HOW I PARTICIPATE IN COUCHSURFING Surfer/Host/attended CS events. Fantastic hosts have changed my entire outlook on travel. CS hosts might not realize it at the time, but you have a huge ability to impact your guests. Likewise, great CS guests can make a host feel like you travelled, without using a single precious vacation day. If you want motivation to travel - HOST! COUCHSURFING EXPERIENCE My first surfing experience arose when my best friend booked his wedding in Scotland...in high season. Flight $ were absurd and the exchange rate did not help. I was fortunate to find a CS host who was more of an ambassador to his country than just a host. I'll never forget the impression my host left on me and my travel companion. It was my 4th time to Scotland, but by far the most memorable. Thanks Mark!

Driving through Guatemala I saw an entire family on one bike. The father was pedallng, the child was on the handlebars, and the wife was side-saddle on the crossbar, holding the cell phone to her husband's ear while he pedaled and talked. How's that for family bonding? I've also cycled across Ireland (in 1 day) twice to raise money for children's charities. Not quite amazing, but it rained/hailed for most of the 110 miles the second time, so it was at least character building. Macchu Picchu Trail Montreal to Portland Maine AIDS Ride. 5 days, 400 miles. I will be forever grateful to the 100 cyclists and numerous volunteers for the reminder that nothing in life should be taken for granted.