 "Photo: Andrew Huse")
What is the first thing that comes to your mind when you hear the word "hitchhiker"? Ridiculously creepy? You're right. Yet handsome, too?
Everyone I have asked has come up with the same answer - the movie "The Hitchhiker" that was released to theaters in 2007. You know, the one with the four women who pick up that cute guy on their way to Sin City, then end up dead because the guy was a woman-hater and masochistic killer. Yikes!
I don't see many Southern Californians hitchhiking around town unless I'm near the border of Mexico. Seriously, you would have to be crazy to stick your thumb out on the side of the road in Los Angeles.
Then I thought about how my friend and I were stranded on the outskirts of Florence, Italy this past summer after seeing Lil Jon in concert. We didn't even have to extend a thumb before a young man asked if we wanted a ride back to town. He was nice, and it worked out perfectly.
So maybe there is a method to this madness we call hitchhiking. According to www.dictionary.com, hitchhiking is "to travel by standing on the side of the road (facing traffic with one's thumb extended) and soliciting rides from passing vehicles."
After checking out some Web sites online and reading numerous stories of actual occurrences, I realized how popular hitchhiking around the world really is. I mean, it's the cheapest form of transportation, unless you're in Bolivia, Mexico or Russia, and you have the opportunity to make great friends or learn life lessons.
Now do not, by any means, read what I tell you and think that getting into a stranger's car is common and safe. There are always risks when prancing around town asking for a free ride, especially if you are a female and alone.
Then again, if you're ever stranded, and, god forbid, without a nickel, here are some beneficial tips.
Wear appropriate clothing Ladies, avoid hiking across the many parts of America with Hollister shorts and a "I Love George W. Bush" T-shirt on.
Men, try to look clean and shaven, avoid hats and please leave your shirt on.
Props Some hitchhikers found it was a great idea to hang a cardboard sign around their neck stating something humorous. For example, "I don't stink."
Bring essential things such as water, matches, a loaf of bread, dry fruit, nuts, pens and a map. Some Web sites suggest a foldable bike as backup transportation as well as a sleeping bag.
Location The next important part of hitch'n (my Southern slang) is the location.
You need to be stationed at an area where cars can slow down (on-ramp, gas station or rest area).
Land Borders are alright but be aware of the "no man's land" law and try crossing the border first before getting in the vehicle.
It's fairly simple, people: Do your research and figure out where it is legal, safe and free. Go with your gut instinct. If the person seems sketchy, tell them you're going in a different direction or just simply say "no, thank you", smile and move along.
Be smart and have your valuable belongings close to you. When entering a vehicle, text the model, make and color to a friend or family member. Always sit in the front seat where there isn't a child lock on the door and ask about their family.
Last, but certainly not least, if you're a girl and heading up to Las Vegas with your girlfriends, forget cute boys and book a flight!
- Kristal Conn is a journalism sophomore.
-This column does not necessarily reflect the opinion of The Daily Aztec.
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