Couchsurfing.com was launched in 2004 by Casey Fenton for Iceland. Site has over 15 million travelers and 400,000 hosts worldwide. Free accommodation through local hosts who offer their homes to travelers
Author visited Japan in 2012 during B.Tech studies. Initially planned 18-day trip with 21-day rail pass. Decided to stay 20 nights couch surfing throughout Japan. Experienced happiness for 31 consecutive days
Couchsurfing connects travelers with locals offering free home stays. Platform saves money while experiencing local culture. Recent data shows hosts may violate guest trust
Couchsurfing originated from friends sleeping on each other's sofas. Term has evolved from semi-homeless people to global travel accommodation sharing. CouchSurfing company launched in 2004 as a social networking service