Confession time: When I was a Peace Corps teacher in Africa, I learned how to hitchhike.I know, I know. It seems crazy.
Remember, I was a child in the 1980s and heard all those awful news stories and watched prime-time movies about hitching and the inevitable terrible demise too.
But I found myself in Africa in situations when I simply had to... and I survived.
In any case, I published an article giving tips about how to hitchhike on a popular travel network, Matador Travel. Please check the article out here.
So, what about you? Have you ever hitchhiked before? Do you think you could?
8 comments:
Hitching definitely freaks me out just a bit - I've heard those same sorties :-) But I did it once in Scotland and had a great time chatting with the guy...that said, not sure I'm up for it when I'm solo but I'll read your tips just in case I'm in a situation that calls for it!
Hichhiking isn't something I could ever imagine doing anywhere. I know that in some countries its quite common but as a woman traveling alone, I've learned not to take chances. Too many possibilities for disaster...
Fly Girl,
I felt the same way when I started there too. I don't think I could do it in the States at all
Shannon,
You never know when the tips might come in handy. I found myself using them when I needed a ride in Taiwan once.
Sometimes when you're in the middle of nowhere, you gotta do what you gotta do. My travel buddy and I were prepared to hitchhike last summer in Bolivia when we were in the middle of nowhere, but then a taxi came along and we were able to squeeze in. When it comes to doing something hitchhiking, it really depends on where you are and if you have someone with you!
Ekua,
I agree that I'd rather take a taxi if it were right in front of me!
Hey Mary,
I don't think I'd have the guts to hitchhike, but kudos to you for being brave and smart about it.
I just read your article. That's so incredible that you did all that hitchhiking around Africa and you were a Peace Corps Volunteer. When I was in highschool, I used to dream about joining the Peace Corps. I didn't discover a Canadian equivalent until years later...
One of these days, I'd like to hear first hand what it was like.
Cheers! :-))
yeah, you are def a brave woman!
i think if i knew the area and was comfortable (as in a peace corps situation) i would probably do short distances. i don't think i would be able to go country to country as you wrote about it your post.
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