For all those fellow travellers out there who have been weened off the Kontiki frat boy sorority sister, lets get pissed everynight in the closest Irish bar that reminds us of home type of travel, CouchSurfing is just what the doctor ordered. For those independents who have discovered the real essence of travel is not so much found within the restraints of some package operators vision, but within the homes, the personalities and the ground level lives of the people you meet on the journey, then you must look at this website. Although, to make it work, it must be a retributive venture, which is difficult for many with our homes becoming more of a fortress to shield the outside and protect what we have. It may not be possible, either, for some because of living situations, but for those who can become a part, the reward is priceless.

From their homepage:

What is CouchSurfing?You're probably here at CouchSurfing to find a free place to stay or people to hang out with while you are traveling. After your first experience of either surfing or hosting, you'll find out that what you get out of it is so much more. We help to create a better world by opening our homes, our hearts and our lives. We open our minds and welcome the knowledge cultural exchange makes available. We create deep and meaningful connections that cross oceans, continents and cultures. CouchSurfing changes not only the way we travel, but how we relate to the world!CouchSurfing.com helps you make connections worldwide. You can use the network to meet people and then go and surf other members' couches! When you surf a couch, you are a guest at someone's house. They will provide you with some sort of accommodation, a penthouse apartment or maybe a back yard to pitch your tent in. Stays can be as short as a cup of coffee, a night or two, or even a few months or more. When you offer your couch, you have complete control of who visits. The possibilities are endless and completely up to you.The friendships made through CouchSurfing enhance members' lives and contribute greatly to making the world a better, safer, more peaceful place. Signing up for a free couch and ending up with amazing adventures and a global family--that's what CouchSurfing is all about!

The Website:

http://www.couchsurfing.com/