Having just returned...

from a six-week road trip across this great country, I can only say that staying with individual hosts was one of the highlights of our trip. We stayed from one to three nights with numerous "total strangers" and came away from the experience with a new appreciation for just how friendly and hospitable people can be. They were, without exception, delighted to have us join them in their home, happy to recommend local historic places to visit, introduce us to their neighbors and friends and always made us feel welcome. I highly recommend the experience to anyone who enjoys meeting new people. It sure beats staying in a typical motel/hotel room!
--Fran England