Couch Surfing

[Allyssa]

Hi all,
I am wondering if anyone here has had any experience couch surfing and could give me some insight into their experience. A friend and I are considering it as a cheap way to lodge as we travel Europe next summer. We would love some feedback on this!

Thanks,
Allyssa

[CanuckAbroad]

My fiance and I tried it last summer and it never really worked out.We finally arranged to meet someone and crash at their place for a night, but somehow we missed each other at the train station.

That being said, I had met other people that had much greater success.

It's certainly worth a shot!

[Allyssa]

Thanks! Out of curiosity did you have a hostel planned as a back up, just in case or what did you do?

[zagfan1]

Is couch surfing usually cheaper than hostels?

[Allyssa]

Apparently couch surfing is free. The idea (according to the website) is that you call a person up and ask to crash at their house. They may or may not also be available to give you a bit of a insider's look at their city / hang out with you. In return, you open your own home up to guests. It's kind of a mutual helpfulness group.
I was just hoping someone here had expereinces with it all, but maybe I'll be a pioneer for Canuck Abroad in this form of travel!

Allyssa

[zagfan1]

I guess if you're used to picking up hitchhikers than something like this wouldn't be much of a stretch.

[CanuckAbroad]

Allyssa - Basically we sort of had a backup plan, as we had heard of a nearby hostel. Of course, we showed up and they were full. The only place we could find somewhat nearby was a truck stop. This was in the middle of Siberia too, felt a little uneasy But it worked out ok!

[zagfan1]

What is there to see and do in Siberia?