Traveling may be everything but cheap considering the cost of necessities on the road, such as accommodation and food. However, "exchange travel" has become popular these days in China. It can free travelers from worries about where to sleep and eat and save a significant amount of cash.

"Exchange travel" usually involves two people who live in different places but are already acquainted with each other through the Internet. For example, a woman surnamed He in Beijing received an online friend of hers from Huangshan over the past National Day holiday. According to their "exchange travel agreement," Ms. He offered her apartment to the Huangshan visitor for free, footed her dining bills in Beijing and accompanied her while sightseeing. "We had such a good time," said Ms. He. In return, when Ms. He visits Huangshan Mountain in the future, she will be as warmly received by the Huangshan native, freed from concerns about accommodation, food and tour guides.

"Exchange traveling" is very popular among young Chinese who like to make friends through the Internet. Mr. Li, an "exchange travel" enthusiast, counted its advantages.

"First, you can save a lot of money from lodging and eating. Second, with a streetwise local friend, you need not to worry about frauds aimed at tourists." In addition, "exchange travel" also frees a traveler from the disadvantages of compulsive shopping on group tours and extra costs from unfamiliarity with local conditions in individual travel.

However, like many new online things, the revolutionary "exchange travel" has its detractors, too. The reliability of online friendship is challenged, making it the first concern of potential "exchange travelers." After all, "exchange travel" is based on the sincerity between two strangers, which is still a major problem in Chinese society. The risks involved in "exchange travel" set many people back, especially those who are older.

In this regard, some "exchange travel" lovers have proposed establishing a national database of reliable "exchange travelers" for future travelers' reference. However, perfect as it sounds, it may remain a proposal for a long time due to both technical difficulties and people's problems regarding sincerity.

Privacy is also raised in the discussion. For some people, having a stranger living at one's home may be a major concern. In addition, worries about the differences in people's habits also cause them to say no to "exchange travel."

(CRI October 12, 2006)