Tammie
Post Inspired by one of our Hosts – Susan Forner – Susan Hosts tours for us in Asia and Italy.
In the vast landscape of travel, there are many ways to connect with people and cultures. One organisation that stands out is Servas, an international network promoting peace and understanding through travel and cultural exchange. Here’s why you should consider joining Servas and how it can enhance your travel experiences.
What is Servas?
Servas is a non-profit organisation founded in 1949 with the mission of fostering peace through cross-cultural connections. It operates in over 100 countries, providing travellers with opportunities to stay with host families, meet locals, and engage in meaningful cultural exchanges.
How Does Servas Work?
Membership in Servas involves both being a host and a traveller. As a host, you welcome travellers into your home, sharing your culture and daily life with them. As a traveller, you stay with local hosts, gaining a deeper understanding of their way of life. This reciprocal arrangement creates a global community of open-minded individuals committed to promoting peace and understanding.
Benefits of Joining Servas
Authentic Experiences: Staying with local hosts offers a more authentic travel experience, allowing you to see the destination through the eyes of someone who lives there.
Cultural Exchange: Engaging with hosts and travellers from different backgrounds fosters mutual understanding and respect, breaking down cultural barriers.
Cost Savings: Staying with Servas hosts can significantly reduce travel costs, making it an affordable way to explore new places.
Community: Being part of Servas connects you with a global network of like-minded individuals who share your passion for travel and cultural exchange.
How to Join Servas
Joining Servas involves an application process, which includes an interview to ensure that members align with the organisation’s values of peace, understanding, and hospitality. Once accepted, you gain access to the Servas network, which includes hosts and travellers from around the world.
Joining Servas can transform your travel experiences, offering deeper connections and more meaningful interactions. Whether you’re planning a short trip or a long journey, Servas provides a unique platform to explore the world and build lasting friendships.
