I was a Hitch Hiking Professional

Yes indeed I was in the early seventies growing up in Maine HH was the only alternative if one had no car.Of coarse in maine in those days it was actually so easy to hitch a ride that why not?

As a professional HH I used to pride myself on good company.I would tell jokes keep the conversation going and always let the driver feel like the big one.

My philosophy was simple.To ensure the growth of HH my duty was to make the drivers desicion to pick me up was really quite fantastic.So that the next time on the road Imight get a ride again.

The brotherhood between driver and hitchhiker in those days was the best.On long distance hikes some people would invitwe you home to crash. This was the ultimate if you dared.Better to hitchhike in pairs though although rides alone happen quicker and the novelity is then in your hands.

I havn't hitchhiked in years but here in Quebec I,ve been doing it again. Seems up north here is still pretty safe and people do pick you up. My last HIKE was in the beginning of this summer. I hitchhiked from Montreal to Maine via Quebec city. It was early spring and although I had to sleepin someones barn along the way when I got caught out in the wilds at dusk.

The next day after passing the border I had conversations with those who gave me a lift that rekindled the good ole days for sure.

When your an excellent hitchhiker people go out of their way to help you. Driving you that extrabit to get the next lift. This is when you know you are successfull.

When hitching back from Maine to Montreal I did it down the highways of New England in the Drizzle. I had no rain coat no sleeping bag but still the rides and extras I got along the way was superb. I did the hitchhiking without map as well. This was very tough navigating the roads olf New England at the merci of people knowing their directions. One gentleman took me to the gas station and bought me a map.Then it felt easy as pie hiking.

Still along the way peoples children give you the finger and squish up their faqces at you.Certainly they ahve been misinformed or over informed.

I am hoping now with cell phones that take pictures hitch hiking might come back. Those willing to participate in the cultural exchange can do so safely by snapping the picture of each other before getting in and taking off and both parties are protected and maybe hitchhiking will become a reality.

I NEVER REALLY CARED FOR THE HIKERS I PICKED UP WHO COULDN,T HOLD A CONVERSATION OR EVEN JUST TALK ABOUT NOTHING LIKE ON SEINFELD"

Well I am going to Crete. And guess what ? I shall be hitching there and the promise of giving a good ride means learning enough Greek so that I can speak and say simple things like Your furnastow is delicious. The rain is good this time of year. What is your favorite food ? where is your favorite beach? and even though I will not understand much of the reply I shall nod my head and make mental note of every word spoken so that my next hike will be a little easier and kind.