As we explored each room, she told us its purpose, who stayed there when they visited her. The same device carried us through the famous Caernarfon Castle and several others. For several years, we've been members of an international traveler-host network called Servas. Founded in Scandinavia in 1948, Servas has members in over 90 countries. Its purpose is to foster world peace by breaking down cultural barriers.
Travelers thumb through a directory and contact hosts whose interests match their own.
A standard Servas visit lasts two nights, though families may sometimes arrange a longer stay. No money changes hands, except to reimburse expenses such as long-distance calls. And at its best, Servas creates opportunities for deep and long-lasting friendships. Finally, of course, Servas makes traveling a lot more affordable. Some people use the network just to travel, or just to host.