Couch Surfing?

E

Elaine

Member
Has anyone ever heard of this? I stumbled upon this website and it looks like it has a lot of popularity. You can apparently stay with someone for free and leave them a reference for other people to read. I found so many profiles with positive feedback from travelers. Do you think it's safe?
 
I just watched a documentary about this. It seems like a pretty legit operation (I don't know what else to call it), and it operates on the honor system, I guess. Like, the host will trust that you will provide them with a glowing reference and help them get excellent word-of-mouth, and you will trust that they'll take care of you during your stay with them. A whole lot of trust is involved here, so you'll have to use plenty of common sense, and make sure you have great instincts. Good luck!
 
I couldn't do this; I'm too distrustful by nature. Crashing on someone's couch is too intimate for me to do with a stranger. How do you protect yourself from assault?
 
I've heard of people doing it, but I feel like it can also be dangerous. I think a lot of those couch surfing sites do have reviews where someone vouches for you - so you can probably assume that people with plenty of good feedback have had lots of travellers through with good experiences. I don't know if I would have the courage to do it, since I wouldn't know the person at all and I would be in their house...the thought alone creeps me out a little!
 
I don't know that I'd do this. How do you know the reviews are legitimate and not just the owner posting as different people to give him/herself good reviews? I think my instinct would be to avoid these types of places.
 
I don't think I'll ever try this too. Even if the host were kind and gracious and trustworthy, even if I can be assured of safety for the duration of my stay, I'd still be too uncomfortable - like I'm imposing and taking advantage of others. This appeals to those with a highly adventurous spirit, and those willing to put all of their trust in the kindness of strangers.
 
Thanks everyone for your input. I have decided against it. I do not feel comfortable staying with a stranger. I think I would rather look for a cheap hotel.
 
I have used this service for almost 5 years now and have never had any problems. I have met some wonderful people along the way. Just make sure to choose the right host.
 
RBean said:
I don't know that I'd do this. How do you know the reviews are legitimate and not just the owner posting as different people to give him/herself good reviews? I think my instinct would be to avoid these types of places.
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Oh my gosh, I hadn't even considered this possibility! That makes me even less trustful about the whole couch crashing thing than I already was. I'll definitely stick with hotels!
 
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