Earth Routes: reservations & resources for green travel

Earth Routes is a member of the Co-op America Business Network

Host other travelers -

At times when you're not able to leave home yourself, you can still interact with other parts of the world by inviting travelers to be your guests. There are programs that will help you make these contacts and arrangements, respecting the needs of both host and traveler. Find out more from these websites:

Servas - www.servas.org
With a mission of "opening doors for travelers to homes and hearts in more than 130 countries," a non-profit organization called Servas works to build understanding, tolerance, and world peace through a network of hosts and travelers. The only requirement for hosts is a willingness to offer hospitality to travelers of any race and culture. Travelers must contact hosts prior to their visit to inquire whether a day visit or a stay of two nights is possible; hosts may not always be available. When possible, a host may provide information or a guided tour, or a work-place visit or a meal, or just find time for a chat together. Person-to-person contacts in a different culture, even within your home country, will enrich your travel experience as well as contributing to more understanding in the world.
Travelers and hosts are interviewed by Servas coordinators before being accepted, to make sure they are responsible, open minded and likely to be good members of Servas. Earth Routes travelers have reported wonderful experiences with Servas in Europe and South America as well as in their own homes in the US.

World conversations - www.conversationcafe.org, www.redvic.com/articles/worldconversations.html

A network of hosted conversations discussing big topics and listening to each other. "Talking with one another could be the most radical and healing act we do."

Educators B&B Travel Network - www.educatorstravel.com
Members hosting members; current, former, and retired teachers. 2400 members in 30 countries.