Servas Host: An Introduction for Dev

Dear Dev, in recent years, sharing economy and community-based travel have become increasingly popular. One of the ways to experience this trend is by becoming a Servas host. Servas is a non-profit organization that connects travelers with local hosts around the world, promoting cultural exchange and peace. In this article, we will explore what it means to be a Servas host and the benefits you can gain from this unique opportunity.

What is Servas?

Servas is a global network of hosts and travelers who are committed to creating a more peaceful and understanding world. The organization was founded in 1949 by an American peace activist, Bob Luitweiler, who believed that travel and personal connections could break down barriers and promote peace. Today, Servas has over 14,000 hosts in more than 100 countries.

History of Servas

Bob Luitweiler started Servas as a way to promote peace and understanding after experiencing the devastation of World War II. He believed that by bringing people together, we could create a more peaceful world. Servas originally stood for “Service Civil International,” but today it also stands for “Peace through Understanding.”

Servas started as a small group of people who wanted to host travelers in their homes and share their cultures. Over the years, the organization has grown significantly and now has hosts in almost every corner of the world. Servas is still run by volunteers who are passionate about cultural exchange and peace.

How Servas Works

As a Servas host, you open your home to travelers from around the world. The travelers are usually members of Servas, and they have been screened and approved by the organization. You provide them with a place to stay, and in exchange, they share their cultures and experiences with you.

Travelers can stay with you for up to two nights, and there is no charge for their stay. The idea is that Servas hosts are providing a cultural exchange, not a hotel service. However, travelers are expected to contribute something to the household, such as helping with cooking or cleaning.

Becoming a Servas Host

Becoming a Servas host is a simple process, but it does require some time and effort on your part.

Step 1: Join Servas

The first step in becoming a Servas host is to join the organization. You can do this by visiting the Servas website and filling out an application form. The application requires some personal information, such as your name and address, as well as some information about your interests and hobbies.

Step 2: Attend an Orientation Meeting

Once you have submitted your application, you will be invited to attend an orientation meeting. Orientations are usually held by local Servas groups and provide an opportunity to learn more about the organization and meet other members. You will also receive training on how to be a good host.

Step 3: Host a Servas Traveler

Before you can start hosting travelers, you will need to host at least one Servas traveler yourself. This allows you to experience being a guest in someone else’s home and helps you understand what travelers might expect when they stay with you.

Step 4: Get Approved as a Host

After you have hosted a traveler and attended an orientation, you will need to be approved as a Servas host. This involves a background check and an interview with a Servas coordinator. The coordinator will visit your home, talk to you about your interests, and make sure you are a good fit for the organization.

The Benefits of Being a Servas Host

Becoming a Servas host can be a rewarding experience for you and your guests. Here are some of the benefits of being a Servas host:

Cultural Exchange

One of the main benefits of being a Servas host is the opportunity to meet people from all over the world and learn about their cultures. You can share your own culture with your guests and learn about theirs, creating a deeper understanding and appreciation for other ways of living.

New Friends

Hosting travelers can also lead to new friendships. You may find that you have a lot in common with your guests, even though you come from different parts of the world. Hosting can help you build long-lasting relationships with people from different backgrounds.

Traveling Opportunities

If you become a Servas host, you will also have the opportunity to travel as a Servas guest. You can stay with other Servas hosts around the world, allowing you to experience new cultures and make new friends.

Positive Impact on the World

By becoming a Servas host, you are contributing to a more peaceful world. You are helping to break down barriers and promote understanding between different cultures. This can have a positive impact on the world and make it a better place to live.

FAQ

How much does it cost to join Servas?

Joining Servas is free, but there is a small fee to cover the cost of background checks and other administrative expenses.

Do I have to host travelers all the time?

No, you can host travelers as often or as little as you like. There is no minimum or maximum requirement for hosting.

What if I don’t have a spare room for guests?

You don’t need to have a spare room to be a Servas host. You can provide a couch, an air mattress, or even just a place for a guest to pitch a tent in your backyard.

What if I’m not comfortable hosting strangers in my home?

Hosting travelers is not for everyone, and it’s important to feel comfortable with the idea before becoming a Servas host. If you are not comfortable hosting strangers in your home, there are other ways to get involved with Servas, such as volunteering at events or attending cultural exchange events.

Conclusion

Becoming a Servas host can be a unique and rewarding experience. You have the opportunity to meet people from all over the world, learn about new cultures, and make new friends. By opening your home to travelers, you are helping to promote a more peaceful and understanding world. If you are interested in becoming a Servas host, we encourage you to take the first step and join the organization today!