Travel on the cheap with FREE lodging!

The Couch Surfing project began with a mission to provide international networking through the offering up of that extra sofa, guestroom, floor space, etc. to complete strangers...odd as it may sound (maybe even a little sketchy), they seem to really have something. With member ratings, detailed profiles (similar to those found on facebook or myspace), a well thought out verification system and a rather large database of "surfers" from all over the globe, this really is becoming more a popular option for international travelers (young and old alike) than the youth hostel. Other perks this site can provide are insider tips from the locals. Like myself, not everyone who is a member has a couch to offer, but everyone is asked to contribute something from people who are willing to simply meet up with international travelers for a drink or dinner to those who are willing to play tour guide and direct tourists around the local scene. If you thought that trip to Italy was impossible, this may be just the thing to get your butt overseas. Bon voyage!