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The latest social networking craze to hit the younger generation!

The idea of sofa-surfing may conjure up images of riding the waves balanced on a three seater sofa but the reality is actually far more interesting.

The basic idea is that prospective travellers can get in touch with local people in the country they want to visit and stay with them free of charge, perhaps sleeping on their sofa, hence the phrase ‘Sofa-surfing’, also known as sofa swapping. This is how it works.

First you book your tickets for when and where you want to travel. You might decide to travel through several different countries. Next you search for people living near the area or areas you want to visit. Then you contact them, telling them a little information about yourself and the sorts of things you are interested in. When you get offers of places to stay you confirm the arrangements with your hosts. The really big advantage of travelling this way is that you will be staying with people who have specialised local knowledge. They will be able to tell you the most interesting sights to visit and best places to eat .You will probably find out information that you are unlikely to find in a guide book. They also take you out to their favourite bars and clubs to meet all their friends.

In exchange you help out your hosts in any way you can. Maybe you could do some housework or perhaps you have a specific skill you are able to offer such as a mechanic, servicing the host’s vehicle or a decorator painting the kitchen. The host might also want to come and stay on your couch at some time in the future! It is very important to be a good guest and not take advantage of the free lodgings as the host could ask you to leave if you make a nuisance of yourself.

If all this sounds a little risky, then don't worry. Sofa-surfing communities put in place various precautions to ensure the safety of the participants and hosts. But in any case it is probably safest and more fun to travel with a friend rather than alone. Also, you should let a friend or relative know your travel plans, including the addresses you are staying at and the dates you are travelling. The concept of Sofa-surfing or sofa swapping is simple but it is a truly amazing and refreshing way to experience travelling the world. It is especially suited to young extrovert people who enjoy meeting new people and having fun.

So never mind setting up a virtual network of friends, you could end up with dozens of locations and real friends all over the world. You may also find that your new friendships last a lifetime.