CouchSurfing Guidelines

1. It All Begins With Respect.
The CouchSurfing Project is about tolerance--the acceptance of different cultures and ideas. We believe in equality of all human beings. This is what makes the project great! We all need to do our best to respect each other and look at conflicts as opportunities for more understanding.

2. Don't SPAM.
Don't SPAM other CS members. SPAM is unsolicited or unwanted e-mail, often of a commercial nature, sent to multiple users (otherwise known as junk e-mail). CS does not censor or screen email traffic, but we are able to detect and delete SPAM. This doesn't apply to CouchSurfing request to multiple CS members in a place you plan on visiting (however, we do ask that if you make multiple requests, you also take the time to reply to all the members who kindly replied to you). We ask CS members to report SPAM messages using the button at the bottom of the message screen. When we detect SPAM, we'll delete the messages, your account will be suspended, and you must contact a CS administrator to reactivate your account.

3. CouchSurfing Is Not A Dating Site.
The purpose of the network is to make cross-cultural connections; the site is not to be used to romantically pursue other members. We don't tolerate harassment. Sending emails that hint on dating, erotic, or sexual behaviour is unacceptable. If you're looking for a date, check out the million dating sites that are out there! If you receive a message you believe to be an inappropriate advance or indecent proposal, please consider answering the email with the idea of educating the offending person. Often miscommunications are the result of cultural differences and an opportunity for both people to understand each other better. You can also use the “Forward to Admin” button at the bottom of the screen and we will follow up on your complaint and take appropriate actions.

4. Keep The Chat Rooms Friendly
The CS Chat system is intended as place for members to meet each other, exchange information, and have fun. Communication in the chat should always be done with mutual respect. Harassment, offensive remarks, and inappropriate behaviour will not be tolerated.

5. Photo Posting Guidelines
Your photos reveal a lot about you, but your main photo shouldn't be too revealing! We don't allow your primary photo to be nude. Generally, we don't censor gallery photos, but we reserve the right to. Please post only photos of yourself, not celebrities. Please get permission before posting photos of other people. Pictures must be respectful to others.

6. Events Are Free
The events feature is designed to help facilitate CS gatherings with the sole purpose of connecting users. The function should not be used to promote commercial parties or for-profit ventures. Occasionally events may have a charge to cover expenses, but the cost must be limited to that.

More specific and complete site terms and conditions can be found at: http://www.couchsurfing.com/terms.html