Tuesday’s Travel Tip : Sleep With The Locals

Now what are the best times you’ve had travelling?

Ask most people, and they’ll say something along the lines of “That time… we met these locals… who took us around! It was SO much FUN! Highlight of our trip!”

Let’s face it. People that live in a city (or town, or village, or wherever) who aren’t afraid to talk to strangers are usually fun, extroverted type-A people. And they’re the most fun people around!

So why not stay with them? That’s right! I said, stay with them.

I have always been a big fan of save a dollar when travelling. And getting to see the insides of a city versus the touristy glitter and glue exterior is a major plus. Yes I want to see the tacky tourist “I have to tick this off my list and take a photo of me in front of it” stuff. But I also want the behind the curtains. The best place to eat the local specialty. The best beer in town. What do the locals do for fun? Let’s get involved. You may stick out like a sore thumb (picture being the only white girl at an all-Fijian concert/dance party, and you’re on the right track), but who cares. You’ll have an amazing story, and so will a whole bunch of other people once you’re gone! haha

So how do you get involved? Well, that’s easier than ever, thanks to this golden age of internet.

Thru sites like couchsurfing.com you have access to other likeminded travellers, willing to offer that spare bit of space and time to save you money and make your journey even more memorable. And wouldn’t you know it, Montreal is currently the number one Couch Surfing City on their site. I live in a bohemian city, gotta love it! Thousands of people are signing up weekly. With a strong network of like-minded backpackers, it’s bound to be a success.

So start surfing! Check out the site and see how you can get involved, whether you’re going or staying! Sleep with the locals?…well, that’s your choice. How about a cup of coffee and some story swapping to start!

Disclaimer: Come on, these days everyone needs a disclaimer! Just the way it goes. And so this is mine. Traveljulie.com supports free enterprise and free places to sleep. But nothing in life is guaranteed, so trust your gut instincts! If you don’t feel 100% about a place…don’t stay there. Be true to yourself, be safe, have fun!