Special Episode Servas Travel Here is your FAQ: Have you done any couch surfing? My followers asked me this question.   Special Episode topic: Servas travel   Travel mistakes: Making the age limit in a restaurant   Travel Tips: Daily schedule for exercise    FAQ response:   Have you done any couch surfing? My followers asked me this question.   Answer: No, but I have been using SERVAS for three years as a member. I stayed in 6 homes and did a day host in one country, too. Listen here for more on that.   Special episode on SERVAS   I'm planning another around-the-world trip in 2025 and will contact hosts in South America, Africa, Europe, and Canada. I will email them, introduce myself, and tell them my travel dates. If they respond, we may have a match. If you happen to be a SERVAS host, please let me know.   The countries where I did make great matches were the Philippines (day host), India (Kerala and Agra for 1-2 nights), Israel (Tel Aviv 2 nights), Italy (Naples 2 nights), Ireland (Dublin 2 nights), and Scotland (Glasgow, three homes, 5 nights total). The irony is that some of the Scottish hosts also hosted Dick this year. Small world. https://servas.org/   https://usservas.org/ https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Servas_International   SERVAS International was founded in 1949 by Bob Luitweiler, a pacifist and peace activist. Here are some of the organization's history and how it can benefit solo women travelers. I'll share the history, the goals, and the benefits for travelers, especially women and especially solo women. History Origins: SERVAS was established after World War II to promote peace through cross-cultural understanding and dialogue. Vision: The name "SERVAS" means "to serve" in Esperanto, reflecting its commitment to building bridges between cultures and fostering mutual respect. Global Reach: It operates in over 100 countries and territories, creating a worldwide network of travelers and hosts dedicated to peace and goodwill. Goals Promoting Peace: SERVAS encourages cultural exchange and understanding to combat prejudice and conflict. Fostering Dialogue: Hosts and travelers engage in meaningful conversations about their lives, cultures, and beliefs, promoting mutual understanding. Sustainability: The organization values eco-friendly and low-impact travel, aligning with global efforts to protect the planet. Empowering Women Travelers: SERVAS provides a safe and supportive environment for women, including solo travelers, by connecting them with verified and trustworthy hosts.     Benefits for Solo Female Travelers Safe Accommodation: SERVAS connects travelers with hosts who have undergone a screening process, adding a layer of security for solo women. Cultural Immersion: Staying with local hosts allows you to experience the authentic culture of your destination, often away from tourist hubs. Cost-Effective Travel: Accommodation with SERVAS hosts is free, reducing travel expenses. Community and Connection: Emphasizing meaningful conversations provides opportunities for enriching educational experiences. Supportive Network: For solo travelers, especially women, SERVAS offers a built-in community of like-minded individuals who value safety, trust, and connection. Flexible and Global: The network spans various countries, offering unlimited travel opportunities.     How SERVAS Works You must apply for SERVAS membership, which involves an interview process to ensure alignment with the organization's values. Members receive a document that introduces them to hosts and verifies their commitment to SERVAS principles. SERVAS provides a directory of hosts in participating countries, detailing their interests, location, and availability. Travelers arrange stays with hosts in advance, typically for 1-2 nights, to encourage meaningful interaction rather than transient lodging.     Tips for Using SERVAS as a Solo Woman  Choose hosts with detailed profiles and positive reviews to ensure compatibility. Discuss expectations, house rules, and interests with your host before your visit via email. SERVAS is built on trust, so always trust your instincts and prioritize your safety. Keep in touch with someone back home and share your itinerary and host details. As a solo female traveler who values meaningful travel experiences and cultural exchange, SERVAS aligns perfectly with my interests. It offered me a unique way to connect with real locals, experience destinations authentically, and travel safely. The organization's commitment to peace and sustainability adds a deeper purpose to my journeys. I would recommend this to any of our listeners Travel mistakes: Making the age limit in a restaurant   Travel Tips: Daily schedule for exercise      Connect with Dr. Travelbest 5 Steps to Solo Travel website Dr. Mary Travelbest X Dr. Mary Travelbest Facebook Page Dr. Mary Travelbest Facebook Group Dr. Mary Travelbest Instagram Dr. Mary Travelbest Podcast Dr. Travelbest on TikTok Dr.Travelbest onYouTube In the news  

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