I have recently learned about this great opportunity called couch surfing. The basic premise is that people from around the world post online that they are interested in visiting a location. Other people in that location say that they have space available to crash. By being able to spend time with a local of the country the traveler gets to see the real city/country. They connect and new friendships are formed. Making the world a little bit smaller

I know what your thinking seems, dangerous, creepy, and idealistic. And I’d have to say that I might have agreed with you before I met a bunch of couch surfers from Chicago.

I had checked out the site and thought I should meet some local surfers and hear about their experiences before I took the plunge and surfed myself. Last night was my first encounter,  we got together for a gathering at a local bar that has awesome burgers and cheap beer specials. I got to meet a bunch of guys and some lovely ladies. There were even some people that were hosting surfers and brought them along.  It was a great time and I got to meet a bunch of new people. But the fun didn’t stop there.

After the burgers and beers, two of the people that I had been talking to all night mentioned that they would like to  go to Sidetrack for Show Tune Monday’s. So while some of us went home others, including me, continued on to Sidetrack to enjoy the spectacle that Show Tune Monday’s are. We had a drink and sang some songs.

But the night wasn’t over yet.  Two other people decided to continue the night and go listen to some Blues at Kingston Mines. I had never been and at that moment I decided to forfeit my sleep and listen to some blues. So off we go again to listen to some awesome  Blues!!! The thing about Kingston Mines is that two bands play in alternating sets. So you start in one room with one band and then when their set is over you move to the second room. This way you get to hear two bands for the price of one. There is a cover, but it’s minimal compared to the quality that you get.

I had a great time and got to meet some really nice, considerate, interesting people. People that I would have never met otherwise. I think couch surfing definitely is having the effect that it wants. It makes me wonder how great my experience would be if I were to actually travel elsewhere if I had such a nice one here in my home city.

So my decision is made. My first opportunity I’m off to start my surfing adventure. I’ve always wanted to travel and I think that this would be such an exciting and interesting way to do it.

My family will freak, but in all honesty I don’t much care.