With the help of The Washington Center, I spent last fall interning in Washington, D.C. with an organization called Meridian International Center. The experience was truly priceless.
Wolken (the previously referred to Brian who is venturing to Europe with me) and my buddy Adam Brown actually made it out one weekend to visit me. A good time was had by all, though we undoubtedly spent too much money in too many Washington, D.C. bars! Either way, Wolken and I have decided to fly into DC on the night of the 3rd and then fly out of DC for Dublin on the 4th. Actually, as of now, a one-way flight from Chicago to Dublin is more expensive than the Chicago – Washington – Dublin plan. It’s amazing how the airline industry works.
I was explaining my plans to the family this weekend and my sister mentioned how I’d have to take the cost of a hotel room into consideration. This would be true but A) I know a couple of people where we could hopefully stay and B) there is always the intriguing backup plan of, Couchsurfing.org.
Couchsurfing.org, a non-profit organization, presents a fascinating new way to travel throughout the US – or, the world. Members of the organization create a profile and included in this are the amenities (couches, extra bedrooms, etc.) they have for travelers. Instead of staying in a hotel for $100/night in D.C., you can research the profile of a member in D.C. who would be willing to put you up for the night.
Couchsurfing.org’s F.A.Q can explain it better than I. Check it out …
Backpacking Matt 
