Couch Surfing

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

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!

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

Is couch surfing usually cheaper than hostels?

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

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

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!

What is there to see and do in Siberia?

Funny you should ask - nothing. It looks exactly like northern ontario to me. And then there's lake baikal which is nice, but really similar to lakes in BC (though much larger).

Don't go to russia for the nature - we've got it better in our own backyard

All that in the middle of Siberia -- yep, I guess you are a little mroe adventurous than I am! Thanks for the info.