I stumbled upon Couchsurfing’s “We’re Casting!” announcement four months ago on its website while I was responding to a surfer’s couch request. We were then temporarily residing (and waiting for the hubby’s U.S. visa application to be approved) in an artist-owned cabin by Suffolk Park’s Tallow Beach in New South Wales, Australia. I don’t normally lurk around my home page, but for some reason, I did that day.
Casting Call
Because Couchsurfing’s first video was (and still is) successful in promoting this awesome new way of traveling (hey, it ain’t just about the accommodation), the cool folks from Couchsurfing’s Headquarters thought of coming up with more videos. Two videos that will show the nitty gritty of hosting and surfing, and another that will tackle about safety.
Hence, the casting call. And a casting call like no other. With scenes to be shot in Thailand, Australia, Turkey (and I believe Kenya too), the cast will depict the diversity of the Couchsurfing population.
When I saw Australia on the short list, I was like, “Oh gosh this is miiine!”… ‘Til I got to the part that says “We’ll get in touch if we think you’re a good fit for the project.”. And then I went “Ugh!”. I tried my luck anyway and filled out the questionnaire.
One question goes, “Why should you be in a CouchSurfing video? (Tell us what makes you awesome! This is an opportunity to shine so don’t be shy about why you would be great in one of these videos)”. Unsure of how to sell myself, I merely answered “I’ve couchsurfed single, married, pregnant and now I’m couchsurfing with my toddler.”
An email arrived the next day from coordinator Heather saying they’re interested! A Skype interview (by Heather herself and the director Justin) followed weeks after and the rest I guess is err, history.
Like Reality TV Stars
On shooting day, the crew arrived at my in-law’s house 8:30 AM on the dot. Though they started setting up early, the actual interview began around midday and lasted for about an hour because of technical issues. In case you missed it, I just mentioned that I had an hour-long interview! Yep, that’s how exhausting production can be.
The camera followed us around the house as if we were reality TV stars (I expected extreme close up shots, that why I uhm, cut my own bangs to cover ze zits!). It’s one of the creepiest things I’ve experienced in like, my whole life (I was on a variety show ages ago, but yah know, the scripted kind).
After the interview, we all rushed to the Australian Walkabout Wildlife Park to meet other Couchsurfers who patiently waited for us. We were almost three hours late. The events shown on the videos weren’t staged. They’re all real experiences. It ain’t seen on any of the two videos, but the Couchsurfers we did a day trip with, we actually just met for the first time.
Several others were also interviewed while we made the most out of our free admission to the park where visitors could walk alongside emus and watch free range kangaroos (yes, their meat is for legal consumption) hop. I saw a Tasmanian devil and a dingo for the first time, and touched a koala for the first time as well! About 5-ish we had to unfortunately “pack up” for the park was about to close.
And then, we waited for a couple of months to view the outcome.
The Final Product
There’s just so much heart poured into this project that’s why the videos radiate with positive vibes. We only have good things to say about this hospitality network and we hope we’re able to convince you to join. Play the three videos so you’ll have an idea of what I’ve been chattering about!
Enjoyed the videos~ Kudos!
Wee! Thanks Kim 🙂
Gaye, when this video came out and I was like, OMG! I asked my staff to hit for it and while I was doing paperworks, I kept asking if it has already gone through the buffers and all. when I saw it, I said, that’s it, I will share it on my FB wall! I am proud of CS as I am one too, on my lonesome in my home city. when I saw this video of yours and the family and of course, cuteee Luna, I reaffirmed my trust and confidence of CS around the world.
Much more than anything, I am glad you are part of the video to give it an Asian flare and of course, Asian context to it. Everyone never knew we, couchsurfers existed and they never even knew it is possible but this video give its utmost presentation and what one really gets is the strong message that humanity is far more better through this and by this.
Thanks for sharing your experience while making the video. I am and will always be inspired by your travel blog, your journeys and your lovely stories.
Doc Wends, we had a fantastic time shooting that video! And we just hope it serves its purpose 🙂 Hope to Couchsurf at your place one day!
Did it bring back the memories of the glorious days of your tv hosting gig at Studio 23? hehe
i enjoyed reading your post and watching the video. Glad to see the girl behind Pinay Travel Junkie on a video .Thanks for sharing your couchsurfing story.
Marky, it kinda did but in a detached sorta way ;p
Nice videos.. thanks for sharing…
how does it feel to be a star? =)
Hahaha! I don’t really feel like one… But it’s weird to see the screenshots every time we log on the website ;p
coolness! way to go!:)
Gaymie! Autograph naman dyan! =) I’m so proud of you! More power to the Emami’s and to your cool blog! Cheers to wanderlust! <3
Very nice videos!
Gaye, if I end up addicted to couch surfing, it’s going to be all your fault! Hahaha! I love the video, and I think you’re awesome.
You’re gutsy gal. You did it. Congratz!
proud to be a CSer’s….
OMG!!!! I think they just blocked CS here in the UAE… sh*t! Proud of you hottie!!!! i shared the link on my FB page!!!!
I was blown away when I say your video. You’re exactly the time of person I’d like to meet and have long conversations with. And Luna too. Hope to meet you someday!
nice video po!
hmmm this is fun!
Whoa! You were a host in Studio 23? I never heard that nor watch you show before. I hope you’ll gonna return to hosting (esp. a travel show on GMA News TV hehe)
Gaye – I am speechless. The first video is brilliant. You have lovely family. All the best for you babe. xxx
really great videos you got here.. i have subscribe via your facebook page.. thanks for all you shares
Oh, wow! This is so exciting! It’s a job well done! (ehem now I know how you sound like! hehehe)
wow… I want to see Kuala, face to face…heheheh..nice…
Wow! Ang galing! I wanna try it but I’ve always been worried and scared … at least I get more info now 🙂
Wow! this is sooooooooo interesting! Would you mind if I share this to families and friends? I know a lot of people who loves to travel.
im so proud to be your kompanyero hippie mum!
shine brighter gay!
Wow congrats! CS is really cool. I signed up a few months ago and I’ve been enjoying it so far. Your long and varied experience as a CSer in various stages of your life, from single girl to mom, makes you a great ambassador for it. Good job!
your blog inspired me a lot! at age 21 i have been working so hard since i was 16. save up money for travelling without realising that all i did is basically stress out myself. you gave me the inspiration that i should just go and be free and travel and do what i love the best! i decided to turn my blog from a personal blog to a travel photo diary. a compilation of my adventures. i don’t have time to visit philippines but once i’m back, i’d be touring my birth country! i love your blog and your story is so inspiring! E.
Karla, cheers to wanderlust!
Reiza, haha! That’s okay, I’ll take the blame ;p
Emon, OMG! CS blocked in UAE?! Magrequest pa naman kami couch in case we drop by before going back to Pinas.
Lois, realllllyyy looking forward to meeting you!
Ivan, the show ran ages ago and lasted for just one season 😀
Julie, go go go share!
Kompanyerong James, muchas gracias. Let’s travel together when we get back!
Love it! They made such an effort to get feedback from a really diverse group.
I’d probably bring a postcard for my host. At least if they haven’t been to the Philippines, it’ll be incentive to come visit – and I can host them too!
Hi E! Yey! Another Pinay travel blogger… Yep, let’s live in the NOW 🙂
by the way! I joined couch surfing and i found so great gathering events between travellers here in Helsinki! So great. Thanks for sharing this! I am now certainly going to follow your adventures to keep me on not forgetting what I am living for! 😀
Way to go E! Maybe we’ll meet someday, somewhere too 😀
So cool! =)
Nice one!
artistahin! i like your last line in the video “i’ve couchsurfed single, married, pregnant and now i’m couchsurfing with my toddler.” luna is so lucky to have a hippie mom like you. 🙂
I still cannot believe that I had a chance to travel with a star like Gaye Mitra-Emami, like totally. 🙂
couch surfers… this is new stuff. i think this is really great if your into the adventure of knowing other places… since your host is local to the place, thereby making him somewhat familiar. thanks for the share. Yahweh bless.
i’m a fan! amazing, mommy gay! 😀
ang husay ng video!
Really loved the video, Gay. CS found a treasure when they chose your family. And talaga namang effort na pinuntahan kayo ha? Luna’s soooo cute! haha
Kompanyerong Leon, LOL @ “like, totally”. I can imagine you saying it!
Cool! I hope they succeed at spreading the word since couchsurfing is pretty much the greatest thing ever!
love the vid… galing! ibang level ka na talaga pang international! hehehe
Scott, hope so too!
Nath, feeling pang international lang. Haha.
ah, i saw the couchsurfing video first and i thought, that woman with a nose ring looked a bit familiar.. nyahhahah..
Wow, Gay — What an awesome video! It’s nice to know a bit more information on couch surfing. It was also wonderful to hear your “voice” =)
Karlota, LOL!
House as a classroom…I dig that! Star na star!!! Lavet!
galing! galing! I love your family shot! I just adore Luna!
this has convinced me to try it this year Gay. wow! your winning answer to their question is fantastic! short and all-worth to be chosen and featured.
likes Luna’s smile on the koala.
congrats on this stint! artistang-artista ang dating ^_^ luna is so cute!
Gaye! Thanks so much for participating int he videos! Shervin, Luna and you are an inspiration to so many new CouchSurfers and we’re so grateful for your eloquence and heart!
I hope you make it to San Francisco because everyone here at CS HQ will be clamoring to host you here!
Cheers!
Heather
Hi Heather! OMG, thanks so much for dropping by my blog. It was awesome to meet you and Justin and the other Couchsurfers. And I really hope we revisit San Francisco soon!
I am a couchsurfer too Gay and seeing you on this vid makes me feel so proud and happy as a member of this great community. 🙂 I have hosted and couchsurfed for times and the experience is truly AWESOME! I am so proud of you, of Luna and your hubby. 🙂
Thanks Olan! Hope to surf your couch someday 🙂
very interesting…want to join it soon..
Aylabet! There are frames where you remind me of Bianca Gonzales 🙂
^^ That’s a first 🙂
Wow! ;D I’ve known about Couch Surfing for quite some time now, and when I saw that you were on the video and that you were from the Philippines, I had to look you up! And my Google search landed on your blog. Looking at the date, I’d say I’m late but that hardly matters to me. 🙂 Seeing those videos inspired me to explore Manila and the Philippines more so that maybe one day, when I’m old/brave enough, I’ll be able to host too. 🙂 Thank you for sharing everything! ;D
Welcome Maezel to my humble blog! Hope you do Couchsurfing soon… It’s going to change your life 🙂 Happy trails!
Oh… you are the girl in the beginning of the CS videos, now I know 🙂 I was also part of that video series, I’m the blonde German with the short haircut.. Nice that I found you here. Love your blog! And I love the Philippines, going back there in March and April, it will be my 5th time (I even wrote an article about the Philippines and why people should travel there 🙂 Keep up the good work… Cheers from Istanbul !
Oh I recognize you! Hi there, Sab! Good to connect online. I’m happy you love my country. Would love to meet you but we won’t be in the country on your travel dates 🙁
Awesome videos! Love it!