Backpacker tips
Couchsurfing in Asia: what Dubai and Kuala Lumpur taught me
Couchsurfing gave me some of the best days of my trips: a village in the shadow of Dubai skyscrapers, and a picnic with Yemeni friends in Malaysia. Here is how I use it.
Why couchsurf
Hosts show you a place from the inside. In Dubai I stayed with a host who lived in a small village between skyscrapers, and another who worked in pharmaceuticals. In Kuala Lumpur I stayed with a scientist and a man from Yemen, and I ended up on a beach picnic with a group of retired Yemeni officers who fed me coconuts, dragon fruit and jackfruit.
Pick hosts carefully
Read profiles and references. Choose hosts with several positive reviews, and write a short personal message that mentions their profile. Share your plans with a friend and keep the address of the place on your phone.
Be flexible, not helpless
My Kuala Lumpur plan changed in one evening: I had to cancel a flight and wait three days. Couchsurfing hosts made those days the best part of the stay. Keep a backup, such as a hostel, in case a host cancels.
Be a good guest
Arrive on time, bring a small gift, keep your things tidy and ask before using the kitchen. Offer to cook, help or just talk. In some homes you will eat with your hands or remove your shoes at the door, so watch what your host does.
Trust your instincts
If anything feels wrong, leave. Drinks, driving and house rules are your decision, not the host's. In Dubai one host wanted to drive after a few beers. Politely refuse a ride in that situation and take a taxi.
Check for bed bugs
After a couple of stays I found a bed bug in my backpack. I was frustrated and unpacked everything in a public place to check. When you travel through Asia, wash and dry your clothes on a hot cycle and keep your bag closed in rooms you do not know.
Frequently asked questions
Is couchsurfing safe?
It can be, if you read references, share your plans and leave when something feels wrong.
What should I bring to a couchsurfing host?
A small gift from your country or a local snack, and offer to cook or help.
Should I have a backup plan?
Yes. Keep a hostel option in case a host cancels at the last moment.