Comments on: Words from Russia: A Couchsurfer’s Take on its Culture

By: Alec L

Alec L — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 07:43:33 +0000

I’ve CouchSurfed in Russia, as well as other countries in Europe and Asia. I’ve never had any worry about safety and the only bad experience was a host who pretty much ignored me and everyone else in the commune in Estonia where he lived. But I always try to be self-sufficient anyway and I ended up meeting a lot of other people in this place, as well.

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By: Carlo Alcos

Carlo Alcos — Fri, 03 Apr 2009 12:12:27 +0000

Thanks for the link Tim, just read that, it’s so true.

And Maxim is a very well-spoken individual…especially considering English is his second language! Those are his words, 100%. I had to look up “berhymed” to make sure it’s a real word (even the spell check here marks it as incorrect).

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By: Tim Patterson

Tim Patterson — Fri, 03 Apr 2009 04:34:42 +0000

I love this article by a Russian woman who found her true self through travel and reflection:

http://www.bravenewtraveler.com/2008/01/11/finding-yourself-is-your-true-destination/

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By: Tim Patterson

Tim Patterson — Fri, 03 Apr 2009 04:31:32 +0000

Love this line:

In this country, poets, writers and musicians have always been the ‘conscience of the people’.

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By: Carlo Alcos

Carlo Alcos — Mon, 30 Mar 2009 00:26:13 +0000

You know, it’s funny…I haven’t really heard of any bad stories – sure you might have a slightly annoying guest, or I’ve heard of people who take advantage of their hosts (staying longer than welcomed – host is too nice to say anything, or maybe eating their food), but as far as safety or other issues you might think of when you think of doing this, nothing (knock on wood!).

Like anything in life, there is bound to be the odd bad experience, but by far, in my experience anyway, the benefits far outweigh any negatives. When you start communicating with guests or hosts, you quickly get a feel for what they’re like. You can check comments others have left for them, read up on their profile,etc.

It really is the best way to get into a local culture, and away from the backpacker/tourist trail a bit. And when you’re hosting, having travelers come through and telling you their stories is great.

Get your partners in line! It’s something you should definitely give a go!

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By: Sarah

Sarah — Sun, 29 Mar 2009 23:15:59 +0000

Great post, Carlo! I am right there with Julie–I would like to host/surf but my partner is completely against the idea. Someday…I’m wearing him down little by little with my wily wifey ways.

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By: Julie

Julie — Sun, 29 Mar 2009 15:06:33 +0000

I still haven’t tried couchsurfing–having a husband who’s somewhat squeamish about spending the night in our family’s homes, much less a ’stranger’s’ home kind of dampens the incentive. But I really love reading stories about people who couchsurf–there’s so much camaraderie, openness, generosity, and enthusiasm in the CS community. Thanks for sharing your experience!

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