Couchsurfing
Has anyone been couchsurfing? Is it really safe as it sounds a bit scary especially as a solo female traveller? And it is really free?
Some of my friends have done it and enjoyed it, they even attend social events and have made friends but its not for me. I prefer the comfort of booking a room and knowing its guaranteed etc.
Couchsurfing is popular but I prefer personally prefer hotels and hostels... easy to checkin anytime and less stress of the unknown.
I've surfed in a couple of countries and it really depends on your host as to your experience. When I know I am going to be traveling around a lot during the day and don't think I'll see my hosts, I have always opted for other accommodations. I have generally used Couchsurfing in more remote locations where I wanted to share the company of my hosts. Funny enough though, in several situations, I spent little or no time with my hosts - but that was not for lack of trying. One host even let me stay at her place when she was away with her boyfriend.