I've recently been researching a trip to Thailand for next summer when I ran across a particularly awesome site. I feel http://www.hospitalityclub.org/ is very much in tune with the culture and principles of Duluth.

It's purpose is to unite people seeking housing while traveling and those willing to offer their homes. As anyone who has stayed with a host family before knows that this is the way to go. You make friends and you are much more enriched in the culture than staying in a hotel or hostel.

Of course, there is the inherent risk that you might choose to stay with a serial killer. I doubt anything can be done to screen for such a character on the internet. There are comments on members from other members who know them possibly to try and verify their awesomeness. Unfortuanately, they could just be a cult of serial killers. I guess we'll just have to trust that all people, deep down, are good.