Couch surfing is travelling on a bu

Couch surfing is travelling on a budget, using a broad network of contacts in order to get overnight accommodation for free, or at as little cost as possible. Participants join dedicated websites, providing as much information about themselves as possible in order to make others feel comfortable hosting them, or using them as a host. Various safety features are generally available in such online networks, like verification of names and addresses, personal references, and "vouching for" a particular member as a reliable host or guest. In addition to the financial advantages of couch surfing, participants also claim that the practice gives them a more unique, authentic travel experience, allowing them to experience culture and cuisine through the locals. "We open our minds and lives and welcome the knowledge that becomes available through cultural exchange," said Casey Fenton, founder of Couchsurfing.com. "Couchsurfing wants to change not only the way we travel, but how we relate to the woeld.