05/10/2026
Whilst my mum is at home having heart palpitations over the fact her only child is willingly meeting strangers off the internet, I am, once again, meeting strangers off the internet.
Now, those of you who know me will be aware that I regularly use dating apps around the world to meet wonderful humans, acquire local tour guides and occasionally secure accommodation — because ya gal is both a stingy queen AND the butterfly of all social butterflies.
BUT WHAT IF I TOLD YOU… there’s actually a far more wholesome way to go about all of this — with no underlying expectations!
I’ve used Couchsurfing for years to meet locals, other travellers and stay in people’s homes. And whilst I LOVE a hostel, there’s something completely different about being invited into a local’s home and experiencing a place through someone who actually lives there.
It works like every other app we know and love. You build a profile, add some photos, your interests and travel stories, and essentially create a tiny CV explaining why you’d be a delightful addition to someone’s home — because unfortunately, “I have a personality” requires supporting evidence these days. And nobody’s inviting Boring Barbara into their spare room.
Normally, you’d read through a few profiles, check the reviews, see who passes the vibe check and send a request.
I personally messaged ONE man: Charlie.
Because the man is a Couchsurfing unicorn and ya gal is a sucker for a good review.
For those of you living under a rock and wondering what the hell I’m talking about, comment CS and I’ll send you the link to sign up.
