Now that CS is essentially dead, are any hosts considering pivoting from casual hosting to more long-term hosting options?
I've hosted nearly 100 people, and hosting on Couchsurfing has been a big part of my life lately. But ever since the app update, host requests have dried up and CS may not last much longer anyway. There are alternatives like Couchers and BeWelcome, but they don't have a large user base. I get requests there, but usually they have no references, and request quality is low.
I've been thinking of taking this opportunity, pivoting away from the casual hosting of CS to more long-term hosting options. Specifically:
university student exchange programs
refugee/asylum hosting programs (maybe not very active under the current admin)
workaway
It is a bit more of a commitment, but can be more rewarding and deeper as well.
But I don't really know where to start, with any of these options. I don't know what are the reputable orgs.
I'm a single male, with an extra private bedroom and bathroom. I'm hoping I can leverage and talk about my couchsurfing experience to give an edge in the screening process of these programs.
Has anyone else made a similar transition, or considering it?