If you are an adventurous traveler and haven’t heard of Couchsurfing.com, let me introduce you to something great. Imagine a website where you can search for people who are open to not only showing you around their town, but hook you up with a place to stay. I’ve had nothing but great experiences the few times I’ve surfed stranger’s couches in foreign lands (Italy, Egypt) or hosted travelers from other lands (Australia & Portland Oregon). Ok, so I’ve not done it much. But I’m thinking I should do it more. What a better way to experience a new place than to stay with locals? None, that’s what. Well, maybe in a 5-star hotel, but last time I check my travel accounts, they were empty. And so couchsurfing is set up for folks who either can’t afford a hotel every night, or just want to meet cool local people. Sign up, it’s free!
www.couchsurfing.com

A few weeks ago, Amber and I hosted Nick, a couchsurfer from Portland, OR, who was in town for a National Geographic Photography Lecture. It was a lecture I wish I could have had the luxury to attend. But not to worry, Nick gave us the lowdown. Our couch is open for surfers, and I plan to photograph anyone who stays with us. A new series begins!

Here’s Nick from Portland:
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