Two years ago, I was introduced to Couchsurfing by a friend, who loves traveling and does it often.
As the name may suggest, the basic idea of this community is to create connections between locals and travelers. By signing in and creating a complete profile you get access to a platform were both host and surfers can find each other. As a traveler you can request to stay with a available host, usually for a period between 2- 5 days, you can check their profile and see if their accommodations suit you, their age, gender, interests, etc so you can get an idea if you may be a good match! Host do the same thing, and will accept or decline your request depending on their availability, your profile, days requested, etc.
The main rule probably and most important thing is that no money is involved in this experience. As a traveler you have to be open minded, willing to cook , take you host out for a meal , help with cleaning or anything you may think in exchange for the accommodation. Hosts usually dont expect anything in return, they do it because they enjoy it, but it is nice to contribute in some way! They also have an option for «Hangouts» were you can join groups of travelers/locals to go out for a drink or explore the city.
I have done it myself many times all around USA for the last year and a half, and I only had amazing experiences, met great people and made lots of new friends! It is a great way to get introduced to places or activities only local people know, share ideas, exchange knowledge and why not save some money in accommodation!
