Compare your pronunciation of "mefite" with MeFites in other countries! March 29, 2010 8:55 AM Subscribe
Want to host a traveling MeFite? Want to be hosted? There's a MetaFilter group on CouchSurfing.org that could use some love.
You can use the social explorer to figure out which MeFites are using CouchSurfing and I just wanted to encourage people who may be interested in this sort of exchange to sign up and/or join the MetaFilter group. There are ten members in the group now, but almost 60 MeFites who are listed as having a CS account.
I personally have traveled and stayed with MeFites and it's often a good way to meet people, stay somewhere inexpensively, and get to know a place through the eyes of locals. Even if you can't or don't want to put someone up in your house, you can agree to meet people for coffee or just be available to give them local advice and information. I've hosted a bunch of people via CS and would be happy to answer questions about it if people have any.
[and no I do not have any upcoming trips, so this is not a sideways pander for a place to stay]
You can use the social explorer to figure out which MeFites are using CouchSurfing and I just wanted to encourage people who may be interested in this sort of exchange to sign up and/or join the MetaFilter group. There are ten members in the group now, but almost 60 MeFites who are listed as having a CS account.
I personally have traveled and stayed with MeFites and it's often a good way to meet people, stay somewhere inexpensively, and get to know a place through the eyes of locals. Even if you can't or don't want to put someone up in your house, you can agree to meet people for coffee or just be available to give them local advice and information. I've hosted a bunch of people via CS and would be happy to answer questions about it if people have any.
[and no I do not have any upcoming trips, so this is not a sideways pander for a place to stay]
This is a bone of contention in my house, as I've crashed on a lot of stranger's couches and thus am totally open to having strangers crash on mine. My girlfriend, whom I live with, values her space and privacy much more.
posted by klangklangston at 9:12 AM on March 29, 2010 [1 favorite]
posted by klangklangston at 9:12 AM on March 29, 2010 [1 favorite]
Thanks for posting this Jessamyn! I was wondering what the sudden spike in email notifications from people joining was. I feel sort of foolish for not having made the MetaTalk thread sooner.
posted by Demogorgon at 9:12 AM on March 29, 2010
posted by Demogorgon at 9:12 AM on March 29, 2010
klang, you can set your couch availability to "coffee or a drink." That way you aren't actually required to put someone up.
posted by Demogorgon at 9:14 AM on March 29, 2010
posted by Demogorgon at 9:14 AM on March 29, 2010
The CAPTCHA I got while signing up was 'lice owed'. Is this a sign of things to come with couchsurfing?
posted by deezil at 9:20 AM on March 29, 2010 [3 favorites]
posted by deezil at 9:20 AM on March 29, 2010 [3 favorites]
This list will make keeping mine up-to-date that much easier. Cheers.
posted by gman at 9:26 AM on March 29, 2010
posted by gman at 9:26 AM on March 29, 2010
Couchsurfing rocks. I have only hosted, never surfed, and I can tell you it's tons of fun. Klangklangston, being an introvert I can see your girlfriend's point of view, but the short-term-ness of couchsurfing is a plus, and the quiet house after guests leave is that much more delicious.
We live within a stone's throw of the Blue Ridge Parkway and Appalachian Trail, so this time of year we start getting a lot of requests. We haven't hosted any MeFites yet though!
posted by headnsouth at 9:26 AM on March 29, 2010
We live within a stone's throw of the Blue Ridge Parkway and Appalachian Trail, so this time of year we start getting a lot of requests. We haven't hosted any MeFites yet though!
posted by headnsouth at 9:26 AM on March 29, 2010
Oh, cool, done.
posted by klangklangston at 9:27 AM on March 29, 2010
posted by klangklangston at 9:27 AM on March 29, 2010
I've wanted to sign up for Couch Surfing for months, but haven't looked into it yet. Do you actually need to have an address or (metaphorical) couch in order to sign up and be a couch surfer? I'm kind of lacking on both of those until the end of summer, so I wouldn't be able to reciprocate, just crashing only. How does that work?
When I move the UK, I will get a couch, metaphorical or otherwise. And then I will bore you to tears about the pronunciation of MeFite, until you fall into a deep peaceful sleep.
posted by iamkimiam at 9:28 AM on March 29, 2010
When I move the UK, I will get a couch, metaphorical or otherwise. And then I will bore you to tears about the pronunciation of MeFite, until you fall into a deep peaceful sleep.
posted by iamkimiam at 9:28 AM on March 29, 2010
CouchSurfing is amazing! I've hosted many CouchSurfers (last one left 10 minutes ago) and I've never ever had a negative experience. I just got evicted from my apartment this weekend, so it'll be awhile until I'm able to host again, but I highly encourage everyone to participate in CouchSurfing if they can. The people who have stayed with me have been open, good-humored, incredibly kind, and often brought little gifts. This summer I'm traveling across Europe and I plan to work on family farms and CouchSurf with former CS guests and CS hosts I have yet to meet.
posted by HotPatatta at 9:29 AM on March 29, 2010
posted by HotPatatta at 9:29 AM on March 29, 2010
CouchSurfing is amazing! I've hosted many CouchSurfers (last one left 10 minutes ago) and I've never ever had a negative experience. I just got evicted from my apartment this weekend, so it'll be awhile until I'm able to host again,
Must have been a hell of a visit
posted by Think_Long at 9:31 AM on March 29, 2010 [27 favorites]
Must have been a hell of a visit
posted by Think_Long at 9:31 AM on March 29, 2010 [27 favorites]
This list will make keeping mine up-to-date that much easier. Cheers.
Just FYI, I stayed at gman's place when I was in Toronto and he is an incredibly kind and gracious host.
I've hosted maybe five or six people/couples over the last few years and it's always nice interesting folks who have neat stories to tell and often cook dinner for you. I'm only sorry I don't have a proper guestroom for folks here, but the daybed is nice and looks out on the trees and a busy birdfeeder.
posted by jessamyn (staff) at 9:35 AM on March 29, 2010
Just FYI, I stayed at gman's place when I was in Toronto and he is an incredibly kind and gracious host.
I've hosted maybe five or six people/couples over the last few years and it's always nice interesting folks who have neat stories to tell and often cook dinner for you. I'm only sorry I don't have a proper guestroom for folks here, but the daybed is nice and looks out on the trees and a busy birdfeeder.
posted by jessamyn (staff) at 9:35 AM on March 29, 2010
Must have been a hell of a visit
Yeah, sometimes I have a hell of a time getting rid of 'em.
posted by HotPatatta at 9:43 AM on March 29, 2010
Yeah, sometimes I have a hell of a time getting rid of 'em.
posted by HotPatatta at 9:43 AM on March 29, 2010
Group joined! I actually just joined Couchsurfing a few days ago- my house has a profile but I just made my own personal one.
(We haven't actually gotten anyone to stay at our place yet- this town has too many willing hosts!)
posted by showbiz_liz at 9:44 AM on March 29, 2010
(We haven't actually gotten anyone to stay at our place yet- this town has too many willing hosts!)
posted by showbiz_liz at 9:44 AM on March 29, 2010
CouchSurfing is awesome. While I haven't hosted or surfed, CS provided great trip mates and cool monthly meetings while I was in Ireland last year.
I'm currently in 'Coffee or a drink' mode at CS but if you're from MeFi feel free to ask me for hosting, or anything really, if you ever pass through Chillán, Chile.
posted by Memo at 9:44 AM on March 29, 2010
I'm currently in 'Coffee or a drink' mode at CS but if you're from MeFi feel free to ask me for hosting, or anything really, if you ever pass through Chillán, Chile.
posted by Memo at 9:44 AM on March 29, 2010
Oh wow, was in the middle of making an ask.me about couchsurfing.org right now-- happy to read some good words about it here.
posted by NolanRyanHatesMatches at 9:47 AM on March 29, 2010
posted by NolanRyanHatesMatches at 9:47 AM on March 29, 2010
Just FYI, I stayed at gman's place when I was in Toronto and he is an incredibly kind and gracious host.
Where is the real gman and what have you done with him?!
posted by deborah at 9:54 AM on March 29, 2010 [1 favorite]
Where is the real gman and what have you done with him?!
posted by deborah at 9:54 AM on March 29, 2010 [1 favorite]
Ah! I joined couchsurfing last fall, but didn't know there was a MeFi group. Will have to join that, too.
posted by ocherdraco at 9:58 AM on March 29, 2010
posted by ocherdraco at 9:58 AM on March 29, 2010
I didn't use Couchsurfing for the Meeting Metafilter trip, but I can vouch for the tremendous thoughtfulness and accommodating nature of the many mefites who put me up in various places around the country. It really is a pretty great experience to go and crash with someone instead of checking into some strange hotel room by yourself.
posted by cortex (staff) at 10:01 AM on March 29, 2010
posted by cortex (staff) at 10:01 AM on March 29, 2010
We have a totally serviceable foldout in a spare room we love to share. Let's see, I know loquacious and mrzrquon have used it... I'm all over this.
posted by Ambrosia Voyeur at 10:16 AM on March 29, 2010
posted by Ambrosia Voyeur at 10:16 AM on March 29, 2010
i'm oddly reminded of my english teacher back when i was in Form 4 - she'd done her MPhil with Ted Hughes as her advisor, and NEVER let us forget it ;p i still recall the [insert expletive here] Pike (he wasn't poet laureate in 1980 to 82)
posted by infini at 10:31 AM on March 29, 2010
posted by infini at 10:31 AM on March 29, 2010
Oh, cool, I joined CouchSurfing months ago but haven't done much with it. I'm currently located somewhere none of you should visit, ever, because it is BORING, though should you make that mistake you're welcome to one of the many couches and beds and I'll bake cookies and then we can get drunk and set some shit on fire, because, really, that's the only exciting activity I have to offer. Oh, and cow tipping. I always forget about the cows. So there's that.
In a few months I'll have a couch or at least an air mattress in a more desirable destination.
posted by little e at 10:40 AM on March 29, 2010
In a few months I'll have a couch or at least an air mattress in a more desirable destination.
posted by little e at 10:40 AM on March 29, 2010
little e: I'm currently located somewhere none of you should visit, ever, because it is BORING,
You live in Murray KY too? ;-)
posted by deezil at 10:56 AM on March 29, 2010
You live in Murray KY too? ;-)
posted by deezil at 10:56 AM on March 29, 2010
i'm oddly reminded of my english teacher back when i was in Form 4 - she'd done her MPhil with Ted Hughes as her advisor, and NEVER let us forget it ;p i still recall the [insert expletive here] Pike (he wasn't poet laureate in 1980 to 82 (infini)
?
posted by ocherdraco at 10:57 AM on March 29, 2010
?
posted by ocherdraco at 10:57 AM on March 29, 2010
Goddamn that website is slow . . . more like CouchWading, am I right? right?
posted by Think_Long at 10:59 AM on March 29, 2010
posted by Think_Long at 10:59 AM on March 29, 2010
You live in Murray KY too? ;-)
Hah, the other end of the state, actually. Near Pikeville.
posted by little e at 11:02 AM on March 29, 2010
Hah, the other end of the state, actually. Near Pikeville.
posted by little e at 11:02 AM on March 29, 2010
Heh, I had a lot of trouble with posting photos for a long time. I'm not really all that fond of the design; it seems like it could be streamlined a little.
posted by Demogorgon at 11:02 AM on March 29, 2010
posted by Demogorgon at 11:02 AM on March 29, 2010
Hmm...I should probably write a new "about me" for this site. Usually I copy and paste my standard blurb:
My hobbies include naked hiking and hiding in people's closets watching them sleep. I also enjoy photographing those people while they sleep, then uploading the photos to shutterfly and placing them on T-shirts, coffee cups, and other memorabilia.
Which gets surprisingly good results on OkCupid, but is perhaps less appealing to potential houseguests.
posted by little e at 11:06 AM on March 29, 2010 [6 favorites]
My hobbies include naked hiking and hiding in people's closets watching them sleep. I also enjoy photographing those people while they sleep, then uploading the photos to shutterfly and placing them on T-shirts, coffee cups, and other memorabilia.
Which gets surprisingly good results on OkCupid, but is perhaps less appealing to potential houseguests.
posted by little e at 11:06 AM on March 29, 2010 [6 favorites]
little e not only are you relatively close to me, but you've got HILLBILLY DAYS coming up in a few weeks. That's got to be a big draw! Too bad my kids are just back in school after spring break then, otherwise that could be a fun roadtrip.
posted by headnsouth at 11:13 AM on March 29, 2010
posted by headnsouth at 11:13 AM on March 29, 2010
I'll bake cookies and then we can get drunk and set some shit on fire
I cannot be the only person who thinks this sounds awesome.
posted by adamdschneider at 11:18 AM on March 29, 2010 [14 favorites]
I cannot be the only person who thinks this sounds awesome.
posted by adamdschneider at 11:18 AM on March 29, 2010 [14 favorites]
I've wanted to sign up for Couch Surfing for months, but haven't looked into it yet. Do you actually need to have an address or (metaphorical) couch in order to sign up and be a couch surfer? I'm kind of lacking on both of those until the end of summer, so I wouldn't be able to reciprocate, just crashing only. How does that work?
Totally kosher! There are people who do year-long world-wide trips on this, people who travel in RVs, and others with no fixed address (like me). You can contribute as a guest, you can contribute by sharing local info, you can contribute by hooking up with (or hooking up with) people in your "local" area. Going to your local area events is half the fun.
Even if you say you are "available" you are NEVER "required" to host ANYONE, and you can state your preferences for gender and what/how many days, etc.
CS can TOTALLY change the way you travel (and what you do at home).
posted by whatzit at 11:31 AM on March 29, 2010
Totally kosher! There are people who do year-long world-wide trips on this, people who travel in RVs, and others with no fixed address (like me). You can contribute as a guest, you can contribute by sharing local info, you can contribute by hooking up with (or hooking up with) people in your "local" area. Going to your local area events is half the fun.
Even if you say you are "available" you are NEVER "required" to host ANYONE, and you can state your preferences for gender and what/how many days, etc.
CS can TOTALLY change the way you travel (and what you do at home).
posted by whatzit at 11:31 AM on March 29, 2010
When I was in Frogtown it was a snap to host people (plenty of MeFites have crowded those long gone couches and that shitty bed that was in the spare room) but now I'm more efficient and don't have the space. Oh well, coffee and tips it is!
posted by carsonb at 11:36 AM on March 29, 2010
posted by carsonb at 11:36 AM on March 29, 2010
CouchSurfing is great. I've surfed once, hosted plenty of times, and it was incredibly awesome at best and pleasant at least.
My roommate last year was the head of our collective account (I wish the website handled better the fact that multiple active hosts can live at an address), and our parting of ways has led to me not yet creating an account of my own. I'm thinking it's time to get on that and then join the Metafilter group.
posted by invitapriore at 11:37 AM on March 29, 2010
My roommate last year was the head of our collective account (I wish the website handled better the fact that multiple active hosts can live at an address), and our parting of ways has led to me not yet creating an account of my own. I'm thinking it's time to get on that and then join the Metafilter group.
posted by invitapriore at 11:37 AM on March 29, 2010
little e It's almost like it's a whole other state over there. Kinda like over here for people that live on your end.
posted by deezil at 11:42 AM on March 29, 2010
posted by deezil at 11:42 AM on March 29, 2010
I was on CS years ago, lost my password and left it alone once I went nomad mode. The problem was that at the time I was the only guy in Kyrgyzstan, and was inundated with long lists of incredibly detailed questions and advice on itineraries and crossing the Torugart pass from fussy Germans and Swedes and for fuck sakes I just wanted to smoke hash and sit in my apartment.
posted by Meatbomb at 12:00 PM on March 29, 2010 [2 favorites]
posted by Meatbomb at 12:00 PM on March 29, 2010 [2 favorites]
Yeah I've probably turned down more people than I wound up hosting. Usually because I wasn't going to be home but sometimes just because they seemed like a bad fit or they were travelling with other people and I wasn't in the mood for a crowd. The site definitely keeps track of whether you respond to requests [so people can tell who is an active member and likely to respond etc] but there's no real issue with refusing a request. I was pleasantly surprised one time that I was in a jam, being able to get ahold of someone quickly in randomtown NJ who was able to host me. My crisis dissipated soon afterwards, but I was really happy the site was there and that it seems to mostly work for the people who I know.
posted by jessamyn (staff) at 12:11 PM on March 29, 2010
posted by jessamyn (staff) at 12:11 PM on March 29, 2010
mattdidthat: "I'm all over this.
The foldout, or the MeFites?"
ahem. my reputation precedes me, I see. A love that knows no boundaries! Yes, I will probably call you pretty and give you a hug if you come to my house. It's in the charter.
posted by Ambrosia Voyeur at 12:17 PM on March 29, 2010 [1 favorite]
The foldout, or the MeFites?"
ahem. my reputation precedes me, I see. A love that knows no boundaries! Yes, I will probably call you pretty and give you a hug if you come to my house. It's in the charter.
posted by Ambrosia Voyeur at 12:17 PM on March 29, 2010 [1 favorite]
Love has been given.
posted by The Great Big Mulp at 12:25 PM on March 29, 2010
posted by The Great Big Mulp at 12:25 PM on March 29, 2010
I've had very good luck with CS, both as a surfer and as a host. I'll sign up for the group once I can get to the CS page.
posted by craven_morhead at 12:31 PM on March 29, 2010
posted by craven_morhead at 12:31 PM on March 29, 2010
I'm in! Will be back in Buenos Aires in a month or so, and should hopefully have a couch, so if anyone is heading down that way...
posted by jontyjago at 12:46 PM on March 29, 2010
posted by jontyjago at 12:46 PM on March 29, 2010
I really need to get a mission other than "Crush my enemies; see them driven before me; hear the lamentation of their men."
posted by Madamina at 12:59 PM on March 29, 2010 [1 favorite]
posted by Madamina at 12:59 PM on March 29, 2010 [1 favorite]
I've never signed up for CouchSurfing, though my wife and I have hosted bike tourers through www.warmshowers.org (a site for bike tourers, with an unfortunate sounding name) and it was a blast.
We're generally pretty willing to host MeFites who happen to be passing through Delaware. (cue Delaware jokes here). Still haven't pulled the trigger on signing up with CS, though.
posted by JMOZ at 1:04 PM on March 29, 2010
We're generally pretty willing to host MeFites who happen to be passing through Delaware. (cue Delaware jokes here). Still haven't pulled the trigger on signing up with CS, though.
posted by JMOZ at 1:04 PM on March 29, 2010
And all the sudden the espousenating gets a whole lot trickier.
"No honey, she's just my spouse on METAFILTER, it's a big joke!"
posted by TomMelee at 1:08 PM on March 29, 2010
"No honey, she's just my spouse on METAFILTER, it's a big joke!"
posted by TomMelee at 1:08 PM on March 29, 2010
Huh. This seems interesting
Can I require that guests enjoy whiskey, steak and beer? That is pretty much the only thing I keep stocked in the fridge.
posted by Loto at 1:10 PM on March 29, 2010
Can I require that guests enjoy whiskey, steak and beer? That is pretty much the only thing I keep stocked in the fridge.
posted by Loto at 1:10 PM on March 29, 2010
Correction: The whiskey stays on top of the fridge. I'm drunk, not crazy.
posted by Loto at 1:11 PM on March 29, 2010
posted by Loto at 1:11 PM on March 29, 2010
If anybody needs me, I'll be over at Loto's.
posted by cortex (staff) at 1:17 PM on March 29, 2010 [9 favorites]
posted by cortex (staff) at 1:17 PM on March 29, 2010 [9 favorites]
Can I require that guests enjoy whiskey, steak and beer?
The great thing about CS compared to, say, having a friend over is that you can pretty much require anything. So if a friend was coming to my house I'd tidy up a little and make sure there was coffee and leave some towels out for them or whatever. CS can be as involved or uninvolved as you'd like and you can let people know in advance: "I have no guest bed or couch but there is a scrap of fabric over in the corner by the heater that you can share with the dog" I am always more strongly drawn to potential couch surfers if they mention food or beer.
posted by jessamyn (staff) at 1:53 PM on March 29, 2010 [1 favorite]
The great thing about CS compared to, say, having a friend over is that you can pretty much require anything. So if a friend was coming to my house I'd tidy up a little and make sure there was coffee and leave some towels out for them or whatever. CS can be as involved or uninvolved as you'd like and you can let people know in advance: "I have no guest bed or couch but there is a scrap of fabric over in the corner by the heater that you can share with the dog" I am always more strongly drawn to potential couch surfers if they mention food or beer.
posted by jessamyn (staff) at 1:53 PM on March 29, 2010 [1 favorite]
I like food, beer,whiskey AND I have a beard. Just sayin'
posted by jontyjago at 2:01 PM on March 29, 2010
posted by jontyjago at 2:01 PM on March 29, 2010
And in some areas you can be pickier than in others. Denver has a lot of hosts for the number of people who come through here. Amsterdam, on the other hand, has WAY more surfers than hosts, especially in the summer.
posted by craven_morhead at 2:03 PM on March 29, 2010
posted by craven_morhead at 2:03 PM on March 29, 2010
i love Couchsurfing. the people i've hosted since signing up have always been such kind, interesting, wonderful people.
there are only two reasons i am looking forward to "settling down" somewhere for more than a few months: so i can get a dog, and so i can host more Couchsurfers.
the next time i log in, i will join the group. thanks for the post!
posted by gursky at 2:25 PM on March 29, 2010 [1 favorite]
there are only two reasons i am looking forward to "settling down" somewhere for more than a few months: so i can get a dog, and so i can host more Couchsurfers.
the next time i log in, i will join the group. thanks for the post!
posted by gursky at 2:25 PM on March 29, 2010 [1 favorite]
Yesterday, I couldn't make head nor tail of that Couchsurfing site.
100+ couches in Venice, CA.
*click to reveal on map*
Sorry, no couches!
WTF?
So I just booked a damned bnb.
posted by dobbs at 2:29 PM on March 29, 2010
100+ couches in Venice, CA.
*click to reveal on map*
Sorry, no couches!
WTF?
So I just booked a damned bnb.
posted by dobbs at 2:29 PM on March 29, 2010
I've met some really great people through this site too: through hosting, and surfing and meeting a few local brethren. I highly recommend it. It's the only other online community I am part of.
posted by a womble is an active kind of sloth at 2:32 PM on March 29, 2010
posted by a womble is an active kind of sloth at 2:32 PM on March 29, 2010
If anybody needs me, I'll be over at Loto's.
Room for one more?
I've joined up too. However, I'm living in a tiny studio apartment at the moment. There's a couch, but that's what I sleep on. It'll have to be coffee and a drink until I sort myself out with a bigger place. Also, it's in Rostock which seems to be far off the beaten track for most people.
posted by jonesor at 2:34 PM on March 29, 2010
Room for one more?
I've joined up too. However, I'm living in a tiny studio apartment at the moment. There's a couch, but that's what I sleep on. It'll have to be coffee and a drink until I sort myself out with a bigger place. Also, it's in Rostock which seems to be far off the beaten track for most people.
posted by jonesor at 2:34 PM on March 29, 2010
Joined. I've only ever had good experiences with CS, including hosting and local area meetups. I've never actually used it to stay at someone else's, though. I think I see it as too much of an imposition - I'll need to get over that sometime.
posted by mosessis at 2:54 PM on March 29, 2010
posted by mosessis at 2:54 PM on March 29, 2010
The CAPTCHA I got while signing up was 'lice owed'. Is this a sign of things to come with couchsurfing?
And I got "hickey for". For whom, I wonder?
posted by knile at 3:00 PM on March 29, 2010
And I got "hickey for". For whom, I wonder?
posted by knile at 3:00 PM on March 29, 2010
Somebody please MeMail me when they start up BarSurfing.org and DrunkenTaxiSurfing.org. I'd love to get free rides around town getting free booze from random MeFites. But I'd rather sleep in my own bed, if someone from PleasePourMeIntoMyOwnDamnedBedSometimeBeforeIHaveToGetUpAndSHowerForWorkInTheMorning.org would be so thoughtful.
posted by It's Raining Florence Henderson at 3:27 PM on March 29, 2010 [1 favorite]
posted by It's Raining Florence Henderson at 3:27 PM on March 29, 2010 [1 favorite]
Given the grief I got from Mrs. HotBot when the cookie swap boxes began arriving, I don't think its going to happen. Coffee and a doughnuts maybe.
posted by shothotbot at 3:30 PM on March 29, 2010
posted by shothotbot at 3:30 PM on March 29, 2010
Sounds good. How soon can you get them to Seattle?
posted by It's Raining Florence Henderson at 3:36 PM on March 29, 2010
posted by It's Raining Florence Henderson at 3:36 PM on March 29, 2010
Oh man. I have a very unused CS account. Updated the account, joined group, and am ready for the influx of homeless MeFites.
posted by functionequalsform at 3:40 PM on March 29, 2010
posted by functionequalsform at 3:40 PM on March 29, 2010
Given the grief I got from Mrs. HotBot when the cookie swap boxes began arriving,
Mefite Member Swap! We can make millions off the reality show.
posted by The Whelk at 3:40 PM on March 29, 2010
We went from ten members to 47, that's so great.
posted by jessamyn (staff) at 3:45 PM on March 29, 2010
posted by jessamyn (staff) at 3:45 PM on March 29, 2010
I'm in! Just for "coffee or a drink" for the moment, but in theory I have a comfy couch and two nice warm kitties to share.
posted by restless_nomad at 4:06 PM on March 29, 2010
posted by restless_nomad at 4:06 PM on March 29, 2010
This is a bone of contention in my house, as I've crashed on a lot of stranger's couches and thus am totally open to having strangers crash on mine. My girlfriend, whom I live with, values her space and privacy much more.
posted by klangklangston at 9:12 AM on March 29 [+] [!]
Those of us who know klang and holyrood know that holyrood's reluctance is directly proportional to the chances of finding klang sprawled pant-less (hyphenated just because it looked better to me) when relaxing of an evening. Unless his habits have changed. I may have missed the memo.
I plan on signing up on CS. Klang's momma is pretty sympathetic with holyrood, so I'll probably just sign up for coffee or a drink.
(Although those who've helped klang/us out with his rehab will get a bronze plaque & standing [surfing?] invitation to crash here.)
posted by beelzbubba at 4:35 PM on March 29, 2010
posted by klangklangston at 9:12 AM on March 29 [+] [!]
Those of us who know klang and holyrood know that holyrood's reluctance is directly proportional to the chances of finding klang sprawled pant-less (hyphenated just because it looked better to me) when relaxing of an evening. Unless his habits have changed. I may have missed the memo.
I plan on signing up on CS. Klang's momma is pretty sympathetic with holyrood, so I'll probably just sign up for coffee or a drink.
(Although those who've helped klang/us out with his rehab will get a bronze plaque & standing [surfing?] invitation to crash here.)
posted by beelzbubba at 4:35 PM on March 29, 2010
lalex, with Couchsurfing, you set the rules. If you rather leave your house to people while your gone and leave them keys somewhere it's up to you, although most CS I know (me included) prefer to actually meet people from the place we're visiting. It really changes the way to travel. Instead of following some travel guide, or advice from other travelers', you get hints from locals.
posted by domi_p at 5:59 PM on March 29, 2010
posted by domi_p at 5:59 PM on March 29, 2010
This doesn't attract weirdos and degenerates? Like no negative experiences here? When ever I think of couch surfing I think of some guy who stays a week longer than he should because he "lost his bus pass back" and suddenly all your beer seems to be dwindling rather quickly and you notice on your history that someone's been looking at your computer. All. Day. Long.
posted by geoff. at 6:17 PM on March 29, 2010
posted by geoff. at 6:17 PM on March 29, 2010
I was a little surprised at first too, geoff., but I think the testimonial system does a lot to dissuade that sort of behavior. I guess it can be gamed, but you're completely free to not host someone if that person only has one positive review from a friend of theirs.
posted by invitapriore at 6:48 PM on March 29, 2010 [1 favorite]
posted by invitapriore at 6:48 PM on March 29, 2010 [1 favorite]
A girl I once knew would host guys from that site and then give them handjobs. I have no idea if she still does this, though. She liked fellas with beards.
Dear MeFi-Forum: I never thought it could happen to me, but...
posted by Forktine at 7:25 PM on March 29, 2010
Dear MeFi-Forum: I never thought it could happen to me, but...
posted by Forktine at 7:25 PM on March 29, 2010
You can always tell someone you're unavailable if you don't like the looks of their profile for whatever reason. I've lived in places where if people are asking for a couch, they're generally professionals or grad students in town for a conference or travelers passing through for one night on their way to somewhere else. In other words, people with definite plans, not people just looking for a cheap place to stay indefinitely, so I've not had bad experiences.
I generally won't host someone with no references and suggest that people get involved in a local group so they can meet other couchsurfers in real life and get some references that way.
posted by BlooPen at 7:50 PM on March 29, 2010
I generally won't host someone with no references and suggest that people get involved in a local group so they can meet other couchsurfers in real life and get some references that way.
posted by BlooPen at 7:50 PM on March 29, 2010
I signed up too, at coffee/drink level. I enjoy showing folks around town.
posted by matildaben at 8:01 PM on March 29, 2010
posted by matildaben at 8:01 PM on March 29, 2010
I'm in. I'll probably be the most boring host ever, though.
posted by Ritchie at 8:17 PM on March 29, 2010
posted by Ritchie at 8:17 PM on March 29, 2010
So I just booked a damned bnb.
When you comin' to Venice, Dobbs? Meetup!
posted by klangklangston at 9:11 PM on March 29, 2010
When you comin' to Venice, Dobbs? Meetup!
posted by klangklangston at 9:11 PM on March 29, 2010
Also: Currently pantsless.
posted by klangklangston at 9:11 PM on March 29, 2010
posted by klangklangston at 9:11 PM on March 29, 2010
Pre-internet days I put someone up who was a friend of a fellow BBSer. We'd all gone to the bar the night before as a way of intro since I'd not exchanged a lot of messages with him. He seemed like a decent enough guy; a bit more manic than my friends and I (but that's not hard to do) but definitely personable and since he was broke, I was cool with him crashing on the couch.
The next morning I'm up early, but he's already flown the coop, leaving his gym bag full of clothes behind. I go to the fridge and notice my orange juice and milk are gone; check the table, no bowl or boxes. Ho hum, guess he was thirsty and needed some fuel for the road. I polish off some toast and jam, sit down at the PC and press Power.
Nothing. Not even a click.
I check cables, power bar, all good. Plug something else in, nope, receptacle's fine. Pull out the computer, and notice the complete lack of Things inside the case. Motherboard, cards, drives, all gone. Call my friend rather annoyed and ask him to track down Mr. Makeyourselfathome. Half an hour later he calls; I'm less steamed, and he seems genuinely contrite, so he arranges to get a ride and bring my stuff back.
As he's reassembling my PC I ask him why he did it. His story: He woke up hung over in a strange place and, not remembering I was a friend of his friend (and not knowing how he'd get home) took some stuff to pawn for cash. This apparently was his reflex response to being in a stranger's place; clean it out. His rep with friends took a plunge after this.
I found the orange juice upside down in my laundry three days later.
Which is not to be alarmist or anything like that; obviously there's going to be a few bad eggs even among friends. It didn't sour me from letting people couch surf; just needed a few more references.
On preview, that coffee/drink level sounds worthy of signup. As long as I don't find anyone sprawled pant-less the next morning.
posted by Hardcore Poser at 9:33 PM on March 29, 2010
The next morning I'm up early, but he's already flown the coop, leaving his gym bag full of clothes behind. I go to the fridge and notice my orange juice and milk are gone; check the table, no bowl or boxes. Ho hum, guess he was thirsty and needed some fuel for the road. I polish off some toast and jam, sit down at the PC and press Power.
Nothing. Not even a click.
I check cables, power bar, all good. Plug something else in, nope, receptacle's fine. Pull out the computer, and notice the complete lack of Things inside the case. Motherboard, cards, drives, all gone. Call my friend rather annoyed and ask him to track down Mr. Makeyourselfathome. Half an hour later he calls; I'm less steamed, and he seems genuinely contrite, so he arranges to get a ride and bring my stuff back.
As he's reassembling my PC I ask him why he did it. His story: He woke up hung over in a strange place and, not remembering I was a friend of his friend (and not knowing how he'd get home) took some stuff to pawn for cash. This apparently was his reflex response to being in a stranger's place; clean it out. His rep with friends took a plunge after this.
I found the orange juice upside down in my laundry three days later.
Which is not to be alarmist or anything like that; obviously there's going to be a few bad eggs even among friends. It didn't sour me from letting people couch surf; just needed a few more references.
On preview, that coffee/drink level sounds worthy of signup. As long as I don't find anyone sprawled pant-less the next morning.
posted by Hardcore Poser at 9:33 PM on March 29, 2010
I do SERVAS which is similar but requires a sign-up fee and an interview; I've never had a bad experience with them (although i figure the interview stage probably acts as a good axe-murderer filter). SERVAS members seem to have a different age profile to couchsurfing; at 36 I'm one of the younger ones. We've hosted some great people (retired Italian latin teachers, academics on sabattical, IT consultants...). And I've stayed with some great people too, notably in Brazil.
So, I haven't done couchsurfing just because I'm already in a travellers' organisation. But now there's a mefi group (and given that you can refuse people without sufficient references) I guess I might just join up.
posted by handee at 12:06 AM on March 30, 2010 [1 favorite]
So, I haven't done couchsurfing just because I'm already in a travellers' organisation. But now there's a mefi group (and given that you can refuse people without sufficient references) I guess I might just join up.
posted by handee at 12:06 AM on March 30, 2010 [1 favorite]
OK I set up mine, so if you're a mefite and you want to visit Africa, consider yourself invited. I set my profile to "currently traveling" or what-have-you because, well, that's what I do for work, but don't let that stop you from messaging me if any of you are making it to Nairobi.
posted by allkindsoftime at 3:48 AM on March 30, 2010
posted by allkindsoftime at 3:48 AM on March 30, 2010
NICE. This converges two of my net-based interest-groups. :-D
Long time CS'er here, been hosting through here and Hospitality Club for ages now. Good to see a Mefi group there as well; y'all are welcome to stay at my nook if and when you're in Singapore. We've had quite a few folks over, and the local CS scene is quite active; lots of foodie trips and pub crawls out there.
posted by the cydonian at 5:22 AM on March 30, 2010
Long time CS'er here, been hosting through here and Hospitality Club for ages now. Good to see a Mefi group there as well; y'all are welcome to stay at my nook if and when you're in Singapore. We've had quite a few folks over, and the local CS scene is quite active; lots of foodie trips and pub crawls out there.
posted by the cydonian at 5:22 AM on March 30, 2010
Though I live at the actual end of the earth - Perth the most isolated city in the world, I have signed on. Goddamn, my spare room is THE BOMB and my dogs only eat very small parts of guests' shoes - so put Chez HB on the itinerary.
posted by honey-barbara at 6:03 AM on March 30, 2010
posted by honey-barbara at 6:03 AM on March 30, 2010
I am now going to have to find a reason to go BACK to Perth.
posted by jessamyn (staff) at 7:26 AM on March 30, 2010
posted by jessamyn (staff) at 7:26 AM on March 30, 2010
Do it Jessamyn!
posted by honey-barbara at 7:45 AM on March 30, 2010
posted by honey-barbara at 7:45 AM on March 30, 2010
all the netboys sing in harmoni, you stole my line, honey
yup
posted by infini at 7:46 AM on March 30, 2010
yup
posted by infini at 7:46 AM on March 30, 2010
I signed up, just waiting for my verification postcard. Anyone want a place to crash in western Massachusetts, look me up!
posted by chowflap at 8:47 AM on March 30, 2010
posted by chowflap at 8:47 AM on March 30, 2010
Maybe we could get this sidebarred? I'm sure there are probably a lot more CouchSurfers on MetaFilter who don't come to MetaTalk as often.
posted by Demogorgon at 9:24 AM on March 30, 2010
posted by Demogorgon at 9:24 AM on March 30, 2010
I've been meaning to sign up and create a CS profile for quite some time now. This just gives me a better excuse to get off my duff and actually do it.
I like the artsy, bohemian 'feel' of many of the profiles. There are even interest groups for dancers, feminists, pagans, GLBT folks, and fans of goth/industrial music. Yay!
A search reveals that there are a LOT of couchsurfers where I live (Portland, OR), so people can probably be really picky about whose couch they crash on. I'm in a desirable downtown location, easy walking distance from public transit, several tourist attractions, and all necessities, so I'm well positioned to host.
MeFites visiting Portland can MeMail me anytime to see if my couch is available.
posted by velvet winter at 10:30 AM on March 30, 2010
I like the artsy, bohemian 'feel' of many of the profiles. There are even interest groups for dancers, feminists, pagans, GLBT folks, and fans of goth/industrial music. Yay!
A search reveals that there are a LOT of couchsurfers where I live (Portland, OR), so people can probably be really picky about whose couch they crash on. I'm in a desirable downtown location, easy walking distance from public transit, several tourist attractions, and all necessities, so I'm well positioned to host.
MeFites visiting Portland can MeMail me anytime to see if my couch is available.
posted by velvet winter at 10:30 AM on March 30, 2010
Yeah good point, I'll toss it on the sidebar.
posted by jessamyn (staff) at 10:57 AM on March 30, 2010
posted by jessamyn (staff) at 10:57 AM on March 30, 2010
Damn, I read that as "host a time-traveling mefite" and I was soooooo there.
posted by Eideteker at 1:04 PM on March 30, 2010
posted by Eideteker at 1:04 PM on March 30, 2010
Is it possible to have my listing viewable only to members of the MeFi group?
posted by roll truck roll at 2:02 PM on March 30, 2010
posted by roll truck roll at 2:02 PM on March 30, 2010
I signed up. I'm a bit far away from all the neat stuff in the city, though.
posted by casarkos at 3:11 PM on March 30, 2010
posted by casarkos at 3:11 PM on March 30, 2010
I love CS, the verification system is pretty critical to maximizing your experience though.
Also, CS meetups, like MeFi meetups, are great for meeting interesting people in your community. And they tend to happen more frequently!
posted by Ndwright at 7:29 PM on March 30, 2010
Also, CS meetups, like MeFi meetups, are great for meeting interesting people in your community. And they tend to happen more frequently!
posted by Ndwright at 7:29 PM on March 30, 2010
Click-click-click-signed up!
Now then. Do people ever visit Central IL?
posted by whatnotever at 7:38 PM on March 30, 2010
Now then. Do people ever visit Central IL?
posted by whatnotever at 7:38 PM on March 30, 2010
I've had some wonderful experiences hosting folks, just wish they would make the site as pleasant as the folks I've met.
Also having 4 or 5 20-something french girls over was a bit of a bonus.
posted by MiltonRandKalman at 7:47 PM on March 30, 2010
Also having 4 or 5 20-something french girls over was a bit of a bonus.
posted by MiltonRandKalman at 7:47 PM on March 30, 2010
This discussion harks back in a way to the great AskMe about visitors, 3+ years ago, and Jessamyn’s wonderful credo: "in my culture people who stay at other people's houses aren't freeloaders, they're social."
I was just reading a new book about librarians, in fact, and on page 57 came across the author (apparently a MetaFilterian, although not a very active one) writing, about the aforementioned Jessamyn: "Personally I found it hard to fathom this openness... but the combination of blunt honesty and post-hippe friendliness suited Jessamyn's style as a librarian and personified the open Web."
I'm always on my best behavior when staying with other people — you are, after all, sponging off them — and I've almost always found that you get much more out of visitors, especially the unexpected ones, than you give in return.
posted by LeLiLo at 12:20 AM on March 31, 2010
I was just reading a new book about librarians, in fact, and on page 57 came across the author (apparently a MetaFilterian, although not a very active one) writing, about the aforementioned Jessamyn: "Personally I found it hard to fathom this openness... but the combination of blunt honesty and post-hippe friendliness suited Jessamyn's style as a librarian and personified the open Web."
I'm always on my best behavior when staying with other people — you are, after all, sponging off them — and I've almost always found that you get much more out of visitors, especially the unexpected ones, than you give in return.
posted by LeLiLo at 12:20 AM on March 31, 2010
Joined.
My wife and I have a really nice apt. in central Seoul with two spare rooms and a living room couch, and she's an awesome host. She speaks fluent Korean, English, and Japanese. I speak whisky and food.
posted by Joseph Gurl at 1:16 AM on March 31, 2010
My wife and I have a really nice apt. in central Seoul with two spare rooms and a living room couch, and she's an awesome host. She speaks fluent Korean, English, and Japanese. I speak whisky and food.
posted by Joseph Gurl at 1:16 AM on March 31, 2010
That's a kink I can get behind.
posted by restless_nomad at 9:32 AM on March 31, 2010
posted by restless_nomad at 9:32 AM on March 31, 2010
i want a tshirt that says that could use some love:-) it matches my everyone needs a hug. Boy i sure could use one right now too
posted by infini at 9:34 AM on March 31, 2010
posted by infini at 9:34 AM on March 31, 2010
Who needs a shirt when your pants can say it all?
J/K; purely platonic, friendly hugs to you infini.
posted by iamkimiam at 11:14 AM on March 31, 2010
J/K; purely platonic, friendly hugs to you infini.
posted by iamkimiam at 11:14 AM on March 31, 2010
summertime on beautiful bainbridge island is just around the corner. you know you want to.
posted by Glibpaxman at 8:49 PM on March 31, 2010
posted by Glibpaxman at 8:49 PM on March 31, 2010
If people are up for visiting some semi-unexciting locale in semi-urban Japan, I am willing to let you sleep on the floor! I will provide some padding, they call it a "futon".
I am not so awesome of a host, I am afraid, as I have a glut of these things called "Workdays" and a lack of these things called "Holidays". Any Mefite Tokyoites looking for an escape into the rural wilds of Kyushu are welcome to come for a weekend!
posted by that girl at 10:25 PM on March 31, 2010
I am not so awesome of a host, I am afraid, as I have a glut of these things called "Workdays" and a lack of these things called "Holidays". Any Mefite Tokyoites looking for an escape into the rural wilds of Kyushu are welcome to come for a weekend!
posted by that girl at 10:25 PM on March 31, 2010
I don't live on Bainbridge Island but I used to have a girlfriend who did. Take Glibpaxman up on his offer. Seriously.
posted by josher71 at 7:51 AM on April 1, 2010
posted by josher71 at 7:51 AM on April 1, 2010
Signed up. Stupidly, with a different username. Actually, lately I've taken to signing on to websites, etc. impersonating my dog. So, on CS, we're the.zsuzse
Anyways, we're in Calgary, the usual gateway to the Canadian Rockies. I have tons of info, maps, books on the mountains, so drop a line at least if you're thinking of spending some time. If you actually do come by, please excuse the over-friendly dog.
posted by bumpkin at 8:55 AM on April 1, 2010
Anyways, we're in Calgary, the usual gateway to the Canadian Rockies. I have tons of info, maps, books on the mountains, so drop a line at least if you're thinking of spending some time. If you actually do come by, please excuse the over-friendly dog.
posted by bumpkin at 8:55 AM on April 1, 2010
oh -- awesome!
was planning on traveling to some rural place this summer with CS anyway!
posted by past at 3:34 AM on April 2, 2010
was planning on traveling to some rural place this summer with CS anyway!
posted by past at 3:34 AM on April 2, 2010
I've hosted a few people via CS before - I can't afford to travel much so I let the culture come to me. Travelling without moving, just like a 3rd stage guild navigator.
I've had one or two slightly odd ones, where we didn't quite click, but I've had fantastic ones where we discussed philosophy and music long into the night....
Just be a little choosy in who you say yes to: pick well and you're going to have a good time.
If you like Mefi, you probably have a craving for randomness, and so far I've learnt about the botany and geological history of Argentina, some mind expanding philosphy of science stuff, hosted an artist and was invited to her art exhibition and so on.... definitely worth the hassle.
For backup though, I'd also recommend getting to know a few other hosts in your local area for guest swaps in case you have to leave town unexpectedly, or if you find your guest would be better suited to a more sporty/drunk/introverted/trendy/weird host. Haven't needed that so far, but I've seen it work well for others.
CS: Marwood, South Wales
posted by BishopsLoveScifi at 2:06 PM on April 2, 2010
I've had one or two slightly odd ones, where we didn't quite click, but I've had fantastic ones where we discussed philosophy and music long into the night....
Just be a little choosy in who you say yes to: pick well and you're going to have a good time.
If you like Mefi, you probably have a craving for randomness, and so far I've learnt about the botany and geological history of Argentina, some mind expanding philosphy of science stuff, hosted an artist and was invited to her art exhibition and so on.... definitely worth the hassle.
For backup though, I'd also recommend getting to know a few other hosts in your local area for guest swaps in case you have to leave town unexpectedly, or if you find your guest would be better suited to a more sporty/drunk/introverted/trendy/weird host. Haven't needed that so far, but I've seen it work well for others.
CS: Marwood, South Wales
posted by BishopsLoveScifi at 2:06 PM on April 2, 2010
awesome! I unfortunately have moved recently and am no longer in a postion to host but always up for coffee and a chat!
posted by nothing too obvious at 3:04 AM on April 11, 2010
posted by nothing too obvious at 3:04 AM on April 11, 2010
I just hosted an adorable non-MeFite on Friday night. She was playing a late gig nearby and had a three hour drive home so she decided to find a place to stay instead of getting home at 4 am. She was in her late 20's a stand-up bass player and showed up with all her own stuff [sleeping bag, pillow, water bottle]. We chitchatted for a bit when she got in about excellent books about neuropsychology to read and then I gave her the spare cot in my living room. She headed out in the morning to her next gig. It worked out well because she was getting in really late [and was really apologetic] but I'm up late so it was absolutely no problem.
I've also said no this week to a pair of travelling French girls who seemed a little more looking for a party scene than I was willing to host, but it's real easy to say "sorry I won't be around that weekend!" All in all, a good CS week.
posted by jessamyn (staff) at 7:48 AM on April 11, 2010
I've also said no this week to a pair of travelling French girls who seemed a little more looking for a party scene than I was willing to host, but it's real easy to say "sorry I won't be around that weekend!" All in all, a good CS week.
posted by jessamyn (staff) at 7:48 AM on April 11, 2010
That's awesome Jessamyn!
posted by Demogorgon at 12:05 PM on April 12, 2010
posted by Demogorgon at 12:05 PM on April 12, 2010
signed up, je vive en France...
posted by Skaramoosh at 3:05 PM on April 15, 2010
posted by Skaramoosh at 3:05 PM on April 15, 2010
Very cool. Now I can do a 'metafilter' keyword search in CS when I am traveling!
I've been on CS for a few years, but don't host a lot, since I live in a toolshed (CS campers are invited to have breakfast in my yard and use my outdoor shower).
The CS forums all seem to have their own 'flavor' -- the Hawai'i ones seem to be mostly requests, very little socializing. The 50+ travelers group is very chummy - a bit eclectic; world travelers. A bunch of them are meeting in Istanbul in May. I was just at a CS meet-up in Seattle a few weeks ago with some 50+ ppl ... very cool.
posted by Surfurrus at 12:34 AM on April 24, 2010
I've been on CS for a few years, but don't host a lot, since I live in a toolshed (CS campers are invited to have breakfast in my yard and use my outdoor shower).
The CS forums all seem to have their own 'flavor' -- the Hawai'i ones seem to be mostly requests, very little socializing. The 50+ travelers group is very chummy - a bit eclectic; world travelers. A bunch of them are meeting in Istanbul in May. I was just at a CS meet-up in Seattle a few weeks ago with some 50+ ppl ... very cool.
posted by Surfurrus at 12:34 AM on April 24, 2010
Just saw this. Been on CS since last year. Joined the MeFi group just now.
posted by dubitable at 2:23 PM on April 24, 2010
posted by dubitable at 2:23 PM on April 24, 2010
Currently hosting a cool Korean dude. Not a mefite, though.
posted by Ritchie at 9:15 PM on April 27, 2010
posted by Ritchie at 9:15 PM on April 27, 2010
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posted by mccarty.tim at 8:57 AM on March 29, 2010 [7 favorites]