7 Tips for First Time Couch Surfers

Posted by OysterWeb on November 29th, 2019

While on your study abroad trip, you may want to explore alternative forms of accommodation. One such method is Couchsurfing.

Couchsurfing has exploded in popularity in recent years but it is important to understand that it should not be treated as just a way to get free accommodation. In fact, it is not free because there is a mutual trade of cultures and understanding between hosts and guests. Because of all the horror stories we have heard, we decided that it is important to share some tips for first time Couchsurfers.

• Do your research

The community on Couchsurfing is large and there are all sorts of people on the platform. As such, it is important to be picky and read up on your host. Read the reviews on them to get an idea of their personality and if there could possibly be chemistry between the two of you if hosted. It is also recommended for first timers to find an experienced host so they are able to guide you through the process and make your stay as comfortable as possible.

• Be honest

When writing your profile and sending a message to request for a host, be honest about your personality and reasons for Couchsurfing. The last thing you want to do is sell yourself as an extrovert when you are a pure introvert and be left at a party full of strangers. In addition, you should a personal touch to your messages for the host to get to know you instead of just sending a templated request.

• Use more than one host

Sometimes you may not vibe with your host and that is okay. You can’t possibly have chemistry with everyone you meet. This is why it’s wise to use more than one host during your stay especially if you intend to stay for more than 3 days.Besides using other hosts as a buffer when things get awkward between you and your previous host, it also allows you to meet different people and get to know a side of the country you have yet to explore.

• Give advanced notice and keep them up to date

While Couchsurfing, remember that your hosts also have their own lives and need to schedule you in. Try to give them as much advanced notice as possible so they are able to arrange the necessary. While you are staying with them, keep them up to date on your whereabouts and plan so they know to expect you back home. You don’t want to disturb them at 3am while they are fast asleep. Which brings us to the next point.

• Be considerate

Your hosts’ place isn’t a hotel and you should not treat it like one. Clean up after yourself, keep your things neat and out of the way and abide by the house rules. Unless given permission, do not bring visitors into the house. Be a responsible human being.

• Interact with your host

If your hosts wanted to just loan their house out for tourists, they would have put their listing up on AirBnB. Hosts on Couchsurfing want to hear your stories and share theirs so interact with them! Ask questions, be curious and tell them your experiences. After all, this is what Couchsurfing wants to be; a platform to unite different people.

• Show your appreciation

At the end of the day, your host has provided you with shelter, food, water and utilities to make your stay as comfortable as possible. The least you could do is show your appreciation. Some forms of acceptable gestures are to bring something from your home (a snack, a souvenir), cook them a dish you would make usually, treat them to a meal or even just pay for their cover charge to a club. It is not difficult to be an appreciative person.

Couchsurfing is an amazing experience that allows you to meet locals from all over the world. Let us keep it that way by being the best version of ourselves. For more information of Best Overseas Study Insurance and Student Travel Insurance Singapore visit here : https://myoyster.sg/