Verified answer

While P2P is not exactly a scam, it's also not the prestigious program it used to be. Unfortunately, it's now little more than a very expensive tourist trip. You were not alone in receiving that "invitation" -- thousands of letters go out every year. As to how they got YOUR name, most likely off a list they bought. Although it is possible a friend or teacher went to the website and did it.

Since these trips can easily cost $5,000 - $8,000 and up, I recommend you take that money and do a true exchange with an organization such as AFS, YFU or Rotary.

Interesting reading:

http://www.consumeraffairs.com/travel/people_to_pe...