS is running so members understand the decisions we’re making and how we’re making them. We will continue to examine our policies and make improvements. For example, [we recently updated Couchsurfing Terms of Use](http://10.9.0.204/changes-to-our-terms-of-use/) based on member feedback. The main change is in section 4.3 where we state clearly, “You own all of the Member Content that you post to our Services” and we will use the information in order to “administer, operate, develop and otherwise provide the Couchsurfing Services.” The result is the most member-centric content license in the history of CS. Tony Espinoza *Originally posted in the Couchsurfing Ambassador group.* ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-future-of-couchsurfing/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-future-of-couchsurfing/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts **Tags:** featured --- ### [The Couchsurfing Events System: Now With Co-Organizers and Calendar View!](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-couchsurfing-events-system-now-with-co-organizers-and-calendar-view/) **Published:** June 27, 2013 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** Over the past week we’ve rolled out a few more changes to the events system. Based on your feedback, you can now you can add another organizer (or organizers) to your events. Just search by username on the “Create an Event” page to add as many as you’d like. See the multi-organizer tool in action below! [![Screen Shot 2013-06-27 at 11.23.32 AM](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2013/06/screen-shot-2013-06-27-at-11-23-32-am.png "Screen Shot 2013-06-27 at 11.23.32 AM - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2013/06/screen-shot-2013-06-27-at-11-23-32-am.png) For most users, when you land on your place page, a notification will pop up. [![Screen Shot 2013-06-25 at 2.24.46 PM](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/Screen-Shot-2013-06-25-at-2.24.46-PM.jpg "- Couchsurfing Blog")](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/Screen-Shot-2013-06-25-at-2.24.46-PM.jpg) (This is what it looks like if you haven’t clicked “Okay” and you own an event.) ![Screen Shot 2013-06-25 at 2.24.27 PM](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/Screen-Shot-2013-06-25-at-2.24.27-PM.jpg "- Couchsurfing Blog") **You can also now browse events by using a calendar view**. Days with any events on them are called out, and you can browse events by month. [![Screen Shot 2013-06-27 at 11.14.09 AM](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2013/06/screen-shot-2013-06-27-at-11-14-09-am.png)](http://csplaceholder.files.wordpress.com/2013/06/screen-shot-2013-06-27-at-11-14-09-am.png) Please also note that on July 9, 2013 we will be shutting down Activities. **If you have an upcoming Activity, please recreate it as an event.** (To ensure the necessary features are met, we will wait until Events have subevents and promotional tools to shut down Meetings.) As always, thanks for all your fantastic feedback, we couldn’t do it without you. Please [contact our Support team](https://www.couchsurfing.org/n/help) with any questions. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-couchsurfing-events-system-now-with-co-organizers-and-calendar-view/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-couchsurfing-events-system-now-with-co-organizers-and-calendar-view/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts **Tags:** activities, events, meetings --- ### [Changes to our Terms of Use](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/changes-to-our-terms-of-use/) **Published:** June 24, 2013 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** Last month we made some small but significant changes to our [Terms of Use](https://www.couchsurfing.org/n/terms). Based on member input, we have further limited the rights that we have to Member Content under Section 4.3 and included plain-English annotations to help make certain sections easier to understand. If you want to see all the changes that we made, you can track everything in redline [here](https://docs.google.com/a/couchsurfing.com/file/d/0B0Ig8MWDfIEmU3JQS0NlRVl5cFE/edit). ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/changes-to-our-terms-of-use/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/changes-to-our-terms-of-use/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts **Tags:** legal, terms of use --- ### [Updates to the Couchsurfing Events System](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/updates-to-the-couchsurfing-events-system/) **Published:** June 19, 2013 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** Thanks everyone for all your fantastic feedback so far on our Events system. Today we released a few new features! 1\. **Members who join a public event may now invite people to it**. Check out any public event you’ve joined to see this in action. 2\. **Members who create a private event can allow their guests to invite other members to the event.** 3\. **You can now move the pin on the map when creating or editing an event!** If you have an existing event that you need to use this functionality on, edit the event and re-enter the address you want to use, then pick up the pin and move it wherever you’d like. The address associated with the event will be whatever you typed in. [![Couchsurfing Events system](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/Screen-Shot-2013-06-19-at-3.48.56-PM.jpg "- Couchsurfing Blog")](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/Screen-Shot-2013-06-19-at-3.48.56-PM.jpg) 4\. **You can also edit or delete a message that you sent to the attendees**. Editing the message will not re-send a new email, but it will be updated on the Event page. [![Screen Shot 2013-06-19 at 4.12.40 PM](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/Screen-Shot-2013-06-19-at-4.12.40-PM.jpg "- Couchsurfing Blog")](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/Screen-Shot-2013-06-19-at-4.12.40-PM.jpg) We’ll continue to improve on the Events feature so if you have additional comments, [fill out the form on our help page](https://www.couchsurfing.org/n/help). ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/updates-to-the-couchsurfing-events-system/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/updates-to-the-couchsurfing-events-system/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts **Tags:** events --- ### [Member Removal: Is Couchsurfing Censoring the Community by Removing Outspoken Members?](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/member-removal-is-couchsurfing-censoring-the-community-by-removing-outspoken-members/) **Published:** March 7, 2013 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** There’s a rumor circulating that Couchsurfing removes members because they are outspoken or don’t agree with the organization. We have a passionate, involved, and vocal community. **We absolutely do not remove member accounts for dissenting opinion**. We haven’t, and we won’t. **Couchsurfing is a community of difference, tolerance, and cultural exchange**. It’s our goal to do everything possible to promote the safety and wellbeing of all members. As indicated in [an earlier blog post by our Head of Safety](http://www.couchsurfing.org/news/cs-organization/community-safety-and-profile-deletion/), if a member has been removed by Couchsurfing, it’s typically for one of the following reasons: **We’ve received a safety-related report**: When we receive credible information that a member is a safety threat to the community, we’ll remove the profile. **Member privacy has been violated**: We’ll also remove members who attempt to violate other members’ privacy (by publicly posting user data, for example). **It’s a duplicate profile**: Duplicate profiles don’t serve the community. When we find them, we remove them – this is the most common reason for profile removal. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/member-removal-is-couchsurfing-censoring-the-community-by-removing-outspoken-members/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/member-removal-is-couchsurfing-censoring-the-community-by-removing-outspoken-members/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts --- ### [Learning Quickly and Iterating Against Real Data (or, Why We Release Systems Without Features We Publicly Admit We’d Like to Have)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/learning-quickly-and-iterating-against-real-data-or-why-we-release-systems-without-features-we-publicly-admit-wed-like-to-have/) **Published:** March 6, 2013 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** Konawaba, Couchsurfers! Today we’re addressing a question from the Beta Panel: Why does Couchsurfing launch new systems on the website without obvious features? We’ve been discussing how this strategy applies to the Events system as [we get close to launch](http://www.couchsurfing.org/news/community-update/launching-events-in-early-march-community-update-2-13-13/). There are a few additional features that members of the Beta Panel have requested we build before launch, like calendar integration and allowing events to have multiple organizers. My response has been: “I totally agree, but we’ll wait until after launch to include it.” As you can imagine, this can be frustrating for members who have sometimes spent years asking for specific features we have yet to build. ### **How We Develop Software** When we develop software at Couchsurfing, we’re creating a [Minimum Viable Product](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Minimum_viable_product), or MVP, an idea popularized by Eric Ries. The basic MVP strategy is to gather validating data that tells you what your community needs, then build a system to satisfy those needs. Once you’ve released this system you can learn from the ways people use it. By first assessing user needs, then testing whether we met those needs by releasing a minimum viable product, we’re trying to find what is called “product-market fit.” Product-market fit means that you built a system that meets your user’s needs. During most MVP processes, the development team has to gather data by creating mock websites that measure whether there are customers that would use the product they’re building. Since Couchsurfing has been around for some time, we already have members. We’re able to watch how Couchsurfers are currently creating events across Couchsurfing, Facebook, and Eventbrite. We’re also able to talk to Couchsurfers about what they need from an Events system. ### **Before We Start Building Software, We Look At User Needs** Before we started building the Events system, I gathered validating data for Events in a few ways: - I interviewed Couchsurfers who organize events like CouchCrashes and weekly meetups about how they organize and what their needs are; - I cataloged all the features that Meetings and Activities currently offer; then - I asked even more people what else they were missing. Interviewing users gave me a lot of qualitative data about their frustrations with the current systems. I catalogued all the features users currently have access to in Meetings and Activities, then reached out to about 100 more active event organizers across the world to gather what they thought was missing. I also collected ideas for features they believed were necessary. After doing this, I determined what our MVP for Events should be. ### **Developing Events to Address Two Un-met Needs** The two most notable features event organizers wanted that we didn’t have in our existing system were **creating recurring events**, and **mass-messaging event attendees**. By including those two features into Events, I think we’ll have created a system that better serves the community needs than either Meetings or Activities. This is where we come back to developing a Minimum Viable Product and why we launch systems without additional features. I’ve made a number of assumptions in developing the basic functionality of Events, the MVP. If I’m wrong about how Events should work at their most basic level of functionality, I want to learn that as quickly as possible. **The only way to learn about how people actually use software is to let them use it.** ### **Releasing, Learning and Improving Events** By releasing an MVP of Events and learning from it, we’ll be able to quickly determine what to fix. Getting basic functionality down first is more important than whether a system has all the features that seem obvious from the first day. This is why we release software without every additional feature (like adding Events to your Google calendar). Events should still serve the broad needs of our members without additional features, while also giving us time to learn before building additional “nice to have” features. I’m aware that software was released in an incomplete state at Couchsurfing in the past and perpetually remained that way. The Activities feature is a great example of this approach. Activities has very limited functionality compared to Meetings and it hasn’t been improved since. In contrast to our current approach, Activities were not rigorously tracked in order for the team to keep improving it. Continuing to work on a system once it’s been released is a hallmark of maintaining product-market fit once you have it. As an organization, we know a lot more about how Couchsurfers want to use Events than any other system we’ve launched. We’ll be collecting both qualitative and quantitative feedback after we launch Events about mistakes we made while building it, as well as features people need to create successful Events. And once we have a solid system that satisfies event organizer’s needs, we’ll start adding additional features. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/learning-quickly-and-iterating-against-real-data-or-why-we-release-systems-without-features-we-publicly-admit-wed-like-to-have/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/learning-quickly-and-iterating-against-real-data-or-why-we-release-systems-without-features-we-publicly-admit-wed-like-to-have/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts, News --- ### [Community Safety and Profile Deletion](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/community-safety-and-profile-deletion/) **Published:** March 1, 2013 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** Hi Couchsurfers! We are sometimes asked about member profile removal and why we may have chosen to take a particular action. There are a number of reasons why someone’s profile might be removed from the system, and we will never discuss the specifics of any one member’s case, but I thought I’d share some of the most common reasons for profile removal and clarify a couple of things. (It’s important to remember, too, that members sometimes remove their own profiles.) First off, we don’t remove profiles simply because a member might disagree with something that the Couchsurfing organization is doing. That would be silly. The Trust and Safety Team works behind the scenes to decrease abuse in our system. Our goal is to remove anyone who is a safety or security threat to the community. When we receive confidential reports from members, we take the appropriate actions in accordance with our Terms of Use. Here are some of the reasons a member’s profile might be removed by Couchsurfing: **Duplicate Profiles**: Duplicate profiles don’t serve the community. When we find them, we remove them. **Safety-related reports**: When we receive credible information that a member is a safety threat to the community, we’ll remove the profile. Anyone can send us a confidential report through the Contact Us/Help link at the bottom of pages throughout the website. We take these reports seriously. **Member privacy violations**: We’ll also remove members who attempt to violate other members’ privacy (scraping data that contains user information and publicly posting it elsewhere, for example). **Threatening or harassing members or employees**: Posting personal or private information, making threats (actual or veiled), etc. are behaviors that we don’t tolerate. Hopefully this answers some of your questions. We have many deeply passionate members who help make the Couchsurfing community what it is. Let’s work together to make Couchsurfing the safest and best community it can be. For everyone. ***Update**: Couchsurfing’s CEO, Tony Espinoza, has [responded to community concerns on the blog](http://www.couchsurfing.org/news/cs-organization/member-removal-is-couchsurfing-censoring-the-community-by-removing-outspoken-members/).* ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/community-safety-and-profile-deletion/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/community-safety-and-profile-deletion/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts --- ### [Launching Events in Early March: Community Update 2.13.13](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/launching-events-in-early-march-community-update-2-13-13/) **Published:** February 13, 2013 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** Privet, Couchsurfers! We’re really excited to announce the upcoming launch of our new Events system. Members of the beta panel have been working with us to test Events for almost two months now, and we can’t wait to share it with the larger community very soon. ### **Background** Before we started developing Events, we already had another other meetup feature on Couchsurfing: Activities. (Some members also still have access to the predecessor of Activities: Meetings.) For each feature we rebuild on our new technology platform, we have to choose whether to simply copy it from the existing feature or make serious improvements. Activities are a simplistic feature. There are a number of basic communication and promotion tools that Activities just don’t have (mass messaging, ability to repeat, etc). So we decided to create a new, easy-to-use and powerful system to support the meetups Couchsurfers organize every day, all over the world. Our first step was to reach out to active event creators: people who have been organizing weekly meetups and Couch Crashes for years. By the time we launch Events, we will have spoken with over 100 active members about what they want and need from an events system. Twenty-five of those individuals have been testing Events with us as members of the beta panel for almost two months. Let’s dive in to what we came up with together! ### **Highlights of Events** **Events can happen once or on a recurring basis**. Allowing events to repeat was easily the most requested feature of the new system. We never once considered making a new Events feature that didn’t include repetition. **Members will be able to create events that recur every day for up to two weeks.** This type of repetition should help members who are organizing ride shares and roadtrips, as well as the people who organize Couch Crashes. **Members will be able to create events that recur weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly**. The “CS Weekly” events that happen all over the world are some of the highest quality events within the community. These events are fantastic for new members to meet locals to give them references before a trip, and provide a place to meet each other. **Members can “follow” recurring events to get messages and updates from the event organizer.** We wanted a way for people who create popular recurring events to get an overall list of members interested in their events, so we made recurring events follow-able. This means the event organizer can easily message everyone who’s interested in their event about a special upcoming weekly or other opportunity. **Event organizers can mass-message members going to their event.** With one simple message, any event organizer will be able to get in touch with the members who have joined their event. This will simplify giving directions, phone numbers and other information. And, if the event is updated by the organizer, the changes will be automatically shared with the attendees. **Members can share events with their friends.** For a public event, any member who has joined an event can share it directly with their friends on Couchsurfing. ### **Keeping Activities Online** We’re planning on keeping the Activities system up for some period of time, to allow everyone to move their Activities and Meetings to the new Events system. We will not be migrating Activities into Events. Activities will be listed along with the events on Place pages but you will need to directly access the Activities URL in order to create one. Once we’ve moved most event creation to the new system, we’ll shut down Activities and Meetings for good. The new system will do a better job highlighting your event, since they’ll have more visual prominence and be easier to navigate and discover. Since the system is designed to help make your events more successful, please move your previously creating events onto the new system! And [let us know what you think](https://support.couchsurfing.org/entries/23145302--Official-Development-Team-blog-Launching-Events-in-Early-March). We’re excited launch this, and continue to improve it with the help of additional Community feedback. ### **Thank you, Beta Panel!** Many, many thanks are owed to the thorough work of the beta panel for testing and using this system over the last two months. Without the help of Kalyan Pokala, Brian, indoneezyan\_gurl, the\_juanderer, Tobias Kick, Geoff Soper, JessRK, Fabian Dreher, Olivier CHARVET, Stefano P, Piotr Mikita, Darek Wedrychowski, BRAMZ, Adam Danz, Mimmo Panza, Gerrit Deterts, Marcio Cota Martins, Ilmer van Golde, GPIKKIO, Giampiero Calabrese, and Massimo Bennardo we would not be where we are today. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/launching-events-in-early-march-community-update-2-13-13/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/launching-events-in-early-march-community-update-2-13-13/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts --- ### [Place Page design updates and retiring Community Details: Community Update 2.6.13](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/place-page-design-updates-and-retiring-community-details-community-update-2-6-13/) **Published:** February 6, 2013 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** Hello Couchsurfers, I’m Sam Houston, Community Manager at Couchsurfing HQ. I’m writing this week’s blog post to let you know about a few upcoming Place Page changes, including the retiring of the Community Details section. ### **What we’ve been working on** This week, the product team is still working on some underlying changes to the way we define Places. This is so we can easily create Places for islands, national parks, and urban and rural areas around the world. We will have more information about this in the coming weeks. ### **Upcoming site updates** We’re going to update the look and feel of the Places pages to make the background less white and add some color to the header by including profile images of local Couchsurfers. We will not display profile photos of locals who’ve set their privacy preferences as “yes” to any of the following privacy preferences: - Hide in search - Only seen by members - Hide profile completely - Hide group posts from non-members ### **Removing Community Details on February 12** In these product posts, we mostly talk about new features we’re adding to the website. However, we sometimes have reason to remove prominent features that aren’t being used. This Tuesday, February 12th, we’ll be removing the “Community Details” section on Place pages. Very few Places have used Community Details in the two months it’s been available. Of the roughly 1500 Place pages, only 125 have ever posted any Community Details. This very low percentage coupled with data that shows very few members read the Community Details posts, tells us this feature failed. ### **Measuring the success or failure of Community Details** Measuring the percentage of people that use a feature is what we call “quantitative feedback.” We get quantitative feedback on each website change so we can better judge how to spend our development team’s time. We also get “qualitative feedback” about the website from the community via the beta panel, feedback forums, groups on Couchsurfing.com, and social media. Despite several members creating wonderful content for their Community Details section, Community Details didn’t work both quantitatively and qualitatively. A few weeks ago we received qualitative feedback from the community that this feature needed better placement and rich text formatting to gain traction, so we moved it to the top of Place Pages so it was more prominently displayed. But still, the creation of Community Details posts didn’t change. Since better placement didn’t increase use, spending more time adding the second most-requested improvement (rich text formatting) didn’t make sense. ### **Quantitatively measuring Community Details** We used the percentage of Places that had Community Details as the main quantitative indication of whether it was successful; our secondary indication was whether members of the community read those Details when they visit a Place Page. Community Details failed here as well. A member’s click-through to read the post is our best indication that community members need these Details. Of the unique pageviews that Places get, roughly .0005% of those included anyone reading the full post of a Community Detail. In the chart below, that number increased to around .00075% when we moved the posts to a more prominent place. This data tells us that even when the posts are virtually the first thing a member sees, they don’t read them. [![](/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/community_piechart.png "Screen Shot 2013-02-06 at 3.11.07 PM - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://beta.couchsurfing.org/news/cs-organization/place-page-design-updates-and-retiring-community-details-community-update-2-6-13/attachment/screen-shot-2013-02-06-at-3-11-07-pm/) Even when we moved Community Details to the top of the page, only .00075% of the combined Place Page and Community Details page views included click-throughs to Community Details. Almost too small to see. ### **Qualitatively measuring Community Details** Qualitatively, we also heard from members that the harsh tone of some of the Community Details posts made them feel unwelcome or confused. A few of these posts had titles directing members to new “official” city groups, which was confusing for new people. Others told members: “DO NOT POST COUCH REQUESTS HERE.” Those posts, coupled with its prominence at the top of the page, never decreased the percentage of posts flagged as couch requests. That tells us that Community Details are not preventing couch requests. It also affirms that members are not reading Community Details. Educating and helping community members, both new and old, was often the goal of the members that created Community Details. As we continue to update the Couchsurfing website, the site will become easier to use and we will make various functions easier to find for new users, including Couch Search, Couch Requests, and finding local Events. The site changes and processes take time, and we understand that this is still more work to do on all of these efforts. ### **Building the right features, at the right time** The Couchsurfing site is [undergoing a big transformation to support the growing and diverse community](http://www.couchsurfing.org/about/project). At Couchsurfing HQ, we have to make sure our development team focuses on building the right features at the right time, and sometimes that means we have to remove or leave behind old parts of the site that are no longer used. Community feedback and site usage are taken into consideration when changes are made. If you have any feedback or thoughts about this post, please join us in our [Feedback forum](https://support.couchsurfing.org/entries/23079961--Official-Development-Team-blog-Feb-6th-2013-Discussion). ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/place-page-design-updates-and-retiring-community-details-community-update-2-6-13/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/place-page-design-updates-and-retiring-community-details-community-update-2-6-13/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts, News --- ### [Still Waters Run Deep: Community Update 1.30.13](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/still-waters-run-deep-community-update-1-30-13/) **Published:** January 30, 2013 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** Bonjour, Couchsurfers! This week we’ve already released a few small changes and will be releasing a handful more. We’ve started work on some larger, structural issues with Places that won’t be visible for a while, but will ultimately make them much more useful. ### What we’ve released recently We’re still in the process of figuring out the overall site navigation we should use, and a few changes this week relate to that. We’ve added home and surf buttons to the top navigation menu. Clicking on the home icon takes you to your local place page, where there are separate sections for Conversations, Activities, and Groups. ![](/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Screen-Shot-2013-09-03-at-10.02.13-PM.png "Couchsurfing Place Pages - Couchsurfing Blog") We’ve also changed what’s in the drop-down menu, so only account-specific actions are accessible there. There’s also a behavioral change to bring Couchsurfing in line with expected behavior on other websites: clicking on your username or photo will take you to your profile; clicking on the arrow will open the drop-down. From your profile you can get to your list of friends on Couchsurfing. ![](/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Screen-Shot-2013-09-03-at-10.13.04-PM.png "Couchsurfing Place Pages - Couchsurfing Blog") We’ve added a big Groups button to Places pages so that people can easily get to their discussion groups. We moved the Hosting module on your local Place page to be in the column on the right side, rather than above the Conversations. What’s coming up We’re adding a timestamp to the Activities list so that you can see at a glance which activities are happening today, tomorrow, or next week. We’re also fixing a few bugs with comments and sign-up location. The next really big thing we’re working on is what we’re calling Version 2 of Places. Our first pass at creating Places didn’t work entirely as intended – as people in the Netherlands will tell you. Geography across political and natural boundaries is complex, and we knew we wouldn’t get it right on the first try. Version 2 of Places, when released, should give you the right result for places as diverse as Yosemite National Park, Koh Tao, Bora Bora, and Tokyo. Head over to [the forums](https://support.couchsurfing.org/entries/23050038-official-development-team-blog-post-jan-30th-2013-discussion) to leave feedback and discuss the updates. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/still-waters-run-deep-community-update-1-30-13/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/still-waters-run-deep-community-update-1-30-13/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts --- ### [January Couchsurfing Webcast Panel](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/january-couchsurfing-webcast-panel/) **Published:** January 29, 2013 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** This past Sunday, we held our second live webcast, this time with a panel discussion! CEO Tony Espinoza, Vice President of Product Development Andrew Geweke, Product Manager Merci Grace and Community Outreach Manager Colleen Sollars took your questions live and talked about future plans for Couchsurfing. To those of you who submitted questions, thank you so much for participating. For those of you unable to make it – and without further ado – our January Couchsurfing Webcast Panel Discussion: To keep up to date with what’s happening with Couchsurfing, keep your eyes on the blog as Merci will be updating it weekly. And don’t forget to follow us on [Facebook](http://www.facebook.com/couchsurfing) and [Twitter](https://twitter.com/couchsurfing) or email webcast@couchsurfing.com so we can add you to our notification list. Have more questions? Check out [the forums](https://support.couchsurfing.org/categories/20065081-community-feedback-forums) and leave your thoughts there! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/january-couchsurfing-webcast-panel/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/january-couchsurfing-webcast-panel/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts --- ### [Big Things Have Small Beginnings: Community Update 1.24.13](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/big-things-have-small-beginnings-community-update-1-24-13/) **Published:** January 24, 2013 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** Hello Couchsurfers! I’m delighted to be sharing our ongoing product development updates with you on the Couchsurfing blog. We’ve heard you ask to be more easily informed about upcoming features, site improvements, and bug fixes. Many improvements are a direct result of conversations in the [Feedback Forums](https://support.couchsurfing.org/categories/20065081-community-feedback-forums), [Beta Group](https://support.couchsurfing.org/entries/22897101-beta-group-launches-for-future-beta-tests), [Twitter](http://twitter.com/couchsurfing), [Facebook](http://facebook.com/couchsurfing), and our monthly [webcast](http://www.couchsurfing.org/about/project/webcast/). ### The plan for 2013 We’re moving the entire Couchsurfing website to a new technology platform and will be rebuilding existing features like groups, couch requests, profiles and messages over the next year. By the time we’re done, everything should be faster and easier to use. ### What we released this week So let’s get down to it! This week we released a few changes to Places. You can now type “people: username” or “people: firstname lastname” into the search box and be automatically redirected to that member’s profile. This is a very basic implementation of people search and is only meant as a band-aid until we’re further along in our platform changes. ![](http://# "Screen Shot 2013-01-24 at 3.52.44 PM - Couchsurfing Blog") Since the launch of Place Pages we’ve heard about the ways in which certain places didn’t work for the area. Thank you so much for contributing to these discussions, as it’s helped guide many updates that will make Place Pages better. For example, we started out with a blanket approach to creating Places out of existing Place Groups, knowing that we’d need to make changes. I’ll write a more in-depth blog post in the coming months about our plans to adapt our approach so that you get the sensible result for such varied searches as “Greek Islands” “Yosemite” and “Basel”. It’s a complex problem that requires both automated and human fine-tuning. We’ve also removed the “Includes” line for Places. Now if you search for a city that’s part of a Place you’ll see a subhead that says “You searched for Oakland” instead of “San Francisco Bay Area; Includes: Oakland”. ![](http://# "Screen Shot 2013-01-24 at 2.53.05 PM - Couchsurfing Blog") **Upcoming changes** Places are continuously changing. This week we’re removing the Activities Map and replacing it with a list of upcoming Activities, along with the city and number of people who’ve joined. We moved “Community Details” above the Conversation section so it’s more prominent, to help promote the use of Community Details. We’re adding “home” and “surf” buttons to the site navigation to help you more easily find what you’re looking for. We’ve introduced a lot of interface changes in the last six weeks and are still figuring out how best to guide new and old members through these changes. We have more plans for the site that will help guide you through new feature launches and site changes. This week also marks the first time a handful of Beta Group members are able to test our new Events feature that will be launched in the coming months. We’ll be developing Events by closely collaborating with some of Couchsurfing’s most active event organizers. ### **We’ll have another update next week!** I’ll be updating this blog each week about our website development. We won’t always get everything done that we announce for a coming week, and some weeks we’ll get much more done than we planned. I’ll note whatever discrepancies occur and, when possible, give you a reason. We’re happy to start 2013 with changes to Couchsurfing.com made because of direct community feedback, and bring our community closer to the development process. If you’d like to discuss this blog post, please join us in our [Official Discussion thread on our Feedback Forum](https://support.couchsurfing.org/entries/22990347-official-development-team-blog-post-jan-24-2013-discussion). Happy surfing and I’ll see you next week! ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/big-things-have-small-beginnings-community-update-1-24-13/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/big-things-have-small-beginnings-community-update-1-24-13/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts, News --- ### [Archived Couchsurfing Webcast Ready to Watch](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/archived-couchsurfing-webcast-ready-to-watch/) **Published:** December 21, 2012 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** Yesterday we hosted our first-ever all-community webcast. We took your questions live and we’re excited that so many people showed up to both support and question us. We hope to see you next time If you weren’t able to attend. We’ve archived the video so you can watch it from the comfort of your own home couch. The good news is that we’ll be hosting a webcast every month for the foreseeable future. Our next live webcast will be in late January – we’ll nail down a date soon. We’ll try to find a convenient time for as much of the world as possible. If you want to be notified of our next one, you can of course keep your eyes on the blog, [Facebook](http://www.facebook.com/couchsurfing), [Twitter](https://twitter.com/couchsurfing), etc or you can email webcast@couchsurfing.com, and we’ll add you to our notification list. Have more questions? Check out [this forum post](https://support.couchsurfing.org/entries/22787171-official-december-webcast-video-and-discussion) and leave your thoughts there! **Note**: Towards the end of the webcast Bill talked briefly about our Safe Harbor certification and, as promised, we wanted to offer an expanded explanation. Couchsurfing is fully compliant with our EU-US Safe Harbor obligations and treats member data in accordance with those principles. To answer the specific question that was raised, Couchsurfing uses the dispute resolution service TRUSTe for any disputes that come up, rather than individual European DPAs. We have applied the Safe Harbor principles to all of our data practices for all members regardless of geographic region, and so we wanted to have a dispute resolution system that all members will benefit from rather than just those in Europe. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/archived-couchsurfing-webcast-ready-to-watch/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/archived-couchsurfing-webcast-ready-to-watch/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts --- ### [Behind the scenes @Couchsurfing: Meet our Media Intern!](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/life-at-couchsurfing-meet-our-media-intern/) **Published:** October 12, 2012 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** The CouchSurfing Team is made up of some of the brightest, quirkiest, and friendliest people you’ll ever meet. In fact, it’s about time you did! Today, we introduce you to our wildly creative, highly tech-savvy, and enviably photogenic Media Intern. CouchSurfers of the world, [**Tammy Hagans**](http://www.couchsurfing.org/people/tamzheartbeats/). ![](/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/tammyatwork.png "Tammy being photogenic - Couchsurfing Blog")Tammy being photogenic**What do you at CouchSurfing?** I work with the Media and Marketing team managing media publications, creating in-house graphics and mockups. Pretty much whatever CS needs me to do, I’ll do. I definitely consider myself a jack of all trades! **And when you’re not at the office?** When I’m not working, I’m working. I freelance as a graphic/web designer, photographer and filmmaker. Web design and film are at the forefront, and I am hoping to develop a stronger skillset in coding. **Do you have any secret talents?** I can juggle…I would say that’s a talent. ****How did you end up working with us?**** I started through a film production internship with BAVC in San Francisco. They paired me with CouchSurfing and then CouchSurfing hired me part-time. It’s been a perfect match since! **What’s your favorite thing about our office?** It used to be the hammock upstairs in our mezzanine. Now, it’s the handful of couches to choose to work on in our ‘living room.’ **Do you surf and/or host?** My place is being remodeled, so there is no hosting at the moment. I participate in meetups whenever I can. I have never surfed nor left the country — I hope to do that next year. I plan to start in the UK and travel 7-8 countries with my girlfriend. We will definitely surf and participate in local meetups. **Besides CouchSurfing, what else are you passionate about?** Creating inspiring films, shorts, PSA’s, and music videos (with deeper meanings that paint a picture of our current state). Web and graphic design are another passion that goes hand in hand with my other skills. **So,what do you want to be when you grow up?** Overall, I plan to be self-producing artist. But my ultimate goal is to be happy. As long as I’m happy and content, what I do doesn’t matter. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/life-at-couchsurfing-meet-our-media-intern/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/life-at-couchsurfing-meet-our-media-intern/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts --- ### [More information on our new Privacy Policy and Terms of Use](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/more-information-on-our-new-privacy-policy-and-terms-of-use/) **Published:** September 21, 2012 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** *Read this [Deutschen](https://docs.google.com/document/pub?id=1BmrOjrASxePB52VPowqYzyUvATpw1IfumeNQoy3hfds) or [Français](https://docs.google.com/document/pub?id=1WfiXHOIafqU9q_ekSWCcEqhez78YZw_KcaLITK1Z7L8)* Recently, we announced that we’re updating our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use to bring them up to date with our new services, such as the mobile apps, and US privacy law. Since then, we’ve seen that, of members who have concerns, many of them are centered around the same topics. Privacy is very important to us, and we recognize that policies like these have a lot of information to wade through. The primary comments and concerns that we’ve received are about our license to use member data. After discussing this with many community members, it’s clear that it’s necessary to provide some more clarity on what the license does, how it’s limited, and how we can and can’t use data. **Our license provides us:** **1. The right to use content for our services** The top question by far is about why we have the type of license that we do, as mentioned in our Terms of Use. Licenses are standard legal terms that are needed for a company such as ours to do things like display member content on our website, [www.couchsurfing.com](http://www.couchsurfing.com), and store it on our servers. Members own and continue to own all of the information they upload to the website. Therefore, in order to display that content to other people (for example, a member profile page), we need permission to do so. That’s what this license accomplishes. **2. The ability to retain data for safety purposes** Although the wording of our license is not uncommon, it differs from some others. The reason for this is that, being a unique type of community, we have different needs from most other websites. For example, it is our policy that members can only have one profile, ever, to be sure that people stand by the reputation they build. When a repeat profile is reported to us, we are only able to verify that information by checking against deleted data. Having the broad member license allows us to do this to support the integrity of our reputation system. This isn’t a need that many websites have. **3. A broad platform to innovate** Another unique aspect of CouchSurfing, which anyone who’s been around for a bit knows all too well, is that we have a backlog of years’ worth of great ideas from the community that we have yet to implement. We’re expanding our team, moving faster, and want to get new things out there. Our plan changes all the time as we assess the community’s interests and our own capabilities. We want to be able to do something as big as rideshare or as small as a hosting calendar — whatever would be the best thing at the time — without needing to go through a new legal process each time. **Our privacy policies, and the legal system they operate within, limit our use of your information to protect your privacy:** That said, it is important to note that this member license **does not mean that we can do whatever we want with member information**. We are very committed to protecting member privacy, and our stance on user protection and experience has not changed. It’s important to understand that our use of your information is constrained by our Privacy Policy, and also by US privacy law. **Participation in the EU-US Safe Harbor Privacy Principles** We have now also finished the process required to participate in the [EU-US Safe Harbor Privacy Principles](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/International_Safe_Harbor_Privacy_Principles). This optional step holds us legally responsible to the guiding principles of the European Data Protection Directive. Although it would be impossible for us to take similar steps in every country where we have members, the EU is well known for having very well-developed privacy law. We are applying these principles across the board, even to members in other regions of the world. **Your data is not for sale** As a result of these different layers of compliance and interaction between our policies, it is easy to reach the conclusion that we can use individual data far more freely than we actually a can. A few clarifications on what is and is not legally possible: - **We have committed in our Privacy Policy not to sell or transfer individual data to advertisers or marketers without first notifying members and allowing them to opt out.** Different regulatory agencies in the US and Europe hold us legally responsible for upholding our policy. We think it would be ethically wrong for us to sell or transfer your data to advertisers or similar commercial interests without your knowledge, which is why we’ve made this commitment. - **We can’t use your individual data for our own or others’ promotional/marketing without giving you the tools and options to control that.** For example, at some points we may want to send you marketing emails. And in the past, we have featured members’ photos on the homepage. For uses like that, which may be considered promotional, we will give you the tools to control that. For any use outside of our services (such as if we decided to advertise CouchSurfing on other websites) we would need your express consent. - **We can transfer your data to third parties who help us provide our services.** For example, if you get verified, we transfer your address to the company that sends our verification postcards. Or if you buy a CouchSurfing T-shirt, you do that using our gear shop partner. When this happens, these third parties have signed agreements to safeguard your data, and not to use it for any other purpose or share it with anyone else. - **We can share anonymized, amalgamated data with third parties.** For example, we’ve worked in the past with researchers who investigated the development of trust amongst strangers; for their work, we shared anonymized information about member behavior. **Designed for transparency** These policies have been in the works for over six months; or, around the time we began developing our mobile apps. The new platforms meant that an update was necessary. Our legal team, working with many advisors, took the opportunity to give both policies a full and detailed evaluation to be sure that we included everything that we should. It is crucial that these policies be as detailed as possible so that individuals can choose their own comfort level in regards to their online behavior. At the same time, we recognize that it’s a lot of information to go over and digest. If you have questions, please feel free to [contact us](http://www.couchsurfing.org/contact). ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/more-information-on-our-new-privacy-policy-and-terms-of-use/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/more-information-on-our-new-privacy-policy-and-terms-of-use/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts --- ### [Behind the scenes at Couchsurfing: Max Edmands](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/behind-the-scenes-at-couchsurfing-max-edmands/) **Published:** September 17, 2012 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** *Part of an ongoing series where we interview members of the CouchSurfing staff about the work that’s going on behind the scenes. Previously: [Andrew Geweke](http://www.couchsurfing.org/news/cs-organization/bringing-our-website-up-to-date/) and [Tony Espinoza](http://www.couchsurfing.org/news/cs-organization/what-does-more-funding-mean-for-couchsurfing-a-conversation-with-ceo-tony-espinoza/). This week: [Max Edmands](http://www.couchsurfing.org/people/thisismax/), Web Developer.* ![Max Edmands](/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/max.png "Max Edmands - Couchsurfing Blog") **Meredith Hutcheson:** What’s your role on the CouchSurfing team? **Max Edmands:** I am a web developer. So basically that means that when there are new features to be added around the site I’m one of the people who work on it. I’ve been working here since January, but I’ve been a CouchSurfer since right after college, when I took a huge road trip around the US, and realized how much cooler traveling is when you see places the way that locals do, instead of as a tourist. I personally love CouchSurfing because I am a huge environmentalist. Not only is using CouchSurfing a super sustainable way to travel, but the genuine human connections that it creates are, to me, a wonderful solution for many of the world’s problems. So when I got contacted about joining the team, I jumped at the chance. **MH:** What’s a typical day for you? **ME:** I come into the office and usually there’s a morning meeting where we discuss all the things that have to be done for the rest of the day. Once it’s been discussed we buckle down and work on it, sometimes in pairs, sometimes in groups of three, usually just on our own. Usually there’s enough stuff for us all to work on separately that it takes the whole day, but then when there are issues we connect and talk about it more. **MH:** So obviously you work with other developers. What other teams or roles do you interact with regularly? **ME:** Right now we are working pretty closely with the designers, because what we’re building is all new. We communicate with them a lot because they’re coming up with new ideas, better ways of organizing and presenting information on the site. And as we work on stuff, then they see what we’ve worked on and they revise their ideas based on actually seeing something that we’ve built that works. **MH:** Can you explain what you’re working on right now? **ME:** Right now we are working on a brand-spankin’ new version of the site, something a lot faster and cleaner and prettier than the version of the site that everyone’s using right now. I’m pretty excited about it. **MH:** What do you mean by “new”, exactly? I know that’s a strange question but I think it can mean a lot of different things. **ME:** Right. Basically we’re going through all the stuff we already have and rebuilding it from the ground up. It’s going to be new code, so that’s a big deal and it’s going to make a big difference in how it runs. And it’s also got a new design to it. And there will be new features, too. But all of this should run together really smoothly for users. As we’re moving over each thing to the new code, we’re looking at it all the way through. So it’s not just, rewrite this feature on the new site. It’s looking at how to bring over the functionality in a way that works better on all different levels. **MH:** What’s that process going to be like? I think in the past we’ve done a lot of background work on one feature, then we launch that, then we move on to something else. This is going to be different. **ME:** Right, it is. We’re going to be very slowly integrating it into what we already have. So when we complete something that already exists we will replace the old feature with the new feature, and then as things get better then we’ll just replace more and more of the old site until it’s all new and fast and better. **MH:** Why is it such a long process? **ME:** The hard work isn’t in building the features, the problem is making stuff that will work with the edge cases. Like when there’s inconsistent or incorrect data, when there’s content in other languages, when there’s three hundred people trying to do the same thing at the same time — these are big questions and we have to try and think of all the possibilities because if we don’t then there will be errors. The site will crash, or it will be painfully slow. So we have to do this really methodically to do it right, and we have to take the time to go back and rework features as we go along, as we see people using them. **MH:** Right now, to get specific, you guys are working on bringing together local information in a better way. So for example instead of having to go to one place to see the group for San Francisco, and another place for surfers looking for a couch in San Francisco, etc, bringing all of that into one place. **ME:** Yeah, that’s what we are working on right now. It’s a good place to begin because it’s an area where there’s a lot of room for improvement but it also doesn’t directly impact hosting and surfing, which are core to who we are. So we have a chance to learn from it. Launching stuff that’s essential to hosting and surfing first thing would be riskier because if there are problems, those are big problems. **MH:** That said, you’re primarily a host yourself. What do you think will be cool for hosts in the first new parts of the site? **ME:** It’s going to be much simpler for surfers to find out what there is to do wherever they are. I think that’s the coolest thing. As a host on the site right now, when you stay with me I’m going to give you the best recommendations I can about what there is to do nearby, and that’s pretty much all the information you have. But if you’re looking at one of the new group pages, all the information is nicely organized and easy to understand, then all of a sudden you’re going to have so much better of an idea of what you want to do in my town, because you’re getting lots of wonderful suggestions from all of the CouchSurfers who live here or who have visited, not just from me. **MH:** Anything else you want to add? **ME:** I’m really excited about what we’re creating. I think that it’s going to be better and a lot easier to understand — new CouchSurfers won’t need to figure out an interface that’s really slow and clunky and looks like it’s from 1995. The internet moves really fast. We have a lot of catching up to do. Wouldn’t it be great if, instead of spending four hours browsing the site trying to look for someone to meet, the site let you find what you’re looking for right away, so that you can get off the Internet and start making awesome connections and having great experiences? I think our site is always going to be really quirky and lovable, and it will still be really easy to connect with all the same people that you’ve been hanging out with on CouchSurfing before. The community, the real offline stuff that makes us who we are, that will always be the same. We’re just making the support structure easier, faster, and better. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/behind-the-scenes-at-couchsurfing-max-edmands/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/behind-the-scenes-at-couchsurfing-max-edmands/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts --- ### [Couchsurfing raises $15 million to improve our website and mobile apps!](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-raises-15-million-to-improve-our-website-and-mobile-apps/) **Published:** August 22, 2012 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** Today, we announced that we have raised $15 million in funding. This is exciting news! It means that we can keep our energy where it belongs:[ on rebuilding the website](/news/cs-organization/bringing-our-website-up-to-date/) and enhancing our mobile apps so that they better support our community. This financing gives us the time we need to approach that project carefully and strategically. ![](/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/j_teo_partner.jpg "Jonathan Teo - Couchsurfing Blog")Jonathan Teo of General Catalyst PartnersOf course you’ll want to know: Who’s funding us now? Are they trustworthy? Yes; we’re happy to have found partners who are familiar with and supportive of our mission. Our lead investor and newest member of our Board of Directors, [Jonathan Teo](http://www.couchsurfing.org/people/jonteo/) of [General Catalyst Partners](http://www.generalcatalyst.com/), has been a CouchSurfing member since 2009. “I’ve had a number of meaningful connections with people and places around the country and around the world thanks to CouchSurfing,” he says. “I know that the talents and resources of the General Catalyst team can help bring the same inspiring experiences to even more people.” We’re also excited to receive backing from Shervin Pishevar of [Menlo Ventures](http://www.menloventures.com/team_bio.html?id=25), who has participated in funding other sharing economy organizations, like TaskRabbit (which lets people hire strangers to complete small jobs for them) and Getaround (a peer-to-peer car sharing company). And our initial investors from last year, Matt Cohler at [Benchmark Capital](http://www.benchmark.com/people/general-partner/matt-cohler/) and Todor Tashev at [Omidyar Network](http://www.omidyar.com/team/todor-tashev), are also continuing their support. $15 million gives us enough money to maintain our current staff and add new employees without needing to worry about our finances. Which is great, because there are two things we know for sure right now: 1\. The CouchSurfing website, as it currently exists, needs a lot of help. It’s unstable and not very easy to use. 2\. CouchSurfing is amazing because it’s free and based on generosity. This new round of funding gives us the opportunity to deal with the first reality without messing around with the second, and for that we are extremely pleased. Our priority is to make sure that we’re serving the community as best we can. And we now have enough money in the bank that we can give that our full attention. We’re lucky to exist in a really creative, experimental environment here in California and we’ve found investors who believe in us and our ideas. So we’re focusing all our energy on making a website that’s a more sustainable home for our community: one that works reliably, and easily. It’s going to be a big project, and one that will take us a lot of time, but we’re now in a position where we can take that time and do it right. Within the next few months, you’ll start seeing changes on the website. We’ll be launching something new to CouchSurfing: place pages. Local communities will have one centralized place to share their photos, discussions, and things to do. It’s just the first step towards making it easier to do what you need to do on the website, so you can spend less time surfing the web and more time surfing couches. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-raises-15-million-to-improve-our-website-and-mobile-apps/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-raises-15-million-to-improve-our-website-and-mobile-apps/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts --- ### [Bringing our website up to date](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/bringing-our-website-up-to-date/) **Published:** August 14, 2012 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** ![](/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/andrew.png "Andrew - Couchsurfing Blog")For years, when I’ve met people and told them who I work for, one of the most common reactions has been something along the lines of: > I love CouchSurfing! But… the website… is kind of… I immediately reassure them that they’re not offending me. I know it, the engineers know it, we all know it: we have a problematic website. A couple of months ago, the engineering team began working on a completely new code base for the website. I sat down with our head of Engineering, Andrew Geweke, to talk about why and what it means for the community. **Meredith: How would you describe the challenges that we currently have with the site?** [Andrew](http://www.couchsurfing.org/people/midlands/): The current site, that code base is over 8 years old, which is an eternity in website time! There are probably no websites that people use today that are using code anywhere near that old. There’s code in there that was written five years ago by someone who hasn’t worked for CS in four years and nobody really understands it. That makes a very, very hard application to maintain. Previously we had sort of added more and more and more features onto it, but we hadn’t ever really taken a hard look at the core and said, “what’s going to let us improve or invest in the real core of this site?” **M: And what are the implications of that?** The biggest thing is it’s unsustainable. And it’s limiting. Because it’s complex, we couldn’t be confident that we could do major new features and not break existing things. **M: Can you give an example?** A: Take search. We’ve tried tweaking the search algorithm but really there need to be even bigger changes. But because the code is complex enough, it’s very hard to do those kinds of things without breaking things. **M: What work are you and the team doing right now?** A: We decided to start implementing a number of important new features and it was clear that we needed to do that on a new fresh code base. The old code base was complex enough that any big improvements would have taken us many, many times longer than it would on a new code base. **M: What’s involved in a process like this?** A: Well, for example, in the current site, the information that we have about a current user is stored in probably 200 separate data fields, at minimum, spread across over a dozen tables. In the new system it’s stored in probably eight fields in one table. Part of the point is to make this much easier to work with. We want to simplify this down. **M: And that’s a lot of work.** A: Absolutely. Taking all of that information and completely changing the way we store it in order to make this transition is part of the difficulty. In my experience, CouchSurfing had this history of making new features: “Here’s a very complex tool. We will now provide you with lots of text and video to teach you how to use this tool!” One of the big things we’re trying to do now is work really hard to give people simpler tools. That process takes a lot of time. It’s the old trope: it takes much more time to design something that’s simple than something that’s complex. You probably know the old quote, some famous author wrote to somebody else and said, “I’m so sorry that I wrote you such a long letter, I didn’t have the time to write a shorter one.” \[Ed. Note: There doesn’t seem to be a definitive agreement on the source of this quote.\] **M: I hadn’t heard that, but it’s good. Very true.** A: Right? You know this very well. It’s the same thing. The hardest thing is to be like, I’m going to express my thoughts very clearly, and in a few words. If I give you 30 pages, you can just start typing. It’s the same in code, it’s a very similar process. We’re trying to work very hard to make something simple. **M: So once we’re running on the new code, what kind of benefits are members going to see?** A: The two immediate ones are it’ll be much, much faster and much more reliable. Also, the simplification is a lot of it. Because the code base is simpler and the data is so much simpler, we can expose everything in a much simpler way. If I can give another example: you search for a host in Paris, and right now we just sort of give you a bunch of random hosts in Paris. Well, we should be smart and figure out who are the hosts who can host when you’re there, who are the hosts who said they’re open to your kind of person, right, all of this stuff, without making you go through all these complex search filters. I mean, members know how to set their search filters and find the type of people they’re looking for, but they shouldn’t have to do that. We should just give them the kinds of people they’re looking for. This new system enables that because the old system was so complex you couldn’t even think about it. So that’s going to be a lot of it. **M: Right. So since we’ve come back to search, obviously that’s one of the most important things to improve. I also know it’s not one of the first things that members will see improved. Can you explain that a little bit?** A: The thing is that it’s so important so it needs a lot of care. We’re going to work really hard at it and get it so it’s really good and really right for all of you, and not just throw out a mediocre implementation. We’re going to sit there and think about this and do it right because it’s so crucial. **M: Any final thoughts about this change?** A: CouchSurfing is a wonderful concept and a wonderful thing to do. But for a long time our users have had to work hard to use the technology. This is all about turning it around so that the technology serves the users. For me that’s one of the highest level expressions of what we’re trying to do. All these people, they all use other networks, they all use Google. Those websites work way better. CouchSurfing, they love it because of what it lets them do, but oh my god is it hard to use. They’ve been patient with us. So, we want to take the concept that we know and love and bring it up to modern standards for a website. **Interview conducted by CouchSurfing’s community communications manager, [Meredith Hutcheson](http://www.couchsurfing.org/imperfectly)** ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/bringing-our-website-up-to-date/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/bringing-our-website-up-to-date/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts --- ### [A letter from Casey](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-letter-from-casey/) **Published:** June 28, 2012 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** Dear Couch Surfers, Thirteen years ago, CouchSurfing was nothing but an idea and a project that I worked on from home in the evenings and on weekends. Now CouchSurfing is woven into the lives of millions of people and we have a full-time staff of nearly 30 employees. I have actually been able to witness a dream become reality and grow into a movement that has changed my life, and the lives of many. I feel so very lucky and grateful to share this experience with you all. I’m proud to see how much momentum this idea has gained, and I feel confident in the team that has been built to support it. Some of our staff members have been around since the earliest days of our community. Others are new to us and bring with them decades of experience in their fields. All of them are talented, committed people who have the expertise and the heart that the CouchSurfing community needs behind it. I see great things in store for the community. With such a great team in place, from here on out Dan and I are stepping back from the day-to-day tasks involved in operating the company. We’ll still be very much involved, on a strategic level, in our roles as members of the Board of Directors. But it’s time for us to get some new ideas out into the world. For many years, we’ve put in countless hours of overtime building CouchSurfing. Now that it’s launched, we’re both looking forward to being creative once again. There are many ways to change the world, and we each have more projects that we’d like to see come to life. One of those projects is CERI, the CouchSurfing Cultural Exchange Research Institute. The CouchSurfing community has demonstrated so much about the nature of trust, generosity, and friendship. There are lessons there that can have a huge amount of positive impact on the world. CERI will focus on concrete research that can help spread intercultural understanding and appreciation of diversity, based on those lessons. I’m very excited to get this new endeavor off the ground. Dan and I are overflowing with love for this truly inspirational community and we’ll continue to do everything we can to ensure a great future for all of us. Naturally, there will be opportunities and challenges as we chart our course towards CS’s vision of a better world. That’s where we will always be involved: in making the best strategic decisions to support our community. I am proud that, as a socially-responsible B corp, we have a responsibility to our mission and values that goes beyond the scope of most companies. The magic that defines CouchSurfing is something that I believe in and will always champion. I am grateful to each and every one of you for being part of this incredible movement, and I’m excited to keep adventuring with you. Thanks for dreaming with me! Happy surfing, ![](http://s3.amazonaws.com/files.couchsurfing/newsletter/team_dec_2010/image3.png) Casey Fenton Chairman, Board of Directors CouchSurfing International ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-letter-from-casey/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-letter-from-casey/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts --- ### [Our Android App is Here!](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/our-android-app-is-here/) **Published:** June 26, 2012 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Excerpt:** Very soon, we want you to have the ability to tap into the CouchSurfing community anytime, anywhere, both through the site and on your phone. We're going to be adding lots of great features to the app as time goes on. **Content:** [![](http://s3.amazonaws.com/files.couchsurfing/mobile/appstore.jpg)](http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/couchsurfing/id525642917) [![](http://s3.amazonaws.com/files.couchsurfing/mobile/android_app_on_play_large.png) ](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.couchsurfing.mobile.android#?t=W251bGwsMSwyLDIxMiwiY29tLmNvdWNoc3VyZmluZy5tb2JpbGUuYW5kcm9pZCJd) A few weeks ago, our very first mobile app was released [for iPhone](http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/couchsurfing/id525642917). Today, it is now also available in the [Google Play](http://cs.ht/android) store. For the first version of our app, we’ve built a fast, easy-to-use platform for hosting and surfing. You’ll be able to search, view profiles, & send and receive CouchRequests. ![](http://s3.amazonaws.com/files.couchsurfing/mobile/feature_a.jpg) And this is only the beginning. If you live in a city, chances are you’re surrounded by CouchSurfers all the time. And when you’re traveling, it’s pretty likely that whether you’re at the museum or the park, another CouchSurfer is, too. Very soon, we want you to have the ability to tap into the CouchSurfing community anytime, anywhere, both through the site and on your phone. We’re going to be adding lots of great features to the app as time goes on. Meanwhile, we’re also working on a major site upgrade that will make it easier to find people to meet. It’s an exciting season for CouchSurfing, and it all starts here. [ ![](http://s3.amazonaws.com/files.couchsurfing/mobile/appstore.jpg) ](http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/couchsurfing/id525642917) [ ![](http://s3.amazonaws.com/files.couchsurfing/mobile/android_app_on_play_large.png) ](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.couchsurfing.mobile.android#?t=W251bGwsMSwyLDIxMiwiY29tLmNvdWNoc3VyZmluZy5tb2JpbGUuYW5kcm9pZCJd) ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/our-android-app-is-here/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/our-android-app-is-here/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts --- ### [We're going mobile](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/were-going-mobile/) **Published:** May 31, 2012 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** **Our new app and a site upgrade are on the way** The CouchSurfing community has long been asking for better tools, and our team is hard at work making it happen. We’re taking our first steps towards making a CouchSurfing experience that’s as on-the-go as you are. So, what’s in store? **The CouchSurfing App, Version One: Surfing and Hosting** To get things started we’ve built a fast, easy-to-use platform for hosting and surfing. You’ll be able to search, view profiles, & send and receive CouchRequests. The app will be coming out first for iPhone, followed shortly by a release for Android. ![](http://s3.amazonaws.com/files.couchsurfing/mobile/search.jpg)![](http://s3.amazonaws.com/files.couchsurfing/mobile/profile.jpg)![](http://s3.amazonaws.com/files.couchsurfing/mobile/reply.jpg) **A Site Upgrade with New Possibilities for Spontaneity** Our existing site was begun over 10 years ago, when smartphones and the social web were still in their infancies. Now, our team is imagining what the site would be like if it was designed today. That means a lot of things: better information delivery. A friendlier browsing experience. An interface that gets out of the way and lets the community interact more easily. It also means adding ways for CouchSurfers to meet that aren’t limited to the computer. **New App Features Coming Later This Summer** If you live in a major city, chances are you’re surrounded by CouchSurfers all the time. And when you’re traveling, it’s pretty likely that whether you’re at the museum or the park, another CouchSurfer is, too. Imagine if you could easily get in touch with the CouchSurfers around you! That’s the same thing we’re starting to think about. Very soon, we want you to have the ability to tap into the CouchSurfing community anytime, anywhere, both through the site and on your phone. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/were-going-mobile/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/were-going-mobile/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts --- ### [Announcing our new CEO](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/announcing-our-new-ceo/) **Published:** April 25, 2012 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** Dear CouchSurfers, It’s been a crazy eight years since CouchSurfing launched. The community has grown beyond our wildest dreams. Throughout all of it, our job — and the job of the CouchSurfing team as a whole — has been to build systems that help you connect with the people you want to meet, as easily, safely, and engagingly as possible. We’re proud of everything that we’ve accomplished, but we know we could be doing an even better job. That’s why we recently hired a new CEO, Tony Espinoza. The process of hiring for this position was involved and thoughtful. It was crucial to us to find someone who really understood CouchSurfing, our mission, and our community. We also needed someone with the technical knowledge and experience to bring the CouchSurfing website to a whole new level of quality and functionality. Tony stood out from the many people that we interviewed because he exhibits all of those traits. In the coming weeks, you’ll begin seeing some of his vision for the website and how we can better serve you, our community. We’ll be sharing more information as we work. But for now, we wanted you to have the chance to “meet” Tony and see why we chose him for this important job. Best wishes, Casey Fenton Daniel Hoffer CouchSurfing Co-Founders ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/announcing-our-new-ceo/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/announcing-our-new-ceo/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts --- ### [A letter from Dan Hoffer](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-letter-from-dan-hoffer/) **Published:** February 20, 2012 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** Dear CouchSurfers, This past year at CouchSurfing has been a unique one in our history. We’ve changed our legal structure. We shrank our team significantly (previously at 44 including part-time), and then grew it to around 35 people (roughly half in engineering). We opened our first real office, ever. We grew up a lot as an organization, adopting more internal structure and accountability than we’ve ever had. And we’re going to continue hiring experienced people at all levels of the organization, from the top to the bottom. But throughout all the changes, it has always been important to me to preserve the original CouchSurfing spirit, values, vision, and mission. After all, that’s why we all got involved in the first place. As President of CouchSurfing International, the organization that supports the CS community, there are a number of areas I’d like to focus on improving. First, we need to make it easier for surfers and hosts to connect with one another. The ability to post travel plans, which gives hosts more ability to select when and who to host, was one of our first steps to address this issue. We’ve also just begun taking member suggestions on other ways to work on this problem. Second, I think it is crucial that new members understand what CouchSurfing is really about. If we attract the wrong kinds of people, or the right kinds of people who have the wrong expectations, then we will lose some of our magic. So it’s important to grow with the right people and in the right ways. And finally, we have plans to improve the reference system, release a mobile app, improve the speed and reliability of the website, enhance our user interface and usability, and more. There is no shortage of things to do, and it takes time to build everything we want to build, even with our newly expanded team. But we’re working hard and making progress every day! I know that there has been a lot of change lately, and many of you are watching carefully to see where we’re going. It’s important to me that you know that our ideals as an organization have not changed. CouchSurfing has always been about something greater than just travel. It’s about human connection. It’s about experiences. It’s about finding friends, experiencing community, and expanding your horizons wherever you go. It’s about making the world a better place. I think we’re closer than we’ve ever been to that goal. Happy surfing and big hugs from California, Dan Hoffer ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-letter-from-dan-hoffer/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-letter-from-dan-hoffer/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts --- ### [Myths and Facts: Couchsurfing's conversion to a B Corp](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/myths-and-facts-couchsurfings-conversion-to-a-b-corp/) **Published:** September 14, 2011 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** Since we converted to a B Corporation two weeks ago, CouchSurfers have been asking questions and sharing their opinions with us. (Thanks to everyone who’s written!) We thought it would be helpful to clear up some of the most common misconceptions we’ve been hearing. ### Myth: The CouchSurfing team knows how it will make money, but it doesn’t want to share this with members. **Fact: We are investigating lots of options for generating revenue, but we haven’t yet chosen a plan.** We’re not ignoring the fact that, now that we can no longer accept donations, we will need to find an alternative way of earning money to keep CouchSurfing going. However, our initial investment makes it possible for us to take the time we need to find the best possible way to do this. Our first and foremost focus is perfecting what we already do. We are confident that we will find a way to generate money that doesn’t hinder the amazing experiences that CouchSurfers have. It’s not at all uncommon in the US tech industry to receive an investment without yet having a firm decision made about how to generate revenue. ### Myth: CouchSurfing has been sold to investors. **Fact: CouchSurfing has a partnership with the investors, but is still run by the same organization as before.** Our investors aren’t in our office calling the shots. Strategic decisions are still made by the CouchSurfing team. The investors have a minority stake that allows them to contribute their perspective, but ultimately the direction of CouchSurfing remains controlled by the same organization. ### Myth: The CouchSurfing co-founders were given the money from the investors. **Fact: The investment belongs to CouchSurfing, not to individuals.** The purpose of the investment is to pay for CouchSurfing’s operating expenses and future innovations. Previously we earned this money through member donations, but as a B Corporation we can no longer accept these. Our expenses include the salaries of all of our employees, including the co-founders that work with us full-time. The rates that we pay at are based on market standards and we operate frugally for a company of our size. ### Myth: CouchSurfing could have remained a non-profit, even if it didn’t gain 501c3 status. **Fact: CouchSurfing was only allowed to operate as a non-profit while it was in the application process for 501c3.** After our final rejection for 501c3 at the federal level, the government of the state that we were registered in would no longer allow us to operate as a non-profit. Our status up until our conversion was an unusually drawn out part of the normal process that US non-profits go through while registering at the federal level, not an accepted permanent state for an organization. ### Myth: CouchSurfing could move to another country and be a non-profit there. **Fact: Moving to another country could take years of work and huge amounts of money, which would distract from our mission and vision.** Changing from a non-profit was a massively complex task that took just under a year in research and execution. Moving a company to a new country is even more complicated. How this would be accomplished varies from place to place, but it would have involved millions of dollars and potentially years of research, negotiations, and arrangements. In the time that we would have spent trying to find a country to move to, working with their government to make the plan, transferring our legal status, and obtaining visas for our staff, we would not have been able to focus on the rest of our work. We’ve already spent far too much time and money on our legal status — those resources are much better put towards supporting the CouchSurfing community. ### Myth: CouchSurfing is going to sell member data or make it accessible to third parties. **Fact: We still follow the same privacy policies as before.** Our investors don’t have access to our database, and are not interested in buying it. They are interested in building amazing, sustainable organizations. Our [privacy policy](http://www.couchsurfing.org/privacy.html) is the same as it’s always been. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/myths-and-facts-couchsurfings-conversion-to-a-b-corp/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/myths-and-facts-couchsurfings-conversion-to-a-b-corp/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts --- ### [A letter from co-founder Casey Fenton](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-letter-from-co-founder-casey-fenton/) **Published:** August 27, 2011 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** ![](http://s3.amazonaws.com/files.couchsurfing/contributers/fenton.jpg "Casey Fenton") Dear CouchSurfers, After Wednesday’s big announcement, I wanted to send you a personalmessage explaining what it means for CouchSurfing to have become a BCorporation, and how this will affect our global community. Our goal isn’t to make CouchSurfing different. Our goal is to make CouchSurfing even better at what it already does. We tried hard for many years to be certified as a 501c(3) non-profit, but ultimately the US government didn’t accept that hosting and surfing are charitable activities. We needed to evolve to meet that reality, and B Corp is amodel that accomplishes the same support for our mission that we wanted from non-profit status. The core of who we are will never change. As we look into our future, I want to make three commitments to you: - — **The CouchSurfing features that you use today will continue to be free.** If you’re worried that we are going to start charging you tobe a part of the CouchSurfing community, don’t. We want a world where everyone can explore and connect, regardless of their financial situation. - — **CouchSurfing’s top priority will always be to make this world a better place.** We are as committed as ever to our mission, vision, and guiding principles. These will always come before any other concerns, including generating revenue. In fact, that’s the reason why we decided to become a B Corporation in the first place: B Corporations meet high standards of social responsibility towards the community, their employees, the environment and the world. - — **Just because we’re not a non-profit doesn’t mean we’reactually *“for”* profit.** CouchSurfing is not for sale, and money is no tour goal. We recognize that the community is what makes this movementreal and supporting it is what our organization is here for. Everyone on our staff is a CouchSurfing member, and we want to keep it that way. I am personally committed to moving CouchSurfing closer and closer to our vision, without compromising the great way that we all experience our community today. I want to help as many people as I can be a part of our dream of a world where people appreciate each other’s differences —and have fun while doing it! I know that we can get there together. If you’d like to share your thoughts or concerns about this moment in our history, you can reach me directly at . I look forward to hearing from you and will do my best to reply as soonas possible. If you’d like more information about this new conversion, please check out [my blog](http://www.caseyfenton.com) and [these videos](http://www.couchsurfing.org/bcorp). Thank you so much for being part of this adventure! ![](http://s3.amazonaws.com/files.couchsurfing/newsletter/team_dec_2010/image3.png) Casey Fenton ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-letter-from-co-founder-casey-fenton/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-letter-from-co-founder-casey-fenton/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts --- ### [A New Era for Couchsurfing](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-new-era-for-couchsurfing/) **Published:** August 24, 2011 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** We started CouchSurfing with a crazy idea in mind. We thought that maybe, just maybe, the world could be changed one couch at a time. 5,766,182 inspiring experiences later, we couldn’t be more sure of it. What you’ve done as a community has inspired us to take our mission and our vision to a whole new level. We want to understand what inspiring experiences are made of, so we can enable you to have more of them. We want to make CouchSurfing easier to use so that anyone who’s interested in changing the world one couch at a time will feel welcome here. To accomplish this, we’re making a radical change in structure. As of today, CouchSurfing is proud to announce that we are joining the growing ranks of certified B Corporations. ### What is a B Corporation? As a B (Benefit) Corporation, CouchSurfing will be part of a group of innovative businesses that deliver products and services with a commitment to social and environmental responsibility, transparency, fair work conditions, and doing good for the world. [![Bcorp Video](http://s3.amazonaws.com/files.couchsurfing/channels/2011_08/movielink.jpg) Video Info Center: CS and B Corp](/bcorp) ### What changes? Expect to see lots of improvements to the website! Becoming a B Corporation allows us to get funding from investors who believe in what we do and want to see us achieve our vision. We’ve already received backing from [Omidyar](http://www.omidyar.com/), the philanthropic investment firm behind Wikimedia and Kiva.org, and from [Benchmark Capital](http://www.benchmark.com/list/company/current-investments/), a respected firm with investments in social websites like Quora and Twitter. Their support will allow us to give you more of the features you’ve been asking for. When you look at the amazing way that this community has grown with a relatively basic set of tools, it’s really exciting to imagine what it will be like when you’ve got even better systems available to you. ### What stays the same? First of all, our mission and vision won’t change. Becoming a B Corporation makes us accountable to our core values. And you can check out the [full audit](http://www.bcorporation.net/couchsurfing) that B Lab, the non-profit that issues B Corp certifications, recently completed of our social responsibility. We’re proud to say we scored a 106.8 — well over the 80 necessary to earn our certification, and above average for a company of our size. Secondly, CouchSurfing will never make you pay to host and surf. It’s against our vision to exclude anyone from having inspiring experiences for financial reasons, and that’s not going to change just because our methods of generating revenue do. ### Thank you, CouchSurfers! Your participation in this project of ours has taken us from an idea to a community where people have life-changing experiences every day. CouchSurfing is always evolving. This is a whole new CouchSurfing era of amazing possibilities and a larger-than-ever chance of really making a difference in the world. We’re so glad to have you along for this new stage in our adventure together. ### Share this: - [ Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-new-era-for-couchsurfing/?share=twitter) - [ Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-new-era-for-couchsurfing/?share=facebook) - ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Couchsurfing [See Full Bio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) [ ](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/author/couchsurfing/) **Categories:** All Posts --- ## Pages ### [Couch Crash Calendar](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/calendar/) **Published:** April 14, 2023 **Author:** Mike Joy **Content:** Last updated: August 10, 2026 What is a Couch Crash? CouchCrashes are multi-day events that members put together to celebrate their local Couchsurfing community. They are an awesome way for locals and travelers alike to connect, learn about the area, and see the city in a whole new way. If you’re looking for new friends or an unforgettable experience, check out the upcoming CouchCrashes and join one near you. Even better, plan a trip to check one out! ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/joseluis_4.jpg "joseluis_4 - Couchsurfing Blog")Upcoming Couch Crashes September [Peach Crash 2026](https://www.couchsurfing.com/c/events/3Fm7mbwmAmIaEP3UEyKqTTLiMtx_ho?latitude=33.7501&longitude=-84.3885&locationId=2pdzD76mO2U4pR4m4x4NzfaSgJo_lc) Atlanta, Georgia, USA September 3-7, 2026 [Parada do Orgulho LGBT+ Bahia](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/parada-do-orgulho-lgbt-bahia) Salvador, Bahia, Brazil September 6-7, 2026 [Prague HospEx Fest (CzechSurfing) 2026](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/prague-hospex-fest-czechsurfing-2026) Prague, Czech Republic September 10-13, 2026 [Buffalo Couch Crash: Wings, Waterfalls & Welcome](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/buffalo-couch-crash-wings-waterfalls-welcome) Buffalo, New York, USA September 10-14, 2026 [Greenville Camping Lake Crash 2026](https://www.couchsurfing.com/c/events/greenville-camping-lake-crash-2026-3HhlyfDCZ4rvQN1Wqp9iGKMTVqx_ho?latitude=34.5942&longitude=-82.8928&locationId=2v0haRAK6le7sLvVnENkPKdP5wI_lc) Greenville, South Carolina, USA Fri, Sep 18, 2026 at 3:00 PM – Sun, Sep 20, 2026 at 2:00 PM [CS GRAZ STURM 2026 – Autumn COUCH CRASH](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/cs-graz-sturm-2026-autumn-couch-crash) Graz, Austria September 18-20, 2026 [Tarra Crash 2026](https://www.couchsurfing.com/c/events/3Ga8ASm2ZJvfPoNheoatiDeQJgA_ho?latitude=41.1191&longitude=1.2454&locationId=2v0hKvQGgapo6GsmW40ABAVCt5Y_lc) Tarragona, Spain September 21-24, 2026 [Toronto CouchCrash](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/toronto-couchcrash-2026) Toronto, Canada September 24-28, 2026 October [Golden Gate Crash 2026](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/golden-gate-crash-2026) San Francisco, USA October 1-4, 2026 [BMM S03 Ep 9](https://www.couchsurfing.com/c/events/3I0FGQoqr3GFZsHMwrOeeiGPjX6_ho?latitude=43.7834&longitude=19.2935&locationId=2v0hN7RLk5H3Rj3wTxkPabAcRZO_lc) Višegrad, Bosnia & Herzegovina Thu, Oct 8, 2026 at 8:00 PM – Sun, Oct 11, 2026 at 11:00 AM [Taipei Couch Crash 2026](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/taipei-couch-crash-2026) Taipei, Taiwan October 22-25, 2026 [Philadelphia CouchCrash – Halloween 2026](https://www.couchsurfing.com/c/events/3EjBmkEDsb1cbUmpd9EGQKQsyM4_ho?latitude=39.9526&longitude=-75.1652&locationId=2pdzDfHILe8nRMHZquFgK89FqZu_lc) Fri, Oct 30, 2026 at 2:00 PM – Sun, Nov 1, 2026 at 4:00 PM [New Orleans Haunted Halloween Crash 2026](https://www.couchsurfing.com/c/events/3IbLvg1sIEJWKOUDTlcuMnnNPmx_ho) New Orleans, Louisiana, USA Oct 29, 2026 – Nov 1, 2026 [Shanghai Magic Crash 2026](https://www.couchsurfing.com/c/events/3GtTcjqEWMDVeg2RIwzAwyJHRgk_ho?latitude=31.3059&longitude=121.5149&locationId=3GTiEjTdjiFhClgznyD7s66X875_lc) Shanghai, China Fri, Oct 30, 2026 at 6:00 AM – Mon, Nov 2, 2026 at 2:59 PM November [The Amazing Bali Race Couch Crash](https://www.couchsurfing.com/c/events/the-amazing-bali-race-couch-crash-2026-3BvSaOBR6ChCoMj7EGDiPU1F6kO_ho?latitude=-8.6525&longitude=115.2191&locationId=2pdyyJPlqAzAK2a3E6HsLunfbJf_lc) Bali, Indonesia November 6-8, 2026 [Reunión Nacional Mexicali 2026](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/reunion-nacional-mexicali-2026) Mexicali, Mexico November 13-16, 2026 [CouchCrash Tunisia Road Trip – Desert Edition](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/couchcrash-tunisia-road-trip-desert-edition) Tunis, Tunisia November 25-30, 2026 December [Punsch-out Hamburg(ers) Xmas Bash](https://www.couchsurfing.com/c/events/punsch-out-hamburgers-xmas-bash-3G7p1GWJW77hJcV9529L17fqvVx_ho?latitude=53.5488&longitude=9.9872&locationId=2pdz5Dtd5MV6hZbDPrX4mAfdlP2_lc) Hamburg, Germany Thu, Dec 3, 2026 at 7:00 PM – Sun, Dec 6, 2026 at 4:00 PM [Hong Kong Couch Crash 2026](https://www.couchsurfing.com/c/events/hong-kong-couch-crash-2026-3GaeX7wubY4EgUo3nj5XrOOjkSn_ho?latitude=22.2871&longitude=114.1612&hangoutSources=2&locationId=2pdz2BAdHxS61yO2egngSKYpFbW_lc) Hong Kong, Hong Kong Wed, Dec 9, 2026 at 8:00 PM – Sun, Dec 13, 2026 at 11:59 PM [Chemnitz Xmas Crash](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/chemnitz-cs-xmas-crash-2026-adelsberg-edition) Chemnitz, Germany December 11-13, 2026 [CS Xmas Meeting in Banska Stiavnica](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/9th-cs-xmas-meeting-in-banska-stiavnica-2026) Dolna, Slovakia December 11-13, 2026 [ISTANBUL – WINTER CRASH](https://www.couchsurfing.com/c/events/3ISDYMQiMFF2jOG7vPRsqjMBXap_ho?latitude=41.0085&longitude=28.9674&locationId=2pdz0o3SJfYJCwEfd7VA0IghjG2_lc)Istanbul, Turkiye Thu, Dec 31, 2026 at 5:00 PM – Sun, Jan 3, 2027 at 2:00 AM [CanaryCrash 2027: New Year Revolution](https://www.couchsurfing.com/c/events/3IUq7qgc3OtYzxmssH0pLKTSqlO_ho?latitude=27.9292&longitude=-15.3872&locationId=2v0h5JV4dESaSiHrKTUp7mbHygf_lc) Telde, Canary Islands, Spain Thu, Dec 31, 2026 at 6:00 PM – Sun, Jan 3, 2027 at 3:00 PM January [Carnaval CS Salvador 2027](https://www.couchsurfing.com/c/events/3GzxJ3hGi4qtrJ1LiE2w2y80bAI_ho?latitude=-13.0099&longitude=-38.5285&locationId=2pdz9f2NEqAaCQpaPWumgt2kJB1_lc) Salvador, Brazil Thu, Jan 28, 2027 at 7:00 PM – Wed, Feb 10, 2027 at 9:00 PM Benefits of Attending a Couch Crash - Meet locals who know the best hidden gems - Make international friends from around the world - Experience authentic local culture beyond tourist spots - Build lasting connections within the Couchsurfing community - Discover a city in a whole new way Types of Couch Crash Activities Couch Crashes feature a variety of event formats to suit different interests. Here’s what to expect at a Couch Crash: - **City Tours:** Guided walks through historic neighborhoods, street art districts, or local markets - **Potlucks:** Shared meals where attendees bring dishes from their home countries or regions - **Outdoor Adventures:** Hiking, camping, beach outings, or lake trips - **Cultural Exchanges:** Language practice, cooking sessions, or traditional music and dance - **Themed Events:** Carnival celebrations, pride parades, holiday gatherings, or festival participation How to Join a Couch Crash - Browse the list of upcoming events below or search on Couchsurfing.com - Click on an event that interests you to view details and requirements - Mark yourself as “Going” or “Interested” on the event page - Connect with the event organizers and other attendees through the event discussion - Arrange your travel and accommodation, then show up ready to meet new friends! How do I plan one? We have a few tips on how to plan your own [Couch Crash here](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/how-to-plan-a-couch-crash/), submitted by our Ambassadors who have years of experience! Frequently Asked Questions **Are Couch Crashes free?** Most Couch Crash activities are free or low-cost. Some events may have optional paid activities or ask for contributions toward shared meals or venue costs. **Do I need to be a Couchsurfing member to attend?** Yes, you need a Couchsurfing account to RSVP and participate. Creating an account allows you to connect with organizers and other attendees. **How long do Couch Crashes typically last?** Most Couch Crashes run 2–5 days, though some larger events can last a week or more. Check individual event details for specific dates. **What should I bring?** Bring an open mind, comfortable walking shoes, and any items specified by the event organizer. For camping events, you may need outdoor gear. Potlucks often ask attendees to bring a dish to share. ![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/ss1-1.jpeg "ss1 (1) - Couchsurfing Blog")Past Crashes [Montreal Couch Crash](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/montreal-couch-crash-2026) Montreal, Canada August 27-30, 2026 [Istanbul Crash](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/istanbul-main-crash-2026) Istanbul, Turkey August 28-September 6, 2026 [CouchCrash Armenia 2026 – South Caucasus](https://www.couchsurfing.com/c/events/couchcrash-armenia-2026-3Ffqgr12CGJ8Cbeh1JMrVRJ1H3M_ho?latitude=40.1872&longitude=44.5152&tab=interested&locationId=2pdyzITCwSfx9aFnbYI8cT58Yqj_lc) Yerevan, Armenia Sat, Aug 29, 2026 at 12:15 PM – Sat, Sep 5, 2026 at 2:15 PM [Munich Crash – Minga mog di](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/munich-crash-2026-minga-mog-di-main-event) Munich, Germany August 13-16, 2026 [The 17th BIG Franconian Meeting 2026](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/the-17th-big-franconian-meeting-2026) Nuremberg, Germany August 6-9, 2026 [A Vigo Crash](https://www.couchsurfing.com/c/events/346r4OBqmHrZXVkO4GztVnyE316_ho?latitude=42.2375&longitude=-8.7231&locationId=2pdz8IdQMIzhKsh6R1bfhChHlsB_lc) Vigo, Spain August 6-8, 2026 [Pride 2026](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/pride-2026) Amsterdam, Netherlands July 31-August 2, 2026 [Couchsurfing Camp @ lake in Ebing](https://www.couchsurfing.com/c/events/36pqgZuGbSg8ADlpaUkxY0p6O9T_ho?latitude=50.0052&longitude=10.9096&locationId=2v0hBjeq1s1zRkst7do0CSl195d_lc) Bamberg, Germany July 30-August 2, 2026 [Cold Spring Camp Crash 2026](https://www.couchsurfing.com/c/events/cold-spring-camp-crash-2026-3E8iV3GWlccEVww3FXS1CKL4b4R_ho?latitude=40.7128&longitude=-74.0060&locationId=2pdzEKBz5YqnHDJBl0g0q9tMNR8_lc) (Cold Spring, New York, USA) July 24-26, 2026 [SEACrash](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/sea-crash-2026) (Seattle, Washington, USA) July 22-27, 2026 [ChicagoCrash 2026](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/chicagocrash-2026) (Chicago, Illinois, USA) July 16-19, 2026 [Stumptown Couch Crash 2026](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/stumptown-couch-crash-2026) (Portland, Oregon, USA) July 16-19, 2026 [Amalfi Coast International Summer Camp](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/amalfi-coast-international-summer-camp-2026) (Naples, Italy) July 1-6, 2026 [CouchCrash Guerrero at the World Cup](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/couchcrash-guerrero-at-the-world-cup) (Acapulco, Guerrero, Mexico) June 27-30, 2026 [BarnaCrash 2026 – Centenary of Gaudí edition](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/barnacrash-2026) (Barcelona, Spain) June 23-28, 2026 [Denver Couch Crash](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/denver-couch-crash-2026) (Denver, Colorado, USA) June 18-22, 2026 [I Encontro Regional do Centro-Oeste – JUNHO/2026](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/i-enc-regional-do-centro-oeste-vale-do-araguaia-goiania) (Goiania, Brazil) June 4-7, 2026 [BMM S02 EP8 Spring 2026](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/bmm-s02-ep8-spring-2026) (Nikšić, Montenegro) April 23-26, 2026 [King’s Night@Jordaan & King’s Day 2026](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/king-s-night-jordaan-king-s-day-2026) (Jordaan, Amsterdam, Netherlands) April 26-27, 2026 [Couch Crash Malta](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/couch-crash-malta) (Malta) April 30-May 3, 2026 [DC Embassy Crash](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/2026-dc-embassy-crash) (Washington DC, USA) April 30-May 3, 2026 [Crash Feria San Marcos 2026](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/crash-feria-san-marcos-2026) (Aguascaliente, Mexico) May 1-5, 2026 [Hello Summer Camp – Costa Brava](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/hello-summer-camp-costa-brava-sant-feliu-de-guixols) (Girona, Spain) May 22-25, 2026 [2026 Ten-Year CouchCrash-iversary](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/2026-ten-year-couchcrash-iversary) (Cleveland, Ohio, USA) May 22-25, 2026 [Gnu Meeting 2026](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/gnu-meeting-2026) (Praia a Mare, Cosenza, Italy) May 29-June 2, 2026 [French Quarter Fest Frolic](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/french-quarter-fest-frolic) (New Orleans, USA) April 16-20, 2026 [XVIII Encontro Nacional – Ouro Preto](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/xviii-encontro-nacional-ouro-preto) (Ouro Preto, Brazil) April 17-21, 2026 [Colorado Cabin Crash](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/colorado-cabin-crash) (Denver, USA) March 12-16, 2026 [Invasion Colima](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/invasion-colima-tomamos-la-ciudad) (Colima, Mexico) March 14-16, 2026 [Joshua Tree Weekend](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/joshua-tree-weekend-desert-art-stargazing-mor) (Joshua Tree, California, USA) March 27-29, 2026 [Cologne Carnival](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/cologne-carnival-2026-thu-12-feb-tue-17-feb) (Cologne, Germany) February 12-17, 2026 [Carnaval CS Salvador](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/carnaval-cs-salvador-2026) (Salvador, Brazil) February 11-18, 2026 [CS Carnaval 2026 – Recife & Olinda](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/cs-carnaval-2026-recife-olinda) (Recife, Brazil) February 12-18, 2026 [Carnaval Couchsurfing](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/carnaval-couchsurfing-2026) (Veracruz, Mexico) February 13-16 [CS 🎭 Carnival in Maastricht Region 2026](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/cs-carnival-in-maastricht-region-2026) (Maastricht, Netherlands) February 13-17, 2026 [Big Bear Snow Crash 2026](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/big-bear-snow-crash-2026) (Big Bear, California) February 20-22, 2026 [Canary Crash](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/canarycrash-2026) (Canary Islands, Spain) February 20-27, 2026 [Tallinn Sauna Camp](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/tallinn-sauna-camp-2026) (Tallinn, Estonia) February 27-March 1, 2026 [CouchCrash Tunisia](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/couchcrash-tunisia-2025-first-edition) (Tunis, Tunisia) January 29-February 1, 2026 [Skopje Xmas Xtravaganza](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/skopje-xmas-xtravaganza-2025) (Skopje, North Macedonia) December 26-29, 2025 [Las Vegas New Years Eve Invasion](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/las-vegas-new-year-s-eve-invasion-las-vegas) (Las Vegas, Nevada, USA) December 28-January 2, 2026 [Tirana Winter Camp 2025](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/tirana-wintercamp-2025) (Tirana, Albania) December 30-January 3, 2026 [COUCHCRASH NEW YEAR’S EVE ACAPULCO 5.0](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/couchcrash-new-year-s-eve-acapulco-5-0) (Acapulco, Mexico) December 31-January 4, 2026 [Namaste Kutchh Invasion](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/namaste-kutchh-invasion) (Bhuj, Gujarat, India) January 3-5, 2026 [Prague HospEx Fest (CzechSurfing) 2025](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/prague-hospex-fest-czechsurfing-2025) (Prague, Czech Republic) September 11-14, 2025 [MadCrash 2025](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/madcrash-2025) (Madrid, Spain) September 11-15, 2025 [BigA$$Crash – 🏖️ The LBC Crash](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/biga-crash-the-lbc-crash) (Long Beach, California) September 12-14, 2025 [BigA$$Crash – 🎰 Vegas Hangover Crash 2025](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/biga-crash-vegas-hangover-crash-2025) (Las Vegas, Nevada) September 18-20, 2025 [St. Louis Crash](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/st-louis-crash) (St. Louis, Missouri, USA) September 19-21, 2025 [CS Graz Sturm 2025](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/cs-graz-sturm-2025-autumn-couch-crash) (Graz, Austria) September 19-21, 2025 [BigA$$Crash – 🌞 Sun Diego Crash 2025](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/biga-crash-sun-diego-crash) (San Diego, California) September 26-28, 2025 [Invadir Gostoso – Mostra de Cinema Potiguar – SMG](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/invadir-gostoso-mostra-de-cinema-potiguar-smg) (São Miguel do Gostoso, Brazil) November 20-24, 2025 [Brunswick Advent Revelry](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/brunswick-advent-revelry) (Brunswick, Germany) November 27-30, 2025 [Leipzig Xmas Crash 2025](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/leipzig-xmas-crash-2025) (Leipzig, Germany) December 12-15, 2025 [8th CS Xmas Meeting in Banska Stiavnica 2025](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/8th-cs-xmas-meeting-in-banska-stiavnica-2025) (Banska Stiavnic, Slovakia) December 12-15, 2025 [Basque Autumn Days 2025](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/basque-autumn-days-2025) (Basque Country, Spain) October 2-6, 2025 [Invasão Pipa RN – 6a Edição](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/invasao-pipa-rn-6a-edicao) (Tibau do Sul, Brazil) October 3-5, 2025 [BigA$$Crash – 🍷 2025 Tijuas Crash](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/biga-crash-tijuana-baja-california) (Tijuana, Mexico) October 3-6, 2025 [AVE ROMA – A Roman Crash](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/ave-roma-a-roman-crash-2025-10-09-8911807) (Rome, Italy) October 9-12, 2025 [Bali Bash](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/bali-bash-2025) (Ubud, Bali, Indonesia) October 14-17, 2025 [Singapore Couch Crash](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/singapore-couch-crash-2025) (Singapore, Singapore) October 31-November 2, 2025 [TarraCrash Halloween (Tarragona, Spain)](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/tarracrash-halloween) October 31-November 2, 2025 [13va Reunión Nacional Couchsurfing México/Tabasco](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/13va-reunion-nacional-couchsurfing-mexico-tabasco) (Villahermosa, Mexico) November 14-17, 2025 [BigA$$Crash – 🇨🇦 Van Crash 2025](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/biga-crash-vancrash-2025) (Vancouver, British Columbia) July 25-27, 2025 [BigA$$Crash – 🏔️ Sea Crash 2025](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/biga-crash-sea-crash-2025) (Seattle, Washington) July 31-Aug 4th, 2025 [Pride 2025](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/pride-2025) (Amsterdam, Netherlands) August 1-3, 2025 [Milano Crash 2025](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/9342457) (Milan, Italy) August 1-3, 2025 [Mont Royal Camp 2025](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/mont-royal-camp-2025) (Traben-Trarbach, Germany) August 6-11, 2025 [Portland “Rosebud Invasion” Mini Crash!](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/portland-rosebud-invasion-mini-crash) (Portland, Oregon, USA) August 7-12, 2025 [EcoSurfing Acapulco 4.0](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/ecosurfing-acapulco-4-0) (Acapulco, Mexico) August 8-10, 2025 [The 16th BIG Franconian Meeting 2025](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/the-16th-big-franconian-meeting-2025) (Nuremburg, Germany) August 8-10, 2025 [BigA$$Crash – 🌉 SF Bay Area Crash 2025](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/biga-crash-sf-bay-area-crash-2025) (Bay Area, California) August 14-17, 2025 [Greenville Lake Crash](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/greenville-lake-crash-2025) (Greenville, South Carolina, USA) August 15-17, 2025 [ConnectiCOUCH 2025](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/connecticouch-2025?utm_source=couchsurfing-ios&utm_campaign=event_social_share) (Connecticut, USA) August 21-25, 2025 [FoCo Crash 2025](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/foco-crash-2025) (Fort Collins, Colorado, USA) August 22-24, 2025 [BigA$$Crash – 🔥 Burning Man 2025](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/biga-crash-burning-man-2025) (Gerlach, Nevada) August 25-September 1, 2025 [A Ferrol Crash](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/a-ferrol-crash-ferrol) (Ferrol, Spain) August 28-31, 2025 [Peach Crash 2025](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/peach-crash-2025) (Atlanta, Georgia, USA) August 28-September 1, 2025 [BigA$$Crash – 🌴 Angel City Crash 2025](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/biga-crash-angel-city-crash-2025) (Los Angeles, California) September 5-7, 2025 [Amalfi Coast Summer Camp 2025 + Capri Edition](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/amalfi-coast-summer-camp-2025-capri-edition) (Naples, Italy) July 3-7, 2025 [Mainhattan Crash](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/mainhattan-crash) (Frankfurt, Germany) June 12-15, 2025 [Chicago Crash 2025](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/chicago-crash-2025) (Chicago, Illinois, USA) June 12-16, 2025 [V Invasão São Paulo & Parada do Orgulho LGBT+](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/v-invasao-sao-paulo-parada-do-orgulho-lgbt) (Sao Paulo, Brazil) June 18-22, 2025 [CS Camping Meeting, Lake Ebing](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/cs-camping-meeting-lake-in-ebing-bamberg) (Bamberg, Germany) June 18-22, 2025 [Madison Couch Crash – 2025](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/madison-couch-crash-2025?utm_source=couchsurfing-ios&utm_campaign=event_social_share) (Madison, Wisconsin, USA) June 20-22, 2025 [BarnaCrash 2025](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/barnacrash-2025) (Barcelona, Spain) June 20-24, 2025 [Cebu Island Crash 2025](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/cebu-island-crash-2025) (Cebu, Philippines) June 26-29, 2025 [Burning Hat NYC Camp Crash](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/burning-hat-nyc-camp-crash) (Cold Spring, NY, USA) June 27-29, 2025 [Carnaval de Veracruz](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/carnaval-de-veracruz-veracruz-2025-06-27) (Veracruz, Mexico) June 27-29, 2025 [Nashville Invasion](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/nashville-invasion) (Nashville, Tennessee, USA) June 5-8, 2025 [World Pride DC 2025 Crash](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/world-pride-dc-2025-crash) (Washington DC, USA) June 6-8, 2025 [Finding Mozart: A Salzburg CouchCrash](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/finding-mozart-a-salzburg-couchcrash) (Salzburg, Austria) June 6-9, 2025 [Hello Summer Camp – Costa Brava](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/hello-summer-camp-costa-brava-barcelona) (Barcelona, Spain) June 6-9, 2025 [ENCSBR 2025 – Aracaju](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/encsbr-2025-aracaju) (Aracaju, Brazil) May 1-4, 2025 [The Raven Invasion](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/the-raven-invasion) (Baltimore, Maryland) May 1-4, 2025 [Pueblaweekend](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/pueblaweekend-conmemorando-la-batalla-camotera) (Puebla, Mexico) May 2-4, 2025 [National Day Celebrations](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/national-day-celebrations-trondheim) (Trondheim, Norway) May 15-19, 2025 [GNU Meeting 2025](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/gnu-meeting-2025) (San Nicola Arcella, Cosenza, Italy) May 29 – June 2, 2025 [Granada Santa 2025](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/granada-santa-2025) (Granada, Spain) April 16-21, 2025 [Invasão BH 2025!](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/invasao-bh-2025) (Belo Horizonte, Brazil) April 18-21, 2025 [BMM S03 E07](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/bmm-s03-e07) (Serres, Greece) April 24-27, 2025 [King’s Night@Jordaan & King’s Day 2025](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/king-s-night-jordaan-king-s-day-2025) (Jordaan, Amsterdam, Netherlands) April 25-27, 2025 [Invasion Pyrenees – Vall de Núria](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/invasion-pyrenees-vall-de-nuria) (Queralbs, Spain) April 26-27, 2025 [Big Bear Snow Crash](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/big-bear-snow-crash) (Big Bear, California, USA) February 6-10, 2025 [CanarionCrash: Gran Canaria 2025](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/canarioncrash-gran-canaria-2025) (Las Palmas, Gran Canaria, Spain) February 15-16, 2025 [Tallinn Sauna Camp](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/tallinn-sauna-camp) (Tallinn, Estonia) February 21-23, 2025 [Carnaval CS Salvador Crash](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/carnaval-cs-salvador-2025) (Salvador, Bahia, Brazil) February 26-March 5, 2025 [Cozy Crash 2025](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/cozy-crash-2025) (Gatlinburg, Tennessee, USA) February 27-March 2, 2025 [CARNAVAL CS RECIFE/OLINDA 2025](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/carnaval-cs-recife-olinda-2025) (Recife, Brazil) February 27-March 6, 2025 [CS Carnival in Maastricht Region 2025](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/cs-carnival-in-maastricht-region-2025) (Maastricht, Netherlands) February 28-March 4, 2025 [Tenerife Carnival Parties 2025](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/tenerife-carnival-parties-2025) (Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain) February 28-March 5, 2025 [CanaryCrash Tenerife 2025](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/canarycrash-tenerife-2025) (Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain) January 9-11, 2025 [CouchCrash – Pongal Thiruvizha @ Pollachi](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/couchcrash-pongal-thiruvizha-pollachi) (Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India) January 11-13, 2025 [Florida Tropical Cruise Crash](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/florida-tropical-cruise-crash) (Port Canaveral, Florida, USA) January 16-19, 2025 [Couch Crash Leon](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/couch-crash-leon) (Leon, Mexico) January 31-February 3, 2025 [BCN Xmas Xtravaganza](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/bcn-xmas-xtravaganza-2024) (Barcelona, Spain) December 24-27, 2024 [CouchCrash Acapulco New Year’s Eve](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/couchsrash-acapulco-new-year-s-eve) (Acapulco, Mexico) December 28-January 3, 2025 [Tarragona NYE Bash](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/tarragona-nye-bash-2024-25) (Tarragona, Spain) December 28-January 3, 2025 [International NYE in Castellammare](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/international-nye-in-castellammare) (Castellammare, Italy) December 31-January 2, 2025 [Leipzig Christmas Weekend](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/leipzig-christmas-weekend) (Leipzig, Germany) December 13-16, 2024 [Hong Kong Couch Crash](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/hong-kong-couch-crash-a-december-to-remember) (Hong Kong) December 11-15, 2024 [Dortmund Xmas Upruhr](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/dortmund-xmas-upruhr) (Dortmund, Germany) December 6-8, 2024 [Bucharest CouchCrash](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/8678731) (Bucharest, Romania) November 29-December 1, 2024 [GREMO NA LUČKE – LJUBLJANA in Christmas lights](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/gremo-na-lucke-ljubljana-in-christmas-lights) (Ljubljana, Slovenia) November 29-December 1, 2024 [Andorra Invasion](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/andorra-invasion) (Andorra La Vella, Andorra) November 8-10, 2024 [Invasão XIV](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/invasao-vix) (Vitoria, Brazil) November 14-17, 2024 [Mexico’s National Meeting](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/reunion-nacional-couchsurfing-mexico-sede-la-paz) (La Paz, Mexico) November 15-18, 2024 [NYC Halloween Couch Crash](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/nyc-halloween-couchcrash) (NYC, New York, USA) October 30-November 3, 2024 [Montreal Couch Crash](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/cs-canada-crash-2024-montreal) (Montreal, Quebec, Canada) October 10-15, 2024 [CS Graz Sturm – Autumn Crash](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/cs-graz-sturm-2024-autumn-cs-crash) (Graz, Austria) September 20-22, 2024 [San Diego Invasion](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/san-diego-invasion) (San Diego, California, USA) September 23-26, 2024 [Balkan Mafia Invasion in Dalyan](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/balkan-mafia-invasion-in-dalyan-turkey) (Dalyan, Turkey) September 26-29, 2024 [LA Couch Crash: Angel City Crash](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/la-couchcrash-angel-city-crash-2024) (Los Angeles, California, USA) September 26-30, 2024 [Invasion Burgos](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/invasion-burgos) (Burgos, Spain) September 27-29, 2024 [San Francisco Couch Crash](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/san-francisco-couchcrash-2024) (San Francisco, California, USA) October 3-6, 2024 [Chichen Itza Mini Couch Crash](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/chichen-itza-mini-couch-crash) (Chichen Itza, Yucutan, Mexico) October 4-6, 2024 [Biggest Little City Crash](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/biggest-little-city-crash) (Reno, Nevada, USA) August 22-25, 2024 [Savannah Labor Day Peach Crash](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/savannah-labor-day-weekend-peach-crash) (Savannah, Georgia, USA) August 29-September 2, 2024 [Mont Royal Camp 2024](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/mont-royal-camp-2024) (Mont Royal, Germany) September 3-9, 2024 [Prague HospEx Fest – Czechsurfing](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/prague-hospex-fest-czechsurfing-2024) (Prague, Czechia) September 5-8, 2024 [Pipa Invasion](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/invasao-pipa-5a-edicao) (Pipa, Brazil) September 13-15, 2024 [Lake Crash 2024](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/lake-crash-2024) (Greenville, South Carolina, USA) September 6-8, 2024 [MadCrash 2024](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/madcrash-2024-crash-madrid) (Madrid, Spain) September 13-16, 2024 [Monterrey Regio Crash 2.0](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/monterrey-regio-crash-2-0) (Monterrey, Mexico) September 13-16, 2024 [Madison Couch Crash](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/madison-couch-crash-2024) (Madison, Wisconsin, USA) August 9-11, 2024 [Malaga Invasion](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/invasion-a-malaga-3) (Malaga, Spain) August 9-11, 2024 [Sea Crash 2024](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/sea-crash-2024) (Seattle, Washington, USA) July 31-August 4, 2024 [The 15th BIG Franconian Meeting 2024](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/the-15th-big-franconian-meeting-2024) (Nuremberg, Germany) August 1-4, 2024 [Pride 2024](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/pride-2024) (Amsterdam, Netherlands) August 2-4, 2024 [A Coruña Crash](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/a-coruna-crash) (A Coruña, Spain) August 8-11, 2024 [Van Crash 2024](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/van-crash-2024) (Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada) August 8-11, 2024 [14th GNU CS Meeting](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/14th-gnu-cs-meeting-2024) (Praia a Mare, Italy) June 12-16, 2024 [BarnaCrash 2024](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/barnacrash-2024) (Barcelona, Spain) June 21-24, 2024 [Denver Couch Crash](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/2024-denver-couchcrash) (Denver, Colorado, USA) June 21-24, 2024 [Cold Spring Camp Crash](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/cold-spring-camp-crash-new-york-city) (Cold Spring, NY, USA) June 28-30, 2024 [VI Fun Camp Bydgoszcz](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/vi-fun-camp-bydgoszcz) (Bydgoszcz, Poland) June 28-30, 2024 [Amalfi Coast International Summer Camp 2024](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/amalfi-coast-international-summer-camp-2024) (Naples, Italy) July 4-8, 2024 [London Couch Crash](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/london-couchcrash) (London, England) July 12-17, 2024 [Leipzig Couch Crash](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/leipzig-couch-crash) (Leipzig, Germany) July 19-21, 2024 [2024 Chicago Crash](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/2024-chicagocrash-jul19-21) (Chicago, Illinois, USA) July 19-21, 2024 [1ª Invasão Chapada das Mesas](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/1a-invasao-chapada-das-mesas) (Carolina, Brazil) June 3-8, 2024 [Lisbon Couch Crash](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/lisbon-20th-couchsurfing-anniversary) (Lisbon, Portugal) June 7-9, 2024 [MARSEILLE – 20th Couchsurfing anniversary!](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/marseille-20th-couchsurfing-anniversary) (Marseille, France) June 7-9, 2024 [Linz Couch Crash](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/couchcrash-linz-bubbledays-edition) (Linz, Austria) June 7-9, 2024 [BMM S03 E05 Orsova](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/bmm-s03-e05-orsova) (Orsova, Romania) May 16-19, 2024 [Cordoba Invasion](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/invasion-cordoba-2024-2) (Cordoba, Spain) May 17-19, 2024 [Amealco Mini Crash](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/cs-amealco-mini-crash) (Amealco de Bonfil, Mexico) May 24-26, 2024 [Let’s meet in Bergamo](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/let-s-meet-in-bergamo) (Bergamo, Italy) May 25-27, 2024 [National Meeting São Luís](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/encontro-nacional-cs-em-sao-luis-2024) (São Luís, Brazil) May 29-Jun 2, 2024 [Hello Summer Camp – Costa Brava](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/hello-summer-camp-costa-brava) (Blanes, Girona, Spain) May 31-June 2, 2024 [Houston Couch Crash](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/houston-we-have-a-couchcrash) (Houston, Texas, USA) April 11-15, 2024 [Camping Los Tuxtla 2](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/camping-los-tuxtla-2) (Veracruz, Mexico) April 12-15, 2024 [Kingsday 2024](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/kingsday-2024) (The Hague, Netherlands) April 25-29, 2024 [King’s Night @ Jordaan](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/king-s-night-jordaan-king-s-day-2024) (Jordaan, Netherlands) April 26-27, 2024 [Embassy Crash](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/embassy-crash) (Washington DC, USA) May 2-5, 2024 [Couchcrash Clausura Feria De San Marcos](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/couchcrash-clausura-feria-de-san-marcos-2024) (Aguascalientes, Mexico) May 3-5, 2024 [Glasgow Balkan Mafia](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/glasgow-balcony-mafia) (Glasgow, Scotland, UK) March 15-18, 2024 [Couch Crash Mexico City](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/couchcrash-mexico-city) (Mexico City, Mexico) March 15-18, 2024 [Invasion Rome](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/invasion-rome) (Rome, Italy) March 21-24, 2024 [Invasion: Joao Pessoa](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/invasao-joao-pessoa-pb) (João Pessoa, Paraíba, Brazil) March 28-31, 2024 [CouchCrash Marseille](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/couchcrash-marseille-2024) (Marseille, France) March 30-April 1, 2024 [Roman Weekend Barcelona](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/roman-weekend-barcelona) (Barcelona, Spain) February 3-4, 2024 [Cologne Carnival 2024](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/cologne-carnival-2024-thu-08-feb-tue-13-feb) (Cologne, Germany) February 8-13, 2024 [Carnival Maastricht](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/cs-carnival-in-maastricht-region-2024) (Maastricht, Netherlands) February 9-13, 2024 [Carna Olinda](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/carnaolinda-olinda) (Olinda, Pernambuco, Brazil) February 9-15, 2024 [Tallinn Sauna Camp](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/tallinn-sauna-camp-2024) (Tallinn, Estonia) February 23-25, 2024 [Cozy Couch Crash](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/cozy-crash-2024) (Sevierville, Tennessee, USA) February 29-March 3, 2024 [Couch Crash Udupi 2024](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/couchcrash-udupi-2024) (Udupi, Karnataka, India) January 26-28, 2024 [Aberdeen Couch Crash](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/cs-aberdeen-gathering) (Aberdeen, Scotland) January 26-28, 2024 [Inverness Burns Nacht Weekend](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/inverness-burns-nacht-weekend-gathering) Gathering (Inverness, Scotland) January 26-28, 2024 [Couch Crash Bir](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/couch-crash-bir) (Baijnath, Himachal Pradesh, India) December 24-25, 2023 [Palermo Wintercamp](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/palermo-wintercamp-2023) (Palermo, Italy) December 29 – January 2, 2024 [After WinterCamp](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/after-wintercamp-2024) (Catania, Sicily, Italy) January 2-7, 2024 [Canary Islands Invasion – Tenerife](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/invasion-canary-islands-tenerife) (Tenerife, Canary Island, Spain) December 6-10, 2023 [Linzman Lash & Lights](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/linzmas-lash-lights) (Linz, Austria) December 7-10, 2023 [Wroclaw Invasion](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/wroclaw-invasion) (Wroclaw, Poland) December 8-10, 2023 [11th National Meeting Mexico](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/xi-reunion-nacional-chiapas) (San Cristobal de las Casas, Chiapas, Mexico) November 17-20, 2023 [CS Hampi Calling](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/cs-hampi-calling-2023-hospet) (Hampi, India) November 24-27, 2023 [Chicago Couch Crash](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/chicago-couch-crash-2023) (Chicago, Illinois, USA) October 12-15, 2023 [Asturias Camino de Santiago Camp](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/asturias-camino-de-santiago-invasion) (Asturias, Spain) October 20-22, 2023 [Musical Mountain Camp Crash 5](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/musical-mountain-camp-crash-5) (Franklin, North Carolina, USA) October 20-22, 2023 [BMM S03E04: Drama on the Drava](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/bmm-s03e04-drama-on-the-drava) (Maribor, Slovenia) October 26-29, 2023 [2 Nights Goa](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/2nights-goa-lets-the-good-time-roar) (Goa, India) November 3-5, 2023 [Invasão Pipa 2023 – 4a Edição](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/invasao-pipa-2023-4a-edicao) (Tibau do Sul, Brazil) October 6-8, 2023 [Annual Triangle Camping Trip](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/annual-triangle-cs-camping-trip) (Raleigh, North Carolina, USA) October 6-8, 2023 [Guayaquil Couch Crash](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/1st-couch-crash-guayaquil-ecuador%20) (Guayaquil, Ecuador) October 7-9, 2023 [Brazil National Meeting](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/encontro-nacional-cs-brasil-recife-2023) (Recife, Brazil) October 11-15, 2023 [SEA Crash 2023](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/sea-crash-2023) (Seattle, Washington, USA) July 6-9, 2023 [Krakow Invasion](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/krakow-invasion) (Krakow, Poland) July 7-9, 2023 [ConnectiCOUCH](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/connecticouch-2023) (Connecticut, USA) July 20-23 [Switzerland Summer Camp 2023](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/switzerland-summer-camp-2023) (Bern, Switzerland) July 29-August 2, 2023 [San Francisco Couch Crash](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/san-francisco-couch-crash-2023) (San Francisco, California, USA) August 3-6, 2023 [Riga Good Old Times](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/riga-good-old-times-the-phoenix) (Riga, Latvia) August 3-6, 2023 [Malaga Invasion](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/invasion-a-malaga-2) (Malaga, Spain) August 4-6, 2023 [The 14th BIG Franconian Meeting 2023](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/the-14th-big-franconian-meeting-2023) (Nuremberg, Germany) August 11-13, 2023 [Fort Collins Couch Crash](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/foco-beta-crash) (Fort Collins, Colorado, USA) August 11-13, 2023 [CouchCrash Kodaikanal](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/couchcrash-kodaikanal-2023) (Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu, India) August 12-15, 2023 [Greenville Lake Crash](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/greenville-lake-crash-2023) (Greenville, South Carolina, USA) August 18-20, 2023 [Cold Spring Camp Crash](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/cold-spring-camp-crash) (Cold Spring, New York, USA) August 25-27, 2023 [CS Atlanta Peach Crash](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/cs-atlanta-peach-crash-2023) (Atlanta, Georgia, USA) August 31-September 4, 2023 [Prague HospEx Fest](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/prague-hospex-fest-czechsurfing-2023) (CzechSurfing) 2023 (Prague, Czech Republic) September 7-10, 2023 [MadCrash 2023](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/madcrash-2023) (Madrid, Spain) September 8-10, 2023 [2023 Madison Couch Crash: 12th Annual](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/2023-madison-couch-crash-12th-annual?utm_campaign=event_social_share&utm_source=couchsurfing-ios) (Madison, Wisconsin, USA) September 14-17, 2023 [CS GRAZ STURM 2023 – Autumn CS CRASH](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/cs-graz-sturm-2023-autumn-cs-crash) (Graz, Austria) September 22-24, 2023 [Padharo Mhare Desh – Udaipur](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/padharo-mhare-desh-udaipur-udaipur) (Udaipur, India) June 30-July 2, 2023 [Vienna Calling CouchCrash](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/viennacalling-couchcrash-2023) (Vienna, Austria) June 22-25, 2023 [BarnaCrash](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/barnacrash-2023) (Barcelona, Spain) June 22-26, 2023 [Lake Ebing Camping](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/big-cs-camping-meeting-lake-in-ebing) (Bamberg, Germany) June 7-11, 2023 [500th Meeting Goiana](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/500tao-500o-meetup-cs-goiania) (Goiania, Brazil) June 8-11, 2023 [Amalfi Coast International Summer Camp 2023](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/amalfi-coast-international-summer-camp-2023) (Amalfi Coast, Naples, Italy) June 15-19 [O Maior São João do Mundo](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/o-maior-sao-joao-do-mundo) (Campina Grande, Paraíba, Brazil) June 1-7, 2023 [Costa Brava Summer Camp](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/costa-brava-hello-summer-camp) (La Escala, Girona, Spain) June 2-4, 2023 [Amalayón](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/amalayon) (Hermosillo, Mexico) June 2-4, 2023 [CouchCrash Caravan Saray](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/couchcrash-caravan-saray) (Bukhara, Uzbekistan) May 24-28, 2023 [A Denver to Remember ’23](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/a-denver-to-remember-23) (Denver, Colorado, USA) May 25-29, 2023 [BMM S03 Ep3](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/bmm-s03-ep3) (Palic, Serbia) May 11-14, 2023 [14th Annual CS Kalaloch Camping Trip](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/14th-annual-cs-kalaloch-camping-trip) (Seattle, Washington, USA) May 19-21, 2023 [Invasion Buzios](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/invasao-buzios-rj) (Buzios, Brazil) April 20-23, 2023 [King’s Night & Day](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/king-s-night-jordaan-king-s-day-2023) (Jordaan, Amsterdam, Netherlands) April 26-27, 2023 [Marseille Invasion](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/marseille-invasion) (Marseille, France) April 29-May 1, 2023 [CrashCUN ’23: Mexican Caribbean Fiesta!](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/crashcun-23-mexican-caribbean-fiesta) (Cancun, Mexico) May 28, 2023 [CS Hampi Holi](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/cs-hampi-holi-hues-2023) (Hampi, India) March 8-11, 2023 [New Orleans Couch Crash](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/new-orleans-couch-crash?utm_campaign=event_social_share&utm_source=couchsurfing-ios) (New Orleans, USA) March 9-12, 2023 [Vienna Invasion](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/wien-invasion-arts-gastro-trip-cs-group-2023) (Vienna, Austria) April 12-16, 2023 [Lleida Invasion](https://www.couchsurfing.com/events/lleida-invasion) (Lleida, Spain) April 16, 2023 --- ### [Press](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/product-updates/press/) **Published:** July 16, 2018 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/CS_PromoLogoOrange_high_res-300x109.png "CS_PromoLogoOrange_high_ressmaller - Couchsurfing Blog") Couchsurfing is a global network of over 18 million travelers, adventure seekers and lifelong learners in thousands of cities in over 180 countries. We connect travelers around the world who share experiences ranging from hosting one another in their homes to sharing drinks and stories at a CS event, to becoming close friends and travel companions. Hotels and tour companies can give you a bed or a guide, but it is our belief that meeting locals is what will make your trip truly memorable and meaningful. We’d love to tell you more about our core beliefs and the Couchsurfing mission and invite you to get in touch! **Contact Us** Our marketing team loves working with journalists around the world to share the compelling stories. If you’re a member of the media and would like to talk, please email us to request information at . Only media inquiries will receive a response. If you’re a Couchsurfing community member and have a question about the site, please visit our support page [here](https://support.couchsurfing.org/hc/en-us) or email our Support Team at . **Who Are We** We envision a world made better by travel and travel made richer by connection. Couchsurfers share their lives with the people they encounter, fostering cultural exchange and mutual respect. ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/divider-loop-300x74.png "divider-loop - Couchsurfing Blog") ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/social-media-stats-600x110.png "social-media-stats - Couchsurfing Blog") ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/CS-stats-infographic-600x348.png "CS-stats-infographic - Couchsurfing Blog") ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/divider-loop-300x74.png "divider-loop - Couchsurfing Blog") ![](http://10.9.0.204/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/press-coverage.png "press-coverage - Couchsurfing Blog") [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/entrepreneur-press-150x150.png "entrepreneur-press - Couchsurfing Blog")](https://www.entrepreneur.com/article/316568) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/nyt-press-150x150.png "nyt-press - Couchsurfing Blog")](https://www.nytimes.com/2018/06/08/opinion/couchsurfing-with-the-taliban.html) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/brit-co-press-150x150.png "brit-co-press - Couchsurfing Blog")](https://www.brit.co/why-you-should-try-couchsurfing-for-travel-on-a-budget/) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/bluewin-press-150x150.png "bluewin-press - Couchsurfing Blog")](https://www.bluewin.ch/de/leben/reisen/ferien-darum-werden-sie-immer-mehr-zum-freizeitstress-120355.html) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/corriere-press-150x150.png "corriere-press - Couchsurfing Blog")](https://www.corriere.it/tecnologia/app-software/cards/guida-vacanza-low-cost-via-app/condividere-divano_principale.shtml) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/hamburger-abend-press-150x150.png "hamburger-abend-press - Couchsurfing Blog")](https://www.abendblatt.de/sport/article214565705/So-geht-Couchsurfing-in-Russland.html) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/business-insider-press-150x150.png "business-insider-press - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://www.businessinsider.com/how-to-use-couchsurfing-app-to-meet-locals-traveling-2018-1) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/neue-westfalische-press-150x150.png "neue-westfalische-press - Couchsurfing Blog")](https://www.nw.de/kultur_und_freizeit/reise/22163675_Couchsurfer-Stephan-Orth-Menschen-sind-interessanter-als-Sehenswuerdigkeiten.html) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/stuff-press-150x150.png "stuff-press - Couchsurfing Blog")](https://www.stuff.co.nz/travel/destinations/middle-east/95548504/couchsurfing-in-iran-a-country-of-culture) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/powder-press-150x150.png "powder-press - Couchsurfing Blog")](https://www.powder.com/stories/travel/a-skiers-guide-to-the-couch-surfing/) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/silesion-press-150x150.png "silesion-press - Couchsurfing Blog")](https://silesion.pl/tanie-wakacje-czyli-jak-wyjechac-za-tysiac-zlotych-02-07-2018) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/daily-cal-press-150x150.png "daily-cal-press - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://www.dailycal.org/2017/04/17/is-couchsurfing-a-viable-option-when-traveling-on-a-budget/) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/kathimerini-press-150x150.png "kathimerini-press - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://www.kathimerini.gr/969632/article/epikairothta/kosmos/oi-talimpan-moirazontai-ton-kanape-toys-me-dytikoys-toyristes) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/stuff2-press-150x150.png "stuff2-press - Couchsurfing Blog")](https://www.stuff.co.nz/travel/kiwi-traveller/90776872/adventures-of-a-couchsurfing-virgin) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/eugene-weekly-press-150x150.png "eugene-weekly-press - Couchsurfing Blog")](https://www.eugeneweekly.com/2018/07/02/hospitable-hooligans-in-volgograd/) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/mobileappdaily-press-150x150.png "mobileappdaily-press - Couchsurfing Blog")](https://www.mobileappdaily.com/success-story/casey-fenton-couchsurfing) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/studentloanhero-press-150x150.png "studentloanhero-press - Couchsurfing Blog")](https://studentloanhero.com/featured/summer-vacation-must-have-travel-apps/) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/tabletmag-press-150x150.png "tabletmag-press - Couchsurfing Blog")](https://www.tabletmag.com/scroll/228346/mi-casa-es-su-casa) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/costarica-news-press-150x150.png "costarica-news-press - Couchsurfing Blog")](https://thecostaricanews.com/travel-like-local-couchsurfing/) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/international-living-press-150x150.png "international-living-press - Couchsurfing Blog")](https://internationalliving.com/the-expats-guide-to-meeting-people-and-making-connections/) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/4wwl-press-150x150.png "4wwl-press - Couchsurfing Blog")](https://www.wwltv.com/article/news/local/thousands-of-residents-open-their-homes-to-travelers-through-couch-surfing-site/289-523554702) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/guardian-press-150x150.png "guardian-press - Couchsurfing Blog")](https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2015/feb/10/why-id-rather-take-a-free-couchsurfer-than-make-money-from-airbnb) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/irishtimes-press-150x150.png "irishtimes-press - Couchsurfing Blog")](https://www.irishtimes.com/life-and-style/people/couchsurfing-in-offaly-a-free-of-charge-way-of-life-1.2326872) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/dailystar-press-150x150.png "dailystar-press - Couchsurfing Blog")](https://www.thedailystar.net/star-weekend/taking-the-waters-soaking-hot-springs-around-the-world-1591120) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/sfgate-press-150x150.png "sfgate-press - Couchsurfing Blog")](https://www.sfgate.com/business/article/A-rough-ride-to-profit-for-CouchSurfing-5920089.php) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/dailystar2-press-150x150.png "dailystar2-press - Couchsurfing Blog")](https://www.thedailystar.net/star-weekend/7-tips-travelling-1591126) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/telegraph-press-150x150.png "telegraph-press - Couchsurfing Blog")](https://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/news/Couchsurfing-would-you-sleep-with-a-stranger/) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/jakarta-post-press-150x150.png "jakarta-post-press - Couchsurfing Blog")](http://www.thejakartapost.com/travel/2016/06/23/couchsurfing-to-introduce-new-hangout-feature.html) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/huffpost-press-150x150.png "huffpost-press - Couchsurfing Blog")](https://www.huffingtonpost.com/brenda-mejia/couchsurfing-a-dating-app_b_9410506.html) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/desmoines-press-150x150.png "desmoines-press - Couchsurfing Blog")](https://www.desmoinesregister.com/story/news/local/kyle-munson/2016/01/09/fine-art-couchsurfing-help-bring-world-together/78303722/) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/mashable-press-150x150.png "mashable-press - Couchsurfing Blog")](https://mashable.com/2015/03/27/couchsurfing-world-photos/) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/globe-and-mail-press-150x150.png "globe-and-mail-press - Couchsurfing Blog")](https://www.theglobeandmail.com/life/travel/activities-and-interests/how-couchsurfing-changed-the-way-i-travel/article25316531/) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/wired-press-150x150.png "wired-press - Couchsurfing Blog")](https://www.wired.com/2012/08/before-airbnb-there-was-couchsurfing/) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/usa-today-press-150x150.png "usa-today-press - Couchsurfing Blog")](https://www.usatoday.com/story/tech/columnist/talkingtech/2013/10/12/talking-tech-couchsurfing/2959867/) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/teen-vogue-press-150x150.png "teen-vogue-press - Couchsurfing Blog")](https://www.teenvogue.com/story/spring-break-budget-travel-couchsurfing) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/venture-beat-press-150x150.png "venture-beat-press - Couchsurfing Blog")](https://venturebeat.com/2012/10/05/couchsurfing/) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/worldcrunch-press-150x150.png "worldcrunch-press - Couchsurfing Blog")](https://www.worldcrunch.com/food-travel/couchsurfing-in-tehran-how-foreign-crashers-help-iranians-escape) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/entrepreneur2-press-150x150.png "entrepreneur2-press - Couchsurfing Blog")](https://www.entrepreneur.com/article/220724) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/elite-daily-press-150x150.png "elite-daily-press - Couchsurfing Blog")](https://www.elitedaily.com/p/wander-bust-berlin-germany-9041494) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/independent-press-150x150.png "independent-press - Couchsurfing Blog")](https://www.independent.co.uk/student/student-life/couchsurfing-more-than-just-a-free-bed-for-the-night-8751700.html) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/the-bold-italic-press-150x150.png "the-bold-italic-press - Couchsurfing Blog")](https://thebolditalic.com/why-i-prefer-couchsurfing-to-airbnb-the-bold-italic-san-francisco-45735c85a309?gi=5cbf530da466) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/independent2-press-150x150.png "independent2-press - Couchsurfing Blog")](https://www.independent.co.uk/travel/news-and-advice/airbnb-van-dweller-joseph-carlson-couchsurfing-portland-oregon-travelling-backpackers-a7531296.html) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/the-eyeopener-press-150x150.png "the-eyeopener-press - Couchsurfing Blog")](https://theeyeopener.com/2017/01/couchsurfing-offers-students-a-new-wave-in-travel/) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/gigaom-press-150x150.png "gigaom-press - Couchsurfing Blog")](https://gigaom.com/2015/01/10/how-couchsurfing-became-the-friendster-of-the-sharing-economy/) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/dissident-press-150x150.png "dissident-press - Couchsurfing Blog")](https://dissidentvoice.org/2018/07/a-journey-to-iran-elections-ramadan-and-couchsurfing/) --- ### [Share Your Story](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/community-stories/) **Published:** October 9, 2017 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** We love to hear your stories! We encourage you to share either advice for other Couchsurfers, travel stories, hosting stories, or stories about a hangout or event. Your posts will be reviewed by a moderator and if it is in line with our community guidelines then it will be considered for publication to the blog, where it is publicly visible. Your story may be shared on Facebook, other social media platforms, or on the Couchsurfing website! We encourage you to share: 1. Stories about your travel or hosting experience 2. Re-posts from your personal blog, about your experience with Couchsurfing. You’re welcome to include a link to the original blog post at the beginning or the end. 3. Advice, guides, or recommendations for newer Couchsurfing members The moderator can add photos into the blog post, as well as videos. Just attach the photos to the end, and designate within your post where you’d like the photo to be posted. For videos, include a URL to the video on YouTube where you’d like to include it, and we can embed your video for you before it’s published. Rules for User Submitted Content: 1. Your post should be about your Couchsurfing experience, or travel stories in which you used Couchsurfing. Please do not write about posts unrelated to Couchsurfing, looking for advice about Couchsurfing, etc – there are other forums for that purpose. 2. Please do not use this forum to advertise other services or promote other companies. 3. All posts must follow Couchsurfing’s Terms of Use and all Community Guidelines. We moderate all posts and will only post stories that adhere to the above rules, and that we think would be valuable and interesting to the Couchsurfing community. **Tip:** We recommend that you write your post in a Word document or text file and copy/paste into this submission form. If there is an error (for example, your images are too big), your content may be lost. If you do lose your content, try hitting the backspace button – it’s sometimes saved there. **Note**: Your post may be edited for length or clarity. Please complete the required fields. Your Name Your Email Post Title Your Couchsurfing Profile 1 + 1 = Upload an ImagePlease select your image(s) to upload. [Add another image](#) Human verification: leave this field empty. --- ### [Newsletter](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/newsletter/) **Published:** October 14, 2019 **Author:** Mike Joy **Content:** First name or full name Email --- ### [Guides](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/guides/) **Published:** September 24, 2019 **Author:** Mike Joy --- ### [Video Contest: This is How I Couchsurf](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/video-contest-this-is-how-i-couchsurf/) **Published:** August 8, 2017 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** ## *How do you incorporate Couchsurfing into your life?* A short video explaining how you participate in the Couchsurfing community could win you the trip of a lifetime! There is no right or wrong way to participate in Couchsurfing – it can mean different things to different people and that’s what makes it beautiful. To uncover the different ways members incorporate Couchsurfing into their lives, and celebrate the members making Couchsurfing a positive and welcoming community, we’re bringing you the 2017 “This is How I Couchsurf” contest. Contest entrants will submit one video in response to the prompt “How do you Couchsurf?” This can be any type of video showing and/or explaining your experience with Couchsurfing, whether that is through hosting, surfing, or attending a Couchsurfing event or Hangout. ## Vote Now! **Sorry, the submission period has now closed.** **Video Submission Requirements** Submission Timeline: All video submissions must be submitted **and** uploaded to your own Youtube channel on September 15, 2017 at 12:00am PST. Videos that are visible prior to September 15,2017 will be disqualified. To ensure that your video qualifies, you can upload your video ahead of time and schedule your video to publish on the correct date and time. - If you don’t currently have a Youtube channel, [**here**](https://support.google.com/youtube/answer/1646861?hl=en) are directions on how to create one. - See [**here**](https://support.google.com/youtube/answer/1270709?hl=en) for information on how to schedule your video to be published on September 15,2017 at 12:00am PST. Submissions must: - Be in between 2 – 3 minutes in length - Include your face and/or voice in the video - Be original content produced by you - Include this [video](https://drive.google.com/open?id=0B1-UfVPh93IkRWdjOTJVUDRpREE) or [image](https://drive.google.com/open?id=0B1-UfVPh93IkYmdrOEJCaGdoY1k) of the Couchsurfing logo at the beginning and/or end of your video - Be one of the following file types: MOV (.mov), 3GP (.3gp, .3g2, .3gpp), MPEG-4 (.mp4), [FLV](https://www.winxdvd.com/resource/flv.htm) (.flv), AVI (.avi), MPEGS (.mpg), WMV (.wmv) - Comply with both YouTube and Couchsurfing terms of service and specifications for user submissions and/or video uploads, located at and as may otherwise be posted on the YouTube website. Couchsurfing’s Terms of Use are located here: http://www.couchsurfing.com/about/terms-of-use/ ## Official Contest Rules: ENTRY: No purchase necessary to enter or win. Contestants will enter by filling out the above form and uploading their video to Youtube by September 15, as described above in the section **Video Submission Requirements.** ELIGIBILITY: This contest is open to anyone over the age of 18. Void where prohibited by law. Contestants residing in those areas where the contest is void may participate in the contest but may not win any prizes. Couchsurfing retains the right to remove and disqualify submissions that, in Couchsurfing’s sole discretion, do not align with the Couchsurfing Terms of Use, and can remove any entry for any reason. Entries must not violate our Member Conduct and Content requirements, which can be viewed here: WINNER SELECTION: The Couchsurfing Community and the public will be able to vote for their favorite videos on Youtube by “liking” their favorite submissions. The 10 submissions with the most votes will be considered Finalists. The Couchsurfing team will then select their favorite video to award the Grand Prize to. VOTING PERIOD: The voting period extends for 10 days from 00:00 PST on 9/15 to 23:59 PST on 9/25. The **Top 10 Videos with the Most ‘Likes’ on Youtube** will then make it to the final round**.** The Grand Prize and Runner Up will be voted on by the Couchsurfing staff and winners will be notified as soon as the selection is completed. PRIZES: The Grand Prize winner will receive up to $2000 USD in plane tickets for their next Couchsurfing adventure. WINNER NOTIFICATION: Winners will be notified within 14 days after the determination date. Inability to contact a winner may result in disqualification and selection of an alternate winner. GENERAL CONDITIONS: a. Participants hereby grant Couchsurfing a non-exclusive, perpetual, worldwide license to broadcast, publish, store, reproduce, distribute, syndicate, and otherwise use and exhibit the Submission (along with their names, voices, performance and/or likenesses) in all media now known and later come into being for purposes of trade or advertising without further compensation. Participants represent and warrant that they have full legal right, power and authority to grant Couchsurfing the foregoing license and if applicable, have secured all necessary rights from any participants in, and contributors to, their Submission in order to grant such a license. b. Couchsurfing is under no obligation to use any Submission or return the Submissions to participants. USE OF CONTEST INFORMATION: All entries become the property of Couchsurfing. Couchsurfing reserves the right to use any and all information related to the contest, including submissions provided by the contestants, for editorial, marketing and any other purpose, unless prohibited by law. CONDUCT: All contest participants agree to be bound by these Official Rules. Couchsurfing, in its sole discretion, reserves the right to disqualify any person it finds to be tampering with the entry process, the operation of its web site or is otherwise in violation of these rules. LIMITATIONS OF LIABILITY: Couchsurfing is not responsible for late, lost or misdirected email or for any computer, online, telephone or technical malfunctions that may occur. If for any reason, the contest is not capable of running as planned, including infection by computer virus, bugs, tampering, unauthorized intervention or technical failures of any sort, Couchsurfing may cancel, terminate, modify or suspend the contest. Entrants further agree to release Couchsurfing from any liability resulting from, or related to participation in the contest. DISQUALIFIERS: Submissions must not: - Contain material which is (or promotes activities which are) sexually explicit, obscene, pornographic, violent, self-mutilating (e.g., relating to murder, the sales of weapons, cruelty, abuse, etc.), discriminatory (based on race, sex, religion, natural origin, physical disability, sexual orientation or age), illegal (e.g. underage drinking, substance abuse, computer hacking, etc.), offensive, threatening, profane, or harassing; - Include mention or performance of any copyrighted media production including but not limited to music, films, books, television programming, etc., or identifying descriptions of any media property. - Contain material that violates or infringes another’s rights, including but not limited to material that violates privacy, publicity or intellectual property rights, or that constitutes copyright infringement. Without limiting the foregoing, Video Submissions must not include third party trademarks, logos, insignia, location signage, photographs, artwork, or sculptures. Use music that isn’t originally written, performed and produced by you, the Entrant. We’re not saying this because we don’t love music; we do, we really do! It’s because we don’t want to violate the copyright of musicians and artists. All music featured in any video must be available to publicize and broadcast on a license-free, no compensation basis. - Include third parties, including but not limited to minors, celebrities and friends who have not expressly authorized Entrants to display their image, likeness or voice in any submitted video or otherwise use such image, likeness or voice in accordance with these Official Rules. \[wysija\_form id=”4″\] --- ### [Advice](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/staff-in-the-wild/) **Published:** January 13, 2017 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** We’re surfing, hosting, and organizing events across the globe. [![Solo traveler in yellow shirt posing on sandy beach with ocean in background](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/shutterstock_2463822697-300x200.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/what-to-know-before-your-first-couchsurfing-stay/) [What to Know Before Your First Couchsurfing Stay](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/what-to-know-before-your-first-couchsurfing-stay/) This guide covers how to find a host, write a strong request, stay safe, and be a respectful guest during [](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/what-to-know-before-your-first-couchsurfing-stay/) [![Woman solo traveler in orange jacket standing by a waterfall with snow, exploring nature independently](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/shutterstock_2769285423-300x200.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-safety-tips-for-first-time-travelers/) [10 Safety Tips for First-Time Travelers](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-safety-tips-for-first-time-travelers/) Couchsurfing opens the door to genuine human connection, from online conversations and local hangouts to community events and Couch Crashes [](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-safety-tips-for-first-time-travelers/) [![Group of diverse young travelers smiling together outdoors, representing community connection and positive Couchsurfing experiences](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/shutterstock_1524349505-300x200.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/common-myths-about-couchsurfing-debunked/) [Common Myths About Couchsurfing — Debunked](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/common-myths-about-couchsurfing-debunked/) There’s a lot of misinformation out there. It’s time to set the record straight once and for all! Why the [](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/common-myths-about-couchsurfing-debunked/) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/shutterstock_2662827435-1-300x200.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/15-cocktails-from-around-the-world-to-share-with-your-host/) [15 Cocktails from Around the World to Share with Your Host](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/15-cocktails-from-around-the-world-to-share-with-your-host/) The best travel memories often start with a local drink. Here are 15 cocktails from around the world worth knowing, [](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/15-cocktails-from-around-the-world-to-share-with-your-host/) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/shutterstock_2477366617.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/5-more-multi-day-treks-thatll-change-your-life/) [5 More Multi-Day Treks That’ll Change Your Life](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/5-more-multi-day-treks-thatll-change-your-life/) There’s hiking, and then there’s trekking. In our first post, we covered five unforgettable multi-day treks. But there are too [](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/5-more-multi-day-treks-thatll-change-your-life/) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/shutterstock_2496668577.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/5-multi-day-treks-thatll-change-your-life/) [5 Multi-Day Treks That’ll Change Your Life](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/5-multi-day-treks-thatll-change-your-life/) There’s hiking, and then there’s trekking. Hiking is a day out with some views. Trekking is committing days or weeks [](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/5-multi-day-treks-thatll-change-your-life/) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/shutterstock_2615234763.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-tourist-sites-that-actually-live-up-to-the-hype/) [10 Tourist Sites That Actually Live Up to the Hype](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-tourist-sites-that-actually-live-up-to-the-hype/) These ten sites deliver on the hype. They’re worth the crowds, worth the photos everyone’s already seen, worth organizing your [](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-tourist-sites-that-actually-live-up-to-the-hype/) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/shutterstock_2695613025.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-5-most-travel-friendly-places-on-earth/) [The 5 Most Travel-Friendly Places on Earth](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-5-most-travel-friendly-places-on-earth/) Some places just get it. Infrastructure that works, locals who don’t hate tourists yet, prices that let you stay a [](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-5-most-travel-friendly-places-on-earth/) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/shutterstock_1322915132.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/top-5-easiest-countries-for-backpacker-beginners/) [Top 5 Easiest Countries for Backpacker Beginners](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/top-5-easiest-countries-for-backpacker-beginners/) These five countries make backpacking feel manageable. They have good infrastructure, established traveler trails, English is widely spoken, and have [](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/top-5-easiest-countries-for-backpacker-beginners/) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/shutterstock_1019302492.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-tips-for-your-first-backpacking-trip/) [10 Tips for Your First Backpacking Trip](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-tips-for-your-first-backpacking-trip/) First backpacking trip nerves are completely normal. Everyone who’s done this felt the same mix of excitement and terror. These [](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/10-tips-for-your-first-backpacking-trip/) 1 [2](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-cron.php/page/2/?doing_wp_cron=1788774791.9363079071044921875000) [3](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-cron.php/page/3/?doing_wp_cron=1788774791.9363079071044921875000) … [19](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-cron.php/page/19/?doing_wp_cron=1788774791.9363079071044921875000) [Next »](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-cron.php/page/2/?doing_wp_cron=1788774791.9363079071044921875000) --- ### [News](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/product-updates/) **Published:** January 12, 2017 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** See what’s going on at Couchsurfing HQ. [![Diverse group of travelers smiling together on a coastal balcony overlooking the ocean, representing Couchsurfing community connection](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/shutterstock_2429878919-300x200.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/is-couchsurfing-safe-an-honest-answer/) [Is Couchsurfing Safe? An Honest Answer.](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/is-couchsurfing-safe-an-honest-answer/) TL;DR Is Couchsurfing Safe? Yes, Couchsurfing is safe for members who follow platform guidelines and leverage our safety tools—like verified [](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/is-couchsurfing-safe-an-honest-answer/) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/image-300x169.png)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/whats-new-on-couchsurfing-august-2026/) [What’s New on Couchsurfing: August 2026](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/whats-new-on-couchsurfing-august-2026/) Group Hangouts are back! And we’ve shipped a whole lot more… Meet up with more than one person at a [](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/whats-new-on-couchsurfing-august-2026/) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/image.png)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-month-in-heres-what-weve-been-up-to/) [A Month In. Here’s What We’ve Been Up To.](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-month-in-heres-what-weve-been-up-to/) You showed up. A lot of you. More than we expected, honestly. And with that came feedback. Some of it [](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-month-in-heres-what-weve-been-up-to/) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Youtube-2.png)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/why-we-did-this/) [Why We Did This](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/why-we-did-this/) A lot of you are probably wondering why we rebuilt Couchsurfing in the first place. And honestly, we take that [](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/why-we-did-this/) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Screenshot-2026-05-06-at-5.13.50 PM.png)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-new-chapter-same-magic/) [A New Chapter. Same Magic.](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-new-chapter-same-magic/) The Couchsurfing community deserves a platform that matches what it’s always been: extraordinary. We’ve been building exactly that and we’re [](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-new-chapter-same-magic/) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/IMG_0011-copy.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-pride/) [Couchsurfing Pride](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-pride/) In honor of Pride month, Couchsurfing has launched a Pride line with 100% of proceeds being donated to the ILGA! [](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-pride/) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Screen-Shot-2021-03-18-at-8.14.03-AM.png)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/international-couchsurfing-day-2021-events/) [International Couchsurfing Day 2021 Events!](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/international-couchsurfing-day-2021-events/) The 17th anniversary of Couchsurfing will be held on June 12th, 2021. This is a day for Couchsurfers from all [](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/international-couchsurfing-day-2021-events/) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/C6062275-F0C6-49AF-88EE-162FE37C163E-1.jpeg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-a-2020-story/) [Couchsurfing: A 2020 Story](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-a-2020-story/) In spite of the challenges that 2020 brought, the Couchsurfing team was able to accomplish some pretty amazing things that [](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couchsurfing-a-2020-story/) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Screen-Shot-2020-06-02-at-9.30.07-AM.png)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/international-couchsurfing-day-virtual-events/) [International Couchsurfing Day: Virtual Events](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/international-couchsurfing-day-virtual-events/) June 12th, 2020 is the 16th anniversary of the launch of the Couchsurfing website, known as International Couchsurfing Day. This [](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/international-couchsurfing-day-virtual-events/) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/We-hear-you..png)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/we-hear-you/) [We hear you](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/we-hear-you/) Dear Couchsurfing, We hear you. You’re disappointed that we did not communicate more about the financial state of the organization [](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/we-hear-you/) 1 [2](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-cron.php/page/2/?doing_wp_cron=1788774791.9363079071044921875000) [3](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-cron.php/page/3/?doing_wp_cron=1788774791.9363079071044921875000) … [6](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-cron.php/page/6/?doing_wp_cron=1788774791.9363079071044921875000) [Next »](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-cron.php/page/2/?doing_wp_cron=1788774791.9363079071044921875000) --- ### [Thanks for Subscribing to the Couchsurfing Blog!](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/thanks-for-subscribing-to-the-couchsurfing-blog/) **Published:** February 21, 2017 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** We’ve added you to our list. You’ll be among the first to know about new product updates and to see stories from around the world! --- ### [You've Unsubscribed!](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/youve-unsubscribed/) **Published:** February 21, 2017 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** Sorry to see you go! We’ll no longer send you any emails. [Made a mistake? Undo](http://10.9.0.204/?wysija-page=1&controller=confirm&action=undounsubscribe&wysija-key=155deef024778f1cd564cb8b80cd23a6&demo=1&wysijap=subscriptions). --- ### [Stories](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/stories/) **Published:** January 17, 2017 **Author:** Couchsurfing **Content:** Stories from Couchsurfers around the world. [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Screenshot-2026-04-27-at-11.48.30 AM.png)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-truth-about-solo-travel-it-gets-lonely/) [The Truth About Solo Travel: It Gets Lonely](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-truth-about-solo-travel-it-gets-lonely/) Solo travel isn’t about avoiding loneliness. It’s about learning how to sit with it. In the quiet moments between hikes, [](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-truth-about-solo-travel-it-gets-lonely/) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Screenshot-2026-04-21-at-12.07.39 PM.png)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/why-people-couchsurf-and-why-it-matters-more-than-ever/) [Why People Couchsurf (And Why It Matters More Than Ever)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/why-people-couchsurf-and-why-it-matters-more-than-ever/) We’re more connected than ever. So why does it feel like the opposite? Loneliness is at an all-time high. The [](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/why-people-couchsurf-and-why-it-matters-more-than-ever/) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/hike_4-1.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/i-ran-out-of-water-on-a-hike-in-new-zealand-then-something-unexpected-happened/) [I Ran Out of Water on a Hike in New Zealand. Then Something Unexpected Happened.](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/i-ran-out-of-water-on-a-hike-in-new-zealand-then-something-unexpected-happened/) A chance encounter on a mountain reminded me exactly why Couchsurfing changes how you travel… and how you connect. [](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/i-ran-out-of-water-on-a-hike-in-new-zealand-then-something-unexpected-happened/) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Screen-Shot-2025-02-19-at-9.36.18-AM.png)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/destined-for-travel-georgian-mountains-there-and-back-again/) [Destined For Travel: Georgian Mountains. There and back again.](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/destined-for-travel-georgian-mountains-there-and-back-again/) The day you stop moving is the day the world stops turning. Our DNA contains the ancestral nomadic way of [](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/destined-for-travel-georgian-mountains-there-and-back-again/) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/holly.jpeg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/my-couchsurfing-story-2/) [My Couchsurfing Story](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/my-couchsurfing-story-2/) By: Holly I can’t remember exactly the first time I heard the word Couchsurfing. I think it was the first [](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/my-couchsurfing-story-2/) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Screenshot-2024-02-01-at-9.23.43-AM.png)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/my-unforgettable-couchsurfing-experience-with-sasa-travels/) [My Unforgettable Couchsurfing Experience with Sasa Travels](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/my-unforgettable-couchsurfing-experience-with-sasa-travels/) I had the absolute pleasure of hosting Sasa Travels from China through Couchsurfing, and it turned into a delightful experience [](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/my-unforgettable-couchsurfing-experience-with-sasa-travels/) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/shutterstock_2291207825-2.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfing-birth-story/) [A Couchsurfing Birth Story](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfing-birth-story/) In 2019, I was stranded in Morocco due to an unexpected pregnancy. My children and I were living in Mirleft, [](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/a-couchsurfing-birth-story/) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Screenshot_20230421_191502_Couchsurfing.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couch-crash-bukhara-2022/) [Couch Crash Bukhara 2022](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couch-crash-bukhara-2022/) By: Aygul I used hitchhiking to come from my city Kazan to Kazakhstan and from there I took a bus [](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/couch-crash-bukhara-2022/) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/jeffrey-blog-post.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-unexpected-benefits-that-couchsurfing-brings/) [The Unexpected Benefits that Couchsurfing Brings](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-unexpected-benefits-that-couchsurfing-brings/) Written by Jeffrey, a Couchsurfer from London. Couchsurfing can deliver wonderful surprises. I live in an outer London suburb. I [](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/the-unexpected-benefits-that-couchsurfing-brings/) [![](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/nico3.jpg)](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/nicos-walk-towards-the-end-of-the-world/) [Nico’s Walk Towards the End of the World](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/nicos-walk-towards-the-end-of-the-world/) Written by Nico, a Couchsurfer from Italy On the outskirts of Quito, capital of Ecuador, rainbow-colored block letters state that [](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/nicos-walk-towards-the-end-of-the-world/) 1 [2](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-cron.php/page/2/?doing_wp_cron=1788774791.9363079071044921875000) [3](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-cron.php/page/3/?doing_wp_cron=1788774791.9363079071044921875000) [Next »](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/wp-cron.php/page/2/?doing_wp_cron=1788774791.9363079071044921875000) --- ## Categories ### [Uncategorized](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/category/uncategorized/) --- ### [All 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travel tips](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/solo-travel-tips/) --- ### [traveler stories](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/traveler-stories/) --- ### [vegan](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/vegan/) --- ### [vegan food](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/vegan-food/) --- ### [food](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/food/) --- ### [asia](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/asia/) --- ### [bali](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/bali/) --- ### [singapore](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/singapore/) --- ### [vietnam](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/vietnam/) --- ### [malaysia](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/malaysia/) --- ### [india](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/india/) --- ### [Middle East](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/middle-east/) --- ### [beaches](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/beaches/) --- ### [vacation](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/vacation/) --- ### [Afghanistan](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/afghanistan/) --- ### 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[Christmastime](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/christmastime/) --- ### [digital nomad](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/digital-nomad/) --- ### [make money while traveling](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/make-money-while-traveling/) --- ### [earn money](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/earn-money/) --- ### [travel abroad](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/travel-abroad/) --- ### [international travel](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/international-travel/) --- ### [amazing places](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/amazing-places/) --- ### [paris](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/paris/) --- ### [france](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/france/) --- ### [River Seine](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/river-seine/) --- ### [cooking](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/cooking/) --- ### [french food](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/french-food/) --- ### [Montmartre](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/montmartre/) --- ### [Shakespeare and Company](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/shakespeare-and-company/) --- ### [Shakespeare & Co.](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/shakespeare-co/) --- ### [Laduree](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/laduree/) --- ### [Musee D’Orsay](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/musee-dorsay/) --- ### [Sainte-Chapelle](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/sainte-chapelle/) --- ### [Catacombs](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/catacombs/) --- ### [Arc de Triomphe](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/arc-de-triomphe/) --- ### [Undead Rhyming Welsh Horse](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/undead-rhyming-welsh-horse/) --- ### [Poop Log](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/poop-log/) --- ### [KFC Christmas](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/kfc-christmas/) --- ### [Yule Lads](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/yule-lads/) --- ### [Krampus](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/krampus/) --- ### [Giant Lantern Festival](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/giant-lantern-festival/) --- ### [Christmas Goat](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/christmas-goat/) --- ### [holiday traditions](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/holiday-traditions/) --- ### [culture](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/culture/) --- ### [Barcelona](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/barcelona/) --- ### [Montserrat](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/montserrat/) --- ### [Mediterranean Sea](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/mediterranean-sea/) --- ### [spain](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/spain/) --- ### [Montjuic Hill](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/montjuic-hill/) --- ### [paella](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/paella/) --- ### [Passeig de Gracia](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/passeig-de-gracia/) --- ### [tapas](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/tapas/) --- ### [Antoni Gaudi](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/antoni-gaudi/) --- ### [Las Ramblas](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/las-ramblas/) --- ### [Carlos Ruiz Zafon](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/carlos-ruiz-zafon/) --- ### [Spanish](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/spanish/) --- ### [Catalan](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/catalan/) --- ### [Catalonia](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/catalonia/) --- ### [Feasting in Estonia](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/feasting-in-estonia/) --- ### [Burning Effigies in Ecuador](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/burning-effigies-in-ecuador/) --- ### [Fist-Fighting in Peru](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/fist-fighting-in-peru/) --- ### [Carrying a Suitcase in Colombia](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/carrying-a-suitcase-in-colombia/) --- ### [New Year](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/new-year/) --- ### [New Years Eve](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/new-years-eve/) --- ### [Hogmanay in Scotland](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/hogmanay-in-scotland/) --- ### [Frozen Lake Jumping in Siberia](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/frozen-lake-jumping-in-siberia/) --- ### [Jumping Waves in Brazil](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/jumping-waves-in-brazil/) --- ### [contest](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/contest/) --- ### [China](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/china/) --- ### [germany](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/germany/) --- ### [cyprus](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/cyprus/) --- ### [nicosia](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/nicosia/) --- ### [malta](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/malta/) --- ### [cocktails](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/cocktails/) --- ### [maltese spritz](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/maltese-spritz/) --- ### [krakow](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/krakow/) --- ### [poland](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/poland/) --- ### [tunis](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/tunis/) --- ### [tunisia](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/tunisia/) --- ### [louage](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/louage/) --- ### [Vessel](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/vessel/) --- ### [New York City](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/new-york-city/) --- ### [NYC](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/nyc/) --- ### [Tourist Attraction](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/tourist-attraction/) --- ### [Must See NYC](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/must-see-nyc/) --- ### [The Vessel](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/the-vessel/) --- ### [Hudson Yards](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/hudson-yards/) --- ### [Milan](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/milan/) --- ### [CS Ambassador](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/cs-ambassador/) --- ### [Couchsurfing Ambassador](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/couchsurfing-ambassador/) --- ### [Meet an Ambassador](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/meet-an-ambassador/) --- ### [CS Community](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/cs-community/) --- ### [Couchsurfing Community](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/couchsurfing-community/) --- ### [South America](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/south-america/) --- ### [flights](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/flights/) --- ### [air flights](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/air-flights/) --- ### [Sousse](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/sousse/) --- ### [Dougga](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/dougga/) --- ### [subway](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/subway/) --- ### [metro](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/metro/) --- ### [uber](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/uber/) --- ### [CitiBike](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/citibike/) --- ### [Citi bike](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/citi-bike/) --- ### [travel article](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/travel-article/) --- ### [must see Malta](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/must-see-malta/) --- ### [alcohol](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/alcohol/) --- ### [bajtra](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/bajtra/) --- ### [How to pack](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/how-to-pack/) --- ### [what to pack](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/what-to-pack/) --- ### [must pack](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/must-pack/) --- ### [tattoo](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/tattoo/) --- ### [tattoos](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/tattoos/) --- ### [beach](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/beach/) --- ### [travelers](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/travelers/) --- ### [backpackers](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/backpackers/) --- ### [Connecticut](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/connecticut/) --- ### [How to Couchsurf](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/how-to-couchsurf/) --- ### [couchsurfing tips](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/couchsurfing-tips/) --- ### [community tips](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/community-tips/) --- ### [Oslo](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/oslo/) --- ### [back to social](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/back-to-social/) --- ### [couchsurfing Oslo](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/couchsurfing-oslo/) --- ### [BTS](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/bts/) --- ### [15th anniversary](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/15th-anniversary/) --- ### [Couchsurfing anniversary](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/couchsurfing-anniversary/) --- ### [Veracruz](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/veracruz/) --- ### [couchsurfing veracruz](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/couchsurfing-veracruz/) --- ### [Carnaval Veracruz](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/carnaval-veracruz/) --- ### [Williamsburg](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/williamsburg/) --- ### [couchsurfing New York](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/couchsurfing-new-york/) --- ### [couchsurfing guides](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/couchsurfing-guides/) --- ### [madrid](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/madrid/) --- ### [cleveland](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/cleveland/) --- ### [ohio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/ohio/) --- ### [what to see](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/what-to-see/) --- ### [la latina](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/la-latina/) --- ### [la concha](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/la-concha/) --- ### [vermouth](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/vermouth/) --- ### [abuja](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/abuja/) --- ### [nigeria](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/nigeria/) --- ### [Sydney](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/sydney/) --- ### [Australia](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/australia/) --- ### [couchsurfing australia](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/couchsurfing-australia/) --- ### [couchsurfing sydney](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/couchsurfing-sydney/) --- ### [madcrash](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/madcrash/) --- ### [csmadrid](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/csmadrid/) --- ### [couchcrash](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/couchcrash/) --- ### [slovenia](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/slovenia/) --- ### [celje](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/celje/) --- ### [cs guide to](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/cs-guide-to/) --- ### [alps](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/alps/) --- ### [julian alps](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/julian-alps/) --- ### [ukraine](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/ukraine/) --- ### [brooklyn](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/brooklyn/) --- ### [domino park](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/domino-park/) --- ### [smorgasburg](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/smorgasburg/) --- ### [ambassadors](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/ambassadors/) --- ### [Orlando](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/orlando/) --- ### [Florida](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/florida/) --- ### [deleon springs](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/deleon-springs/) --- ### [alligators](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/alligators/) --- ### [pulse memorial](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/pulse-memorial/) --- ### [lake eola](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/lake-eola/) --- ### [blue springs](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/blue-springs/) --- ### [kelley springs](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/kelley-springs/) --- ### [the sugar mill](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/the-sugar-mill/) --- ### [orlando wetlands park](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/orlando-wetlands-park/) --- ### [king bao](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/king-bao/) --- ### [tako cheena](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/tako-cheena/) --- ### [congo river golf](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/congo-river-golf/) --- ### [stardust video and coffee](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/stardust-video-and-coffee/) --- ### [couchsurfing orlando](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/couchsurfing-orlando/) --- ### [winter camp](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/winter-camp/) --- ### [thessaloniki](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/thessaloniki/) --- ### [romance scam](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/romance-scam/) --- ### [ftc](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/ftc/) --- ### [scammers](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/scammers/) --- ### [trust and safety](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/trust-and-safety/) --- ### [romance scammers](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/romance-scammers/) --- ### [parc guell](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/parc-guell/) --- ### [pinchos](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/pinchos/) --- ### [barrio de gracia](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/barrio-de-gracia/) --- ### [national museum of art](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/national-museum-of-art/) --- ### [bunkers of carmel](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/bunkers-of-carmel/) --- ### [teleferic](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/teleferic/) --- ### [rome](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/rome/) --- ### [sidi bou said](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/sidi-bou-said/) --- ### [colosseum](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/colosseum/) --- ### [hammamet](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/hammamet/) --- ### [biserte](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/biserte/) --- ### [bizerte](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/bizerte/) --- ### [djerba](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/djerba/) --- ### [carthage](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/carthage/) --- ### [tatooine](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/tatooine/) --- ### [star wars](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/star-wars/) --- ### [tataouine](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/tataouine/) --- ### [sahara desert](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/sahara-desert/) --- ### [fitness](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/fitness/) --- ### [yoga](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/yoga/) --- ### [gym](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/gym/) --- ### [spin class](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/spin-class/) --- ### [hiking](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/hiking/) --- ### [running](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/running/) --- ### [work out](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/work-out/) --- ### [fitness studio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/fitness-studio/) --- ### [cdmx](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/cdmx/) --- ### [tacos](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/tacos/) --- ### [zocalo](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/zocalo/) --- ### [teotihuacan](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/teotihuacan/) --- ### [frida kahlo](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/frida-kahlo/) --- ### [cathedral](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/cathedral/) --- ### [bellas artes](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/bellas-artes/) --- ### [xochimilco](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/xochimilco/) --- ### [chapultepec](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/chapultepec/) --- ### [blue house](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/blue-house/) --- ### [Torta de Chilaquiles](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/torta-de-chilaquiles/) --- ### [street tacos](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/street-tacos/) --- ### [Anahuacalli Museum](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/anahuacalli-museum/) --- ### [temple of the sun](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/temple-of-the-sun/) --- ### [temple of the moon](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/temple-of-the-moon/) --- ### [paseo de reforma](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/paseo-de-reforma/) --- ### [michelada](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/michelada/) --- ### [chemnitz](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/chemnitz/) --- ### [Baikal](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/baikal/) --- ### [irkutsk](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/irkutsk/) --- ### [russia](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/russia/) --- ### [Yunost island](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/yunost-island/) --- ### [Decembrists museum](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/decembrists-museum/) --- ### [olkhon island](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/olkhon-island/) --- ### [newsletter](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/newsletter/) --- ### [sustainable](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/sustainable/) --- ### [eco-friendly](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/eco-friendly/) --- ### [carbon footprint](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/carbon-footprint/) --- ### [madison](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/madison/) --- ### [wisconsin](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/wisconsin/) --- ### [wisconsin state capitol building](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/wisconsin-state-capitol-building/) --- ### [tenney park](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/tenney-park/) --- ### [state street](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/state-street/) --- ### [devil's lake](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/devils-lake/) --- ### [lake monona](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/lake-monona/) --- ### [dane country farmers market](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/dane-country-farmers-market/) --- ### [east bluff trail](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/east-bluff-trail/) --- ### [buraka](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/buraka/) --- ### [curd girl](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/curd-girl/) --- ### [delta beer lab](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/delta-beer-lab/) --- ### [funk factory geuzeria](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/funk-factory-geuzeria/) --- ### [BOS](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/bos/) --- ### [drumlin ridge](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/drumlin-ridge/) --- ### [stateline distillery](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/stateline-distillery/) --- ### [chazen museum of art](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/chazen-museum-of-art/) --- ### [UW Madison Geology Museum](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/uw-madison-geology-museum/) --- ### [Wisconsin Historical Museum](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/wisconsin-historical-museum/) --- ### [National Mustard Museum](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/national-mustard-museum/) --- ### [Middleton](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/middleton/) --- ### [Yahara River](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/yahara-river/) --- ### [Mickeys tavern](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/mickeys-tavern/) --- ### [Short Stack Eatery](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/short-stack-eatery/) --- ### [New Orleans](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/new-orleans/) --- ### [NOLA](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/nola/) --- ### [gumbo](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/gumbo/) --- ### [jambalaya](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/jambalaya/) --- ### [po boy](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/po-boy/) --- ### [fried chicken](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/fried-chicken/) --- ### [crawfish](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/crawfish/) --- ### [etouffee](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/etouffee/) --- ### [charbroiled oysters](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/charbroiled-oysters/) --- ### [barbecue shrimp](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/barbecue-shrimp/) --- ### [beignets](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/beignets/) --- ### [red beans and rice](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/red-beans-and-rice/) --- ### [bread pudding](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/bread-pudding/) --- ### [ambush magazine](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/ambush-magazine/) --- ### [rosarito](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/rosarito/) --- ### [baja california](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/baja-california/) --- ### [valle de guadalupe](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/valle-de-guadalupe/) --- ### [taqueria](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/taqueria/) --- ### [ensenada](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/ensenada/) --- ### [vineyard](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/vineyard/) --- ### [winery](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/winery/) --- ### [puerto nuevo](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/puerto-nuevo/) --- ### [ceviche](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/ceviche/) --- ### [Southern California](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/southern-california/) --- ### [california](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/california/) --- ### [road trip](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/road-trip/) --- ### [wine tasting](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/wine-tasting/) --- ### [las animas](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/las-animas/) --- ### [puerto vallarta](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/puerto-vallarta/) --- ### [malecon](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/malecon/) --- ### [mirador cerro de la cruz](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/mirador-cerro-de-la-cruz/) --- ### [playa los caballos](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/playa-los-caballos/) --- ### [yelapa](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/yelapa/) --- ### [sayulita](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/sayulita/) --- ### [dresden](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/dresden/) --- ### [hyde park](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/hyde-park/) --- ### [christmas market](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/christmas-market/) --- ### [christstollen](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/christstollen/) --- ### [stollen](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/stollen/) --- ### [stollenfest](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/stollenfest/) --- ### [oh bej oh bej](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/oh-bej-oh-bej/) --- ### [Ice skating](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/ice-skating/) --- ### [Cabalgata de los Reyes Magos](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/cabalgata-de-los-reyes-magos/) --- ### [celebration in the oaks](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/celebration-in-the-oaks/) --- ### [void film festival](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/void-film-festival/) --- ### [void](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/void/) --- ### [animated film festival](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/animated-film-festival/) --- ### [eno river state park](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/eno-river-state-park/) --- ### [Almeria](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/almeria/) --- ### [cabo de gata](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/cabo-de-gata/) --- ### [la poza](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/la-poza/) --- ### [los molinos del rio](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/los-molinos-del-rio/) --- ### [la isleta del moro](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/la-isleta-del-moro/) --- ### [tabernas](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/tabernas/) --- ### [alcazaba](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/alcazaba/) --- ### [mojacar](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/mojacar/) --- ### [san jose](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/san-jose/) --- ### [Kosice](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/kosice/) --- ### [Slovakia](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/slovakia/) --- ### [chile](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/chile/) --- ### [santiago](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/santiago/) --- ### [tomato](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/tomato/) --- ### [costa brava](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/costa-brava/) --- ### [Tossa de Mar](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/tossa-de-mar/) --- ### [Platja d’Aro](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/platja-daro/) --- ### [Begur](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/begur/) --- ### [El Port de la Selva](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/el-port-de-la-selva/) --- ### [bush fires](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/bush-fires/) --- ### [victoria](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/victoria/) --- ### [new south wales](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/new-south-wales/) --- ### [south australia](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/south-australia/) --- ### [torbay](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/torbay/) --- ### [england](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/england/) --- ### [devon](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/devon/) --- ### [torquay](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/torquay/) --- ### [brixham](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/brixham/) --- ### [paignton](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/paignton/) --- ### [Belgrade](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/belgrade/) --- ### [Marche](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/marche/) --- ### [Nuremberg](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/nuremberg/) --- ### [maxbruecke](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/maxbruecke/) --- ### [tiergartnertorplatz](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/tiergartnertorplatz/) --- ### [kulturgarten](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/kulturgarten/) --- ### [gostenhof](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/gostenhof/) --- ### [lorenzkirche](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/lorenzkirche/) --- ### [hauptmarkt](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/hauptmarkt/) --- ### [woehrder see](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/woehrder-see/) --- ### [pegnitz](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/pegnitz/) --- ### [saint sebald](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/saint-sebald/) --- ### [ehekarussel](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/ehekarussel/) --- ### [documentation center](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/documentation-center/) --- ### [connection](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/connection/) --- ### [traveler](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/traveler/) --- ### [advice](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/advice/) --- ### [traveling](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/traveling/) --- ### [hike](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/hike/) --- ### [relaunch](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/relaunch/) --- ### [product update](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/product-update/) --- ### [couchsurfing news](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/couchsurfing-news/) --- ### [platform redesign](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/platform-redesign/) --- ### [travel planning](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/travel-planning/) --- ### [verification](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/verification/) --- ### [membership](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/membership/) --- ### [hosts](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/hosts/) --- ### [references](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/references/) --- ### [ask couchsurfing](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/ask-couchsurfing/) --- ### [trip planning](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/trip-planning/) --- ### [budget travel](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/budget-travel/) --- ### [hangouts](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/hangouts/) --- ### [community stories](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/community-stories/) --- ### [guest etiquette](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/guest-etiquette/) --- ### [search](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/search/) --- ### [product updates](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/product-updates/) --- ### [travel community](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/travel-community/) --- ### [meeting locals](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/meeting-locals/) --- ### [find a host](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/find-a-host/) --- ### [first time couchsurfing](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/first-time-couchsurfing/) --- ### [culture exchange](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/culture-exchange/) --- ### [community travel](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/community-travel/) --- ### [digital nomads](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/digital-nomads/) --- ### [beginner guide](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/beginner-guide/) --- ### [myth busting](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/myth-busting/) --- ### [safety tips](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/safety-tips/) --- ### [free accomodation](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/free-accomodation/) --- ### [meet locals](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/meet-locals/) --- ### [couchsurfing safety](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/couchsurfing-safety/) --- ### [hostel alternative](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/hostel-alternative/) --- ### [first-time couchsurfer](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/first-time-couchsurfer/) --- ### [backpacker tips](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/backpacker-tips/) --- ### [travel safety](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/travel-safety/) --- ### [cultural exchange](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/cultural-exchange/) --- ### [hospitality exchange](https://blog.couchsurfing.com/tag/hospitality-exchange/) ---