I definitely need to add more links.

As far as negative references: you and I both know that somebody with lots of vouches, lots of positive references, and one negative reference is probably OK. But this guide is for the absolute newbie. I’m sticking to my suggestion: when you’re starting out stay away from people with negatives.

I’ll update the eBook soon with some of your suggestions! :)

Karol

My POV – I’ve been a member of CS since three weeks past its inception. A pretty long time. I am passionate about CS and it has likewise changed my life tremendously. http://www.couchsurfing.org/people/rose

Feedback: The book is straightforward. I really like it. It’s perfect for the beginner.

Critique:
I encourage you to include more embedded links.
Page 1 – Your CS profile.
Groups (in both places mentioned)
A link to the Safety page.
SxSW (There’s no explanation of what this is.)

I completely disagree with your statement that one never should host with a member who has a negative reference.
I have 169 friends, 34 vouches, and one negative reference. Based on this alone, odds are that I’m a decent person.
Reading the negative comment both he and I left, clearly we have discrepancies in our experience of one another. I did make it clear in my reference – he took advantage of me.

Fully reading the negative reference, and the implications of it, is necessary before judging a member as an unfit match.

You stated that when someone replies “no” to your CS hospitality request you do not reply – I believe it is common courtesy to do so if they took the time to reply to you.

Consider including how you have income: Did you save before your trip? Do you do freelance? Do you have residual income? This is a secret every traveler wants to know. (HOW does he afford buying so much for his hosts???)

Thanks for asking for feedback!
I wish you the very very bestest, and an extraordinary life every day -

Miss Rose
http://www.rosebark.blogspot.com
http://www.couchsurfing.org/people/rose

I couldn’t agree more- what a fantastic network to be apart of! I just posted about your eBook on my blog. Thanks again for your contribution to mine- I’ll keep you posted!
Enjoy India, and I’ll catch you soon-

Mark

I’m a social introvert too, so I like people but I really need my alone time to feel sane. I’m afraid never having my own space while traveling for a long time will make me nuts. How do you deal with this?

I also could theoretically work from my laptop anywhere in the world, but I feel that could get tricky. How many hours a week do you work? Do you have trouble getting new gigs after your current ones are done, because people think you’re on vacation? Do you ever struggle with switching between the on-vacation/on-the-job mindset? I’m interested in any tips you have.

Rachel

As far as my experience: I believe negative feedback should be left for unsafe situations not if somebody is dirty.

To that end, you never left any negative (or even neutral) feedback for the Aussie city ambassador with the filthy place and non-closing windows? Why not?

Jason.