https://hitchwiki.org/en/api.php?action=feedcontributions&user=Lanigiro&feedformat=atomHitchwiki - User contributions [en]2024-03-29T02:11:19ZUser contributionsMediaWiki 1.32.3https://hitchwiki.org/en/index.php?title=Copenhagen&diff=81990Copenhagen2016-01-18T05:59:20Z<p>Lanigiro: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Infobox Location<br />
|country = Denmark<br />
|state = Hovedstaden<br />
|map = <map lat='55.655389288295465' lng='12.569520263671875' zoom='11' view='3' float='right'/><br />
|pop = 520,659<br />
|plate = -<br />
|motorways = [[E20]], [[E47]], [[E55]]<br />
}}<br />
'''{{FULLPAGENAMEE}}''' (Danish: '''København''') is the capital of [[Denmark]].<br />
[[File:Kopenhagen_Nyhavn.jpg|thumb|right|Copenhagen Nyhavn]]<br />
== Hitchhiking out ==<br />
<br />
=== East towards [[Malmö]], [[Sweden]] ===<br />
To get to Sweden, you want to move out of city center towards Øresundsbron. You can enter the metro freely without any checkpoints or turnstiles. Ticket controls are more frequent than in the S-trains and as expensive (750 DKK = ~100€!!). Ticket controllers (or "stewards", as they are called) do not always check tickets when entering a train, so best thing is to just act normal and get off at next station. In general, the people who freeride most efficiently sit in front of the train, thus being able to spot any controllers on each station as the train enters the platform. No rights can be derived from this statement, and it's always at your own risk to freeride. But apparently the worse that can happen if you play it right is to ask for an invoice to be sent to your home which you will promptly ignore.<br />
<br />
==== Option I: Tårnby ====<br />
On the road to Malmö, leading to the bridge, you might be able to hitch a ride. To get to this spot take a regional train to Tårnby from Copenhagen Central station. The slip road to the bridge is on the opposite side of the road to Tårnby station. Not much space to stop but as traffic lights cars are going slow and get chance to think about it! Next to this spot, you can also ask drivers at the hypermarket, where a lot of Swedes go shopping before returning home. (probably not as common anymore since the strong danish krona have made it expensive for Swedes to shop in Denmark. Nowadays danish people go to Sweden to shop)<br />
<br />
==== Option II: Kastrup Airport ====<br />
The best spot to hitchhike to Sweden is probably at Kastrup Airport. Take the metro to the station "Lufthavnen / Copenhagen Airport", leave the terminal on the other side of the metro exit to the large parking lot and then go to the roundabout at the end, next to McDonalds/Netto/Statoil. Just after the roundabout there is a bus stop were the cars are able stop, which makes it a good place to hitchhike from. You will also be able to keep an eye on the petrol station and hopefully spot some cars with Swedish plates from that place. This hitchhiking spot has been used regularly by Öresund hitchhikers and was also the winning choice in a Copenhagen-Malmö hitchhiking competition.<br />
If you are in a hurry you shouldn't accept rides that are shorter than Malmö, since it could be difficult to catch a ride along the motorway. Always try to stay out of Malmö's motorway network and if possible prefer to follow your driver into Malmö center if there's no other alternative. It's much better to hitchhike Malmö's good spot (McDonalds at Stockholmsvägen) than the highway system.<br />
If you want to travel further up in Sweden you should check out the advices given in the Sweden(Malmö)section..<br />
<br />
==== Option III: Sydhavn ====<br />
You can also take a train to Sydhavn, only 2 stops after the main station and hitch on Sydhavnsgade. We hitched before the shell service station because it was a weekend and a business carpark entry was closed. We also saw people with a sign just after shell. Its a good road. We had a lift on Sunday afternoon after 15 minutes.<br />
<br />
=== West towards [[Roskilde]], [[Fyn]] or [[Jylland]] ===<br />
There are several ways of getting out of {{FULLPAGENAMEE}}. Just make sure you do not get stuck at Køge. If you do get stuck at Koge, your best bet is the Tesla Supercharger Station behind the gas station, or at the top of the on ramp immediately east of the last roundabout. If heading out of Denmark this way is not the quickest as most trucks will be heading south, and there aren't a lot of service stations before [[Hamburg]]! Heading west you have the following options:<br />
<br />
==== Option 1: ====<br />
Catch either S-tog A, E or F and get off at ''Ny Ellebjerg'' station. Walk through the little alley on the south side of the station called 'Pylestikket'. Turn right on the main road and after a few hundred metres you'll reach the road ''Folehaven''. There you'll see a few traffic lights to slow down the cars. Cross the road and there's and plenty of space for cars to pull over. If you don't have any luck along the road keep walking a few hundred metres and you'll see the petrol station mentioned before close to the beginning of motorway 21, or try one of the many busstops.[[User:ColAlf|ColAlf]] experienced that this option is good when heading towards Roskilde or catching a ferry to Jutland from Sj. Odde or Kalundborg ([[#Ferry_between_Sj.C3.A6lland_and_Jylland|see below]]). If nobody stops, you could also walk some 100m behind the traffic light to the hard shoulder where the motorway begins. In case they are not going in the direction, where you want, ask them if they can drop you off at Karlslunde petrol station - a good petrol station, before the highway splits south and west. <br />
<br />
===== Option 1a: =====<br />
[[File:Spot copenhagen.jpg|thumb|right|250px|Hitchhiking spot at ''Folehaven/Vigerslevvej'', an option is to stand on the hard shoulder at the beginning of the motorway you can see in the background]] <br />
An easier way to get to the same spot mentioned in option 1 is to take bus ''#A1 Avedøre'' to ''Folehaven/Vigerslevvej''. There' you'll see the crossing to ''Folehaven'' which is the beginning of the motorway 21. Additionally you can take to following busses also going that direction. Make sure you get out at ''Folehaven/Vigerslevvej'': bus ''#10 Flintholm St.'', ''#133 Avedøre St.'', ''#65E Avedøre St.'' There's a petrol station some meters before the crossing. You'll also find a bus stop where you can stand on, or just pull out your thumb on the [[shoulder|hard shoulder]] next to the street. A sign saying the direction might be helpful. Keep in mind that traffic might be pretty fast here already, but nevertheless [[User:Platschi|platschi]] got rides here twice within 5 minutes. For this spot, see the image on the right.<br />
<br />
===== Option 1b : =====<br />
One way out of Copenhagen which we found quite quick was to catch the suburban train from Copenhagen Central Statio to Tärnby. There is an entrance to the E20 headed west there, on the same side of the road as the train station. There is not lots of space to stop but as there are traffic lights the cars are going slow and get chance to see you.<br />
<br />
==== Option 2: ====<br />
Catch a regional train or the metro M1 and get off at ''Ørestad'' station. Walk across the parking area of Field's and you'll find the first on-ramp. Be aware that there are two on-ramps joining each other when heading west - make sure to be on the most busy one.<br />
<br />
==== Great spot for dumpster diving on the way ====<br />
If you get stuck in the area or just get hungry, then at this spot - E20, highway exit 59, Fredericia S (First highway exit on Jutland). You can find two supermarkets ALDI and REMA 1000, where to dumpster dive in + a Statoil, where to wash everything. And small forest/bushes, where to stay for the night.<br />
<br />
=== South towards [[Rødby]], [[Germany]] ===<br />
The quickest way to get to mainland Europe is to get the ferry at the port of Rødby, which sails to [[Puttgarden]] in [[Germany]]. In case you get a ride in a car, the price of the ferry remains the same for a car with up to 4 people, so you don't have to worry about any extra payments that the driver may have to make because of you.<br />
<br />
Most trucks going anywhere in Europe (including [[Great Britain]]) will go this way.<br />
<br />
==== Option 1: ====<br />
Catch S-tog E (sometimes its A depending on construction/late night trains) towards Køge and get off at ''Karlslunde'' station. Walk platform the opposite direction than the train goes and take stairs down. Under the bridge take right, and then right again on a roundabout. Ignore signs saying that motorway is in the opposite direction - going this road you will end up in a bad place. Taking Karlslunde Strandvej walk for about 1.5km. On the second roundabout take right onto Karlslunde Mosevej, no clear sign to look for but there are two small restaurants here (Thai/Pizza), and Aldi. Walk another 1.5km to the motorway. If you are hitching south or west, you need to be on the right side of the road, so cross under the motorway tunnel/bridge and turn left on the newly paved road. You will come up to the motorway within a minute. This is the last big petrol station before Germany.<br />
<br />
An alternative option to get here with less walking is to go to Folehaven (See option 3) and hitch a short ride to Karlslunde petrol station. Make sure though that your driver goes the right direction. Katia's had best intentions to bring her to the highway petrol station but both ended up in Roskild as there was nothing on the way.<br />
<br />
There used to be an excellent bakery dumpster along the Mosevej where, but as of December 2013 it's locked. The bakery is run by kind people, however, ask for leftover bread and you'll surely be given something. There is a great dumpster right at Karlslunde station, and the Aldi's dumpster was open as well and full of goodies. <br />
<br />
The train from the main station to Karlslunde takes you about 30 minutes, and it should take another 40 minutes to walk to the service station. Be aware that there are not many street signs guiding your way. The train ticket costs 63 Kroner, but it's easy to blackride (see below). <br />
<br />
Be aware the if you go wrong way you are in trouble. The highway is four lane in this place and it's almost impossible to get a ride. There is a map of the area in the train station.<br />
<br />
==== Option 2: ====<br />
Take the S-tog E towards Køge and hop off at Ølby. <br />
<br />
After getting out of the train at Ølby station, get out on the right hand side of the station, in the direction of train, and move out towards motorway. You will, when you exit the station, find restaurants (Little Italy) and right before that there is a right turn which goes into a main road on which you turn right again, come under the bridge of the train, and then hit the motorway where you have to cross the road and walk towards the '''left'''. It is illegal to walk by the side of the road, but it is possible. Obviously, walk on the left side so you're facing traffic. After 1 km of walk the road ramps up on a roundabout, which if you cross on foot, before this road meets the E20/E40 motorway in direction of [[Rødby|Rødby(havn)]] (ferry point of South Denmark) there is another roundabout and at least 2 petrol stations. One of them has a Burger King and right outside the exit of it, is a good point to stand with a placard for seeking a ride. <br />
<br />
Here at this T-junction trucks and cars coming from both petrol stations pass by and if you are dressed nice and in a youngish manner you might get picked up in less than 30 minutes. It is important to remember that you are trying to go to Rødby.<br />
<br />
Look where the cars that pass you are actually going to improve your location if needed. A certain hitchhiker was at the aforementioned Burger King exit for at least an hour and noticed that most people who went from there (at least at that time) weren't going on the way to Rødby. So this hitchhiker moved to the actual onramp of the highway where traffic was certain to go on the intended way --and cars were coming from more directions-- and he was picked up quite shortly.<br />
<br />
==== Option 3: ====<br />
Catch either S-tog A, E or F and get off at Ny Ellebjerg station. Walk through the little alley on the south side of the station called 'Pylestikket'. Turn right on the main road and after a few hundred metres you'll reach the road Folehaven. There you'll see a few traffic lights to slow down the cars. Cross the road and there's and plenty of space for cars to pull over. If you don't have any luck along the road keep walking a few hundred metres and you'll see the petrol station mentioned before close to the beginning of motorway 21, or try one of the many busstops. <br />
<br />
Some km later there is a big petrol station where you can look for foreign cars.<br />
<br />
== Hitchhiking in ==<br />
<br />
Both from [[Malmö]], [[Sweden]], and from [[Hamburg]], [[Lübeck]] oder [[Rostock]], [[Germany]], it is a good idea to get out of the car at the [[Airport]]. From there you can get to the city center by metro. Tickets are 35 DKK (about 4,60 €).<br />
<br />
=== North towards [[Helsingör]], [[Helsingborg]] ===<br />
Take bus 4A and get off at Vibenshus Runddel. On Lyngbyvej the cars have lots of space to stop, and the road becomes a highway shortly after. There is not at lot of traffic on the small on-ramps on the way to Helsingör, so try to get a ride all the way from Copenhagen to Helsingör.<br />
<br />
It cost around 29 kr. (3,90 euro) to walk on the ferry.<br />
<br />
=== Ferry between [[Sjælland]] and [[Jylland]] ===<br />
Hitching a ferry between [[Sjælland]] and [[Jylland]] is possible, too, as you don't pay per person but per car on the ferry. Option #1 mentioned [[#West_towards_Roskilde.2C_Fyn_or_Jylland|above]] is probably the best way for getting a car towards Holbæk and further on to Sj. Odde or Kalundborg. Ferry timetables can be found at [http://www.mols-linien.dk/english Mols-Linien] but they run quite frequently. Be aware that the ferry from Kalundborg is very slow (about 3 hours to Aarhus).<br />
<br />
== Public Transportation ==<br />
Copenhagen's public transportation system is one of Europe's easiest to use for free. All the S-Trains and Metros can be entered without having to cross any gates, the only thing to watch out for are ticket inspectors. Those usually wear a uniform on the Metro and sometimes do on S-Trains. Chances are not very high that they'll show up, but they exist. When you see them, just run away from them and leave the train asap, pretending not to understand etc. Although they do, they are legally not allowed to hold you, but they can block your path. If they can't check whether the address you're telling them is correct or if you're a foreigner (and not really under an obligation to pay any fines anyway), they might try to take the money you have with you, so better (pretend to) not have money for paying this. [i had to pay 700 dkk -hf]. Using public transportation is, by the way, an excellent way to get through Copenhagen if you're travelling between Sweden and the South/West.<br />
<br />
Copenhagen is a city whose dumpsters are a generous source of food. Ask the locals or check out trashwiki for more information.<br />
<br />
== Sleeping ==<br />
You can camp here: Naturcenter Vestamager, Granatvej 3-15, 2770 Kastrup. There's a metro stop close by, on the M1 line, called Vestamager. It has water, toilets, you can make a bonfire, etc..It's a proper free of charge camping site, for more info check:<br />
http://www.naturstyrelsen.dk/Naturoplevelser/Undervisning/Naturskoler/Hovedstaden/Naturcenter_Vestamager/<br />
<br />
There's spots where you can camp and where there's usually some tents near Christiania, again, ask around.<br />
CHRISTIANIA INHABITANTS ARE OFFICIALLY NOT WELCOMING CAMPERS, THEY CAN BE RUDE AND THERE'S A HUGE PANEL WRITTEN NO CAMPING INSIDE. The only way can be find and ask the right people going far away from the village. Rumours and stories of bad episodes plus general people attitude when you ask them for tips..doesn't really push you to try..other places are better!<br />
<br />
Or if it's cold/rainy outside you can try sleeping on the 3rd floor of Field's mall, on the bottom of the exhibition area where the lift leaves you facing, just in front of Ørestad metro/train stop. [http://hitchwiki.org/en/User:Sevetse Sevetse]<br />
slept there on a Friday night and no one ever came to disturb, not even for cleaning (which they might do sometimes). There is free wifi and toilets open all night long. [http://hitchwiki.org/en/User:Sevetse Sevetse] slept on big cushions available at the time. <br />
<br />
Lockers can be found for daytime activities at both the National Museum (closes 17:00) and The Satents Museum for Kunst, (Closes 20:00.) Lockers cost 10dkk which is refunded upon return.<br />
<br />
In summer there are some free (cold) showers at the public bathing sides along Sydhaven: 55.66338, 12.56516 | 55.66338, 12.56516 | 55.66338, 12.56516<br />
<br />
== Links ==<br />
* Check [http://www.rejseplanen.dk/bin/query.exe/en? rejseplanen] for timetables of buses<br />
<br />
__NOTOC__<br />
[[trash:Copenhagen]]<br />
<br />
[[Category:Sjælland]]<br />
[[Category:E55]]<br />
[[Category:E47]]<br />
[[Category:E20]]<br />
[[Category:Route Amsterdam - Copenhagen]]<br />
<br />
[[de:Kopenhagen]]<br />
[[tr:Kopenhag]]</div>Lanigirohttps://hitchwiki.org/en/index.php?title=Gomel&diff=81971Gomel2016-01-14T12:41:03Z<p>Lanigiro: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Infobox Location<br />
|country = Belarus<br />
|state = Homiel voblasć<br />
|map = <map lat='52.445278' lng='30.984167' zoom='10' view='3' /><br />
|pop = 481,197 (2004)<br />
|plate = 3<br />
|motorways = [[M8 (Belarus)|M8]] ([[E95]]), [[M10 (Belarus)|M10]], [[M5 (Belarus)|M5]] (E271)<br />
}}<br />
<br />
'''Gomel''' (Belarusian: Го́мель, translit.: Homyel’ or Homiel, pronounced [ˈɣomʲelʲ], Russian: Го́мель) is the second-largest city in [[Belarus]]. It is situated in the southeastern part of the country, on the right bank of the Sož river, close to the borders with [[Ukraine]] and [[Russia]].<br />
<br />
Public transportation is represented by city buses and trolleybuses. It is generally inexpensive. The city is an important railroad hub in the southeastern part of Belarus being positioned midway on the Minsk-Kyiv railroad link. There is an airport in Homiel, which is located 8 kilometers north-east from the city.<br />
<br />
If you hitchhike within the city you will be expected to pay a small sum (up to $10 within the city). When you are on the highway, draw a sign in Russian and always specify you want to go for free. Belarus is rather safe country to travel in, but you must know at least some Russian. People are friendly enough but they (especially older generations) rarely speak foreign languages.<br />
<br />
== Hitching out ==<br />
=== South towards [[Chernihiv]], [[Ukraine]] (M8) ===<br />
<br />
The road enters Ukraine at the [[Novaja Huta-Skytok border crossing]].<br />
<br />
=== Southwest towards [[Žlobin]], [[Babrujsk]], [[Minsk]] (M5) ===<br />
<br />
=== West towards [[Kalinkavičy]], [[Luniniec]], [[Pinsk]], [[Brest (Belarus)|Brest]] (M10) ===<br />
<br />
=== North towards [[Mahilioŭ]], [[Orša]], [[Viciebsk]] (M8) ===<br />
<br />
{{Template:Cities Belarus}}<br />
[[Category:Belarus]]<br />
{{IsIn|Belarus}}<br />
[[Category:E95]]<br />
<br />
[[ru:Гомель]]</div>Lanigirohttps://hitchwiki.org/en/index.php?title=G%C3%A4vle&diff=81967Gävle2016-01-14T05:22:39Z<p>Lanigiro: </p>
<hr />
<div>'''{{Gävle}}''' is a city in [[Sweden]]. <br />
<br />
== Hitching out ==<br />
<br />
=== North and South towards [[Stockholm]], [[Uppsala]], [[Söderhamn]], [[Sundswall]] on the E4===<br />
Gävle bro is the place to go. Take bus number 3 towards Andersberg. Get of at the stop Ramna after about 15 minutes or so. Gefle Forum is the stop before so just sit in the front of the bus on the right side. When you get of at Ramna you will keep going straight on the road where the stop is. The bus will turn left but you keep going straight and after maybe five minutes you will see the sign for Gävle Bro then its maybe five more minutes walking. This place is great to catch a ride north or south on the E4. Cars stop on both sides for food and gas and so just ask people if you can go whit them. If going south you should not accept a ride shorter then Stockholm.<br />
=== West towards [[Sandviken]], [[Falun]], [[Oslo]] on the E16===<br />
Please if you know update and let us know. But from what I know its hard. You can stand whit the thumb on the bus station before the circulation where the E16 starts but it might take you a while to get a ride... Bus number one direction Valbo takes you there,<br />
== Hitching in ==<br />
<!---</includeonly><br />
'''Only''' include this section if it is difficult to enter a city, like from the ring around Berlin or the M25 around London!<br />
<includeonly>--><br />
<br />
== Places to avoid ==<br />
<br />
== Accommodation and Sleep ==<br />
<!---</includeonly><br />
Wild camping places are good. Please '''do not''' add regular hostels. <br />
<includeonly>--><br />
<br />
== Other useful info ==<br />
Buses in Gävle wants you to pay whit card and cash is mush more expensive. <br />
<br />
{{IsIn|Region or Country}}<br />
__NOTOC__<br />
<br />
[[de:Gävle]]</div>Lanigirohttps://hitchwiki.org/en/index.php?title=Emden&diff=81966Emden2016-01-14T05:22:12Z<p>Lanigiro: </p>
<hr />
<div>'''{{FULLPAGENAMEE}}''' is a small city in East Fresia, Germany. German, Low German, and Dutch are the most commonly spoken languages. 3rd busiest seaport in Germany. <br />
<br />
== Hitching out ==<br />
<br />
=== North/South/West/East towards [[Other City]] ===<br />
<br />
== Hitching in ==<br />
A lot of traffic goes into East Fresia without going to Emden first and a lot of traffic goes to Netherlands without taking the turn to Emden. There are no known good hitch hiking points between Oldenburg and Leer so don't get stuck there. Getting to Aurich to hitch hike down Emder Str. is a decent option.<br />
<br />
== Places to avoid ==<br />
<br />
<br />
== Other useful info ==<br />
<br />
<br />
{{IsIn|Region or Country}}<br />
__NOTOC__<br />
<br />
[[de:Emden]]</div>Lanigirohttps://hitchwiki.org/en/index.php?title=Sevilla&diff=81962Sevilla2016-01-14T05:07:25Z<p>Lanigiro: </p>
<hr />
<div><map lat='37.34184374021268' lng='-5.984716415405273' zoom='15' view='0' float='right' /><br />
'''Sevilla''' is a city in the south of [[Spain]] and the capital of the province of [[Andalusia]]. Public transport is mostly just buses, the locals cycle. Bus tickets are not transferable, you buy a separate one for each bus ride, each costs €1.40. In season, there are oranges everywhere, on every street, dripping off the trees, however they aren't good for eating.<br />
<br />
== Safety ==<br />
Watch out at [[Petrol station hitchhiking|service stations]] in and around Sevilla area for muggers as Sevilla has a history of thefts of truck drivers and other people who stop by. Never leave your stuff alone.<br />
<br />
== Hitching out ==<br />
=== West towards [[Huelva]] or [[Portugal]] ===<br />
'''Option 1'''<br />
The entrance to the motorway is exactly beside the bus station ''Plaza de Armas''. Walk towards the motorway and stop after the bridge. On the right side of the street there is a huge crosswalk. The way to Huelva is to the left and the crosswalk is to the right. One hitchhiker had a waiting time of 40 minutes. Thumbing from the intersection ''Camas'', which is the first one after the motorway junction, seems to be a bad option. A hitchhiker who did try, ended up waiting for four hours.<br />
<br />
'''Option 2'''<br />
Go to Praza de Armas and take bus M-161 in direction "Tomares". The bus will drive for a couple of minutes on the A-49 direction Huelva (1,40 Euro). Get out at the first bus-stop after the motorway. Walk back to the motorway, walk along the first roundabout and cross the bridge of the motorway. You'll see an IKEA on the left and a bigger roundabout in front of you. Leave the roundabout behind and you'll the a green petrol station.<br />
Have a look at the Google Map: [http://maps.google.es/maps?saddr=37.380531,-6.04557&daddr=37.38561,-6.046565&hl=es&ll=37.382332,-6.044884&spn=0.00948,0.021136&sll=37.385704,-6.045817&sspn=0.001185,0.002642&geocode=FbNhOgIdfsCj_w%3BFYp1OgIdm7yj_w&mra=ls&t=m&z=16 from the bus stop to the petrol station] <br />
Ask for a ride to the next petrol station on the motorway which is 20km far.<br />
Wukk hitched a ride after 10 minutes to the next petrol station. From there you get a lot of traffic directly to Portugal.--[[User:Wukk|Wukk]] 17:56, 28 February 2012 (CET)<br />
<br />
'''Option 3'''<br />
Go to Santa Justa train station and take Cercanias C-5 (Virgen del Rocio - Benacazon), in direction "Benacazon". There is a train each hour for 3,30€. Buy the ticket from Santa Justa to Benacazon. Try to get a ride at the very train station, just ask to reach the town ("¿Me puede llevar a l pueblo?" in spanish) or "Las nieves" petrol station ("Me puede llevar a la gasolinera de las nieves"). If you are unlucky, just walk across the road to the village (the one with a bike lane at the right side, and there ask for the motorway or "Andalusí Park" hotel ("Por donde se va a la autovia" / "Por donde se va al hotel Andalusí Park"). Leave the hotel at your right, walk across the bridge over the motorway and you will see the petrol station. From there you can get a long ride, since the station is far away enough from Sevilla. It has a lot of activity, specialy in summer time. But if everything goes bad, just ask for a ride to the next petrol station in Chucena, a big one with restaurant, lot of services, and many cars and trucks for you to try. My experience: It takes me two minutes to find a car outside the Cercanias station. They took me directly to the petrol station and there, in 5-10 minutes, I found a car to Bollullos Par del Condado, my destination.<br />
<br />
=== North towards Extremadura & Castilla y León ===<br />
Go to the main bus station and take the line bus 41 (ask again to be sure) headed towards Camas and Santiponce, the ticket costs around 1'45€.<br />
Get down at Santiponce, this is a tiny industrial outskirts town. <br />
Walk back towards the little rest area on the right of the picture shown on the link below. It's not fantastic, but I believe this is definitely the best spot you can find to get on to the E-803 legally and safely. Tip: Nihilobstat [[http://hitchwiki.org/members/Nihilobstat/]] got super lucky because during the oranges season a man sets a stand right there to sell oranges, and some extra cars stop there because they know about it :-)<br />
If there isn't much traffic going by, you can always "dangerously" walk up to the highway and try to find a car there. I didn't find any other possible spot going out north from Sevilla.<br />
<br />
'''LINK:''' [https://maps.google.com/maps?q=Sevilla,+Espa%C3%B1a&hl=es&ie=UTF8&ll=37.431025,-6.031164&spn=0.000967,0.002044&sll=40.954646,-5.708583&sspn=0.001301,0.002044&oq=sevilla&t=h&hnear=Sevilla,+Andaluc%C3%ADa,+Espa%C3%B1a&z=19]<br />
<br />
2nd option.<br />
Follow the directions above. Then follow the Camino santiago trail through the fields after 40minutes you should see petrol station on your left. Pass underneath the highway and you should be there. Takes about an hour to walk. This petrol station serves both the highway and the route nacional and plenty of cars stop here going in all directions.<br />
<br />
=== North towards [[Madrid]] ===<br />
Take a bus to the airport of Sevilla. Get off at the airport stop and walk straight on towards the motorway. At the junction you will see a petrol station in your front. It's only a five minute walk, it's safe and you will find a ride for sure!<br />
<br />
* Note: One anonymous hitchhiker stayed there for a whole night and day and no one ever stopped. It's a dead end. The hitchhiker would definitely not recommend it. But then again it is Spain and as far as (s)he found out it is definitely completely about how lucky you are or not.<br />
<br />
'''This directions are very, very bad and misleading''', so I proposed them to be removed. On the twelve of April of 2012 I tried it. After the airport the only station I saw was going east. So this is what I did... As I walked on the same direction as the bus that left me, I saw that station ahead and was told it was going east. I walked on the highway on the Sevilla direction. I don´t recommend walking in highways. Then I got on some long dirt road walk for about one hour or so. Sorry I don´t remember all the details on how to get there but it´s quite easy I think. Then when I finally say the sign saying Huelva-Merida I walked there. I waited about one hour and a half and got a ride that left me in a town called Camas near the highway to Merida. I walked to the entrance. I´m sorry these directions suck but it´s the best I can do since I am not from there. '''Next time I´ll try to take a bus to Camas and walk from there'''.<br />
<br />
=== South towards [[Cadiz]] ===<br />
Take the bus to ''Betis Football Stadium'' (which is in the south of Sevilla, Betis street is in the center). Ask for the direction of the autopista. At the end of the ''Avenida de la Raza'' is a roundabout. Underpass the motorway to the second roundabout and try to get a ride. You can go via the motorway or the parallel road, which also works, since a lot of people want to avoid the motorway toll. But it's slow of course. A sign might be useful.<br />
<br />
Another option, that works better on my opinion is the bus stop in the end of Avenida de Jerez before it became a motorway. There are plenty of space for cars, bus do not disturb you, because they are very rarely and usually this bus stop is empty. This street is more busy that the Avenida de la Raza, but cars goes not so fast, because before the bus stop is the traffic light. A sign will be very useful because after 200 metres road split into two direction. Better to wait direct car to Jerez or Cadiz or if you go further get out on the petrol station before Jerez (check the map).<br />
<br />
=== East towards [[Granada]] ===<br />
Take the bus no.29 from "El Prado" bus station (close to the Plaza de Espana) and get off after about 20minutes when you see CEPSA petrol station just few meters from the bus stop. From there try to get a ride to any petrol station further out of the city and on the A92 highway and there to get a longer ride, to [[Málaga|Malaga]], Granada or any other destination on East.<br />
NB: we tried this place with a girlfriend and had bad meetings with strange men , then a very nice couple picked us up to tell us this was the quarter : torreblanca , one of the most dangerous in sevilla...so pay attention in this place, people.<br />
<br />
=== Towards [[Cordoba]] ===<br />
From the center, walk to Avenida de Kansas City (After RENFE San Justo train station) and on towards the Autovia del Sur. There will be a Carrefour on your right along with a petrol station. If you continue on there will be another petrol station - CEPSA - that you can stand in front of or wait at to ask for rides. The area is surrounded by trees which make it possible to camp and water is available if you ask inside the petrol station. Bring cardboard though as you might have to stay the night.<br />
<br />
There is also a bus stop on the road between those two petrol stations, with some place for cars to stop after.<br />
<br />
== Free Internet ==<br />
Tourist office at the San Francisco square offers 1 hour of Internet for free. You just have to sign up on the desk there. Working times: 10-14h and 17-20h.<br />
<br />
{{IsIn|Andalusia}}<br />
__NOTOC__<br />
<br />
[[Category:Andalusia]]<br />
[[Category:Spain]]<br />
[[Category:Andalusia]]<br />
[[Category:E5]]<br />
<br />
[[es:Sevilla]]</div>Lanigirohttps://hitchwiki.org/en/index.php?title=Hitchhiking&diff=81961Hitchhiking2016-01-13T13:49:34Z<p>Lanigiro: </p>
<hr />
<div>'''Hitchhiking''' (also called ''lifting'' or ''thumbing'' or in parts of Europe, ''auto-stopping'') is a form of transport, in which the traveller tries to get a lift (a ride) from another traveller, usually a car or truck driver, for free. This wiki contains a lot of information about hitchhiking: [[Where to hitchhike|where to start]], practical info on how to do it, pictures and much much more. If you've never hitchhiked before and you want to try it out you should check out the article hitchhiking for the [[first time hitchhiking|first time]].<br />
<br />
[[File:Img l 1306483.jpg|thumb|250px|right|Hitchhiker in the UK]]<br />
Contrary to popular opinion there are a lot of hitchhikers, all over the world, even in the [[United States of America|United States]]. There are people like [[User:Irvthom|Irv Thomas]] whose hitchhike experiences span more than half a century. Hitchhiking is a very common means of transport<br />
in most less affluent countries (although often a form of payment is<br />
expected). Hitchhiking is probably as old as the wheel and will<br />
probably exist as long as people need to move from one place to<br />
another.<br />
<br />
There has been surprisingly little scientific research on hitchhiking,<br />
so it's really hard to say come up with any hard statements on the<br />
rise or demise of hitchhiking. There is a nice community of hitchhikers in<br />
Europe, and it seems to be growing. It's sort of going hand in hand<br />
with the [[finding accommodation|hospitality exchange]] movement. Some try to link this<br />
to the much larger (and economically highly influential) movement of<br />
free software and free information (think GNU/Linux and Wikipedia),<br />
and there is huge potential in this sense. If we want it or<br />
not, internet will be in people's pockets and most of our locations<br />
are already easily tracked. Link this to the potential [[trust]]<br />
available in online social networks (friends of friends), the rising<br />
prices of petrol and the lower need to be in one location and<br />
hitchhiking could be just at the start of a global come-back.<br />
<br />
[[The Pros and Cons of Hitch Hiking|People will participate because]] it's ecological, others because of the economical aspects. Numerous people pick up hitchhikers is means of getting a<br />
bit of excitement in their life. For some hitchhiking starts as a form<br />
of extremely cheap transport and then it turns into a lifestyle<br />
that allows to do amazing and useful things without being trapped<br />
in an office 5 days a week. Some people have<br />
this idea that hitchhikers are stinky bums. Of course, at (rare)<br />
times hitchhikers can be on the road for more than 24 hours and feel the need for a<br />
shower, but others are traveling equipped with laptops, mobile phones, a fresh shave and shower and GPS devices.<br />
<br />
There are several types of hitchhiking. <br />
* traveling by road motor vehicles: [[hitchhiking a car|cars]], [[hitchhiking a truck|trucks]], [[hitchhiking a bus|buses]].<br />
<br />
* traveling by train, either the risky act of [[train hopping]] or, as is sometimes possible, with the permission of the engineer or conductor.<br />
<br />
* traveling by ocean vessel, often called [[hitchhiking a boat|boathitching]]<br />
<br />
* traveling by air: planes and helicopters, also called [[hitchhiking a plane|airhitching]]<br />
<br />
Please check [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hitchhiking Wikipedia's article for more encyclopaedic information about hitchhiking].<br />
[[Category:General info]]<br />
<br />
[[de:Trampen]]<br />
[[es:Como hacer dedo]]<br />
[[fr:Auto-stop]]<br />
[[he:טרמפ]]</div>Lanigirohttps://hitchwiki.org/en/index.php?title=Jerusalem&diff=81960Jerusalem2016-01-13T13:49:26Z<p>Lanigiro: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Infobox Israeli Location<br />
|country = Israel<br />
|district = Jerusalem District<br />
|map = <map lat='31.78' lng='35.22' zoom='11' view='0' country='Israel'/><br />
|pop = 804400 (2013)<br />
|highways = 1, 50, 60, 443<br />
}}<br />
'''Jerusalem''' is a city in the [[Middle East]], under dispute between [[Israel]] and the Palestinians, both claiming it to be their capital city.<br />
<br />
== Hitching in ==<br />
Be aware that Jerusalem is quite different from Tel Aviv. Some inhabitants and areas are very religious and "modesty" is appreciated and sometimes somewhat violently enforced. Best not to wear mini skirts and other outfits you would wear at the beach in Tel Aviv.<br />
<br />
== Hitching out ==<br />
[[File:CraigIsraelKfarAdomim.jpg|thumb|220px|right|[[User:Halt, Stop! Reudnitz kommt.|Craig]] at Maale Adumim Junction en route to Dead Sea (5 mins).]]<br />
<br />
=== French Hill junction ===<br />
<br />
French Hill (or Hagiva Hatzarfatit) junction is a good place for hitchhiking to several places. You can hitch from it to the Dead Sea, towards route 90 and then south towards Eilat or north towards Tiberias, Sea of Galilee and the Golan Heights, to Palestinian cities that are north of Jerusalem, to West Bank/Samaria settlements, and towards Tel Aviv (although this is not the best spot for Tel Aviv).<br />
<br />
The easiest way to get there is by tram to Givat Hamivtar stop, and buses 4, 4a, 8, 37, 57 and 68 also go there. From the stop, walk 1 minute to the intersection that the tram rails cross diagonally. This is the junction, where route 1 and route 60 meet. <br />
<br />
For the Dead Sea, route 90 south or north and the West Bank/Samaria, go to the big bus stop on route 1, right before the bridge. The place is usually crowded with hitchhikers on their way to West Bank/Samaria settlements, and drivers stop often. There are times when there is a group of dozens of people hitching here, and some drivers even come with signs themselves, to show which settlement they’re going to. This group is almost always at the beginning of the bus stop, so if you’re going to the Dead Sea or route 90, it’s better to stand apart from the group, towards the back of the stop. A sign here can help. <br />
<br />
You can hitch from the same place towards Ramallah (and from there you can reach Nablus and other Palestinian cities). Be advised that if you’re standing in this stop with a sign that says “Ramallah” on it, it's quite possible people are going to look at you like you’re crazy, and might try to convince you not to go there, that it’s dangerous, etc. <br />
<br />
It’s also possible to hitch from this intersection to Tel Aviv. On the other side of the big intersection there is a smaller bus stop. Cars that pass here might be going into Jerusalem, to road 443 or to road 1 towards Tel Aviv, so a sign here can be a big help. There are no good places to stop on road 1 except the Shaar Hagai petrol station, so it’s better to wait for a direct ride. If you can get a ride part of the way on road 443, to Modiin for example, that is much better, because there are bus stops in almost every intersection on that road.<br />
<br />
=== East to the [[Dead Sea]], [[Amman]] ([[Jordan]]) ===<br />
<br />
The road splits towards Amman and towards the Dead Sea at Beit-HaArava junction. Depending on where you are in Jerusalem, there are two options for getting there:<br />
<br />
==== From East Jerusalem ====<br />
<br />
Take service taxi ("sheirut") 36 from Damascus Gate in the direction of [[Abu Dis]], a ride of 7 NIS only. Get off in Maale Adumin North junction and continue hitchhiking east. If you take this ride you get directly to road #1, from which you need to continue hitchhiking east towards the Dead Sea and Jordan.<br />
<br />
==== From West Jerusalem ====<br />
<br />
See French Hill junction above.<br />
:[[User:Halt,_Stop!_Reudnitz_kommt.|Craig]] found it easy to get a lift even from inside Jerusalem. The bus stop mentioned above works perfect. Since recently you can get there taking the Tram ''or'' you hitchhike from in front the Damascus gate (sounds strange, but worked numerous times: 10 mins, 5 mins).<br />
<br />
=== South towards [[Eilat]], [[Aqaba]] ([[Jordan]]), [[Taba]] ([[Egypt]]) ===<br />
<br />
Follow the direction to go to the [[Dead Sea]], but continue south on [[Highway 90 (Israel)|Highway 90]] until its end. From there you can continue east towards [[Jordan]], or south towards [[Egypt]].<br />
<br />
[[File:Hitching_out_of_Jerusalem.JPG|thumb|right|220px|Orthodox Jews hitching out of Jerusalem]]<br />
<br />
=== West towards [[Tel Aviv]] ===<br />
Take a bus or tram to the central bus station in Jerusalem (many bus lines go there). From the main entrance, head to the right (when looking away from the building). Go on walking further on Jaffa road, take a right below the tram bridge, and continue till you get to the main junction where the "Begin" highway splits off to the right. Continue straight past this junction, and on your right (after the petrol station) you will see a bus stop, the best spot to hitchhike. Most likely you will see other hitchhikers standing there too. If you get bored or want to burn some time, just behind you there is an ancient Palestinian village (Lifta), which was deserted in 1948. Go down the stairs and find your way to the local spring.<br />
<br />
In case it's too crowded you might be better off going a bit back up the street to the [[petrol station hitchhiking|petrol stations]] and hitch there. Also, Israeli hitchhikers seem to have an aversion against [[signs]], so if you're not local using a sign could work out in your advantage.<br />
<br />
There is also a [[petrol station hitchhiking|petrol station]] on the Jerusalem-Tel Aviv highway at Shaar Hagai (שער הגיא) [http://maps.google.com/maps?q=gas+station&hl=en&cd=10&ei=6SqMS7XXIYivOJe28LcG&sig2=rVVbYMtdQ5gwWRR4lSrEAA&sll=31.799391,35.108185&sspn=0.250939,0.376282&ie=UTF8&view=map&cid=10709258174763436664&ved=0CBIQpQY&hq=gas+station&hnear=&ll=31.88572,35.024414&spn=0.501407,0.752563&z=10&iwloc=A Google map link] This might be useful if a ride is not going all the way to Tel Aviv as there are very few spots to stop on the highway between the two cities.<br />
<br />
=== North towards [[Tiberias]], [[Golan Heights]] ===<br />
<br />
Follow the same directions as for Amman and the Dead Sea, but continue north on highway 90 from the Beit HaArava Junction until you reach the Tsemach Junciton at the bottom of the Kinneret. From there, you can either hitchhike to [[Tiberias]] by going westwards on Road 90, or use the [[trempiyada]] up to the Golan. People either drive up to Road 92 or Road 98 from there. Road 98 goes right up to the Golan, and Road 92 runs along the west coast of the Kinneret from where you can pick up Roads 789 or 87 to the Golan. Highway 789 connects to Road 98 from where you can chose to either continue north or head south. Road 87 also connects to 98, but a bit later, and it also turns west over the Kinneret or east through the centre of the Golan until it picks up 98 at its end.<br />
<br />
[[File:Israel-erga hitching out of jerusalem.jpg|thumb|250|right|[[User:Erga|Erga]] modestly hitching out of Jerusalem]]<br />
<br />
=== To [[Ramallah]], [[Samaria]] ([[West Bank]]) ===<br />
<br />
See French Hill Junction above. Rides from here are available to the Ramallah area ([[Ramallah]], [[Ofra]], etc.) As well as further in, towards [[Nablus]], via "Tapuach Junction" ([[Ariel]], [[Salfit]], [[Buddya]] etc.)<br />
<br />
However, due to the lack of rides to this area, it is probably best to take a service taxi (very cheap) to this area from Damascus gate in Jerusalem.<br />
<br />
=== To [[Bethlehem]], [[Judea]] ([[West Bank]]) ===<br />
<br />
Take the #31 bus to Giloh (you'll have to ask people how to get to the ''[[trempiyada]]''. From there you can hitch rides to [[Bethlehem]] and [[Gush Etzion]] areas, ([[Efrat]], [[Bethlehem]], [[Alon Shvut]]), etc, as well as further south, to the [[Hebron]] area of [[Hebron]], [[Kiryat Arba]], [[Tarqumia]], [[Yatta]], etc. To get to the latter area, however, it is better to hitch a ridge to [[Gush Etzion Junction]], and try from there.<br />
From the Palestinan bus terminal in front of Damascuus Gate you can get a bus straight to [[Bethlehem]] and [[Beit Jala]]. It runs every 30 mins and takes a little more to Bethlehem.<br />
:[[User:Halt,_Stop!_Reudnitz_kommt.|Craig]] got a lift from in front the Damascus gate around 8pm (20 mins). Go to the junction before the cars go down the tunnel. there is enough space to stop. Sometimes people cannot cross the checkpoint and will drop you off. Try to sneak by the tough pedestrian checkpoint and flag down cars in front of the car crossing. Saves time and nerves =)<br />
<br />
[[User:Vulla|Vulla]] You can consider to walk instead of HH. Jerusalem to Bethlem is just 8 km. I've done it in less than 2 hours walking slow and take my time. The view is not the best but if you arrive walking you will able to see the big wall which it separetes Israel to the West Bank. You have to take the entrance for tourists,very fast, few people pass there. The palestinian pass by another gate. Above all you will see the wall and read the different stories of the palestinian during the occupation and you will see many grafitti on the wall, some of them were made by Bansky. Bansky's graffitti are spread around Jerusalem but if you go to the center the (annoyng) taxies will take you to a tour to see Bansky's graffiti.<br />
<br />
== Sleep ==<br />
<br />
=== Free hospitality ===<br />
In projects such as [http://www.bewelcome.org BeWelcome] and [http://www.couchsurfing.com CouchSurfing] you can find many Jerusalemic members who will host you for a night or two in their homes...<br />
<br />
=== Hostels and cheap accommodation ===<br />
As a rule of thumb, the Western part of the city is much (much!) more expensive than the Eastern part, especially when it comes to hostels. In the old city and around Damascus gate you can find a dorm bed for as little as 20 NIS (4 Euro) for a night. Check [http://www.wikivoyage.org Wikivoyage] for more details.<br />
<br />
=== Camping ===<br />
<br />
A good place to camp close to the city center is Sacher Park. It's big enough to camp without being noticed, and even if you are noticed there's a good chance nobody cares. Close by, and a bit more secluded, is the Valley of the Cross, where you can also make a fire - just look for a place where people have made fires before. A bonus in this spot is you would be camping close to a beautiful [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Monastery_of_the_Cross 11th century monastery]. <br />
<br />
== Public Transportation ==<br />
<br />
Blackriding is not possible in buses, because you have to pass by the driver as you enter. On the tram it is possible, but keep in mind there are quite a lot of checkups (maybe as much as once every 5 rides, or so). Inspectors wear white buttoned shirts in summer, sometimes with a yellow reflector vest on top, and dark blue coats in winter. They come in twos or threes, and are usually quite strict. As of September 2013, there are no "undercover"/plainclothes inspectors.<br />
<br />
Single tram tickets are only valid for the day you bought them. There is a 90-minute transfer time for public transport in West Jerusalem- that's the tram and the green buses; East Jerusalem buses (the white ones with blue or green writing) are not included. If you bought and used a ticket, and will not use it again within the 90-minute time, why not give it away to somebody in the tram/bus stop? Random kindness to strangers is always good.<br />
<br />
There's no public transport in West Jerusalem from about 2 hours before dark on Friday evening to 1 hour after dark on Saturday night. East Jerusalem buses keep running regularly. <br />
<br />
[[trash:Jerusalem]]<br />
{{IsIn|Israel}}</div>Lanigirohttps://hitchwiki.org/en/index.php?title=Hiiumaa&diff=81959Hiiumaa2016-01-13T13:49:15Z<p>Lanigiro: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{IsIn|Estonia}}<map lat="58.9000019856966" lng="22.602535486222134" zoom="9" view="0" float="right" /><br />
'''Hiiumaa''' is the second biggest island of [[Estonia]] after [[Saaremaa]]. Length of the coastline is 310 kilometers. It's famous for its many lighthouses, untouched nature and island humor.<br />
<br />
== Getting there ==<br />
<br />
=== From [[Haapsalu]], [[Tallinn]] ===<br />
<br />
Getting to Haapsalu from Tallinn follow the istructions provided [http://hitchwiki.org/en/Tallinn here]. In [[Haapsalu]] cross the railroad, follow signs Hiiumaa and just after couple of hundred meters just stick your thumb out and hitch to the port. (One of the [http://hitchwiki.org/maps/?zoom=16&lat=58.93403404393488&lon=23.52813363075361 spots] out of many.) Ticket for the footpassengers is around 2 euros and it's possible to purchase it at the port. Ferries leave every couple of hours.<br />
<br />
== Hitchhiking around ==<br />
<br />
It's a tiny island and after leaving the port you have only two options. Either hitchhike south or north towards [[Kärdla]]. Roads are simple and providing enough space for cars to stop.<br />
<br />
=== Sleeping ===<br />
<br />
There are four official campsites for camping free with your tent, but you can ditch your tent up everywhere in the nature as long as you take care of the place and don't leave any trash lying around.<br />
<br />
<br />
__NOTOC__<br />
{{hitchbase_city|140}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Estonia]]</div>Lanigirohttps://hitchwiki.org/en/index.php?title=Gent&diff=81958Gent2016-01-13T13:45:06Z<p>Lanigiro: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Infobox Location<br />
|country = Belgium<br />
|map = <map lat='51.02682057115055' lng='3.7205886840820312' zoom='12' view='3' float='right' /><br />
|pop = 237,250<br />
|state = [[Oost-Vlaanderen]]<br />
|motorways = [[E17]]<br />
}}<br />
<br />
'''Gent''' is a city in [[Belgium]].<br />
<br />
== Hitchhiking out ==<br />
Getting out of Gent isn't too difficult.<br />
<br />
=== All directions ===<br />
<br />
* Option 1: Go to the spot near the Woodrow Wilson square. Not many people know this square, but if you say "de zuid", everybody knows where you're talking about. Hitch at the road going to the motorway (). There is a 3 meters wide bike lane, so plenty of place to stop for the cars. Using a cardboard would be clever, as this entry of the motorway splits to different directions. Very good place to hitch towards any direction and there is a big bus station. (tram and bus: www.delijn.be, bus stop "zuid"). Scroll further for direction specific hitch hike spots.<br />
<br />
* Option 2: Try getting a ride at the light [http://www.liftershalte.info/?lat=51.03653663169207&lng=3.7372398376464844&zoom=17&trip=24 here], all traffic has to stop so you have plenty of time to talk to people or show your sign off. You can also easily stand just behind the lights at the southside of the crossroads, there is ample place to stand safely, and for cars to stop on the emergency lane. The cars are also not yet driving very fast. Do use a sign though, as the onramp will give access to go to east towards Antwerpen, southeast towards Brussels, southwest towards Kortrijk, Lille and Paris and west towards Brugge, Oostende and Calais. But make sure you don't make the mistake of trying to get there by getting on the ramp [http://www.liftershalte.info/?lat=51.042722811470185&lng=3.7326908111572266&zoom=17&trip=0 here]. It's a lot longer than it looks and cars are going dangerously fast. You'll end up having to jump from the bridge to the ground below like [[User:Zac Stewart|Zac]] did. Many cars from the centre will take a bridge to the highway, for those option 1 is better. This option on the other hand gives access to the highway from the inner ringroad of Gent.<br />
<br />
=== Southwest towards [[Lille]], [[Paris]], [[Kortrijk]] ===<br />
<br />
* Option 1: Go to the big roundabout “De Sterre” near the Sint Pieter station. There you can hitch the N60 towards “Oudenaarde” until you reach the motorway E 17 at Eke. <br />
<br />
*Option 2: Take the train from Sint Pieter station for two stops to Eke-Nazareth. Blackriding is easy since it's only two short stops on the train. Once there, walk north to a service station via Klapstraat. It's a 20 minute walk but once there one should have no problems finding a ride as far as at least Paris, sometimes even southern France or Barcelona. There is plenty of local traffic heading to Kortrijk but avoid them because this is the other service stations on the E17 in Belgium are quite small.<br />
<br />
=== Northeast towards [[Antwerpen]] ===<br />
* Option 1 of hitching to Lille (make a cardboard)<br />
<br />
* Take the tram 4 in the city center towards Moscou and get off at A(dolf) van Ooteghemstraat, which is 1 stop before the tram reaches it's end station. Walk left into the Walstraat and then the first street to the right into the de naeyerdreef (sand road with lot's of trees). At the end of the road you'll reach the entrance to the A14 (E17) where you can easily get a ride towards Antwerpen or Kortrijk.<br />
[[File:gent.jpg|thumb|250px|right|Ghent offers many cultural highlights.]]<br />
<br />
<br />
{{IsIn|Oost-Vlaanderen}}<br />
[[Category:Oost-Vlaanderen]]<br />
[[trash:Gent]]<br />
<br />
[[de:Gent]]<br />
[[fr:Gent]]</div>Lanigirohttps://hitchwiki.org/en/index.php?title=Germany&diff=81957Germany2016-01-13T13:44:56Z<p>Lanigiro: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{infobox Country<br />
|country = Germany<br />
|map = <map lat='51.39920565355378' lng='9.9755859375' zoom='5' view='0' height='320' width='260' float='left' country='Germany' /><br />
|language = German<br />
|capital = [[Berlin]]<br />
|pop = 82,314,900<br />
|currency = Euro (€)<br />
|hitch = <rating country='de' /><br />
|BW = DE<br />
}}<br />
[[File:2003 Hitch-hiking in Germany.jpg|thumb|left|250px|[[User:Sigurdas|Sigurdas]] thumbing towards Nürnberg, 2003.]]<br />
'''Germany''' is a member state of the [[European Union]] as well as the [[Schengen Agreement]]. It is a great country for [[hitchhiking]], both on motorways (via [[on-ramp]]s, [[rest area|service stations]], more seldom - parking lots) and local roads. Germans are a little bit suspicious, but nice if you get to know them. Thumbing makes it easier for them to say "no", because they do not even have to look at you. Those who will stop are often people who hitchhiked themselves when they were younger. Many of them have families, jobs and fast cars now.<br />
Because of the absence of speed limits on many motorways it's a good country to hitchhike long distances in short time.<br />
__TOC__<br />
<br />
== Road types ==<br />
To hitchhike efficiently in Germany it is good to know the three different kinds of roads between cities and towns. By descending speed these are:<br />
* motorways or expressways called ''Autobahn'' with no speed limit<br />
* federal roads called ''Bundesstraße''<br />
* country roads called ''Landstraße''<br />
Their use in hitchhiking is different and explained below.<br />
<br />
=== Autobahn ===<br />
For more information, see the article [[Autobahn]].<br />
<br />
[[File:Bundesautobahn_7_number.svg|thumb|left|150px|A traffic sign indicating Autobahn A7]] The autobahns in Germany are the fastest links between cities. Their numbers consist of an '''A''' and the number of the highway. On traffic signs the ''A'' is not mentioned but they can be distinguished by the blue colour of the sign.<br />
<br />
The lack of a general speed limit is something most Germans are proud of demonstrating to you and what makes them the best choice for longer distances. Subsequently walking and hitchhiking is illegal on the autobahn and the emergency lane.<br />
<br />
As a general rule, you should always stick to the Autobahn as long as possible and try to change between major autobahns as little as possible, even if this means some detours. As soon as you are on the Autobahn and travel between service stations, you are hitching fast and reliable. For more information about this kind of hitchhiking, see the article on [[petrol station hitchhiking]].<br />
<br />
As trucks do not travel faster than 90 km/h you might want first try to get a ride hitching a personal car before asking truck drivers. Trucks are great for a night-ride; however, there are restrictions, like in France, of when trucks are allowed on an autobahn. In Germany most trucks aren't allowed on motorways on Sundays or public holidays before 22:00. As most truck drivers stop earlier truck traffic already gets less on Saturday afternoons.<br />
<br />
If you travel a specific autobahn, have a look at the [[autobahn]] page where you can find very specific information and hints about hitchhiking on German motorway ramps, etc. - for example, the route [[Amsterdam]]–[[Berlin]] along the [[A2 (Germany)|A2]] and [[A30 (Germany)|A30]].<br />
<br />
==== Getting onto the autobahn ====<br />
<br />
[[File:Zeichen 330.svg|thumb|right|100px|The on-ramp sign of an autobahn]]<br />
<br />
To get onto the autobahn either hitch a ride from a city, thumb at the on-ramp '''before''' the sign or go to a service station by public transportation and walk there. A good possibility is to look for a street with traffic lights that leads to an autobahn. Wait for the red light, then knock at the windows (do not forget to smile!) and ask for a ride. If you look neither like a homeless nor like a drug dealer, they will be happy to help you.<br />
<br />
==== Service stations and rest areas ====<br />
<br />
You have various possibilities for being dropped off along the autobahn to look for your next ride. As petrol station hitchhiking is faster, try to avoid being dropped at on-ramps where you have to thumb. On the autobahn, it is preferable to be dropped off at a service station instead of a rest area as rest areas have much less cars stopping. <br />
<br />
[[File:Zeichen 448.1.svg|thumb|right|150px|Autobahn traffic sign of an Autohof]] The ''Raststätte'' is the usual choice for hitchhiking because most cars tend to refuel there. Make sure your ''Raststätte'' has not just a restaurant but also a petrol stations because more people stop there and they leave quicker. Most ''Raststätten'' are on both sides of the autobahn and there is often a bridge or tunnel nearby to cross. Therefore you might consider hitchhiking to a ''Raststätte'' in the opposite direction first to get onto the highway quicker. At the entrance of the petrol station shop there are usually map stands that show the surrounding area and other service stations in Germany.<br />
With a few exceptions all service stations can be entered by foot from the side and feature an unlocked door in the fence or wall.<br />
<br />
The off-autobahn ''Autohof'' is a local fuel station that is marked on traffic signs on the autobahn. Food and fuel is cheaper there but most car drivers don't bother and thus mostly trucks stop there. This means that they are okay on weekdays but have to be avoided on Saturday evenings and Sundays at all cost. Another disadvantage for continuing on the autobahn is that local traffic also stops at the ''Autohof''.<br />
<br />
=== Federal ''Bundesstraße'' roads ===<br />
<br />
[[File:Bundesstraße 42 number.svg|thumb|right|150px|A traffic sign indicating Bundesstraße B42]] The federal ''Bundesstraße'' roads are indicated by yellow signs and carry numbers like ''B6'' or ''B49''. Like in the case of the autobahn the ''B'' is not written on traffic signs, but federal roads can be distinguished by the yellow colour of the sign. As they are smaller and carry more local traffic they should only be used to get from and to the autobahn, though there are a few exceptions to the rule.<br />
<br />
Their general speed limit is 100 km/h and they usually have no emergency lane so they are difficult to thumb. To get a ride either try petrol stations or choose a place where have a lot of space to see you and stop or where they are going slower, e.g. town exits. Police might consider it illegal to thumb in sites where cars cannot stop without putting the traffic in danger.<br />
<br />
=== Smaller federal ''Landstraße'' roads ===<br />
<br />
These roads are not numbered on traffic signs and usually connect minor towns. As most of them have lower speed limits thumbing is likely to work. As they might not have a lot of traffic coming through they should only be used for getting from and to you final destination.<br />
<br />
== Legal stuff ==<br />
Hitchhiking in general is legal in Germany. It is only forbidden to hitchhike on the Autobahn itself, meaning you standing on the autobahn or its emergency lane. You are perfectly fine stopping at service stations and asking the people but keep in mind that service stations are private property / leases. It occasionally happened that owners try to get rid of hichthikers at "their" service station. If that happens, just move to the parking space and hitchhike there.<br />
If you want to start hitching at the on-ramps, make sure you stand before the rectangular blue sign indicating the start of the autobahn.<br />
<br />
Just like other people, police may or may not be friendly towards hitchhikers. It is said that police controls are more frequent in the southern states of [[Bavaria]] and [[Baden-Württemberg]]. As a foreigner you have to carry your passport at all times; a national ID card is sufficient if you are from another EU country. If you are being checked, be friendly, show it to them and they will leave you alone.<br />
<br />
=== Crossing the border ===<br />
Germany has signed the [[Schengen Agreement]] which means that borders with other Schengen countries are open. Since 2009, all neighbouring countries are Schengen members as well, so there are no fixed border controls any more. At times, there are mobile checks by the police or customs, especially in border regions or on the Autobahn.<br />
<br />
At the Swiss border, there are still custom controls, but that will probably only affect you if you are on a truck.<br />
<br />
'''Update January 2016'''<br />
<br />
Because of the refugee crisis in Europe some countries have reintroduced border controls. In Germany this will especially affect the borders with Austria and Denmark. Prepare for traffic jams at the border and keep your passport ready.<br />
<br />
== License plates ==<br />
There are between one and three letters on a license plate which show the city or region where the car is registered. For example, look for license plates starting with '''B''' if you're hitching to [[Berlin]]. Have a look at the articles on Wikipedia for more information: [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/German_car_number_plates German car number plates] (in English) and [http://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Liste_der_Kfz-Kennzeichen_in_Deutschland Liste der Kfz-Kennzeichen in Deutschland] (in German).<br />
<br />
== Maps ==<br />
[[File:IMG 5392.JPG|thumb|250px|right|[[Tiziano]] hitching from [[Berlin]] to [[Munich]]]]<br />
Recommended maps for Germany are listed in [[Maps#Germany|this article]]. You can easily hitch through Germany with just a map that has all service stations along the Autobahn on it. There are maps at many service stations in a little free booklet which are quite misleading, they do '''not''' contain all service stations, just the ones belonging to one of the big companies running them. <br />
For more information look here: [http://www.tank.rast.de/standorte/servicenetz/index.php tank.rast.de]. For a good map to print out and bring with you that has all the service stations on it have a look here: [http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/684/rastekarte.jpg/ Rastekarte]. This is the same one you will find at the service stations as big overview maps, more often than not those can be nicked very easily as well.<br />
<br />
On the website: www.autobahnatlas-online.de you can find detailed listings of all Autobahnen, with all drive-ups, interchanges, all types of rest stops, tunnels, and bridges along their ways, with exact kilometer allegations. This comes along handy when hopping from station to station. <br />
<br />
== Food and drink ==<br />
{{move_to_nomadwiki}}<br />
Drinking tap water is safe all over the country. You can usually get inexpensive but good food at Italian and Turkish takeaways, the latter ones have ''Döner'' or ''Kebap'' written on them. Typical German fast food shops are marked with ''Imbiss'' signs and sell cheap sausages and French fries. Keep in mind that most shops including some supermarkets close at 20:00 and on Sundays, although many supermarkets might be open until 22:00 during weekdays. Petrol stations, 24-h shops and kiosks have a very limited food choice and are more expensive. As a free alternative you can try dumpster diving. More information on this can be found in the [http://trashwiki.org/en/Germany trashwiki article on Germany].<br />
<br />
In nearly every town there are alternative centres where people cook for everybody. The price for a warm dish is between zero and 2 Euro. Have a look at the [http://deu.anarchopedia.org/VoK%C3%BC list here]. (German)<br />
<br />
=== Bahnhof Mission ===<br />
Even on every big railwaystation you can find Bahnhof Mission. This is charity christian organisation that can help you in different needs. Don't abuse them so much because mostly it's for homeless people but if you need feel free to come. They can give you advices where you can find free food or free place to sleep, because they know all charity organisations that operates in the city. You can make a call from their phones, charge your devices, have rest in their room, warm yourself in the cold period. Sometimes they have some food (usually sandwiches) and free tea/coffee. They do not allow to leave your luggage. Usually they open 24 hours with some breaks for cleaning during the day. Sometimes you can stay there for a night, you can put your sleeping bag on the floor (but it depends of the workers), it's not the mandatory.<br />
<br />
=== Eating on the Autobahn ===<br />
Try to avoid eating on autobahn [[rest area|service stations]] if you want to save money and if have a good taste of food. These restaurants are notoriously expensive and the food quality is quite low. If you're lucky you can find thrown away [http://hitchwiki.org/en/Image:Sanifair_voucher.jpg Sanifair vouchers] of the toilet system. You get a cumulative 0.50 euro rebate for them in the shop.<br />
<br />
== Getting Clothes ==<br />
In Germany there are shops where you can bring unused clothes in a good state and/or take new clothes home. It does not cost anything. A list of these shops is available [http://www.umsonstladen.de/ here]. (German)<br />
<br />
== Hygiene ==<br />
Most toilets on the service stations are maintained by [[Sanifair]] and are clean. You get a 0.50 euro coupon as part of the 0.70 euro service fee, which you can redeem when buying things at the petrol station shop or in the restaurant. [[User:Pathofdhamma|Pathofdhamma]] suggest to seize the moment and jump the barrier if there are no people or cameras around. The turnstyle is only blocked for the inwards direction. With some luck and smooth moves, you can sneak in. Turn it towards you, walk one step; turn it again, walk another step: you are in!<br />
<br />
There are showers in most ''Raststätte'' and ''Autohof'' service stations on and near the autobahn. Prices are between 2 euro and 5 euro.<br />
<br />
== Telephone and Internet ==<br />
<br />
=== Telephone ===<br />
<br />
{| style = "float:right" <br />
| [[File:Station multimedia Allemagne 2006.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Public surf terminal with telephone]]<br />
|}<br />
{| style = "float:right" <br />
| [[File:TelefonzelleFrankfurt060422.jpg|thumb|right|300px|Different kinds of phone booths]]<br />
|}<br />
Phone booths that accept coins are still available all over Germany. The older ones are yellow, the newer ones are mostly glass and display a pink T. They are more expensive than using a prepaid card for your cell phone. A nice feature is that you can send SMS, faxes and e-mails even with the oldest types. However, input is a bit cumbersome and in one test it took at half a week to deliver a text message. In some cities there is cheaper ones from other operators than those from "pink T" (i.e. T-Com aka Deutsche Telekom).<br />
<br />
A cheaper option is to buy a German prepaid SIM card. They are readily available from mobile shops like ''e-plus'', ''Vodafone'' and ''T-mobile''. A lot of supermarket chains like ''Aldi'', ''Netto'' and ''Lidl'' also have their own brands that use the network of the bigger providers. Check beforehand how to register the SIM card. Sometimes the seller wants to see an ID. If you prefer not to give out your real data you might for example buy a SIM card at ''Aldi'', which you can register via Internet with fake data.<br />
<br />
If you want to make calls abroad there are some stores offering international phone booths in bigger cities. They are usually located in migration areas and often include an internet café.<br />
<br />
=== Internet ===<br />
<br />
==== Without laptop or smartphone ====<br />
<br />
There are still some Internet cafés in the bigger cities. Rates are around 2 euro per hour. <br />
<br />
In most cities you will find pay per use surf terminals like in the image to the right. They offer internet and telephone services.<br />
<br />
==== By laptop or smartphone ====<br />
<br />
There are almost no unsecured Wifi access points in Germany because people might be made responsible for illegal actions done through their internet access.<br />
<br />
Most German prepaid cards also have a data option if you own a smartphone or a surfstick for your laptop, which also can be bought for about 30 euro. It's often better to buy a single day flatrate for two to five euros instead of using the data tariff. Details depend on your provider.<br />
<br />
Some ''Burger King'' restaurants offer free Wifi without any registration. At ''McDonalds'' you get free Wifi for one hour per day without consuming anything. Sometimes the restaurants are located on service stations, you can look them up [http://www.mcdonalds.de/metanavigation/mcfinder/mcfinder.cfm here]. Enter a location in the search mask and make sure to check the option ''WLAN'' (abbreviation for Wireless LAN). Once there, connect, type in any address and you will be asked for a valid German mobile number, through which you will receive your access code. Take care: in both cases the connection is not encrypted so anything you send in clear text, e.g. when using a browser or e-mail tool without SSL, can be easily recorded by others nearby.<br />
<br />
== Language ==<br />
Despite German being the major language, (with over 95% of the population speaking it as a first language [http://www.bbc.co.uk/languages/european_languages/countries/germany.shtml]) you will find that many Germans speak English or French as a second language. Other common languages in the country are Turkish, Russian and Arabic. <br />
<br />
=== Learning to speak German ===<br />
The basic hitchhiker needs can be satisfied by a look at the phrasebook [[western Europe phrasebook|here]].<br />
<br />
When asking your drivers for help it pays off to know that the German word ''Straße'' for street contains the weird letter ''ß'' which looks a bit like a B. If you pronounce it like an ''s'' Germans will understand you. Contrary to popular belief the diacritics on Ä, ä, Ö, ö, Ü and ü are not metal umlauts and thus they do affect pronunciation. If in doubt try to pronounce the word as if the diacritics didn't exist. For instance, if you pronounce the city ''Würzburg'' as ''Wurzburg'' you will probably be understood.<br />
<br />
== Other possibilities of transportation ==<br />
<br />
Other cheap possibilities include [[carpooling]] and special offers of the German railways [[Deutsche Bahn]].<br />
<br />
=== Carpooling ===<br />
[http://www.mitfahrgelegenheit.de mitfahrgelegenheit.de] once was the most popular website for carpooling. Since they started charging a certain percentage for each ride from the drivers, there are new pages starting to be used more and more. Some of them are: [http://www.blablacar.de blablacar.de] and [http://www.bessermitfahren.de bessermitfahren.de].<br />
<br />
=== Railways ===<br />
The country has an expensive railway network. As an alternative to the standard fare, you may also check offers and sales, for example regional or seasonal tickets. [http://www.bahn.com/i/view/DEU/en/prices/index.shtml]<br />
If travelling in a weekend it is possible to buy a ticket valid for unlimited travel for one day on all regional trains for up to 5 persons. See [http://www.bahn.com/i/view/overseas/en/prices/germany/schoenes-wochenende-ticket.shtml]<br />
See also [[Deutsche Bahn]].<br />
<br />
== Practical links ==<br />
* [http://deu.anarchopedia.org/index.php/Deutschland:Trampstellen Hitchhiking spots in Germany], in German, on a GFDL wiki<br />
* [http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/e/e5/Autobahn_1-999.png Overview of autobahns in Germany]<br />
<br />
<!--* [http://www.linksundrechts.com/karten/u_oesterreich.gif Autobahnübersicht Österreich]<br />
* [http://www.autostrade.de/ Autobahnübersicht Italien]<br />
* [http://stuenings-nt.stuenings.de/LuR/karten/01519.gif Autobahnübersicht Italien]<br />
<br />
* [http://www.bibione.com/index_de.html Bibione - Offizielle HP]<br />
* [http://www.bibione.com/vetrina/images/mappa_dintorni.jpg Bibione Übersichts Karte]<br />
* [http://www.bibione.com/upload//sito_bibione/162sito_bibione.jpg Bibione Strand]<br />
--><br />
<br />
{{Highways DE}}<br />
{{Template:Cities Germany}}<br />
{{States Germany}}<br />
{{Template:Europe/countries}}<br />
<br />
{{IsIn|Western Europe}}<br />
[[trash:Germany]]<br />
[[digi:Germany]]<br />
__NOTOC__<br />
<br />
[[Category:Germany| ]]<br />
[[Category:Western Europe]]<br />
<br />
[[de:Deutschland]]<br />
[[es:Alemania]]<br />
[[fi:Saksa]]<br />
[[fr:Allemagne]]<br />
[[pl:Niemcy]]<br />
[[ru:Германия]]<br />
[[tr:Almanya]]</div>Lanigirohttps://hitchwiki.org/en/index.php?title=Groningen&diff=81956Groningen2016-01-13T13:44:47Z<p>Lanigiro: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Infobox Location<br />
|country = Netherlands<br />
|map = <map lat='53.21137858470816' lng='6.568450927734375' zoom='11' /><br />
|pop = 197823 (2014)<br />
|subdivision_type = province<br />
|subdivision_name = Groningen (province)<br />
|subdivision_symbol = Flag of Groningen.svg<br />
|roads = [[A7 (Netherlands)|A7]] {{E|22}}, [[A28 (Netherlands)|A28]] {{E|232}}<br />
|hitchbase = 663<br />
}}<br />
<br />
'''Groningen''' is the largest city in the north of the [[Netherlands]], as well as the name of the surrounding province. Groningen is a student city and there are a lot of German students who study here.<br />
<br />
== Hitchhiking out ==<br />
=== South towards [[Assen]] ===<br />
There is a [[liftershalte]], a spot for hitchhiking, at the Emmaviaduct, the road to the A28, 200 meter westwards of Central Station, in the direction of Assen.<br />
<br />
[[File:LiftplaatsGroningen.jpeg|thumb|right|The [[liftershalte]] in Groningen. ]]<br />
<br />
=== West towards [[Leeuwarden]], [[Heerenveen]] ===<br />
The [[liftershalte]] is also fine if you are going West.<br />
<br />
=== East towards [[Germany]] ===<br />
<br />
==== From the city ====<br />
<br />
Hitching east towards [[Germany]] is harder since there is no obvious place to start hitching. The usual hitchhiking spot used to be at the crossing of the Europaweg and the Sontweg (close to Ikea), but the bus stop has been relocated to the middle of the road so people cannot stop on the side anymore. Some people prefer to start hitching already on the other side of the bridge, just after the crossing Europaweg/Damsterdiep. People at these two spots can, however, still drive towards the West or South. The best spot is therefore at the end of the Euvelgunnerweg. It's quite far away, so might not be an option if you don't have a bike or someone to drop you off. Here all cars are going on the motorway eastwards, so all cars would do. Many are not going very far, but the first petrol station is already before the first exit.<br />
<br />
''[[User:Koendev|Koen]] decided to stand at the on-ramp of the N7 at the [http://goo.gl/maps/NwoRf crossing of the '''Europaweg''' and '''Bergenweg''']. Cars have some place to stop there and most go towards the east too. He got a ride in 15min.''<br />
<br />
''[[User:Fverhart|Fverhart]] hitched at the busstop on the A28 acces lane 39 "Groningen-Zuid" with a sign "A7 -->". This access lane is a 7 minutes busride away from Groningen central station frequented 10(+)x/hour (cost EUR 1,30), the busstop is called Van Ketwich Verschuurbrug, or a 2.5 km walk from the central station or the center.<br />
<br />
==== By bus to Scharmer (1h.) ====<br />
There is a petrol station on the highway about 10km out of town which is easily accessible by bus (cost EUR 3,50). Take line 78 (1x/hour) from Groningen central station heading to Appingedam and get of at the stop Scharmer, Hoofdweg 15. From there walk in the direction in which the bus is going and take the first road on the right to cross the highway. You can see the petrol station from the bridge. After the bridge turn right again and walk all the way until the end of the road. Almost past the petrol station there is a small bridge made for the employees of the petrol station to cross the water.<br />
<br />
==== By train to Nieuweschans (2h.) ====<br />
Alternatively you can take the train (EUR 8,90) to [[Nieuweschans]] and start hitchhiking on the border service station, a walk of 2.0 kms.</div>Lanigirohttps://hitchwiki.org/en/index.php?title=Hasselt&diff=81955Hasselt2016-01-13T13:44:36Z<p>Lanigiro: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Infobox Location<br />
|country = Belgium<br />
|map = <map lat='50.9333333333' lng='5.3333333333' zoom='12' view='3' float='right' height='370'/><br />
|pop = 71,543<br />
|state = [[Limburg]]<br />
|motorways = [[E313]]<br />
}}<br />
'''Hasselt''' is a city in the east of [[Belgium]]. It is the regional capital of the Belgian province [[Limburg (Belgium)|Limburg]].<br />
<br />
== Hitchhiking out ==<br />
<br />
=== West towards [[Antwerpen|Antwerp]] or [[Leuven]] and [[Brussels]] ===<br />
Take the free(!) bus H1 in the direction of "Spalbeek" or "Kermt", you can take this bus at various places in Hasselt, including the train-station. Get out at the busstop "Kuringen - Stevoortse Kiezel", right after the bridge and the highway entrance towards Antwerpen/Brussels and walk back the 100 meters to the entrance.<br />
It takes the bus about ten minutes from the train-station to get there. It is probably the best hitchhiking spot in this direction, since the cars don't drive fast and there's a place where they can easily stop without blocking the traffic. Waiting times are on average 5 to 10 minutes.<br />
<br />
All the motorway ramps in Hasselt are suitable for east- and west directions.<br />
<br />
== Public transport ==<br />
Public transport in the center of the city is free.<br />
<br />
{{IsIn|Limburg (Belgium)}}<br />
[[trash:Hasselt]]<br />
<br />
[[Category:Limburg| ]]</div>Lanigirohttps://hitchwiki.org/en/index.php?title=Leeuwarden&diff=81954Leeuwarden2016-01-13T13:44:26Z<p>Lanigiro: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Infobox Dutch Location<br />
|country = Netherlands<br />
|map = <map lat='53.20' lng='5.79495' zoom='12' view='3'/><br />
|pop = 92,347<br />
|state = Friesland<br />
|motorways = [[A31 (Netherlands)|A31]], [[A32 (Netherlands)|A32]]<br />
}}<br />
'''Leeuwarden''' is a city in the [[Netherlands]]. It is the capital of the Dutch province of Friesland. Hitching out is pretty straightforward.<br />
<br />
== Hitchhiking out ==<br />
=== South towards [[Utrecht]] ===<br />
Go to the central bus station and take bus #94, #95 or #28. Get off at the stop at the end of ''Hendrick Algraweg'' (the beginning of the ''Rijksweg'' if the bus driver doesn't know). Continue walking along the main road ([[A32 (Netherlands)|A32]]) until the Esso garage - you should be able to see it from the bus stop. <br />
<br />
This distance is also walkable from the centre. Just follow directions for the [[A32 (Netherlands)|A32]] south.<br />
<br />
You can also use this spot for the direction of [[Groningen]], but it's less common and you should therefore consider making a sign to prevent cars going south to stop for you.<br />
<br />
=== East towards [[Groningen]] / [[Drachten]] ===<br />
Go to the bus lane on the Drachtsterweg just past the Drachtersterbrug (the bridge over the water). This is one of the main roads leading out of Leeuwarden towards Groningen and Drachten. Go stand where the bus lane starts as cars have a good chance to stop there for you. The bus stop further down the road is less than ideal since cars for Groningen are in the middle lane and can't easily turn over to the right anymore. To get to this spot you can walk or take a bus (14/28/94/95) to Drachten and get out at that bus stop (Drachtsterweg).<br />
<br />
__NOTOC__<br />
<br />
[[Category:Friesland|Friesland]]<br />
[[Category:Friesland]]</div>Lanigirohttps://hitchwiki.org/en/index.php?title=Leiden&diff=81953Leiden2016-01-13T13:44:16Z<p>Lanigiro: </p>
<hr />
<div>'''{{FULLPAGENAMEE}}''' (or Leyden) is a city in [[Netherlands|The Netherlands]]. Drivers may not know what you mean if you pronounce this "lee-d'n", as the pronounciation is closer to "lie-d'n" or alternatively "lay-d'n".<br />
<br />
<map lat="52.15541627877" lng="4.4941463472239" zoom="12" view="0" float="right" /><br />
<br />
== Hitchhiking out ==<br />
<br />
=== East towards [[Utrecht]], [[Germany]] and South towards [[Den Haag|The Hague]], [[Rotterdam]], [[Belgium]] ===<br />
Now this spot can be a bit tricky to get to, but it's the perfect spot for heading South and a great way for heading East. From the center it's about an 45 minutes to an hour's walk. From Train and bus station "Leiden Lammerschans" it should only be a about twenty minutes as follows:<br />
<br />
==== The N11/A4 junction (Bottom right on map) ====<br />
<br />
[[File:A4L11.jpg|thumb|300px|right|The Junction, as you come out of the park]]<br />
Head '''South East''' on '''Melchior Treublaan'''.<br />
Cross the '''Kanaalweg''' and onto the '''Kanaalbrug''' across the channel.<br />
Turn right onto '''Cronesteinpad''', and <br />
-right afher you cross the '''rail crossing''',<br />
take the first left into the park.<br />
It will soon split up into a bike path and a footpath, follow the bike path. (It's called "'''Boerenpad'''", though I'm not sure it's denoted onywhere)<br />
The path will lead to the other end of the park where a small connection on your left leads you up to where the A4 and N11 meet.<br />
<br />
To hitch EAST to Utrecht hitch the hard shoulder of the road straight ahead (the '''N11''') <br />
To hitch SOUTH to Rotterdam go right which leads to the '''A4'''.<br />
<br />
Remember as always in [[Netherlands|The Netherlands]], do not go past the signs that have the motorway or highway symbol on them, as you may get fined.<br />
<br />
=== North towards [[Amsterdam Airport Schiphol|Schiphol]], [[Amsterdam]], [[Utrecht]] ===<br />
Note the reason Utrecht is listed under both East and North is that while the N11 (a local road) is the most direct way another common way of travelling to Utrecht is to pass over the South ring of Amsterdam, and so you can catch rides quite well this way too.<br />
<br />
==== Plesmanlaan Shell station (left on map) ====<br />
[[File:ShellA4.jpg|thumb|400px|right|The Shell station on Plesmanlaan leading to the A44]]<br />
From the main exit ('''South East''') of The Central trainstation head right (South West) on Schipholweg. Turn right onto Plesmanlaan after about 250 meters. This is the big tunnel, not the small one. Follow plesmanlaan for 1.5 km or so when a Shell station will appear on your right. Note that there is not a sidewalk the whole way, but you are allowed to walk until the petrol station, no problem.<br />
<br />
From here, you're best off asking people if they pass by the what is commonly as the "bridge restaurant" on the A4, unless they go straight to your destination of course. This Service station with a bridge and a few restaurants is a great place from which to hitch on to the airport or Amsterdam.<br />
<br />
Do not bother with the BP station on the left early on Plesmanlaan, as they are likely to send you away, depending on who is working that day.<br />
<br />
===Alternative (All directions) ===<br />
This place should be relatively easy to get to, it's just under 10 minutes walking from train and bus station "Leiden Lammerschans" <br />
<br />
From the trainstation continue walking down the Lammerschansweg until you meet a bike tunnel, pass through the tunnel and the second after the small bike rotunda and go left to cross the "Lammebrug". <br />
<br />
Just after the Lammebrug there is a small slip road that leads to the "Cronesteyn" restaurant, standing on the side of it you should be easy to see and easy to pick up!<br />
<br />
This road leads to the A4, you will also be able to get rides to Utrecht from people that leave the city from here, they drive over a small piece of the A4 to get to the N11<br />
<br />
<br />
<noinclude><br />
[[Category:Zuid Holland]]<br />
</noinclude><br />
{{IsIn|Zuid Holland}}<br />
__NOTOC__<br />
[[trash:Leiden]]</div>Lanigirohttps://hitchwiki.org/en/index.php?title=Leuven&diff=81952Leuven2016-01-13T13:44:06Z<p>Lanigiro: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Infobox Location<br />
|country = Belgium<br />
|map = <map lat='50.8772608626931' lng='4.70867156982422' zoom='12' view='3' float='right' height='370'/><br />
|pop = 92,704<br />
|state = [[Vlaams-Brabant]]<br />
|motorways = [[E314]], [[E40]]<br />
}}<br />
'''Leuven''' ([[France|French]]: ''Louvain'') is the capital city of the province [[:Category:Vlaams-Brabant|Vlaams-Brabant]] in [[Belgium]] at about 30km east of [[Brussels]]. It is mainly a calm administrative and university city with the ''Katholieke Universiteit Leuven'' which includes some magnificent historic buildings and cityscape.<br />
__NOTOC__<br />
== Hitchhiking out ==<br />
=== West towards [[Brussels]] ===<br />
Just walk on the ring of '''Leuven''' to the ''Tervuursevest'' and hitch along the ''Koning Boudewijnlaan''. You will see many cars parked along the road, so you can start to hitch from there.<br />
<br />
=== East towards [[Liège|Liege]], [[Germany]], West towards [[Brussels]], [[Gent]] ===<br />
The E40 is passing at quite a distance on the southern side of the city, but there is a service station which can be a good spot to hitch a quick ride east towards [[Liège|Liege]] and [[Germany]] or west towards [[Brussels]] or [[Gent]]. The service station direction west is also the last one before the ring of Brussels.<br />
<br />
To reach the service station from '''Leuven''': Take bus #395 direction ''Overijse-Groenendal'' and go out at stop ''Rotspoelstraat''. Alternatively try the buses #7-8-9 in direction ''Bertem'' and get out at ''Egenhoven'' and then walk down the ''St-Jansbergsesteenweg''.<br />
<br />
Another option, if you are already in the Eastern Part of the city (such as Bierbeek or Kessel-lo), is to walk to the junction of the N25 (Tiensesteenweg - Meerdalboslaan) which leads to the E40 at Exit 23. You can either try to hitch a ride at the junction or simply walk the 2-3km along the Expressweg to the E40 itself and hitch on the On-Ramp (which is having a large shoulder).<br />
<br />
=== North towards [[Mechelen]] ===<br />
To hitch from Leuven in direction North, you simply have to walk out of the city to the Mechelsesteenweg. The best would be to walk a bit further out of town, passing the viaduct of the Ring of Leuven ''(Singel)'' and then a bit further passed the E314 junction. From there you can hitch both the traffic coming from Leuven and from the motorway. There is a petrol station nearby, where you could possibly ask or at least where cars can pull over.<br />
Once you reached that spot it is pretty useless to walk further to Herent as the road forms a by-pass around the hamlet, but do not refuse rides going to the neighborhood of ''Haacht'' as it is easy to hitch further from there as well from the huge roundabouts.<br />
<br />
You can also possibly try to reach the E19 by changing at the junction with the N21 ''(Haacht)'', which can lead you also to the neighbourhood of the Airport or the N267 ''(Schiplaken)''<br />
<br />
== Hitching In ==<br />
==='''From Genk/Hasselt'''===<br />
If you happen to pass around '''Leuven''' by the E314, you can simply ask to be dropped at any of the town or its suburb's exit (Exit 16 - 17 or 18) and walk into downtown. <br />
<br />
==='''From Brussels/Liège'''===<br />
Although if you are approaching Leuven through the E40, you might have to be dropped at the Leuven Services (Shell) or Heverlee (Texaco) and walk toward the local road into town, which is still quite a distance. Alternatively, you might get dropped at the exit 23 (Haasrode) and try to hitch along the local road into town, or walk the 4 remaining km.<br />
<br />
==='''From Antwerp/Mechelen'''===<br />
Coming from direction Antwerp, your last stop before Leuven might very well be rest stop 'Waarloos' on the E19. From here, you have two option for getting to Leuven. Number one is a ride via Brussels to Leuven or Liège along the E19, Brussels Ringroad and E40. You will end up at the Heverlee service station. However, at Waarloos there seem to be very drivers that go toward Liège. Alternatively, you could accept a ride to Mechelen. Quite many people are headed for Mechelen, a city just off the highway after Waarloos. The local road N26 leads directly from Mechelen to Leuven. Negotiate with the driver before you agree to be taken to Mechelen: they should drop you off on the far side of the city, where the Leuvensesteenweg originates at the Mechelen city ring. You'll need a sign on this road as a big portion of traffic is likely to be local.<br />
<br />
{{IsIn|Vlaams-Brabant}}<br />
[[trash:Leuven]]<br />
<br />
[[Category:Vlaams-Brabant]]<br />
[[Category:E40]]</div>Lanigirohttps://hitchwiki.org/en/index.php?title=Maastricht&diff=81951Maastricht2016-01-13T13:43:56Z<p>Lanigiro: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Infobox Dutch Location<br />
|country = Netherlands<br />
|map = <map lat='50.84930707388861' lng='5.700874328613281' zoom='12' view='3'/><br />
|pop = 117,548<br />
|state = Limburg<br />
|motorways = [[A2 (Netherlands)|A2]], [[A79 (Netherlands)|A79]]<br />
|hitchbase = 131<br />
}}<br />
'''Maastricht''' is the most southern city of the [[Netherlands]], located in the province of [[Limburg]].<br />
<br />
== Hitchhiking out ==<br />
<br />
=== North towards [[Eindhoven]] (A2) {{E|25}}, east towards [[Heerlen]], [[Aachen]] ([[Germany]]) (A79) ===<br />
<br />
There was a ''[[liftershalte]]'', a special spot for hitchhiking, at the beginning of the [[A2 (Netherlands)|A2]] near the soccer stadium ''De Geusselt'' (Viaductweg x N2/A2). With the upgrade of the N2 to [[A2 (Netherlands)|A2]] this liftershalte was removed. <br />
<br />
Hitchhiking this direction is not always very easy. There is no obvious spot. Here are a few suggestions. <br />
<br />
# (new, March 2015, temporarily). Along the N2/E25, at the southside of the traffic lights at the Scharnerweg, there is a 1.5 driving lane wide semi-asphalted area between the road and a fence around the tunnel roadworks. This zone is several hundreds of meters long along the road and is suitable for walking by the cars waiting for red light. Police would send you away, but well prepared you should not wait long for a ride. <br />
# Traffic lights at west end of the Terblijterweg, where it connects with the N2/A2 motorway, close to the Geusselt football stadium. You really have to go to the traffic lights, which requires 150 meter of walking illegally along the Terblijterweg which is closed for pedestrians. Once at the traffic lights it should not take more than a few minutes to get a ride, pref. use a sign A2 or A79 / Heerlen. Personal experience of [[User:Fverhart|Fverhart]]: a good spot, police would send you away but it is unlikely that you need to wait long if you know what you're doing!<br />
# Crossroad Meerssenerweg / Viaductweg where you can ask rides at the traffic lights. Personal experience of [[User:Fverhart|Fverhart]]: works but not all traffic goes the A2. Sign A2 or A79 / Heerlen can help. <br />
# Just before A2-access lane Maastricht-Randwyck at the road Oeslingerbaan, on the bridge over the A2. There is a hard shoulder on the bridge on which a driver can easily stop. A sign Heerlen is recommended here if you are going there or into Germany, passing by or going to Aachen. Bus 1 and 6 (direction De Heeg) stop nearby at busstop Oeslingerbaan/Langendaal. http://goo.gl/maps/430rZ. Personal experience of [[User:Fverhart|Fverhart]]: An average wait of 20 minutes, a sign A2 or A79 / Heerlen helps. Police may send you away here. Easiest way to get on the bridge is from BP petrol station walk behind the safety rail along Oeslingerbaan. <br />
# New access lane of the A2-motorway on the junction Kruisdonk, near Rothem. Drivers can stop at the access lane on a hard shoulder beside the driving lane. To get here from the city you can take bus line 59 or 159 until busstop "Kruispunt" in Rothem, then walk south along Ambyerweg / cycling path for 500 meters. Personal experience of [[User:Fverhart|Fverhart]]: despite a lot of space on the access lane waiting times are rather long. You can approach cars at the traffic light at the exit lane, many of them are crossing the road and driving up the A2. Everybody can take you to the next petrol station. <br />
<br /><br />
Generally, if you are heading for [[Germany]] passing by or going to [[Aachen]] you should aim for a ride to [[Heerlen]], where you can hitchhike again on the N281 towards [[Aachen]]. Standing on the motorway junction just before [[Heerlen]] should be avoided, because it is not allowed to stand there. <br />
<br />
[[File:Tmoon.jpg|thumb|250px|right|[[User:Tmoon|Tmoon]] hitching out of Maastricht]]<br />
<br />
=== East towards [[Gulpen]] (N278) ===<br />
Take the bus #53 or #54 from the center towards ''Akersteenweg''. At this bus stop you'll find a petrol station. There you can try to get a lift towards [[Aachen]] in [[Germany]].<br />
<br />
=== South towards [[Liège|Liege]] (A2) {{E|25}} ===<br />
Follow the rail track from the central station out of the town in a southern direction from the backside exit (use the bridge over the rails). At the first rail/road crossing south of the station hike on over the cycling path and later, still by the side of the railway, over Gerardusweg. Follow this way until the end, thus you walk under a bridge and you will arrive at a motorway entrance on the junction named Europaplein; some hundreds of meters further on at the other side of the railway is the railway station Maastricht Randwyck. If you stand at the corner of the road across from the sign pointing at the A2/Luik (Liege) you will get a lift. Personal experience of [[User:Fverhart|Fverhart]: it's usually easy to get a ride to Liège is you use a sign. Average wait 10 minutes, max. 30 minutes. Longer rides are not common. Petrol station between Maastricht and Liège (still in the Netherlands) is not very busy. Knowing the good spots in Liège to hitch-hike therefore is a good idea.<br />
<br />
=== West towards [[Hasselt]], [[Antwerpen]], [[Leuven]], [[Brussels]] (Belgian N2) ===<br />
Best place towards [[Hasselt]] is at or just after the traffic lights at the crossing of Via Regia and Canteleerstraat, the first crossing after the traffic square Via Regia. Expect short rides to [[Veldwezelt]], [[Mopertingen]] and [[Bilzen]]. You will reach the motorway at [[Diepenbeek]] or [[Bilzen]], where you can easily get further. All the motorway access lanes in Hasselt are suitable for either [[Brussels]] or [[Antwerpen]]. Personal experience of [[User:Fverhart|Fverhart]: Average wait of about 10 minutes and you should accept every ride that takes you further on the Belgian N2. Just before Bilzen you can hitch-hike at the roundabout towards Hasselt and further into Belgium. <br />
<br />
__NOTOC__<br />
[[trash:Maastricht]]<br />
<br />
[[Category:Limburg|Limburg]]<br />
[[Category:E25]]</div>Lanigirohttps://hitchwiki.org/en/index.php?title=Georgia&diff=81950Georgia2016-01-13T13:43:44Z<p>Lanigiro: </p>
<hr />
<div>''This article is about country in the Caucasus region. '''Georgia''' may also refer to [[Georgia (United States)|Georgia]], a state in the [[United States of America|USA]] among [[Georgia (disambiguation)|other places]].''<br />
<br />
{{infobox Country<br />
|country = of Georgia<br />
|map = <map lat='42.277' lng='43.824' zoom='6' view='3'/><br />
|language = Georgian is the official language. In the west of the country Mengrelian and Svan are also spoken. Abkhazia and South Ossetia each have their own languages. Russian is universally understood except by some of the young, but they usually speak English instead.<br />
|capital = [[Tbilisi]]<br />
|pop = 4,774,4732<br />
|currency = Lari ( GEL )<br />
|hitch = <rating country='ge' /><br />
}}<br />
'''Georgia''' is a country in [[Western Asia]], that borders [[Turkey]], [[Armenia]], [[Azerbaijan]] and [[Russia]]. Two part of Georgia in the North, [[Abkhazia]] and [[South Ossetia]] are ''de facto'' independent countries though few nations recognize their independence.<br />
<br />
Hitching in Georgia is easy most of the time! Short waits and very friendly people. Road conditions in some places are quite bad so it can take some time but in most of cases there are renovated roads. <br />
Spots are very easy to find, just head in the right direction and you will find a suitable place to stand. Sometimes if luck isn't on your side though and you may have to wait for a while and the only cars who will stop for you are ''marshrutkas'' (microbuses) which expect payment. But remain patient! Eventually someone will stop for you.<br />
<br />
Unlike most European countries, usually no one cares if you hitchhike directly on highways, so it's not a problem to find a spot.<br />
<br />
Older generations speak Russian as a foreign language, but people in their twenties and younger are able to speak more English, at least in the bigger cities. In villages even youngsters might only speak Georgian but in the last couple of years many young people from English-speaking countries have been sent to the villages to teach English. A few phrases of Russian will be handy or with a little extra effort people will be amazed if you know some Georgian.<br />
<br />
The Georgian hospitality is incredible and the most remarkable experience in this country but sometimes also a small risk as it can become a little bit pushing from time to time. Refusing alcohol can be offending for some people (if there is another person next to the driver in the car the chances are very high that the famous national drink chacha is offered to you) and if you are vegetarian, there could be a similar problem.<br />
<br />
== Border crossing ==<br />
<br />
Citizens of EU, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and many other countries don't need a visa to enter and stay in the territory of Georgia for 360 days.<br />
<br />
=== [[Abkhazia]] ===<br />
<br />
Foreigners with a valid Entry Permit can enter [[Abkhazia]] from Georgia, but have to return to Georgia. Travelling from Russia through Abkhazia towards Georgia is impossible, as you'll then be regarded as having illegally entered Georgia.<br />
<br />
=== Armenia ===<br />
<br />
There are three border crossings with [[Armenia]], through the towns of Ninotsminda (Georgia), Dmanisi (Georgia) and Bagratashen (AM)/Sadakhlo(GE). There is frequent traffic between these countries, especially between Yerevan and Tbilisi. The Bagratashen-crossing won't give you much trouble - border guards are OK and it will most probably take you less than 10 minutes to cross it.<br />
<br />
=== Turkey ===<br />
<br />
When arriving from the west, your likely point of entry to the country will be [[Sarp-Sarpi border crossing]] with [[Turkey]] on the Black Sea coast. That border crossing has steady traffic and it's possible to cross the border on foot.<br />
<br />
There is another crossing a bit further east, from Türkgözü to the village of Vale and on to [[Akhaltsikhe]]. Although the Turkish border road is large and in good quality, the road from the border to Akhaltsikhe is a really bad dirt road. This crossing is not recommended unless you prefer more of an adventure, but the police there are very friendly and will help you get a ride or find a place to stay if it's getting late.<br />
<br />
=== [[Russia]] ===<br />
<br />
Since July 2011 it is also possible to cross the border to/from [[Russia]] for all passport holders at the [[Verkhny Lars-Darial Gorge border crossing]].<br />
<br />
== Sleeping ==<br />
<br />
Pitching a tent is a normal thing for the local people, forbidden only in city centres and near ruins. <br />
<br />
As usual in the former Soviet Union, it is possible to rent private rooms from local people. In any city or small town one need only go into a shop or small restaurant and ask if someone has a room. Prices start from around 10 lari, and sometimes tea and even dinner is included.<br />
<br />
Georgians are very hospitable people. When hitchhiking in the evening or at night, there is a high chance of your driver inviting you to stay at his home. If you are seen at nightfall on the outskirts of a town, villagers may literally pull you into their homes. Note that if you accept Georgian hospitality, your hosts may insist on a marathon drinking session, and you may not get much sleep before having to leave early the next morning. <br />
<br />
== Food ==<br />
<br />
It's hard to be hungry in Georgia. There's easy to find delicious and very cheap food in every city, in small villages you will be often invited to eat with locals.<br />
<br />
If you are looking for vegan options, just ask for ''samarkhvo'': this word denotes food suitable for the religious (Orthodox) fasting, that is actually completely free of meat, fish (though this is sometimes allowed), milk/cheese/dairy and eggs.<br />
<br />
== Climate ==<br />
<br />
Summer can be pretty hot in Georgia with temperatures around 35–40 °C so you'll need a lot of water and shelter from the sun. Water is easy to find and in fact most Georgians drink tap water.<br />
<br />
Winter is quite cold and snowy, especially the north parts. <br />
<br />
== Using police cars ==<br />
<br />
In Georgia it is possible to "hitchhike" with [[police]] cars. Due to the country's desire to become more European, a major reform of the police was undertaken, affecting also the way the police work and deal with people. You should not be afraid of asking policeman for information or help. Most probably they will help you and even more.<br />
<br />
The police provide a special type of service - they can deliver you to the address you are asking - for people who are in a position to be harmed or injured, for example when you are a foreigner and traveling alone in Georgia. They can bring you to the address you name or to a hotel. Keep in mind that you will have to fill out and sign a form. It is recommended to use this service in the evenings and nights.<br />
<br />
== Cities ==<br />
* [[Tbilisi]], the capital, also known as ''Tiflis''<br />
* [[Batumi]]<br />
* [[Gori]]<br />
* [[Kobuleti]]<br />
* [[Kutaisi]]<br />
* [[Mestia]]<br />
* [[Poti]]<br />
* [[Telavi]]<br />
* [[Vale]]<br />
* [[Zugdidi]]<br />
<br />
== Regions ==<br />
* [[Abkhazia]]<br />
* [[Adjara]]<br />
* [[Guria]]<br />
* [[Imereti]]<br />
* [[Kakheti]]<br />
* [[Kartli]]<br />
* [[Khevi]]<br />
* [[Khevsureti]]<br />
* [[Kvemo Kartli]]<br />
* [[Pshavi]]<br />
* [[Racha]]<br />
* [[Samegrelo]]<br />
* [[Samtskhe-Javakheti]]<br />
* [[Svaneti]]<br />
* [[South Ossetia]]<br />
* [[Tusheti]]<br />
{{IsIn|Western Asia}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Middle East]]<br />
[[Category:Georgia|*]]<br />
<br />
{{move_to_nomadwiki}}<br />
{{move_to_trashwiki}}<br />
<br />
[[de:Georgien]]</div>Lanigirohttps://hitchwiki.org/en/index.php?title=Europe&diff=81949Europe2016-01-13T13:43:34Z<p>Lanigiro: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Flag of Europe EU.png|250px|thumb|Flag of [[European Union]]]]<br />
Hitchhiking in '''Europe''' is fun. There are many small countries to enjoy hitching through, motorways in the Western parts can be exceptionally good, and overall hitchhiking is safe.<br />
<br />
Some countries such as [[Germany]] are quite easy to hitch around, for example, for the large distances in a single lift, or with the possibility to go really fast (especially where driving speed is not limited). Most countries are at the average or rather easy hitchability level, e.g. the [[Netherlands]], [[Belgium]] and East European countries. Some other countries are considered bad for the long waiting times (like [[Spain]] and [[Italy]]) but even there you might get a ride if you are patient enough. <br />
<br />
'''Note:''' In [[France]], [[Germany]], [[Austria]], [[Slovenia]], [[Poland]], [[Czech Republic]], [[Hungary]], [[Switzerland]] and [[Italy]] trucks are not allowed to use motorways on Sundays and on public holidays. In [[Germany]] this is also the case on the first Saturday of the school summer vacations, meaning the trucks will not drive for almost 48 hours!<br />
''<small>(Any other countries?)'' </small> <br />
However, these restrictions do not apply to those granted an exception, such as trucks transporting perishable goods and fuel supplies.<br />
<br />
For crossing the borders have a look at the [[Schengen Agreement]]. With a Schengen visa you can travel within a bunch of European countries.<br />
<br />
When hitching longer distances it's generally good to stick to petrol stations on the motorway. People there go long distances and it's not uncommon to find rides of 500 km and longer.<br />
<br />
== Maps ==<br />
It is more convenient to take a map on your trip but if you don't do so it is no big deal - some people actually prefer to get a feeling of lost nomads and to trust their own senses. For Western Europe the ''Marco Polo Euro Atlas'' is a great hitchhikers's choice: it contains a detailed information about petrol stations situated on motorways, and excludes less useful for hitch-hiking trips stuff like the index pages or city maps.<br />
For online usage: <br />
* [http://hitchwiki.org/maps/ hitchwiki.org/maps/] - based on OpenStreetMap and GoogleMaps<br />
* [http://viamichelin.com viamichelin.com]<br />
* [http://www.map24.com Map24.com] - very good Java-Maps and routing<br />
* [http://www.openstreetmap.org OpenStreetMap.org] - free alternative<br />
<br />
The app stores have great offline map apps for free or about 1 dollar.<br />
<br />
== Main European Motorways ==<br />
See [[European roads]]<br />
<br />
== Tips for each country ==<br />
[[File:Granada.jpg|thumb|right|250px|[[Robino]] hitchhiking in [[Granada]], [[Spain]]]]<br />
The [http://unstats.un.org/unsd/methods/m49/m49regin.htm United Nations Statistics Division] defines Europe as following:<br />
<br />
=== [[Northern Europe]] ===<br />
* [[File:Flag of Denmark.svg|30px|border]] [[Denmark]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Estonia.svg|30px|border]] [[Estonia]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Finland.svg|30px|border]] [[Finland]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Iceland.svg|30px|border]] [[Iceland]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Ireland.svg|30px|border]] [[Ireland]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Latvia.svg|30px|border]] [[Latvia]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Lithuania.svg|30px|border]] [[Lithuania]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Norway.svg|30px|border]] [[Norway]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Sweden.svg|30px|border]] [[Sweden]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of the United Kingdom.svg|30px|border]] [[United Kingdom|United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland]]<br />
<br />
==== Autonomic Islands or Regions ====<br />
* [[File:Flag of Åland.svg|30px|border]] [[Åland Islands]]<br />
* [[Channel Islands]]<br />
** [[File:Flag of Guernsey.svg|30px|border]] [[Guernsey]]<br />
*** [[File:Flag of Alderney.svg|30px|border]] [[Channel Islands|Alderney]]<br />
*** [[File:Flag of Herm.svg|30px|border]] [[Channel Islands|Herm]]<br />
*** [[File:Flag of Sark.svg|30px|border]] [[Channel Islands|Sark]]<br />
** [[File:Flag of Jersey.svg|30px|border]] [[Jersey]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of the Faroe Islands.svg|30px|border]] [[Faeroe Islands]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of the Isle of Man.svg|30px|border]] [[Isle of Man]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Norway.svg|30px|border]] [[Svalbard and Jan Mayen Islands]]<br />
<br />
=== [[Western Europe]] ===<br />
* [[File:Flag of Austria.svg|30px|border]] [[Austria]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Belgium (civil).svg|30px|border]] [[Belgium]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of France.svg|30px|border]] [[France]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Germany.svg|30px|border]] [[Germany]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Liechtenstein.svg|30px|border]] [[Liechtenstein]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Luxembourg.svg|30px|border]] [[Luxembourg]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Monaco.svg|30px|border]] [[Monaco]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of the Netherlands.svg|30px|border]] [[Netherlands]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Switzerland.svg|30px|border]] [[Switzerland]]<br />
<br />
=== [[Eastern Europe]] ===<br />
[[File:Trud_bulgaria.jpg|250px|thumb|Somewhere in [[Bulgaria]].]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Belarus.svg|30px|border]] [[Belarus]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Bulgaria.svg|30px|border]] [[Bulgaria]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of the Czech Republic.svg|30px|border]] [[Czech Republic]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Hungary.svg|30px|border]] [[Hungary]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Moldova.svg|30px|border]] [[Moldova|Republic of Moldova]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Poland.svg|30px|border]] [[Poland]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Romania.svg|30px|border]] [[Romania]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Russia.svg|30px|border]] [[Russia|Russian Federation]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Slovakia.svg|30px|border]] [[Slovakia]] <br />
* [[File:Flag of Ukraine.svg|30px|border]] [[Ukraine]]<br />
[[File:MagosHitchhike.png|thumb|right|250px|[[User:EliasExplores|EliasExplores]] hitchhiking to Salvaterra de Magos, [[Portugal]] Can be also found [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ImAV7DSq6FY here].]]<br />
=== [[Southern Europe]] ===<br />
* [[File:Flag of Albania.svg|30px|border]] [[Albania]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Andorra.svg|30px|border]] [[Andorra]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Bosnia and Herzegovina.svg|30px|border]] [[Bosnia and Herzegovina]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Croatia.svg|30px|border]] [[Croatia]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Greece.svg|30px|border]] [[Greece]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Italy.svg|30px|border]] [[Italy]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Kosovo.svg|30px|border]] [[Kosovo]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Macedonia.svg|30px|border]] [[Republic of Macedonia|Macedonia]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Malta.svg|30px|border]] [[Malta]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Montenegro.svg|30px|border]] [[Montenegro]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Portugal.svg|30px|border]] [[Portugal]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of San Marino.svg|30px|border]] [[San Marino]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Serbia.svg|30px|border]] [[Serbia]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Slovenia.svg|30px|border]] [[Slovenia]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Spain.svg|30px|border]] [[Spain]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Turkey.svg|30px|border]] [[Turkey]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Cyprus.svg|30px|border]] [[Cyprus]]<br />
[[File:Indrit mu.jpg|250px|thumb|Indrit hitchhhiking in [[Montenegro]]]]<br />
==== Autonomic Regions ====<br />
* [[File:Flag of Gibraltar.svg|30px|border]] [[Gibraltar]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of the Vatican City.svg|30px|border]] [[Vatican|Holy See]]<br />
<br />
== External Links ==<br />
* [http://www.digihitch.com/world/Europe digihitch World: Hitchhiking Europe]<br />
* [http://unstats.un.org/unsd/methods/m49/m49regin.htm#europe: United Nations Statistic Division]<br />
<br />
<br />
{{IsIn|Earth}}<br />
__NOTOC__<br />
[[trash:Europe]]<br />
<br />
[[Category:Europe| ]]<br />
<br />
[[de:Europa]]<br />
[[es:Europa]]<br />
[[fi:Eurooppa]]<br />
[[fr:Europe]]<br />
[[nl:Europa]]<br />
[[pl:Europa]]<br />
[[pt:Europa]]<br />
[[ro:Europa]]<br />
[[ru:Европа]]<br />
[[tr:Avrupa]]<br />
[[zh:欧洲]]</div>Lanigirohttps://hitchwiki.org/en/index.php?title=France&diff=81948France2016-01-13T13:43:24Z<p>Lanigiro: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{infobox Country<br />
|country = France<br />
|map = <map lat='47' lng='1.5' zoom='5' view='0' height='320' country='France'/><br />
|language = French (regional languages: Alsatian, Occitan, Breton, Corsican, Basque, Catalan, ...)<br />
|capital = [[Paris]]<br />
|pop = 65,8 million<br />
|currency = Euro (€)<br />
|hitch = <rating country='fr' /><br />
|BW = FR<br />
}}<br />
'''France''' is a member state of the [[European Union]] as well as the [[Schengen Agreement]]. It is usually a great country for hitchhiking. There are many friendly car and truck drivers. Drivers have to pay toll on motorways (except in [[Bretagne|Brittany]]), and you can get a ride quite easily at some ''[[Péage|barrières de péage]]'' (toll stations). When hitchhiking on local roads, you might face some difficulties sometimes, though. One of the commonly known barriers for traveling in France (as in many foreign countries) is the language - you might wanna learn some basic phrases before you off on the road in France.<br />
<br />
Like everywhere in Europe, walking on the motorways is illegal and thus it's also illegal to hitchhike there. If you are picked up the police you may be fined, however the Gendarmerie are likely to simply give you a lift to the next toll stop. Use service areas, peages and on-ramps. Moreover some experience shows that French people will more often stop in a place where it is not normally allowed than in other countries.<br />
<br />
It may also be helpful to write '''S.V.P.''' on your sign with a destination name - it is short for ''s'il vous plaît'' (sih-voo-play) which means ''please'' in French.<br />
<br />
On Sundays, only trucks with frozen goods are allowed to drive. Keep in mind though that trucks are not allowed to go more than 90 km/h and the driver must stop for a 45 min break every 4 1/2 hours, which can make the trip much longer.<br />
<br />
The ''"Michelin 726 National"'' map of France is a good choice for a hitchhiker in this country. It shows all the major ''barrières de péage'' and [[rest area|service stations]]. You can get a free map in péage offices.<br />
<br />
== ''Autoroutes'', ''péages'' and ''barrières de péage'' ==<br />
<br />
'''Péage''' ([http://french.about.com/library/media/wavs/peage.wav]) is a French word for ''toll''. It is also commonly used as referring to [[toll station]]s.<br />
<br />
In France, most of the motorways are toll roads which are the fastest way to hitch across the country. There are two types of toll stations on péages. First, there are big ones where all traffic has to stop to pay a fee (or to get a ticket) - these are ''barrières de péage'' and usually they are excellent spots to get a long-distance ride and make it really easy to hitchhike during the night. They are often located near big cities on the autoroute. Another type is a side barrier situated on all exits in the toll part of the motorway. On latter ones traffic is much smaller, therefore one can expect a longer waiting time, although sometimes congested toll stations (the first type) can be a difficult place to hitch from, too.<br />
<br />
To reach the ''barrière de péage'', you may need to walk along the motorway; with a help of a proper map check if the distance needed to be walked is not too long. It is actually illegal to walk on a side lane of the motorway (same is valid for some parts of national roads (''voie express'') in France); if police sees you, you will be driven somewhere safe and may be fined for ~90€. Péage toll stations are considered a part of the motorway, and legally you do not have the right to solicit rides there. You may be asked to wait in the parking area which is after each ''barrière de péage''. In practice, this is rarely enforced (maybe 5% of the time), most toll station employees simply want to make sure you're not endangering yourself or others. Having a sign with your destination (or the next city) is recommended and will distinguish you as a serious hitchhiker, and not a vagrant. <br />
<br />
The fastest way to travel on a péage is from one ''barrière de péage'' to another. Hitchhiking options are:<br />
<br />
* You can thumb immediately after the ''barrière de péage''<br />
* If you prefer a direct approach you can dash across the lanes one at a time until you're at a busy lane, stand next to the toll machine and talk to the drivers when they stop to pay (usually it is not allowed to hitch from the toll machines but it is generally tolerated).<br />
* You can wait before the ''barrière de péage'', just where the drivers choose their lane - there is often enough of space for cars to pull over to stop for you. <br />
<br />
Some ''barrière de péage'' are really good, some are not. If you've been waiting for a while using a destination sign, drop it and try thumbing.<br />
<br />
While on a toll road, you can always try hitchhiking from one [[petrol station hitchhiking|petrol station]] to another, either asking drivers while they refill, or thumbing at the exit of the service area. The staff usually doesn't mind hitchhikers.<br />
<br />
== [[License plates|Number plates]] ==<br />
French number plates end with a number of the ''département'' the car is registered in. For example, [[Paris]]ian cars end with numbers 75, 78, 91, 92, 93, 94 and 95. See Wikipedia articles on<br />
[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/French_vehicle_registration_plates French vehicle registration plates] and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_arrondissements_of_France Arrondissements of France]. New number plates are in use since mid-2009. They have an optional reference to the department on the blue stripe at the right side, but they technically are not part of the plate, and do not necessarily refer to the owner's address - one may for example choose to put the number of the department where he/she was born. Cars that belong to companies, including rental ones usually bear "60" or "76" since tax on corporate vehicles is the lowest there. The existing old plates will be still in use for a while.<br />
<br />
==Issues with Law Enforcement==<br />
There are three law enforcement agencies to contend with in France. The Police Nationale, the Gendarmerie and the Douane.<br />
<br />
The '''Police Nationale''' are tasked with policing urban areas with more than 20,000 inhabitants, and the surrounding highway infrastructure. They will rarely stop you, but they are well known for their less than sympathetic nature and occasionally affiliation with fascist organisations. They are a government agency bound by official targets, which means that if you are stopped, they will be looking for reasons to impose fines. Even so, they have no legal right to stop you engaging in lawful activities as long as you are not creating a hazard or committing some other offence. Remain calm and use your right to silence, only asking '''"am I free to go"''' repeatedly, and you should be ok.<br />
<br />
The '''Gendarmerie''' is a military agency tasked with policing all of the French Republic where the population is lower than 20,000. If you treat them with courtesy, they will most likely be professional and courteous in return. Sometimes they will offer to take you to a safer or easier location to hitchhike from. Only if you are creating a hazard will they issue fines.<br />
<br />
The '''Douanes''' are the customs agency for the French Republic. They patrol close to borders, looking for suspicious activity. '''They have a right to check your Identification if you are within 20km of the border''', but at all other times they need to have a reasonable suspicion ''(article 78 of the Code de Procédure Pénale)'' before they stop an individual. They are often active on highways and péages going south from [[Belgium]] and [[Luxembourg]], looking for people transporting large amounts of tobacco or looking for hitchhikers from the [[Netherlands]] who may be carrying cannabis. They are however quite professional, and after a few questions about your direction of travel, will let you go on your way.<br />
<br />
== [[Food]]/[[Money]] ==<br />
<br />
French bakeries are by law prohibited from selling bread that is older than a day, so it pays to go around bakeries (''boulangerie'') and asking for old bread, or simply checking bakeries' doors/backyards after they close.<br />
<br />
EU, EEA, Swiss, Andorran and Monégasque citizens can live and work in France without restrictions. Non-EU citizens who are from Albania, Andorra, Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Barbados, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brunei Darussalam, Canada, Chile, Costa Rica, Croatia, El Salvador, Guatemala, Holy See, Honduras, Israel, Macedonia, Malaysia, Mauritius, Monaco, Montenegro, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, San Marino, Serbia, Seychelles, Taiwan and Uruguay are permitted to work in France during their 3 month visa exemption period. For more information, visit the [http://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/en/france/coming-to-france/getting-a-visa/article/foreign-nationals-holding-ordinary French Ministry of Foreign Affairs] website.<br />
<br />
== Personal Experiences ==<br />
''In my experience it's pretty much impossible to go hungry in France. While hitching I almost ALWAYS get 10 or 5 euros thrown my way, and once even 60 euro! The key is to imply you have no money (helps the guilt if you actually don't have any like I did). Ask where you can use the internet or a phone, but WITHOUT PAYING, and 90% of the time they'll tell you "I'll drop you off at the station/road/town with 10 euros, alright?" It's not really possible without having a good standard of communication though, so either hope they know English or learn some French! I also wouldn't recommend doing "it" if you have no money or already had access to the internet or a phone, solely because of guilt. Even though I was genuine in my requests I didn't feel happy taking their money, but food is food!'' - Aaronishappy<br />
<br />
<br />
''France is great because it has roundabouts, which makes for slow traffic on the smaller roads. Of course, the big highways are off-limits in many cases, but that's alright. Beautiful countryside, good people. For me I enjoyed eating lots of cheese and lots of baguettes, as cliche as that may sound.'' - [[User:Chael777|Chael]]<br />
<br />
"Don't be afraid to approach people at service stations just because your French is weak (or, like me, non-existent). After a quick 'bonjour', or 'vous allez ou?', people were happy to help. Many people didn't speak English, with some I got by in Spanish, and with 3 or 4 we had no language in common at all. Nevertheless, people were still kind and willing to help." - [[User:Justunein|Justunein]]<br />
<br />
"My Hitch in France went marvellously! Check this, I was walking along the street in Nimes, minding my own business, and a woman pulled up in a car and asked me if I wanted to hitch to Marseille! She asked me!! When we got there, she showed me around and I slept on her sofa (whenever I tell French men about this they invariably respond 'Did you ''fork'' her?'). The next day, I got 5 hitches from Marseille to Limans, and for 3 of them all I had to do was hold up a cardboard sign and the first car that came picked me up. I was going to write that it's like taking the bus, ''but you have to wait for busses!'' As a bonus, the people who I hitched with were really nice, so much so that one of them lied and said that my French wasn't so bad! Oh yeah, and the bit about French bakeries is incomplete. They have pastries round the back too!!"<br />
<br />
I can also said France is very good country for hitchhiking, people are very friendly. Even that they do not speak a lot of English, they will try to help you. One driver also take me in one restaurant near high way even that I did not want that he spend money to by me something to eat. It was nice to cross from Spain to Germany in two days with hitchhiking.<br />
<br />
I started my first hitchhike tour in France and found out that most French people are very kind and in most cases they are happy to take you with them. But I think it's really helpful to speak even a little bit French so you can say want you want and where you want to go because most of French people don't like to speak english or maybee they are not able to.<br />
Espacally in the south of france it's also possible to travel short distances by train for free, because most of them are not controlled. In case of controlling you can say that you're out of money and in most cases they will not send you a bill because it is to complicated for them to find you in your home country. And even if you are in bad luck and they will find you the price is not even higher than the ticket for the train.<br />
<br />
== Gallery ==<br />
<br />
<gallery><br />
Image:Mrtweek mzenzes hitching in france.png|[[User:Mzenzes|Martin]] and [[User:MrTweek|Philipp]] hitching in France.<br />
Image:Derek_hitching_at_péage.jpg|Derek hitching at a péage near [[Valence]].<br />
Image:Cynthia_hitching.jpg|Cynthia hitchhiking out of [[Paris]].<br />
Image:Tokyohitch.jpg|[[Lille]]-[[Tokyo]] direct ride, 5-min deal.<br />
Image:Perpignan bridgeoveronramp.jpg|On ramp bridge near [[Perpignan]].<br />
Image:Spot-sharing.jpg|Sharing knowledge on spots to hitch out of Paris during the [[project 888|888]] event.<br />
Image:peage.jpg|A typical ''barrière de péage'' in France.<br />
Image:larochellehitch.jpg|[[User:Chael777|Chael]] on his ''first'' hitch!<br />
Image:Pat_e_Suh.jpg|Pat & Suh hitchhiking after a barrière de péage in France :).<br />
</gallery><br />
<br />
== External links ==<br />
* [http://mappy.fr/ Mappy] is a good online map service for France in case you want to know where certain public transport goes to.<br />
* [http://www.asf.fr/shared/pdf/CarteReseau.pdf Le Réseau ASF], a PDF file that shows all ''barrières de péage'' on major routes in Southern France.<br />
* [http://www.vinci-autoroutes.com/system/files/pdf/2012/12/carte_reseau_vinci_autoroutes.pdf Service Stations Network], a pdf file that shows all service station on major routes in southern France.<br />
{{Cities France}}<br />
{{Regions France}}<br />
{{Template:Europe/countries}}<br />
<br />
{{IsIn|Western Europe}}<br />
__NOTOC__<br />
[[trash:France]]<br />
[[digi:France]]<br />
<br />
[[Category:France| ]]<br />
[[Category:Western Europe]]<br />
<br />
[[de:Frankreich]]<br />
[[es:Francia]]<br />
[[fr:France]]<br />
[[pl:Francja]]</div>Lanigirohttps://hitchwiki.org/en/index.php?title=Eastern_Europe&diff=81947Eastern Europe2016-01-13T13:43:14Z<p>Lanigiro: </p>
<hr />
<div>'''Eastern Europe''' is great for hitchhiking. In many countries there is an active hitchhiking community. It might be a good idea to blend in with the locals. Don't dress conspicuously western, but do make it clear that you are a tourist. Many people love to get to know more about your culture. Especially outside of the big cities, people tend to be very friendly. <br />
<br />
Choose a country for more specific information.<br />
<br />
== Countries ==<br />
* [[File:Flag of Belarus.svg|30px|border]] [[Belarus]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Bulgaria.svg|30px|border]] [[Bulgaria]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of the Czech Republic.svg|30px|border]] [[Czech Republic]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Hungary.svg|30px|border]] [[Hungary]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Moldova.svg|30px|border]] [[Moldova|Republic of Moldova]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Poland.svg|30px|border]] [[Poland]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Romania.svg|30px|border]] [[Romania]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Russia.svg|30px|border]] [[Russia|Russian Federation]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Slovakia.svg|30px|border]] [[Slovakia]] <br />
* [[File:Flag of Ukraine.svg|30px|border]] [[Ukraine]]<br />
<br />
{{IsIn|Europe}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Europe]]<br />
<br />
[[de:Osteuropa]]<br />
[[fr:Europe de l'est]]<br />
[[pl:Europa Wschodnia]]</div>Lanigirohttps://hitchwiki.org/en/index.php?title=Enschede&diff=81946Enschede2016-01-13T13:43:04Z<p>Lanigiro: </p>
<hr />
<div>__NOTOC__<br />
{{Infobox Dutch Location<br />
|country = Netherlands<br />
|map = <map lat='52.22065572' lng='6.8815612792968' zoom='12' view='3' height='250' /><br />
|pop = 154,311 (01 Jun 2007)<br />
|state = Overijssel<br />
|motorways = [[A1 (Netherlands)|A1]], [[A35 (Netherlands)|A35]]<br />
}}<br />
'''Enschede''' is a city in the east of the [[Netherlands]].<br />
There was a [[liftershalte]], a spot for hitchhikers, on the Westerval, at the Parkweg (direction [[A35 (Netherlands)|A35]]). It disappeared somehow in 2006.<br />
<br />
== Hitchhiking out ==<br />
<br />
=== North towards [[Hengelo]], [[Oldenzaal]], [[A1 (Netherlands)|A1]] service station ===<br />
If you want to go towards the service station ''[[Het Lonnekermeer]]'' for long hitches into [[Germany]], get yourself towards the Deurningerstraat until end of town. Some 50m behind the last traffic light you'll have some space for cars to stop, pretty awesome spot for hitches towards Oldenzaal. For the service station, hitchhike for around 5-6 km and get out just behind the railway crossing. Walk up the bridge and at its left you can walk down towards the motorway and the petrol station.<br />
<br />
=== East towards [[Germany]] ===<br />
* Option 1: along the motorway towards [[Osnabrück]]<br />
<br />
There is an [[A1 (Netherlands)|A1]] on-ramp in [[Oldenzaal]]-Zuid. This is around 6 km north of Enschede. You can get there by taking the bus, line #60 or #62 towards Oldenzaal/Denekamp from the central bus station in Enschede. Get out at bus stop ''Hanzepoort''. Price is 5.50 Euro (Nov 2011), another option is to go only until bus stop Kotkampweg (1,50 Euro) (or walk there) and hitch at the bus stop or traffic light towards Oldenzaal-Hanzepoort.<br />
<br />
At bus stop ''Hanzepoort'', cross the street and walk 50m to the right. There you can stand along the [[shoulder|hard shoulder]] at the [[on-ramp]] up to the Dutch motorway [[A1 (Netherlands)|A1]] (German [[A30 (Germany)|A30]]) towards [[Bad Bentheim]] / Osnabrück. Average waiting time is 7 minutes, most people go to Germany, mostly to [[Nordhorn]] or Bad Bentheim near the border. This ramp is the 2nd last before the German border, try to get to the parking area at the border, there you can find trucks that might go up to [[Poland]] and further beyond. If you like going faster, check out the article for the A30, it's practically better to catch a car towards the on-ramp Nordhorn/Bentheim and from there getting rides eastwards much faster. This is recommended for experienced on-ramp hitchhikers.<br />
<br />
* Option 2: via [[Gronau]] and towards [[Münster]]<br />
For hitchhiking towards Münster take bus #1 (EUR 2,20) towards ''Wesselerbrink'', #2 to ''Helmerhoek'', #73 to ''Winterswijk'', or #74 to '' Doetinchem'' and get out at ''P+R Zuiderval''. There you can already see the motorway in front of you, just walk the 150 meters up to the ramp. At this spot the motorway [[A35 (Netherlands)|A35]] begins. For hitchhiking towards Gronau use the space in front of the traffic lights or walk a bit down the ramp.<br />
<br />
* Option 3: see section above, the petrol station north of Enschede works well to go towards Germany.<br />
<br />
=== West towards [[Hengelo]], [[Apeldoorn]], [[Utrecht]], [[Amsterdam]] ===<br />
* Option 1: To get on the [[A35 (Netherlands)|A35]] you just have to go to the Zuiderval. Take bus #2 towards ''Helmerhoek'' and get out at the ''P+R Zuiderval'' and walk to the higway (150 meters). You can also take line #1; for this see the spot for direction Münster. Also lines #73 and #74 take you there as written above. There are traffic lights and enough space for cars to stop. Use a sign with ''Deventer'' and try to get a lift to the petrol station before Deventer.<br />
<br />
* Option 2: Take bus #1 towards ''Universiteit'' and get out at ''Jupiterstraat''. Walk 200m up towards the intersection and walk left. 20m behind the roundabout you'll find an information bay which is perfect for hitchhiking rides towards [[Germany]] or all into the [[Netherlands]] (Haaksbergen, Deventer, Utrecht, etc.). It might be that rides bring you only about 3 km further to the beginning of the bypass that leads to the A35. From there, it's a 5 minute walk along the bypass towards the on-ramp of the highway either going deeper into Holland (Hengelo, Deventer) or towards Münster in Germany. The on-ramp is close to the Grolsch beer brewery, though it is not allowed to walk or hitchhike near the ramp to the highway.<br />
<br />
Though both these options will work when you're patient enough, it might be wiser to take the bus to Hengelo and try there near the Gas station located just 400 metres before the ramp to the highway. For more on this option: see [[Hengelo]]<br />
<br />
[[File:Oldenzaal_ramp.jpg|thumb|250px|left|On-ramp [[Oldenzaal]]-Zuid towards [[Germany]].]]<br />
<br />
=== All other directions ===<br />
If you are at the University of Twente, try this: Go to the entry of the University, walk the "Auke Vleerstraat" to the second intersection with traffic lights and hitchhike just behind it at the information bay. Great spot for rides into the Netherlands, towards Germany (Münster), within Enschede or Haaksbergen, though waiting times can differ during the day. This is actually the same spot as #Option 2 above here.<br />
<br />
== Sleeping ==<br />
It's possible to camp somewhere on the University campus, if you ask the security guys at the campus entry kindly to put your tent on a hidden spot somewhere between the trees. There's much green on the campus, only thing will be geese that are hanging around there. ;) There's also a campsite between [[Hengelo]] and '''Enschede''', not far from the University. Of course there are also lots of students with couches you could sleep on.<br />
<br />
{{IsIn|Overijssel}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Overijssel]]<br />
[[Category:Route Amsterdam - Berlin]]<br />
<br />
[[de:Enschede]]</div>Lanigirohttps://hitchwiki.org/en/index.php?title=Esslingen&diff=81945Esslingen2016-01-13T13:42:54Z<p>Lanigiro: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Hitchhiking Zine nomination}}<br />
{{Infobox German Location<br />
|country = Germany<br />
|map = <map lat="48.736440086899" lng="9.3061032910079" zoom="13" view="0" float="right" /><br />
|pop = 91,869 (31 Dec 2010)<br />
|state = Baden-Württemberg<br />
|plate = ES<br />
|motorways = {{Ade|8}}<br />
}}<br />
'''Esslingen am Neckar''' is a city in the [[Stuttgart]] region of [[Baden-Württemberg]] in southern [[Germany]], capital of the District of Esslingen as well as the largest city in the district.<br />
<br />
== Hitching Out ==<br />
<br />
It's recommended to take a train to [[Stuttgart]] and use one of the hitchhiking spots there because it's pretty close (about 15km to the center, 20 minutes by train) and a lot of easier to catch a ride from there. Nevertheless, if you are low on money (public transport is quite expensive here) or want to try it anyways, check out the following spots.<br />
<br />
=== {{Bundesstrasse|10}} [[Stuttgart]] ===<br />
→ Direction west to the motorways to [[Karlsruhe]], [[Heilbronn]], or [[Singen]].<br />
<br />
==== Vogelsangbrücke ====<br />
'''''Motorcar road on-ramp "Esslingen-Zentrum"''''' – Text<br />
<br />
=== {{Bundesstrasse|10}} [[Ulm]] ===<br />
→ Direction east to the motorway to [[Munich|München]].<br />
<br />
==== Vogelsangbrücke ====<br />
'''''Motorcar road on-ramp "Esslingen-Zentrum"''''' – Text<br />
<br />
=== {{Autobahn|8}} [[Karlsruhe]], [[Munich|München]] ===<br />
<br />
==== Motorway on-ramp "Esslingen" ====<br />
From ''Esslingen ZOB'' (central bus station), you can take the bus 120 (Neuhausen) and exit at the stop ''Zabergäustr.'' Just walk straight on ''Plieninger Straße'' and follow the roadsigns to the motorway.<br />
: You can try and thumb directly on the on-ramps, but cars are not allowed to stop there and the ramp is quite short. Better use a sign and wait on the green strip at the verge of the road about 150m before the on-ramps.<br />
<br />
==== Stuttgart Airport ====<br />
From ''Esslingen ZOB'' (central bus station), you can take the bus 122 (Flughafen) that operates between Esslingen and Stuttgart Aiport. It leaves every 30 minutes and takes about 35 minutes to the airport. The fare is 3.40 Euro (3 zones).<br />
<br />
===== Direction Karlsruhe =====<br />
-Placeholder-<br />
<br />
===== Direction München =====<br />
-Placeholder-<br />
<br />
==== Service Station "Denkendorf" (Direction Karlsruhe only) ====<br />
From ''Esslingen ZOB'' (central bus station), you can take the bus 119 (Denkendorf) and exit at the stop ''Weingartstraße''. Walk straight on to the crossing and turn right into ''Schlossergasse'', left into ''Pfarrgasse'', and right into ''Hintere Gasse''. Follow the street along the river ''Körsch'' to your left until the bridge to cross it. Turn right after the bridge and take the stairs up the footpath to ''Hoher Rain'' on the left. At the end of the path, you turn right and left into ''Klosteracker''.<br />
<br />
<br />
__NOTOC__<br />
<br />
[[Category:Baden-Württemberg]]<br />
[[Category:Germany]]</div>Lanigirohttps://hitchwiki.org/en/index.php?title=First_time_hitchhiking&diff=81944First time hitchhiking2016-01-13T13:42:44Z<p>Lanigiro: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Carl_Nai_Maroc.jpg|thumb|A sign and a ''hitchhiker'' look can help you a lot]]<br />
If you've never hitchhiked before, you have to get over your '''first time hitchhiking''' fear. Every hitchhiker went through this. The first time, standing on the side of the road, heart pounding.<br />
<br />
'''To get over this, ''just do it!'''''<br />
<br />
This is, of course, more easily said than done, but you can prepare yourself by [[maps|buying a map]], checking out the [[Top tips|Top Tips]], other pages on this wiki, and other [[multimedia|hitchhiking websites]],<br />
making sure you know what a good spot means, and that you know some good spots on the trip you're making and taking a look at your [[appearance]] to make sure you look like a hitchhiker.<br />
<br />
First time hitchhiking doesn't necessarily mean a short trip -- but starting with a short trip might help you get used to the motions and what to expect. Take a day trip to the next town! This said, don't prepare too much. Decide where you're going, the best road to get there, walk a distance, and at a good spot face the traffic and stick up your thumb. You'll feel like the center of attention at first, but after a while you'll get used to it, and will become more concerned with trying to ''win a ride'' than your worries about what you're doing.<br />
<br />
Sometimes it happens that you can wait for quite a long time, due to a variety of possible reasons: [[How to find a good spot|Is it a bad spot]]? Can cars stop easily there without blocking the traffic? Is it a holiday and all cars are filled up with families? The list of possible reasons is long, but to calm you down there's one universal rule for every hitchhiker out there:<br />
<br />
'''Somewhere out there there is someone who will pick you up. Always!''' The only question is when this is going to happen, but as Einstein once said: '''Time is relative'''.<br />
[[File:Amylin-luoping-china-2.jpg|thumb|Hitchhiking in [[China]] is for the more advanced]] <br />
<br />
== My first time Hitching == <br />
* [[User:Farshnuke|Farshnuke]]'s [[First time hitchhiking/Farshnuke]]<br />
* Zoe's [[First time hitchhiking/Zoe|First time Hitchhiking]] <br />
* [[User:Guaka|Guaka]]'s [[First time hitchhiking/Stories#Guaka]]<br />
* [[First time hitchhiking/Quarim]]<br />
* Pnadapand's [[First time hitchhiking/Pandapand|You Can Do It Too!]]<br />
* [[User:Brackers|Brackers]]'s [[First time hitchhiking/Brackers]]<br />
<br />
== A Step-by-Step Approach ==<br />
<br />
You want to try hitchhiking but never find the courage to do so? Here is an attempt at providing a step-by-step method to overcoming your fears and gaining enough self-confidence to adventure yourself out of your comfort zone.<br />
<br />
== Mental preparation ==<br />
<br />
# Have you ever hitchhiked at all? What experience do you have that resembles hitchhiking most?<br />
# If not, what prevented you from not doing it?<br />
# What makes you want to hitchhike?<br />
# How do you imagine you first hitchhiking day? What distance would it be? Between where and where? Where would you try to start from? Who would pick you up? Let your imagination run!<br />
<br />
== Join (more or less) organized events ==<br />
It can be a good idea to participate in [[hitchhiking for charity|charity hitchhiking events]] or [[hitchhiking races]] - also on CouchSurfing you can often find people organizing bigger or smaller events where you can probably find a more experienced hitchhiker to hitchhike with. [[Hitchgathering]] is a great way to meet other more seasoned hitchhikers.<br />
<br />
== External links ==<br />
* [http://www.christopherdrifter.com/books/Rules_of_Thumb Rules of Thumb: How to Hitch-Hike and Live on the Road]: a detailed guide aimed at less experienced hitch-hikers who want to hit the road for the first time<br />
* [http://danielsiegmund.nl/2011/07/hitchhiking-is-easy/ Hitchhiking is easy], a hitchhiking how-to<br />
* [http://www.ehow.com/how_4848627_hitchhike-effectively.html How To Hitchhike] a useful set of tips for first time hitchhikers at ehow.com<br />
* [[:moneyless:how-get-rid-your-car|How to get rid of your car]]<br />
<br />
<br />
[[trash:First time]]<br />
<br />
[[Category:General info]]<br />
<br />
[[de:Der erste Trip]]<br />
[[fr:Première fois]]<br />
[[he:פעם ראשונה]]<br />
[[nl:Eerste keer liften]]<br />
[[pl:Pierwszy raz]]<br />
[[pt:Primeira vez]]<br />
[[zh:First time hitchhiking]]</div>Lanigirohttps://hitchwiki.org/en/index.php?title=Dubosevica-Udvar_border_crossing&diff=81943Dubosevica-Udvar border crossing2016-01-13T13:41:22Z<p>Lanigiro: </p>
<hr />
<div><map lat='45.895663' lng='18.660867' zoom='11' view='0' float='right' height='270' width='350' /><br />
<br />
'''Dubosevica-Udvar border crossing''' joins [[Hungary]] and [[Croatia]]. It is located on the European road E73. Walking across this border is allowed.<br />
<br />
== Hitchhiking out ==<br />
<br />
=== North into Hungary ===<br />
<br />
The town of [[Mohács]] is just 10 km from the border, and the closest large city is [[Pécs]]. If hitching to [[Budapest]], don't bother with short rides, as there are plenty of cars going from the border directly to Budapest.<br />
<br />
=== South into Croatia ===<br />
<br />
There are many trucks at the border driving as far as [[Bosnia and Herzegovina]], so you can try hitching with them.<br />
<br />
Otherwise, the city of [[Osijek]] is about 45 km from the border (road number 7/E73) and there the road joins the A5 motorway heading south, in the direction of [[Bosnia and Herzegovina]]. The A5 motorway also crosses the A3/E70 motorway about 60 km from Osijek, where you can turn east (towards [[Belgrade|Beograd]]) or west (towards [[Zagreb]]).<br />
<br />
{{IsIn|Hungary}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Croatia]]<br />
[[Category:Hungary]]<br />
[[Category:E73]]<br />
[[Category:Border crossings]]</div>Lanigirohttps://hitchwiki.org/en/index.php?title=Gori%C4%8Dan-Letenye_border_crossing&diff=81942Goričan-Letenye border crossing2016-01-13T13:41:12Z<p>Lanigiro: </p>
<hr />
<div>The busiest border crossing between [[Hungary]] and [[Croatia]]. There are actually two border crossings few kilometers away from each other, the main one situated on the highway, and one for truck and local traffic. The highway splits just 1 kilometer before the border into two, one towards Croatia and one towards Slovenia and it seems good if you take a ride with a car going to Slovenia and leaving you at the point where highway splits. But crossing the main border crossing by walking is not allowed, and if you try it, in the best case you'll be directed to the local one where traffic is very low, so take only rides towards [[Croatia]].<br />
<br />
If you are by accident stuck at the smaller, local border crossing on your way to Croatia (e.g. if your driver goes to Slovenia, and leaves you at the on-ramp), just cross the local border and hitchhike (or walk) for about 1-2km upstream, and you'll be situated at the Croatian A4. Immediately, there will be a toll station, where traffic has to stop. You can perfectly hitchhike in front of it. Be aware of the mosquitos.<br />
<br />
<map lat="46.41654677094309" lng="16.70453071594549" zoom="13" view="0" float="center" width="650" /><br />
<br />
[[Category:Croatia]]<br />
[[Category:Hungary]]</div>Lanigirohttps://hitchwiki.org/en/index.php?title=Hegyeshalom-Nickelsdorf_border_crossing&diff=81941Hegyeshalom-Nickelsdorf border crossing2016-01-13T13:41:02Z<p>Lanigiro: </p>
<hr />
<div><map lat='47.924716' lng='17.111052' zoom='11' view='0' float='right' height='270' width='350' /><br />
<br />
The '''Hegyeshalom-Nickelsdorf border crossing''' joins [[Hungary]] (near Hegyeshalom) with [[Austria]] (at the village of Nickelsdorf). It lies on European Route 60. In Austria the road becomes the A4 motorway and in Hungary the road becomes the M1 motorway. Because Austria and Hungary are part of the Schengen zone, there are no border controls. However, cars are often going slowly, and on either side of the border there are rest stops where you can ask drivers.<br />
<br />
Finding an onward lift to [[Vienna]] or [[Budapest]] shouldn't take long. Very long-distance rides are also possible here.<br />
<br />
== Hitching out ==<br />
<br />
=== Into Austria ===<br />
<br />
On the Austria side of the border along the westbound lane, there is a Shell petrol station where Romanians constantly stop to buy vignettes. These Romanians are going to all parts of Western Europe, so a few simple phrases in Romanian and a smile can get you a very long-distance lift.<br />
<br />
=== Into Hungary ===<br />
<br />
From the rest station along the eastbound lane on the Hungarian side, one can thumb or ask drivers.<br />
<br />
If you are going to [[Romania]], hitch with a sign "RO" – you can get a direct lift with little waiting time, and there is no need to stop anywhere in Hungary. However, make sure that the Romanian driver is using the border crossing on the road you need (either Oradea or Arad).<br />
<br />
[[Category:Austria]]<br />
[[Category:Hungary]]<br />
[[Category:E60]]<br />
[[Category:Border crossings]]</div>Lanigirohttps://hitchwiki.org/en/index.php?title=Brussels&diff=81940Brussels2016-01-13T13:40:49Z<p>Lanigiro: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Hitchhiking Zine nomination}}<br />
__TOC__<br />
{{Infobox Location<br />
|country = Belgium<br />
|map = <map lat='50.836' lng='4.34' zoom='10' /><br />
|pop = 1125728<br />
|region = Brussels<br />
|motorways = [[A1 (Belgium)|A1]], [[A3 (Belgium)|A3]], [[A4 (Belgium)|A4]], [[A7 (Belgium)|A7]], [[A10 (Belgium)|A10]], [[A12 (Belgium)|A12]], [[A201 (Belgium)|A201]], [[R0 (Belgium)|R0]], <br />
}}<br />
'''Brussels''' ([[France|French]]: ''Bruxelles'', [[Netherlands|Dutch]]: ''Brussel'', [[Germany|German]] ''Brüssel'', [[Poland|Polish]]: ''Bruksela'', [[Latvia]]n: ''Brisele'') is the capital of [[Belgium]] and the [[Europe]]an capital. Brussels is a very international city. While still walking around in the center you might be able to spot some cars from other countries. For instance, when heading to [[Paris]], check the French numberplates with 75 or 90-something (Paris and its suburbs).<br />
<br />
== Hitchhiking out ==<br />
<br />
=== North-West towards [[Gent]], also to [[Lille]]===<br />
Let people take you to the Basiliek of Koekelberg. Then ask them the direction for the motorway. They'll indicate you to the back of the Basiliek of Koekelberg = Keizer Karel laan. Hike for 1,4 km till on your right the Baselix Shopping Center, where you'll find 2 petrol stations. Stay there as people fill up with petrol for going to e.g. [[Gent]] or [[Bruges|Brugge]].<br />
Just ask people.. won't take you more than 10 minutes to get a hike.<br />
<br />
Take tram 82 from the South Station in direction of 'Berchem' until the stop 'Berchem Shopping'. From there turn left and walk up the Av. Charles Quint for about 200 meters and you are at the beginning of the E40 in direction of Gent. Just hitch after the traffic lights, where there is an area for a car to pull aside behind you. The circulation is dense but cars can easily pull aside and get back on the road quite safely. This spot was last successfully used on August 22nd, 2010.<br />
<br />
There are two services along the E40 between Brussels and Gent that you can always manage to reach: <br />
# 'Groot Bijgaarden' is about 2.5km from the spot you are standing<br />
# 'Wetteren' is some 34km from Brussels and about 15km from the center of Gent<br />
<br />
Many people also take this route to go to [[Lille]] and [[Paris]], and there's probably more traffic on this road than on the option going towards Charleroi and Mons.<br />
<br />
=== South-West towards [[Charleroi]], [[Mons (Bergen)|Mons]], [[Lille]], [[Paris]] (E19) ===<br />
<br />
==== Drogenbos Motorway exit ====<br />
<br />
At the Drogenbos Motorway exit there is a [http://maps.google.be/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=nl&geocode=&q=stalle+prolongee&sll=50.792373,4.316597&sspn=0.045358,0.110378&g=drogenbos&ie=UTF8&ll=50.792468,4.304082&spn=0.001329,0.003449&t=h&z=18&iwloc=traffic light under the motorway bridge]. As cars need to wait to turn left to get on the highway, its possible to ask drivers to take you south, or to the [http://goo.gl/maps/fBvgQ=next petrol station on the motorway], which is 1.5 km further.<br />
<br />
'''Option 1.''' Take bus '''50''' (direction '''Lot''' station) to '''Gilson''' leaving from Brussels Gare du Midi/Zuidstation. This takes about 20 minutes. From here you can easily follow the road, alongside the massive shopping area, to the highway. You will find yourself at the motorway exits with traffic lights in five minutes. <br />
<br />
'''Option 2.''' Take tram '''4''' ([http://m.stib.be/line.php?lang=fr&line=4&iti=1 STIB]) till the terminus ([http://maps.google.be/maps?q=stalle+prolongee&hl=nl&ll=50.795375,4.318566&spn=0.000895,0.001725&sll=50.792373,4.316597&sspn=0.045358,0.110378&t=h&hnear=Verlengde+Stallestraat,+Vlaams-Brabant&z=19 Stalle]), then walk further towards the motorway along Rue Prolongée de Stalle/Verlengde Stallesraat (with some massive shops) till you'll reach the motorway bridge with the traffic lights underneath the bridge. [[Dante]] tried this spot a number of times, and often, within less then half an hour, gets to talk directly to drivers with French number plates going towards Paris.<br />
<br />
You can also leave tram '''4''' at the stop Egide van Ophem (2 stops before terminus). Here you just need to cross the street and you'll find yourself on a DATS 24 petrol station. Depending on the time of the day (best is around evening rush hour, as people are leaving Brussels), it can be easy or very easy to get a ride to the rest area of Ruisbroek (Total petrol station). Make sure to state very clearly where you want to go (Ruisbroek petrol station on the “ring”) as many people go through it without knowing, for example if their destination is Waterloo.<br />
<br />
==== Ruisbroek Petrol Station ====<br />
<br />
To get directly on the Ruisbroek Petrol Station (which is located on the western part of the ring), you need to take bus '''50''' (direction '''Lot''' station) to '''Ruisbroek Voetbalplein'''. This takes about half an hour. From here you walk straight and turn the second to the left (into Hemelstraat) and follow this till the end. Go left into Broekweg and follow your way onto the petrol station.<br />
<br />
==== Internationalelaan/Boulevard International ====<br />
<br />
Another option to go to the Internationalelaan/Boulevard International close to the motorway entrance. There is a lot of traffic and much space for cars to stop, even a [[petrol station hitchhiking|petrol station]] where you could ask people directly. To get there, take bus '''78''' from the Brussels '''Zuidstation/Gare du Midi''' in direction of '''Humanité''' and get out at the stop '''Bollinckx'''. Attention! The bus only runs every hour. [http://www.stib.be/horaires-dienstregeling.html?l=fr Schedule]<br />
Keep in mind that you are now in the middle of an industrial zone!<br />
<br />
==== CERIA/COOVI ====<br />
<br />
Another option to take metro yellow line '''5''' (direction '''Érasme/Erasmus''') and get off at '''CERIA/COOVI'''. Walk Chaussée de Mons/Bergensesteenweg down south (you can ask people the direction of Ikea). Some 150 meters from the metro station you will see a bridge. Go down across the bridge, there you will see entrance (consisting of 3 lanes from 3 different directions) to the motorway in direction of Mons/Paris. 5 km further there will be a big '''Total''' petrol station called '''Ruisbroek''', there you will easily find a ride further to the south.<br />
<br />
==== Delta (South-East) ====<br />
<br />
Although '''Delta''' is mostly known as the best spot to get to Louvain-la-Neuve then Namur and Luxembourg along the E411, it can very well be suited to get on the E19 (Nivelles, Charleroi or Mons, then Paris, or even Lille). [[abyssin]] successfully hitchhiked from there 10+ times. If used properly, this option beats Drogenbos in many cases. Using a sign on this spot is mandatory as drivers are used to see hitchhikers going to Louvain-la-Neuve (E411 rather than E19). After several trials, “'''Nivelles'''” proves to be the best thing to write on your sign (this is important). Unless your driver goes further, which is often the case, ask to be dropped at rest area of Nivelles 30 minutes from Brussels (the one with the Total petrol station and a restaurant that is built across the highway).<br />
<br />
The spot has direct access from the '''exit no. 4 of metro station Delta on line 5''' (15 minutes ride from the city center).<br />
<br />
VUB and ULB students or hitchhikers leaving from Ixelles have a reason to prefer this option as it will save them time compared to reaching Stalle stop (Drogenbos) by tram 4.<br />
<br />
Alternatively, you can ask drivers directly at the petrol station Lukoil (30 minutes on average). On the contrary, Texaco petrol station’s staff, on boulevard du Triomphe, has proven to be very unfriendly to hitchhikers once, threatening to call the cops.<br />
<br />
===== Cardboard around Delta hitchhiking spot =====<br />
<br />
There’s a Delhaize shop inside the metro station, easily accessible from exit 4 of metro station right from the hitchhiking spot (a stair going down to picnic tables). Also the staff of Lukoil petrol station across the intersection is nice and helpful.<br />
<br />
==== Alternative destinations along the E19 ====<br />
* [[Halle (Belgium)|Halle]], to eventually join the E429 to [[Tournai]] or [[Lille]].<br />
* [[Nivelles]], at the junction with the E420 to [[Charleroi]] and the N25 to [[Louvain-la-Neuve]].<br />
* [[La Louvière]], junction with the E42 eastward.<br />
* [[Valenciennes]] at junction with the A23 to [[Lille]].<br />
<br />
=== South towards [[Louvain-la-Neuve]], [[Namur]], [[Luxembourg]], [[Lyon]], [[Strasbourg|Strasbourg]], [[Geneve]] (E411) ===<br />
<br />
The E411 to Luxembourg is a recommended direction to head further South. This option should probably also be considered to go the South if you want to avoid [[Paris]]. Because petrol is a lot cheaper in Luxembourg you can easily find long rides at the petrol station in Luxembourg before the border.<br />
<br />
The E411 heads direction South to [[Namur]], [[Luxembourg]], [[Lorraine]] in [[France]] and in [[Germany]]. Many junctions, such as the southern ring near Jezus-Eik, connect to the E19 (towards [[Charleroi]], [[Mons (Bergen)|Mons]] and [[Paris]]) or the E42 just north of [[Namur]]. Using a sign would ease the journey but remember that these junctions are on the motorway and are not safe to hitchhike from.<br />
<br />
==== Delta ====<br />
<br />
One of the historically well-known places by local hitchhikers, '''Delta''' is on the way towards [[Louvain-La-Neuve]] (student town) and is situated right '''at the exit no. 4 of metro station Delta''' (15 minutes from the center), next to the Delta bus depot. To get there, take '''metro line 5''' direction '''Herrmann-Debroux''', or '''bus 71 to Delta'''. It takes a minute or two before a car stops, and it is common to bump into one or two other (student) hitchhikers there. There's a petrol station (Lukoil) next to the metro station where you won't wait more than five minutes on a Sunday morning if you say you're a student.<br />
<br />
Historical note: as [[Louvain-la-Neuve]] is a student town, and Delta is at the entrance of the motorway and next to the VUB/ULB (Brussels university), many students used to hitchhike that route.<br />
<br />
====Station Beaulieu in Ixelles====<br />
<br />
To get to metro station '''Beaulieu''' in Ixelles, take '''line 5 direction Herrmann-Debroux'''. You will notice many cars stopping at traffic lights just before the station. This road connects with the motorway towards the South. Some hitchhiker got a lift in less than 2 minutes. There is a big service station 10 minutes down the road if needed for further lifts.<br />
<br />
=== South towards [[Waterloo]] (local hitching) ===<br />
Public transport to the site of [[Waterloo]] battlefield are deficient, so hitchhiking could be a solution for those who wish to do a day excursion to that historic site. The best is to reach 'Ter Cameren Bos' (Bois de la Cambre) at the border between Ixelles and Ukkel [http://maps.google.be/?ie=UTF8&ll=50.811928,4.368154&spn=0.000717,0.001725&t=h&z=19 (Tram 94 - 23 - 24) and find a spot along the Chaussee de Waterloo] or by taking [http://maps.google.be/?ie=UTF8&ll=50.789497,4.374205&spn=0.000717,0.001725&t=h&z=19 Tram 92 till "Fort Jaco" terminus], and then walk to adjacent Chaussee de Waterloo to hh further south.<br />
<br />
=== North or East, towards [[Leuven]], [[Antwerpen|Antwerp]], [[Liège|Liege]], [[Germany]], [[Netherlands]] (E40 - E314) ===<br />
You can easily hitch out of Brussels in direction East from the European / Business Quarter.<br />
<br />
'''Option 1.''' Start hitching at the entrance of the Tunnel located at the gate of the Jubelpark/Parc du Cinquentenaire on the Blijde-Inkomstlaan/Avenue de la Joyeuse-Entrée on the side of the 'Rond-Point Schuman' (metro access 1A/1B direction Herrmann-Debroux/Stokkel). There is a street light and a side parking just at the entrance of the tunnel, you may simply stand by the light with a sign and the cars can immediately pull over to pick you. This hitching point is an easy start to go to [[Leuven]] or [[Liège|Liege]] or possibly reach the Heverlee services in Leuven on the E40 or on the E314.<br />
<br />
This spot works perfectly during business hours, but the traffic is low on Sundays or during holidays; note that it is also possible to catch a ride in direction North [[Antwerpen|Antwerp]] from there too, but a sign is required)<br />
<br />
'''Option 2.''' Another, second, good option is to hitch at the red lights on the [http://maps.google.be/maps?f=q&hl=nl&geocode=&q=rue+du+belliard+10+,+bruxelles&sll=50.84508,4.369297&sspn=0.010351,0.026608&ie=UTF8&ll=50.844945,4.368825&spn=0.010704,0.026608&z=15&iwloc=addr Rue du Belliard]. It's a one way street with 4 lanes and most cars enter the Tunnel at the end of the street that goes onto the motorway towards [[Leuven]], [[Liège|Liege]] and [[Aachen]]. Make sure to ask your driver they go onto the motorway and go towards [[Leuven]]. The first petrol station on the motorway is right after the exit to [[Leuven]]. If your driver goes to [[Leuven]] he can miss his turn and still go to the town through the petrol station. Nearby public transportation to this second hitch spot are Metro station "Trone/Troon" and also several bus lines.<br />
<br />
'''Option 3.''' Get to premetro Station "Diamant". You can get there by taking the metro to Schuman (Direction 1/5 Stockel/Hermann-Debroux) and change then to bus 79 (direction Kraainem) or take tram no. 25 from Rogier in direction of Boondaal Station/Gare Boondael. Cross "Bld. Auguste Reyers" in eastern direction. Then walk to the spot on the small street, just after the traffic lights, that leads to the A3-motorway. There is plenty of space for cars to pull over.<br />
<br />
'''Option 4.''' The best way to leave fast the city in the good direction is going ahead the ring road. So, if you're ok to pay the public transport, take the [https://www.delijn.be/fr/lijnen/lijn/3/351/2 bus De Lijn 351] from the train station Brussels-North and stop in [http://www.openstreetmap.org/#map=15/50.8744/4.4931 Nossegem - Centrum] (it takes 30 minutes and cost 3 euros). Walk a few in the direction of the bus and you reach a big cross-road where the highway is announced. Follow the sign and turn right to find a very comfortable point to hitchhike to [[Leuven]] or [[Liège|Liege]].<br />
<br />
=== North towards [[Antwerpen|Antwerp]], [[Breda]], [[Rotterdam]], [[Utrecht]], [[Amsterdam]] ===<br />
<br />
==== Antwerpselaan ====<br />
'''Option 1.''' Take tram #3, #19 or #23 and get off at ''De Wand'' or ''Esplanade'' (#4). Walk along the Avenue de Meysse up to the Antwerpselaan, crossing the Romeinsesteenweg. You can hitch along the Antwerpselaan and catch a car that would get onto the motorway at exit #2 of the A12.<br />
<br />
You can also take the tram till Terminus "Esplanade". Go to your right and take the "Avenue de Meysse" up to the "Antwerpselaan". You should be going slightly downhill. Indeed, cross the Romeinsesteenweg. By now you should see the signs for Antwerp. Keep following the sings since a couple roads join further on. This will increase your chances.<br />
<br />
'''Option 2.''' Take metro line #'''6''' in direction of Koning Boudewijn/Roi Baudoin and get off at Heysel. Take Keizerin Charlottelaan/Avenue Impératrice Charlotte to the right in direction of Brussels Expo. Continue Avenue de Miramar (so don't go to the atomium) and turn left at the end where you will see the highway A12 in front of you. Take the next to the right and go under the bridge. Start hitchhiking just after the bridge at the street on your left (Antwerpselaan). <br />
<br />
If you don't have any luck with finding a spot to stand you can try your chances at Brussels Airport. You can take bus 21 to the airport and then go to the "Départ" area. Go outside and you will see a lot of cars drive by and drop off people who are catching a plane. When you walk a bit into the direction where the cars are going to (it's one-way traffic) you will find a good spot where you can stand and where cars can stop for you. Use a sign, because probably most cars will move into Brussels and only a few will go to Antwerpen. This road will lead to the highway and also to the petrol station that is described at the section on Brussels Airport.<br />
<br />
==== NATO ====<br />
The [http://maps.google.com/?q=nato,+brussels&ie=UTF8&hq=nato,&hnear=Brussels,+Belgium&ll=50.877674,4.42263&spn=0.004008,0.009645&z=17&iwloc=lyrftr:m,0x47c3dcd1ea2536c7:0xe8a6c0992aa12ff7,50.877511,4.421042 bus stop in front of the NATO] is pretty good for hitchhiking further than Antwerp, although there is more traffic at the parallel traffic lights. For hitchhiking to Holland, make a sign for the Antwerp/E19 and get off at the petrol station just before Antwerp: lots of Dutch cars / people here to ask for a ride. If someone takes you to Mechelen though, make sure they drop you of at Mechelen Noord motorway exit. Buses 12, 21 and 65 go to the Nato stop. You can get the number 65 from the Madou metro stop.<br />
<br />
==== Airport ====<br />
Take an overpriced train or for a more normal price bus 12 or 21 to Brussels International Airport. There are many exits at the airport. You can find one and start hitching from where cars pay their parking-ticket. A bit further down the road towards the motorway you'll find a Shell service station. Most cars here stay around the airport, but you may have luck. A final suggestion is to keep on walking along the side-road until it joins with the motorway. Cars go relatively slow here and there is plenty of room for a vehicle to pull over.<br />
<br />
In order to get to the airport there are different options.<br />
# The fast but expensive (8,5€) direct train to Brussels Airport from Bruxelles Midi, Central or Nord.<br />
# STIB/MIVB bus #12 or #21 leaving from Place de Luxembourg (4€), be sure to check the timetable and keep the traffic jams during rush hour in mind<br />
# De Lijn bus #272 or #471 leaving from Gare du Nord/Noordstation (normal ticket price around 2€)<br />
# Take a normal priced train to Zaventem Station and walk 2 km to the airport. When you leave the station, take the Vilvoordelaan straight till the second roundabout and follow the road to Brussels airport (there is a pedestrian road next to the highway).<br />
<br />
==== Notre Dame Cathedral / Laeken ====<br />
A relatively good spot in the North-West of Brussels can be found around the corner of Parvis Notre Dame, the Cathedral of Laeken. You can reach this by metro L6 towards Koning Boudewijn and get off at Bockstael Metro station. Turn left when you exit and go through Rue Leopold I, or just follow the pedestrian street-signs for the Cathedral. Tram 94 also apparantly stops close to the cathedral (not confirmed). [http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=bockstael&sll=50.879901,4.358912&sspn=0.006025,0.013797&ie=UTF8&ll=50.878632,4.356237&spn=0.000753,0.001725&t=h&z=19 map].<br />
<br />
If your driver is not heading to your destination but goes to the ring, you can get out where the A12 starts. You will find some small spots around the roundabout that should work. [http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=bockstael&sll=50.879901,4.358912&sspn=0.006025,0.013797&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=Bockstael,+Fransmanstraat,+Laken+1020+Brussel,+Brussel+Hoofdstedelijk+Gewest,+Belgium&ll=50.894358,4.357474&spn=0.006118,0.011952&z=16 map]<br />
<br />
== Hitching in ==<br />
If you do not encounter a driver that goes inside the city, but takes the Northern Ring around the city, you can ask them to pull off the motorway (E40) at '''Exit #7a/7b''' ''(Chaussee Romaine/Parc des Expositions/Tentoonstellingspark)'' (basically, the Atomium and Heysel Stadium area) or at '''Exit #8''' ''(Wemmel)''. At both exits drivers can immediately rejoin the motorway at the sliproad opposite the exit.<br />
<br />
From there, you simply have to walk towards the Expo park to join the Tram (23 - 81 - 94) or Metro (1A) stations at 'Koning Boudewijn' or 'Heysel'.<br />
<br />
=== East ===<br />
If you arrive from the East, you might also ask to be left at the Services along the E40 in [[Leuven]], before arriving in Brussels, with the mean of catching a local ride that would get into town. This might be necessary if your driver goes up along the E19 to [[Antwerpen|Antwerp]], as there won't be any places for him to drop you off.<br />
<br />
=== West - South ===<br />
If you arrive from the North-West ([[Gent]]), you can ask to be dropped at the Services in Groot-Bijgaarden which is 2.5km before the ring of Brussels along the E40.<br />
<br />
If your ride only takes the Western Ring anyhow (from Gent or the south), you can ask to be left at the Exit 16 and gain the Metro 1b, stations 'Eddy Merckx' or 'Ceria' which are at footsteps.<br />
<br />
=== South ===<br />
<br />
If the driver goes to the East of Brussels, ask to be dropped at Delta.<br />
<br />
If the driver goes the West of Brussels, ask to be dropped at Drogenbos exit. It comes right after the rest area (Total petrol station) of Ruisbroek. Walk five minutes and you’ll be at the beginning of tram line 4, which goes to the center.<br />
<br />
== Public transport ==<br />
Checks on the metro system are not common, but it can happen. Fines are over 100 euro for not carrying a ticket. You also need tickets to enter and exit at some metro stations. If you have a phone connected to the internet you can check for controls on the website [http://www.controlestib.be controlestib.be].<br />
<br />
== Extra ==<br />
If you like to have a chat, free coffee or tea or free computer access, be sure to visit ''Use-it, Tourist Info For Young Travellers''.<br />
They also have a wide variety of free maps and the best tips what to do and where to hang out in Brussels. Check out: [www.use-it.be]<br />
<br />
[[trash:Brussels]]<br />
<br />
[[Category:E19]]<br />
[[Category:E40]]<br />
[[Category:E411]]<br />
<br />
[[visa:Brussels]]<br />
<br />
[[de:Brüssel]]<br />
[[fr:Bruxelles]]</div>Lanigirohttps://hitchwiki.org/en/index.php?title=Central_America&diff=81939Central America2016-01-13T13:40:47Z<p>Lanigiro: </p>
<hr />
<div><map lat='12.254127737657367' lng='-85.2978515625' zoom='5' view='0' float='right'/><br />
'''Central America''' is a central geographic region of the [[Americas]], which you can hitchhike all the way through.<br />
<br />
== Countries ==<br />
* [[File:Flag of Belize.svg|30px|border]] [[Belize]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Costa Rica.svg|30px|border]] [[Costa Rica]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of El Salvador.svg|30px|border]] [[El Salvador]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Guatemala.svg|30px|border]] [[Guatemala]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Honduras.svg|30px|border]] [[Honduras]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Nicaragua.svg|30px|border]] [[Nicaragua]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Panama.svg|30px|border]] [[Panama]]<br />
<br />
== Usage ==<br />
'''Central America''' may mean different things to different people in the world according to the context:<br />
<br />
* In English, Central America is considered a region of the [[North America]]n continent. Geopolitically, it usually comprises seven countries – Belize, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and Panama. [[Mexico]], in whole or in part, is occasionally included. Some geographers include the {{wiki|Political_divisions_of_Mexico|five states}} of [[Campeche]], [[Chiapas]], [[Tabasco]], [[Quintana Roo]], and [[Yucatán]], together representing 12.1% of the country's total area.<br />
* In {{wiki|Latin_America|Latin America}}, {{wiki|Iberian_Peninsula|Iberia}}, and some other parts of [[Europe]], the Americas are considered to be a single continent, and '''Central America''' is considered a region of this continent. In {{wiki|Ibero-America|Ibero-America}}, the region is defined as seven nations – Belize, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and Panama – and may occasionally include Mexico's southernmost region. Geopolitically, Mexico is not considered part of the region. <br />
* The {{wiki|United_Nations_geoscheme|UN geoscheme}} defines the region as all states of North America south of the [[United States of America|United States]]; conversely, the [[European Union]] excludes Belize and Mexico from its definition of the region.<br />
<br />
== Hitch-Hiking ==<br />
The hitchability in Central America varies from country to country but generally it is rather good. Hitchhiking is not very common because of the cheap bus transportation, but drivers understand what the thumb means. Waiting times vary but are not usually longer than 20 minutes. In many places, the first or second car will stop for a Gringo. <br />
<br />
=== Trucks ===<br />
One good point for hitch-hikers in this sub-continent is the large number of trucks that travel up and down the Panamerican highway, and between all major cities. Truck drivers, although they might tell you that their boss doesn't allow them to carry passengers (which might be true, but unless you drive up to the boss' door he isn't about to find out is he...), are very free people in their jobs: they can drive for as long as they want (and they do, sometimes more than 24 hours with no sleep!), they can stop when and where they want, they have cash from the boss to put diesel in the trucks, and apart from long waits at certain borders for paperwork (which they don't do themselves, letting specialized agencies do it for them), have almost not a worry on their mind! If you do get to travel any significant distance with them, and some drive all the way from Nicaragua up to the Mexican border, you'll probably have a great time, get loads of food bought for you (with the boss' cash!) and be really comfortable. <br />
<br />
== Accomodation and sleep ==<br />
In many cities and towns in Central America, you can usually ask the '''bomberos''' (firemen) if they have a place for you to crash for a night. Often they will give you a bunk or matress or couch to sleep on. Sometimes they give you a place to put up your tent. Sometimes they say no or make excuses. It's worth a try to ask though! They have bathrooms and usually a kitchen where you can cook. <br />
<br />
{{wikipedia}}<br />
{{IsIn|Americas}}<br />
[[trash:Central America]]<br />
<br />
[[Category:Americas]]<br />
[[Category:World]]<br />
<br />
[[de:Mittelamerika]]<br />
[[zh:中美洲]]</div>Lanigirohttps://hitchwiki.org/en/index.php?title=Africa&diff=81938Africa2016-01-13T13:40:00Z<p>Lanigiro: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Train_ndb-choûm_(27).JPG|thumb|right|300px|The longest train in the world, in [[Mauritania]]]]<br />
Hitching for rides is common practice in '''Africa''', though you may be expected to pay the driver.<br />
<br />
Road safety in Africa leaves a lot to be desired, and seatbelts are not always fitted. Being stranded in remote areas could be a problem. Speaking English and French is an advantage as well as Portuguese in some countries. However, learning the basic of African languages will make your trip much more pleasant. Some languages are understood in very large parts, such as [[Africa phrasebook#Wolof|Wolof]], Fulfulde and [[Africa phrasebook#Bambara|Bambara]] in [[Western Africa|West Africa]] or Swahili and Arabic in [[Eastern Africa]].<br />
<br />
For Europeans and Americans visas in Africa are relatively hard compared to other continents. For most countries it's a good idea to plan ahead.<br />
<br />
<br />
== [[Health]] ==<br />
Malaria is common in most parts of Africa. Inform yourself and take precautions. Some forms of malaria are particularly deadly. The fact that local populations don't take any malaria prophelactics should definitely not stop you from taking any: locals are much more resistant to malaria.<br />
<br />
The [http://unstats.un.org/unsd/methods/m49/m49regin.htm United Nations Statistics Division] defines Africa as following:<br />
<br />
== [[Northern Africa]] ==<br />
* [[File:Flag of Algeria.svg|30px|border]] [[Algeria]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Egypt.svg|30px|border]] [[Egypt]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Libya.svg|30px|border]] [[Libya|Libyan Arab Jamahiriya]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Morocco.svg|30px|border]] [[Morocco]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of South Sudan.png|30px|border]] [[South Sudan]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Sudan.svg|30px|border]] [[Sudan]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Tunisia.svg|30px|border]] [[Tunisia]]<br />
* [[File:Flag_Western_Sahara.png|30px|border]] [[Western Sahara]]<br />
<br />
== [[Eastern Africa]] ==<br />
<map lat='5.7908968128719565' lng='16.34765625' zoom='3' view='0' float='right' width='400' height='500'/><br />
* [[File:Flag of Burundi.svg|30px|border]] [[Burundi]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of the Comoros.svg|30px|border]] [[Comoros]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Djibouti.svg|30px|border]] [[Djibouti]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Eritrea.svg|30px|border]] [[Eritrea]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Ethiopia.svg|30px|border]] [[Ethiopia]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Kenya.svg|30px|border]] [[Kenya]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Madagascar.svg|30px|border]] [[Madagascar]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Malawi.svg|30px|border]] [[Malawi]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Mauritius.svg|30px|border]] [[Mauritius]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Mozambique.svg|30px|border]] [[Mozambique]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Rwanda.svg|30px|border]] [[Rwanda]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of the Seychelles.svg|30px|border]] [[Seychelles]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Somalia.svg|30px|border]] [[Somalia]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Uganda.svg|30px|border]] [[Uganda]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Tanzania.svg|30px|border]] [[Tanzania|United Republic of Tanzania]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Zambia.svg|30px|border]] [[Zambia]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Zimbabwe.svg|30px|border]] [[Zimbabwe]]<br />
<br />
== [[Central Africa]] ==<br />
* [[File:Flag of Angola.svg|30px|border]] [[Angola]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Cameroon.svg|30px|border]] [[Cameroon]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of the Central African Republic.svg|30px|border]] [[Central African Republic]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Chad.svg|30px|border]] [[Chad]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of the Republic of the Congo.svg|30px|border]] [[Republic of the Congo]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.svg|30px|border]] [[Democratic Republic of the Congo]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Equatorial Guinea.svg|30px|border]] [[Equatorial Guinea]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Gabon.svg|30px|border]] [[Gabon]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Sao Tome and Principe.svg|30px|border]] [[São Tomé and Príncipe|Sao Tome and Principe]]<br />
<br />
== [[Southern Africa]] ==<br />
* [[File:Flag of Botswana.svg|30px|border]] [[Botswana]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Lesotho.svg|30px|border]] [[Lesotho]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Namibia.svg|30px|border]] [[Namibia]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of South Africa.svg|30px|border]] [[South Africa]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Swaziland.svg|30px|border]] [[Swaziland]]<br />
<br />
== [[Western Africa]] ==<br />
* [[File:Flag of Benin.svg|30px|border]] [[Benin]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Burkina Faso.svg|30px|border]] [[Burkina Faso]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Cape Verde.svg|30px|border]] [[Cape Verde]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Cote d'Ivoire.svg|30px|border]] [[Côte d'Ivoire|Cote d'Ivoire]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of The Gambia.svg|30px|border]] [[The Gambia|Gambia]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Ghana.svg|30px|border]] [[Ghana]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Guinea.svg|30px|border]] [[Guinea]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Guinea-Bissau.svg|30px|border]] [[Guinea-Bissau]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Liberia.svg|30px|border]] [[Liberia]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Mali.svg|30px|border]] [[Mali]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Mauritania.svg|30px|border]] [[Mauritania]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Niger.svg|30px|border]] [[Niger]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Nigeria.svg|30px|border]] [[Nigeria]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Senegal.svg|30px|border]] [[Senegal]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Sierra Leone.svg|30px|border]] [[Sierra Leone]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Togo.svg|30px|border]] [[Togo]]<br />
<br />
=== Autonomic Islands or Regions ===<br />
* [[File:Flag of the Canary Islands.svg|30px|border]] [[Canary Islands]]<br />
* [[File:Flag Ceuta.svg|30px|border]] [[Ceuta]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Madeira.svg|30px|border]] [[Madeira Islands]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Mayotte (local).svg|30px|border]] [[Mayotte]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Melilla.svg|30px|border]] [[Melilla]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Somalia.svg|30px|border]] [[Puntland]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Reunion.png|30px|border]] [[Réunion]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Saint Helena.svg|30px|border]] [[Saint Helena]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Somaliland.svg|30px|border]] [[Somaliland]]<br />
<br />
== See Also ==<br />
* [http://artofbackpacking.com/how-to-survive-hitchhiking-in-africa/ How To Survive Hitchhiking In Africa]<br />
<br />
{{IsIn|Earth}}<br />
__NOTOC__<br />
<br />
[[Category:Africa| ]]<br />
<br />
[[visa:Africa]]<br />
<br />
[[de:Afrika]]<br />
[[es:África]]<br />
[[fr:Afrique]]<br />
[[ru:Африка]]<br />
[[tr:Afrika]]<br />
[[zh:非洲]]</div>Lanigirohttps://hitchwiki.org/en/index.php?title=Asia&diff=81937Asia2016-01-13T13:39:58Z<p>Lanigiro: </p>
<hr />
<div>In '''Asia''' hitchhiking is different country by country. Choose a country for more specific information.<br />
[[File:CraigDarioIndianTractor.jpg|thumb|300px|right|Dario and [[User:Halt, Stop! Reudnitz kommt.|Craig]] on Indian Tractor while '''[http://thumbingasia.blogspot.com/ Thumbing Asia From West to East]'''.]]<br />
[[File:Amylin-thai-pickup.jpg|thumb|300px|[[User:Amylin|Amylin]] hitching in [[Thailand]]]]<br />
<br />
== Tips for each country ==<br />
The [http://unstats.un.org/unsd/methods/m49/m49regin.htm United Nations Statistics Division] defines Asia as following:<br />
<br />
=== [[Central Asia]] ===<br />
* [[File:Flag of Kazakhstan.svg|30px|border]] [[Kazakhstan]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Kyrgyzstan.svg|30px|border]] [[Kyrgyzstan]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Tajikistan.svg|30px|border]] [[Tajikistan]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Turkmenistan.svg|30px|border]] [[Turkmenistan]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Uzbekistan.svg|30px|border]] [[Uzbekistan]]<br />
<br />
=== [[Eastern Asia]] ===<br />
* [[File:Flag of the People's Republic of China.svg|30px|border]] [[People's Republic of China]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of North Korea.svg|30px|border]] [[North Korea|Democratic People's Republic of Korea]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Japan.svg|30px|border]] [[Japan]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Mongolia.svg|30px|border]] [[Mongolia]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of South Korea.svg|30px|border]] [[South Korea|Republic of Korea]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of the Republic of China.svg|30px|border]] [[Taiwan|Republic of China]]<br />
<br />
=== [[Southern Asia]] ===<br />
[[File:Mikeeg555 hitching in Turkey.jpg|thumb|300px|[[User:Mikeeg555|Mikeeg555]] hitching in [[Turkey]]]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Afghanistan.svg|30px|border]] [[Afghanistan]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Bangladesh.svg|30px|border]] [[Bangladesh]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Bhutan.svg|30px|border]] [[Bhutan]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of India.svg|30px|border]] [[India]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Iran.svg|30px|border]] [[Iran|Islamic Republic of Iran]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Maldives.svg|30px|border]] [[Maldives]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Nepal.svg|30px|border]] [[Nepal]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Pakistan.svg|30px|border]] [[Pakistan]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Sri Lanka.svg|30px|border]] [[Sri Lanka]]<br />
<br />
==== Autonomic Islands or Regions ====<br />
* [[File:Flag of the British Indian Ocean Territory.svg|30px|border]] [[British Indian Ocean Territory]]<br />
<br />
=== [[South-Eastern Asia]] ===<br />
* [[File:Flag of Brunei.svg|30px|border]] [[Brunei|Brunei Darussalam]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Cambodia.svg|30px|border]] [[Cambodia]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Indonesia.svg|30px|border]] [[Indonesia]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Laos.svg|30px|border]] [[Laos|Lao People's Democratic Republic]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Malaysia.svg|30px|border]] [[Malaysia]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Myanmar.svg|30px|border]] [[Myanmar]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of the Philippines.svg|30px|border]] [[Philippines]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Singapore.svg|30px|border]] [[Singapore]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Thailand.svg|30px|border]] [[Thailand]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of East Timor.svg|30px|border]] [[Timor-Leste]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Vietnam.svg|30px|border]] [[Vietnam|Viet Nam]]<br />
[[File:DSC01806.JPG|right|thumb|300px|[[User:platschi|Platschi]] hitchhiking in [[Turkey]]]]<br />
<br />
=== [[Western Asia]] ===<br />
* [[File:Flag of Armenia.svg|30px|border]] [[Armenia]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Azerbaijan.svg|30px|border]] [[Azerbaijan]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Bahrain.svg|30px|border]] [[Bahrain]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Cyprus.svg|30px|border]] [[Cyprus]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Georgia.svg|30px|border]] [[Georgia (country)|Georgia]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Iraq.svg|30px|border]] [[Iraq]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Israel.svg|30px|border]] [[Israel]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Jordan.svg|30px|border]] [[Jordan]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Kuwait.svg|30px|border]] [[Kuwait]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Lebanon.svg|30px|border]] [[Lebanon]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Oman.svg|30px|border]] [[Oman]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Qatar.svg|30px|border]] [[Qatar]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Saudi Arabia.svg|30px|border]] [[Saudi Arabia]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Syria.svg|30px|border]] [[Syria|Syrian Arab Republic]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Turkey.svg|30px|border]] [[Turkey]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of the United Arab Emirates.svg|30px|border]] [[United Arab Emirates]]<br />
* [[File:Flag of Yemen.svg|30px|border]] [[Yemen]]<br />
<br />
==== Autonomic Islands or Regions ====<br />
* [[File:Flag of Palestine.svg|30px|border]] [[Palestinian Territory|Occupied Palestinian Territory]]<br />
<br />
<br />
{{IsIn|Earth}}<br />
[[trash:Asia]]<br />
__NOTOC__<br />
<br />
[[Category:Asia| ]]<br />
<br />
[[visa:Asia]]<br />
<br />
[[de:Asien]]<br />
[[es:Asia]]<br />
[[fi:Aasia]]<br />
[[fr:Asie]]<br />
[[pl:Azja]]<br />
[[ru:Азия]]<br />
[[tr:Asya]]<br />
[[zh:亚洲]]</div>Lanigirohttps://hitchwiki.org/en/index.php?title=Austria&diff=81936Austria2016-01-13T13:39:02Z<p>Lanigiro: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{infobox Country<br />
|country = Austria<br />
|map = <map lat='47.3333' lng='13.3333' zoom='6' view='0' country='Austria'/><br />
|language = German<br />
|capital = [[Vienna]]<br />
|pop = 8,316,487<br />
|currency = Euro (€)<br />
|hitch = <rating country='at' /><br />
|neighbour = [[Germany]], [[Czech Republic]], [[Slovakia]], [[Hungary]], [[Slovenia]], [[Italy]], [[Liechtenstein]], [[Switzerland]]<br />
|BW = AT<br />
}}<br />
'''Austria''' is a member state of the [[European Union]] as well as of the [[Schengen Agreement]]. It is a good country for hitchhiking, with fabulous views of the surrounding Alps and small lakes. While hitchhiking by motorway you can easily “hop” from city to city - ramps are usually easy to get to and easy to hitch from. Good places are service stations, too. <br />
<br />
Austria is surrounded by [[Germany]], [[Hungary]], [[Czech Republic]], [[Slovakia]], [[Switzerland]], [[Slovenia]], [[Liechtenstein]] and [[Italy]] - to any of these countries one can get easily by hitchhiking.<br />
<br />
People in Austria speak German (in some parts locally also Slovene, Croatian and Hungarian) but if you are not a German speaker you won't be in big trouble since almost every Austrian speaks at least basic English.<br />
<br />
In Austria most motorway service stations serve both directions of the motorway and there is one situated in the junction of the A9 and A1, serving all four directions! This is an overview of [[Crossable rest areas in Austria|features of all motorway service stations along the Austrian motorways]]<br />
<br />
== Border crossings ==<br />
<br />
* [[Hegyeshalom-Nickelsdorf border crossing]] with [[Hungary]]<br />
===From Germany===<br />
If you're coming from Germany and plan to come to / pass by Autria, There are two main points to cross the border : [[Passau]] and [[Salzburg]]<br />
* Most of the traffic going through '''Passau''' is heading '''East''' to [[Linz]], [[Vienna]], [[Budapest]]<br />
* Most of the traffic going through '''Salzburg''' is heading '''South''' to [[Trieste]], [[Italy]], [[Slovenia]], [[Balkans]]<br />
{|<br />
|-<br />
!Regions<br />
!Cities<br />
|-<br />
| style="vertical-align:top; padding-right:3em;" |<br />
* [[Vienna]] <br />
* [[Burgenland]]<br />
* [[Lower Austria]]<br />
* [[Upper Austria]]<br />
* [[Styria]]<br />
* [[Salzburg]]<br />
* [[Carinthia]]<br />
* [[North Tyrol]]<br />
* [[East Tyrol]]<br />
* [[Vorarlberg]]<br />
<br />
| style=" padding-right:3em;" |<br />
* [[Vienna]] (''Wien'')<br />
* [[Eisenstadt]]<br />
* [[Sankt Pölten]]<br />
* [[Linz]]<br />
* [[Graz]]<br />
* [[Salzburg]]<br />
* [[Klagenfurt]]<br />
* [[Innsbruck]]<br />
* [[Lienz]]<br />
* [[Bregenz]]<br />
* [[Villach]]<br />
|}<br />
<br />
== Practical links ==<br />
* [https://ausfahrtlinks.wordpress.com/ Austrian Hitchhiking Community]<br />
<br />
[[File:MrTweek.jpg|thumb|left|270px|[[User:MrTweek|MrTweek]] hitching in Austria]]<br />
<br />
{{Template:Europe/countries}}<br />
{{IsIn|Western Europe}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Western Europe]]<br />
[[Category:Austria|*]]<br />
<br />
[[trash:Austria]]<br />
<br />
[[de:Österreich]]<br />
[[es:Austria]]<br />
[[fi:Itävalta]]<br />
[[fr:Autriche]]<br />
[[pl:Austria]]<br />
[[tr:Avusturya]]</div>Lanigirohttps://hitchwiki.org/en/index.php?title=Belgium&diff=81935Belgium2016-01-13T13:38:52Z<p>Lanigiro: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{infobox Country<br />
|country = Belgium<br />
|map = <map lat='50.53' lng='4.44' zoom='7' view='0' width='360' height='310' country='Belgium' /><br />
|language = Dutch, French, German<br />
|capital = [[Brussels]]<br />
|pop = 11,007,020<br />
|currency = Euro (€)<br />
|hitch = <rating country='be' /><br />
|BW = BE<br />
}}<br />
'''Belgium''' is a small country between, clockwise from the North, the [[Netherlands]], [[Germany]], [[Luxembourg]] and [[France]]. It is a member state of the [[European Union]] as well as the [[Schengen Agreement]].<br />
The country is divided into a Dutch speaking part in the North ([[Flanders]]), and a French speaking part in the South (Wallonie) and a tiny German speaking part in the East. [[Brussels]], the country and European capital, has a bilingual status. In Flanders most people will be able to help you out easily in English. In French speaking Belgium English is quite a bit less commonly spoken, but on the whole people will be able to help you out (especially younger people).<br />
<br />
Hitch-hiking in the country is in general fairly easy, and, due to the high number of foreigners working in the country, getting a ride out of the country is usually just as easy. The country has one of the most dense road and motorway networks in Europe which can make it slightly complex when trying to find a direct route to a destination. Still, hitching out of a city or moving from on-ramp to on-ramp is usually fairly simple.<br />
<br />
The best places to start are the roundabouts near the entrance of the main highways (such spots can be found very easily in [[Oostende]], [[Liège]], [[Louvain-la-Neuve]] and [[Namur]]).<br />
<br />
Belgium has a very high density of petrol stations and service areas on the motorways. This makes it easier to find one, but also leads to less traffic on a single service area. Because of its bilingual status, it could be helpful to approach drivers in their native language. Although there is no specific way to be sure of telling what language a driver speaks, some solutions are:<br />
* quickly say 'Hi' in both Dutch (dag) or French (bonjour)<br />
* check up the sticker of the car retailer to notice in what part of the country it has been bought<br />
* introduce yourself as a foreigner<br />
<br />
Useful tip: Free use of Internet PC's in many city libraries.<br />
Useful tip: Most petrol stations in Belgium are open 24/7, the staff is friendly and you can have a nap during the night, if you end up on the road. However, be careful since the traffic is high all night long, many people stop and some can be drunk. <br />
<br />
It is common practice to use the E-numbers for motorways, instead of A-numbers like in most countries. Even on road signs you will only find E-numbers.<br />
<br />
== Main Cities ==<br />
[[File:Hitchhiking-without-canoe-belgium-2013.jpg|thumb|300px|Hitchhiking without a canoe, coming from the Post Hitchgathering 2013 in Houyet]]<br />
* [[Brussels]] (French: ''Bruxelles'', Dutch: ''Brussel'', German: ''Brüssel'')<br />
<br />
* [[Antwerpen]] (French: ''Anvers'', Dutch: ''Antwerpen'', German: ''Anwerpen'')<br />
* [[Bruges|Brugge]] (French: ''Bruges'', Dutch: ''Brugge'', German: ''Brügge'')<br />
* [[Gent]] (French: ''Gand'', Dutch: ''Gent'', German: ''Gent'')<br />
* [[Hasselt]] (''idem'')<br />
* [[Leuven]] (French: ''Louvain'', Dutch: ''Leuven'', German: ''Löwen'')<br />
* [[Oostende]] (French: ''Ostende'', Dutch: ''Oostende'', German: ''Ostende'')<br />
<br />
* [[Liège]] (French: ''Liège'', Dutch: ''Luik'', German: ''Lüttich'')<br />
* [[Charleroi]] (''idem'')<br />
* [[Namur]] (French: ''Namur'', Dutch: ''Namen'', German: ''Namur'')<br />
* [[Mons]] (French: ''Mons'', Dutch: ''Bergen'', German: ''Mons'')<br />
* [[Arlon]] (French: ''Arlon'', Dutch: ''Aarlen'', German: ''Arlon'')<br />
* [[Louvain-la-Neuve]] (''idem'')<br />
<br />
== License plates ==<br />
Belgian license plates do not contain information about where the car comes from. A Belgian license plate is assigned for life to the owner of a car. Usually the plates are white with red text. Cars owned by employees of institutes of the European Union in Brussels and Diplomatic Technical and Administrative Staff have a white plate with blue letters. Diplomatic license plates start with "CD". When Belgians replace their cars, they will keep the same license plate number. Often the name and the city of the garage where the car was bought is indicated just under or at the left side of the license plate on the backside of the car. A license plate of an old timer starts with "O".<br />
<br />
[[File:Netherlands.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Leaving for the [[Netherlands]]]]<br />
<br />
== Public Transport ==<br />
Public transport is extensive and affordable to a certain point. <br />
<br />
'''Train:'''<br />
<br />
The Belgian train ([http://www.b-rail.be/main/E/index.php SNCB/NMBS] Company reaches all major cities with a regular service. On weekends (from Friday after 19h until Sunday evening), the return ticket is reduced by 50% which is good option for a weekend evasion within the country. The Go-Pass/Rail-Pass is a 10 journeys ticket that allows you to go everywhere in the country (borders excluded). The Go-Pass cost €50 (so 5€/journey) and is for the -26, although if you don't look too old you probably won't be asked to prove your age. A Go-Pass 1 costs €6.50 for a single journey between 2 Belgian station (only online purchase). The Rail-Pass, for those over 26, costs €76. The Go-Pass is a good option to go from one side of the country to another. The pass is valid for a year from the date of purchase.<br />
<br />
'''Buses/Tram:'''<br />
* In Flanders (north), the public transport company is [http://www.delijn.be/ DeLijn] which completes the train services into the rural towns and inside the urbanised areas. It is possible to buy a 'LijnKaart' which saves you on the cost of local transport. Ticket from ticketmachine or in shops give you 25% discount.<br />
* In [[Brussels]], public transport are provided by the [http://www.stib.be/index.htm?guest_user=guest_en STIB/MIVB]. There again you can buy a 5 or 10 journeys ticket. Note that buying your ticket inside the bus/tram costs you more. More details will be added regarding Public Transport in Brussels on the city page itself.<br />
* In Wallonia (south), the regional bus company is [http://www.infotec.be/index.aspx?PageId=631734023237830544&Language=english TEC]<br />
<br />
== Food & Toilets ==<br />
The price of food on motorway services is relatively high, so try to stock up before leaving and note that very few motorway services have free toilets. The price (usually between €0.30 and 0.70) sometimes includes a voucher that can be used in the restaurant. However, it is easy to jump over the barrier and use the toilet for free. The cheapest supermarkets in the country are ''Lidl'', ''Aldi'' and ''Colruyt'', and food bought in them will be significantly cheaper than on motorway services. ''Carrefour'' and ''Delhaize'' are more expensive options, but are extensively located downtown with longer opening hours (Often 20:00, but not all of them!) which will offer better prices than the night stores. Note that in Belgium most shops close at 18:00 and very few shops are open on Sundays.<br />
<br />
There are few free public toilets around, and you might even be charged in places like McD's. It is best to avoid the touristic areas when looking for a free toilet and aim at the less obvious places such as big chain hotels (Radisson...), public buildings (libraries and schools) and some cafes where you can use the toilet without being spot by the staff who might request you to pay a fee up to 50 cents, although many will allow you to use the toilet if you ask them in English!<br />
<br />
Belgium is famous for its frietkoten. These are small restaurants or shacks, that sell French fries (a Belgian dish mind you! Protip: Make sure you don't call them French fries, but just fries. Because some will lecture lecture you about fries not being french.) and all sorts of snacks for relatively low prices. It's not very healthy, but for €5 you can have quite a big meal which is bigger & cheaper then McD's. Every village has a frietkot, and every city has at least one in every neighborhood.<br />
<br />
Also make sure you try out the beer. Belgians have the most and best types of beer in the world, and often it'll be cheaper then water or soda.<br />
<br />
== Links ==<br />
* [https://www.facebook.com/groups/467054706678994/ Facebook group Hitchhiking in Belgium and the Netherlands]<br />
<br />
{{IsIn|Western Europe}}<br />
{{Template:Regions Belgium}}<br />
{{Highways BE}}<br />
<br />
{{Template:Europe/countries}}<br />
__NOTOC__<br />
[[trash:Belgium]]<br />
[[Category:Belgium| ]]<br />
[[Category:Western Europe]]<br />
<br />
[[visa:Belgium]]<br />
<br />
[[de:Belgien]]<br />
[[es:Bélgica]]<br />
[[fi:Belgia]]<br />
[[fr:Belgique]]<br />
[[tr:Belçika]]</div>Lanigirohttps://hitchwiki.org/en/index.php?title=A2_(Netherlands)&diff=81934A2 (Netherlands)2016-01-13T13:38:42Z<p>Lanigiro: </p>
<hr />
<div>The '''A2''' is a well-frequented [[highway|motorway]] in the [[Netherlands]].<br />
<br />
The most effective way to travel as a hitchhiker using this motorway is to comply with the same, common on Western motorways practice of hopping from one [[rest area|service area]] to another. A2 unites several cities, notably [[Utrecht]], [[den Bosch|'s-Hertogenbosch]], [[Eindhoven]] and [[Sittard]]. In Maastricht, the A2 ends for a distance of about 2 km, to turn into A2 again from the south of Maastricht up to the border to [[Belgium]] where it is named [[A25 (Belgium)|A25]] and goes towards [[Liège|Liege]].<br />
<br />
Since the A2 is the main north-south motorway within the Netherlands, hitchhiking is usually pretty straightforward.<br />
<br />
For more information check either [http://nl.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rijksweg_2 Dutch] or [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/A2_motorway_(Netherlands) English] Wikipedia.<br />
<br />
'''Scroll down to bottom of page for more detailed maps'''<br />
<map lat='51.6' lng='5.45' zoom='8' view='0' country='Netherlands' width='450' height='550' float='left'/><br />
<br />
<br />
== Hitchhiking on the '''A2''' ==<br />
{{legend}}<br />
<br />
=== Hitchhiking A2 [[Amsterdam]] direction [[Maastricht]] using service areas ===<br />
* [[Petrol station hitchhiking|Petrol station]] 500 meter south of the bridge Utrechtsebrug in Amsterdam. This one may be reached on foot from the Utrechtsebrug. One has to walk in the verge of the motorway. ''Rating: {{senseless}}''<br />
* Petrol station "Viersprong" between exit 3 and 4. This petrol station does not exist anymore ''Rating: {{senseless}}''<br />
* Petrol station "Haarrijn" between exit 5 and 6. Huge petrol station, and the best one to change cars between Amsterdam and Utrecht. Possible to camp at the west end of this huge area. ''Rating: {{good}}''<br />
* Petrol station "Nieuwegein" between exit 8 and 9. Comparatively small petrol station, yet good going further down the A2 or onto the A27. ''Rating: {{average}}''<br />
* Petrol station "Bisde" between exit 13 and 14. Quite big petrol station. ''Rating: {{average}}''<br />
* Petrol station with restaurant "De Lucht west" between exits 17 and 18. Huge petrol station with a long history. One of the buildings dates back to the 1950s, and the area has been used as a stopover for travellers for over a hundred years. This service area may be considered the most important one between the west and the south of the Netherlands. Fverhart hitched there over 10 times, with an average wait of 10-15 minutes for a 100 km ride to Maastricht or its vicinity. ''Rating: {{Very Good}}''<br />
* Parking area "De Rooijen" between exit 19 and 20. Please avoid this one, just a couple of kilometers after the previous great petrol station. Few people stop here, it is usually rather noisy and windy (though the views over the river are nice), and there seem some shady activities to be going on. And you may smell piss or so, because there is no toilet there. ''Rating: {{bad}}''<br />
* Petrol station "Velder" between exit 26 and 27. Place to change car is the driver is going into Eindhoven. Pretty standard size, and even if it is not the most busy one, pretty easy to get away. ''Rating: {{average}}/{{good}}''<br />
* Parking area "Aalsterhut" between exit 34 and 35. This parking does not exist anymore. ''Rating: {{senseless}}''<br />
* Petrol station "'t Haasje" between exits 35 and 36. Quite good, just as the previous one. ''Rating: {{average}}/{{good}}''<br />
* Restaurant and parking "Roevenpeel" between exits 39 and 40. There is no petrol station on this service area, therefore the prospects with hitchhiking are not optimal. ''Rating: {{bad}}''<br />
* Petrol station "Ellerbrug" between exits 40 and 41. This one is rather quiet, especially in the evening. It is currently being rebuilt. ''Rating: {{average}}''<br />
* Petrol station "Het Anker" between exits 46 and 47. This is the service area which you should use in case the driver is not going to Maastricht, but to one of the other cities in the southernmost part of the Netherlands, or if the driver is heading for Aachen or beyond in Germany. It is quite easy to find a driver to Maastricht. About 20% of the drivers actually go there, while most go towards Geleen, Heerlen, Kerkrade etc. French and Luxembourgian cars are extremely likely to go through Maastricht from here. ''Rating: {{average}}/{{good}}''<br />
* Petrol station "Vossedal" between exits 49 and 50. This one is small, but since Maastricht is only 8 kilometers further on, one normally finds a ride there in no time. ''Rating: {{good}} (for Maastricht) and {{bad}}/{{average}} (for any place beyond Maastricht)''<br />
* Petrol station "Knuvelkes" between exit 57 and 58. This one is already south of Maastricht. Alas, it is not frequented very much, because all drivers go into Belgium, and rather leave this one aside, for the petrol in Belgium is a bit cheaper. Still it is possible to find rides to Liege/Luxembourg or towards Charleroi. ''Rating: bad/average''<br />
* Parking area on the border. On this former customs area you will find a snack bar, where some people stop on their way to the south. France, for example. ''Rating: {{bad}}/{{average}}''<br />
<br />
=== Hitchhiking A2 [[Amsterdam]] direction [[Maastricht]] using ramps ===<br />
If an on ramp is not listed, it does not mean it is good or bad. However, it is likely not to be particularly good.<br />
* Utrechtsebrug, bridge just before the beginning of the motorway. Amsterdam. This is a classic starting point to hitchhike, '''the''' spot for hitchhiking in the '60s and '70s. Today it does not look too good there, but one may still ask for rides at the traffic lights just before the bridge. It is a pity for hitchhikers that there is a barrier between the road and the cycling lane onto the bridge. Autostopguide to Europe recommends hitchhiking after the bridge, between the first (unofficial) exit and entry lanes, though cars are speeding there yet at 80 kmh. ''Rating: quite bad''<br />
* Entrance 3. Abcoude. Dangerous! ''Rating: bad''<br />
* Entrance 5. Breukelen. Reasonable. Easy to get to the next petrol station. ''Rating: bad/average''<br />
* Entrance 6. Maarssen (Utrecht north). Enough space, but drivers do not tend to stop here. ''Rating: bad/average''<br />
* Entrance 8. Utrecht. Traffic situation on the square is complicated. On access lane drivers speed up too much, and not very easy to reach this place. Ask for a ride at the traffic lights. ''Rating: bad/average''<br />
* Entrance 17. Zaltbommel. Enough space to stand, easy to stop. Quite good point to leave Zaltbommel. ''Rating: average''<br />
* Entrance 20. 's-Hertogenbosch. There is NO space to stop. ''Rating: bad''<br />
* Entrance 24. Vught. Enough space to stand, easy to stop. ''Rating: average''<br />
* Entrance 26. Boxtel. Enough space to stand, easy to stop and to get to the next petrol station. ''Rating: average''<br />
* Entrance 28. Best. Most drivers are heading for Eindhoven, and it can be hard to find one going further. ''Rating: quite bad''<br />
* Entrance 31. Veldhoven. Enough space to stand, but many drivers will stay in Eindhoven. Still a reasonable place to get a ride towards Maastricht, Venlo or Antwerpen. Best is to ask at the traffic lights, where you would have just enough time to get in the car. ''Rating: average''<br />
* Entrance 32. Veldhoven-Zuid. There is no space to stop on the access lane (only further on, where cars are speeding already. ''Rating: bad''<br />
* Entrance 33. Waalre. Enough space to stand. ''Rating: perhaps average''.<br />
* Entrance 38. Weert-Noord. Supposedly quite complicated junction with a 4-lane road to Weert. ''Rating: perhaps quite bad''<br />
* Entrance 39. Nederweert. Enough space to stand, easy to get away, enough traffic from Weert and other main road. ''Rating: average/good''<br />
* Entrance 40. Kelpen. Enough space to stand, easy to get away, enough traffic from Weert. ''Rating: average/good''<br />
* Entrance 41. Grathem. Even though the motorway connects here to an important non-motorway the access lane may not be very good, since it has big dimensions and drivers need all their attention to take the sharp curve. ''Rating: bad/average''<br />
* Entrance 44. Sint Joost. A traffic square with space to stand on the access lane. Traffic passes by slowly, and there are enough drivers, coming from Roermond for example. Easy to stop a car here. Situation will change in next years, when the A73 motorway will be realized. ''Rating: average''<br />
* Entrance 45. Echt. Good, because there is a small roundabout where it is easy to stop. ''Rating: average''<br />
* Entrance 47. Roosteren. ''Rating: average''<br />
* Entrance 48. Urmond ''Rating: average''<br />
* Entrance 50. Maastricht-Aachen Airport. ''Rating: average/good''<br />
* Entrance 51. Meerssen. Impossible to hitch south, as the entrance lane is only to the north. ''Rating: mission impossible''<br />
* Entrance 55. Randwyck. ''Rating: bad/average''<br />
* Entrance 57. Oost-Maarland. There is no access lane to the south. ''Rating: mission impossible''<br />
<br />
=== Hitchhiking A2 [[Maastricht]] direction [[Amsterdam]] using service areas ===<br />
* Petrol station "Patiel" between exits 58 and 57. Even if this petrol station, still south of Maastricht, is not always that busy, it is fine for hitchhiking. It is the first rest area after the border, and people are quite likely to be heading for many directions within the Netherlands from here. ''Rating: average/good''<br />
* Petrol station "Kruisberg" between exits 51 and 50. This petrol station is quite small and it lacks a rest area. It can be reached from Maastricht by public transport, as it is about 1 kilometer from train station Bunde. Later in the evening there is not a lot of traffic. In the afternoon many drivers will have come out of Maastricht, and may be heading back home, well furhter on. Its small size may make it a bit more likely that you would be sent away by the manager, than on other petrol stations. ''Rating: average''<br />
* Parking area "Kruisberg" between exits 51 and 50. This parking area is situated about 2 km further after the petrol station with the same name. It is a nice place to be, on the steepest motorway slope in the country, but hard to get rides. ''Rating: bad''<br />
* Petrol station "Swentibold" between exits 48 and 47. Just another okay petrol station, which you were not likely to use, but since the next one is closed, the likeliness has become a bit bigger. ''Rating: average/good''<br />
* Petrol station "Bosserhof" between exits 45 and 44. Last petrol station before the N273 to Venlo. It used to be a good one, but it was receded in 2007, because of the realization of the A73 motorway to Venlo. It will not be reopened. ''Rating: average/good (before closing) and mission impossible (now)''<br />
* Petrol station "Meiberg" between exits 40 and 39. Here is also an AC Restaurant and during sunny days especially many people take a (prolonged) rest here. It should be quite easy to find rides towards Utrecht or Breda. ''Rating: average/good''<br />
* Petrol station "Groote Bleek" between exits 36 and 35. Last petrol station before Eindhoven, a city which sometimes is a kind of barrier on the way. Most drivers here tend to go towards Tilburg, Breda in stead of 's-Hertogenbosch, Utrecht. It is not as busy as the previous one, and closed at night. ''Rating: average''<br />
* Petrol station "Ooiendonk" between exits 27 and 26. It should be well possible to find rides to Utrecht, Amsterdam and perhaps to Waalwijk and Rotterdam. ''Rating: average/good''<br />
* Parking area "Zwartehof" between exits 20 and 19. Please avoid this one, just a couple of kilometers before the next great petrol station. Few people stop here, it is usually rather noisy and windy (though the views over the river are nice), and there seem some shady activities to be going on. And you may smell piss or so, because there is no toilet there. ''Rating: bad''<br />
* Petrol station "De Lucht-Oost" between exits 18 and 17. Huge petrol station with a long history. One of the buildings dates back to the 1950s, and the area has been used as a stopover for travellers for over a hundred years. This service area may be considered the most important one between the south and the west of the Netherlands. However, Fverhart had a hard time when he tried to find a ride towards Den Haag or Rotterdam here; Utrecht or Amsterdam are definitely easier. ''Rating: great''<br />
* Petrol station "Lingehorst" between exits 14 and 13. Quite big petrol station. Last petrol station before the junction with the A27 towards Lelystad and Zwolle. ''Rating: average/good''<br />
* Petrol station "Nieuwegein" between exits 10 and 9. Rather small petrol station without parking area, and perhaps quite a lot of intralocal traffic. Last petrol station before the junction with the A12 towards Rotterdam, The Hague, Leiden. ''Rating: average''<br />
* Petrol station "Ruwiel" between exits 5 and 4. Quite big petrol station. Finding a ride into the city of Amsterdam should be easy here. Last petrol station before the junction with the A9 towards Haarlem, Alkmaar. Finding a ride from here onto the A8 (direction Hoorn, afsluitdijk) should be rather tough. Access lanes S103, S102 and S101 on the A10-west ring around Amsterdam are possible ramps to hitch in this direction. ''Rating: average/good''<br />
<br />
=== Hitchhiking A2 [[Maastricht]] direction [[Amsterdam]] using ramps ===<br />
* Entrance 58. Eijsden. There is no access lane to the north. ''Rating: mission impossibleaverage''<br />
* Entrance 57. Easy to get to nearby Maastricht, otherwise rather hike back to the petrol station 2 km south. ''Rating: average''<br />
* Entrance 55. Easy to get to nearby Maastricht. Roosteren. ''Rating: average''<br />
* Entrance 51. There is NO safe space to stop, and the situation is rather chaotic. Walk back to the nearby motorway petrol station, 1 km back down the road. Urmond ''Rating: bad''<br />
* Entrance 50. Maastricht-Aachen Airport. Ramp with a lot of space to stop. Perhaps pretty good towards Eindhoven. ''Rating: average/good''<br />
* Entrance 49. Elsloo. There is space to stop. ''Rating: average''<br />
* Entrance 47. Urmond. There is space to stop and quite some traffic. Perhaps good to Eindhoven. ''Rating: average/good''<br />
* Entrance 41. Grathem. There is space to stop. You are not very well visible because of nearby trees, and not so much traffic heading north on this important junction, ''Rating: average''<br />
* Entrance 39. Nederweert. A lot of space to stop and a lot of cars. ''Rating: average/good''<br />
* Entrance 33. Waalre. Good onramp towards 's-Hertogenbosch or Antwerp. However, currently reconstructed. Also quite easy to ask drivers coming from the south at the traffic lights (other side of the bridge). Best onramp to change cars if driving stays in Eindhoven, when coming from the Maastricht. ''Rating: average/good''<br />
* Entrance 31. Veldhoven. There is space to stop and a lot of cars. ''Rating: average/good''<br />
* Entrance 26. Boxtel. There is space to stop, but not a lot of traffic. Easy to get to 's-Hertogenbosch from here. ''Rating: average''<br />
* Entrance 24. Vught. There is space to stop and easy for cars to stop. ''Rating: average''<br />
* Entrance 20. Rosmalen. There is space to stop and a lot of traffic. This is perhaps the best ramp of the city when heading for Utrecht or Amsterdam. ''Rating: average/good''<br />
* Entrance 19. Kerkdriel. There is space to stop, but on this rural place expect a longer wait. Every car can take you to the next great petrol station. ''Rating: quite bad''<br />
* Entrance 19. Enough space to stand, easy to stop. Quite good point to leave Zaltbommel. ''Rating: average''<br />
* Entrance 8. Utrecht. There is no space where cars can stop beside the road. If there is little traffic the cars drive too fast. If there is a lot of traffic you may ask for a ride at the traffic light in front of the ramp. If there is little traffic it would be better to cross this square (using the small side bridge) and ask at the traffic lights on the westside of the motorway. ''Rating: quite bad/average''<br />
* Entrance 7. Oog in Al. This access lane has good space to stop, and even a bus stop on the ramp. Easy one to get to Amsterdam. ''Rating: average/good''<br />
* Entrance 3. Abcoude. Dangerous! ''Rating: bad''<br />
<br />
== Maps of motorway A2 ==<br />
<br />
=== [[Amsterdam]] and northern section to [[Vianen]] ([[:Category:Utrecht|Utrecht]] and provinces) ===<br />
<br />
<map lat='52.32' lng='4.92' zoom='12' view='3' width='450' height='450'/><br />
<br />
{|style="margin: 0 auto;"<br />
|<map lat='52.15' lng='5.0' zoom='10' view='0' country='Netherlands' width='250' height='450'/><br />
|}<br />
<br />
=== Middle section, and provinces, around [[Den Bosch]] and [[Eindhoven]] ===<br />
<br />
<br />
<map lat='51.8' lng='5.25' zoom='10' view='0' country='Netherlands' width='250' height='500' float='left'/><br />
<br />
<br />
{|style="margin: 0 auto;"<br />
|<map lat='51.4' lng='5.55' zoom='10' view='0' country='Netherlands' width='350' height='450' float='right'/><br />
|}<br />
<br />
<br />
=== [[Maastricht]] and southern section, A2 in province, Weert to Belgian border ===<br />
<br />
<br />
<map lat='50.85' lng='5.68' zoom='12' view='3' width='450' height='450'/><br />
<br />
{|style="margin: 0 auto;"<br />
|<map lat='51.0' lng='5.75' zoom='10' view='0' country='Netherlands' width='250' height='600'/><br />
|}<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
{{Highways NL}}<br />
__NOTOC__<br />
<br />
[[Category:Noord Holland|Noord-Holland]]<br />
[[Category:Gelderland|Gelderland]]<br />
[[Category:Noord Brabant|Noord-Brabant]]<br />
[[Category:Limburg|Limburg]]<br />
[[Category:Netherlands]]<br />
[[Category:Motorways]]<br />
[[Category:Excellent Articles]]</div>Lanigirohttps://hitchwiki.org/en/index.php?title=Amersfoort&diff=81933Amersfoort2016-01-13T13:38:32Z<p>Lanigiro: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{stub}}<br />
{{Infobox Dutch Location<br />
|map = <map lat='52.161718212546' lng='5.386734008789' zoom='11' view='3'/><br />
|country = Netherlands<br />
|state = Utrecht<br />
|pop = 142,299<br />
|motorways = [[A1 (Netherlands)|A1]], [[A28 (Netherlands)|A28]]<br />
}}<br />
'''Amersfoort''' is a city in the [[Netherlands]], located in the province of [[:Category:Utrecht|Utrecht]].<br />
<br />
== Hitchhiking out ==<br />
<br />
[[Category:E30]]<br />
[[Category:Route Amsterdam - Berlin]]<br />
[[Category:Route Amsterdam - Copenhagen]]</div>Lanigirohttps://hitchwiki.org/en/index.php?title=Amsterdam&diff=81932Amsterdam2016-01-13T13:38:24Z<p>Lanigiro: </p>
<hr />
<div>__TOC__<br />
{{Infobox Dutch Location<br />
|country = Netherlands<br />
|map = <map lat='52.38278242102423' lng='4.90844612121582' zoom='11' view='3'/><br />
|pop = 742,880<br />
|state = Noord Holland<br />
|BW = NL/North%20Holland/Amsterdam<br />
|motorways = [[A1 (Netherlands)|A1]], [[A2 (Netherlands)|A2]], [[A4 (Netherlands)|A4]], [[A7 (Netherlands)|A7]], [[A8 (Netherlands)|A8]], [[A9 (Netherlands)|A9]], [[A10 (Netherlands)|A10]],<br />
}}<br />
[[File:IMG_5336.jpg|right|thumb|266px|Hitching at the Prins Bernhardplein liftplaats]]<br />
'''Amsterdam''' is the capital of the [[Netherlands]].<br />
<br />
Amsterdam is often abbreviated '''A'dam''', which can be a nice alternative to put on your signs.<br />
<br />
== Hitching In ==<br />
During daylight it's usually not a problem to hitch on on-ramps close to Amsterdam, so if you've been at petrol station for 25 minutes you might want to give it a try at an on-ramp closer-by.<br />
<br />
Public transport is fairly okay in the Netherlands, albeit a bit expensive since the introduction of the "chipkaart", see below. There are convenient metros from e.g. the Bijlmer.<br />
Coming from South there is a petrol station just a couple of kilometres before Amsterdam. There are enough people stopping before going into the city, [[User:Alex|alex]] never waited longer than 10 minutes to get a ride, with most of the times putting my bag directly from one car into another. So get off there when your driver doesn't go where you need to be in Amsterdam and catch easily a ride that goes to the district you want to go - this will save you some bugs and 30-60 minutes getting to the other side of town.<br />
<br />
== Hitchhiking out ==<br />
=== West towards [[Haarlem]], [[Leiden]], [[Den Haag]], [[Delft]] ===<br />
There is an official [[liftershalte|liftplaats]] about 100 meters south of metro station Sloterdijk on Haarlemmerweg. Here you will find a lot of traffic going straight to [[Haarlem]], and possibly even cars going to [[Leiden]], and further to [[Delft]] and [[Den Haag]]. Though, most cars going there will use the Ring A10 and then the A4 to Den Haag.<br />
<br />
* For [[User:Liva|Liva]] it was not the best place even though you have had to do it when you're anyway there...<br />
* For [[User:Lilylove|Lilylove]] it was a great spot to get to [[Delft]]. After several uses, it only ever took me one ride to get from Amsterdam to Delft direct.<br />
<br />
=== North towards [[Alkmaar]], [[Zaandam]] ===<br />
There is an A10 on-ramp near Sloterdijk station. Exit the station and go 200m east on ''Hatostraat'', 250m north on ''La Guardiaweg'' and 250m east on ''Basisweg'' and then cross over to the on-ramp.<br />
<br />
Another ramp is a little way up the street from the last. Get there from the last by continuing further down ''Basisweg'' (which becomes ''Transformatorweg'' until ''Kabelweg''). Follow this north past s101 (''Nieuwe Hemweg''). The ramp is off of ''Vlothavenweg''.<br />
<br />
<map lat='52.342785761313266' lng='4.922003746032715' zoom='13' view='3' float='right' /><br />
<br />
=== East towards [[Amersfoort]], [[Hengelo]], [[Osnabrück]], [[Hamburg]], [[Bremen]], [[Berlin]] ===<br />
''If you are hitching in the direction of [[Berlin]] or [[Hamburg]], you might find the route-page from [[:Category:Route_Amsterdam_-_Berlin|Amsterdam to Berlin]] useful.''<br />
<br />
''If you are hitching in the direction of [[Bremen]], [[Hamburg]] or [[Copenhagen]], you might find this route-page from [[:Category:Route_Amsterdam_-_Copenhagen|Amsterdam to Copenhagen]] useful.''<br />
<br />
There is a [[liftershalte|liftplaats]], a spot specifically for hitchhiking, at the Gooiseweg next to the Prins Bernhardplein situated before NS Station Amsterdam Amstel (pass the bus stop). This road leads to the ramp of the S112 of the A10, the motorway around Amsterdam (direction [[A1 (Netherlands)|A1]] and [[A2 (Netherlands)|A2]]). A little further on that road and behind the bend you will find a petrol-station where you can talk to drivers, often a better way for getting a ride.<br />
<br />
This is what the place looks like in [https://goo.gl/maps/JngKl Google Streetview].<br />
<br />
Most cars here will drive along the [[A1 (Netherlands)|A1]] towards [[Amersfoort]], [[Hengelo]] and [[Germany]]. The first petrol-station is just 8 kilometres further, just after [[Muiden]]. A second petrol station and parkingspot, called De Slaag, is located 37 kilometres from [[Amsterdam]], right before [[Amersfoort]].<br />
<br />
First you go by train, tram, metro or bus to the station Amsterdam Amstel. From there three bus lines, 320, 322 and 327, are going to busstop "P+R Terrein" in Muiden. A presale ticket costs EUR 2,90 for all buses ("GVB 1 uur" ticket). In the bus you pay EUR 5 for bus lines 322 and 327 or EUR 3 for bus line 320. <br />
Step out at "P+R Terrein" in Muiden, walk under the motorway-bridge, immediately after the bridge (10 meters!) turn left on the pavement, climb to the motorway and on the cycling lane along the motorway walk the east ("direction Germany"). That takes you over the canal. Follow the pavement till the end, then walk along the bus lane ("lijnbus" is marked on this lane), still going along the motorway. The last 350 meters are on the motorway: stay behind the safety barrier. Keep in mind that walking there is illegal and may (although rarely enforced) result in a fine of over EUR 200. <br />
<br />
From the [[liftershalte|liftplaats]] you can also find rides to [[Utrecht]], [[Arnhem]], [[Nijmegen]] and [[Belgium]], though you will find hitching from here relatively harder compared to the Utrechtsebrug, which is ''the'' spot for Utrecht.<br />
<br />
Since there are so many different directions (and sometimes even many hitchhikers) it's better to make a sign.<br />
<br />
There are trains, trams (12,51) and metros to Amstel station from most other stations in Amsterdam. It is a 1 minute walk from there, just behind the FORTIS Bank.<br />
[[File:IMGP0763.jpg|right|thumb|266px|Hitchhikers at the Prins Bernhardplein liftplaats]]<br />
<br />
'''Option 2''' There is often a lot of competition at the ''liftplaats'' and drivers usually only go short distances, so by the time you have finally left Holland you will have had approx. 3–6 rides. You can easily avoid this by taking a train to Hengelo (buy a discount ticket, see below). Then, from the train station ''Hengelo'' take bus 14 to ''Bruninkshoek''. You now find yourself on the street ''Oostelijke Esweg''. Walk in the direction the bus just came from towards the street ''Hasselerbaan'', then turn left. Walk down until you cross ''Oldenzaalsestraat''. Turn left and you will see a footbridge overlooking the A1. When you have crossed the bridge, don't turn right but walk through the grass and descend down. Turn left before the ditch and walk with the ditch on your right. Continue until you see a little forest; here you have to jump over a small ditch. Walk through the little forest and you will reach an excellent service station where nearly all cars go to Germany.<br />
<br />
=== South and Southeast towards [[Utrecht]], [[Breda]], [[Nijmegen]], [[Arnhem]], [[Düsseldorf]], [[Antwerpen]], [[Brussels]], [[Paris]] ===<br />
You can either go and hitch from the same spot as for going West at the Amstel Station, or hitch from where the motorway to Utrecht starts, which is called the Utrechtsebrug. This second option definitely gives you more cars going into the right direction and generally a lot less waiting time.<br />
<br />
At the Utrechtsebrug you have several options. First, head to the Martin Luther King Park in Amsterdam Zuid where the motorway to [[A2 (Netherlands)|A2]]-motorway starts, which leads to [[Utrecht]] and further to [[Den Bosch]], [[Eindhoven]] and [[Maastricht]]. Take tram 4 or 12 and walk from the Vrijheidslaan south through the Rijnstraat to the motorway ([[A10 (Netherlands)|A10]]/ [[A2 (Netherlands)|A2]]). At the end of this road before the crossing, you'll find traffic lights where you can pro-actively ask drivers to drop you at the massive Haarrijn service station (See below). The best traffic lights to pick, as there are three sets here, is the one on your left side when you are standing facing the bridge.<br />
<br />
From here you can also walk over the bridge, walk along the motorway over the grass towards a small petrol station 250 meters further, behind the bend. If you do that don't try (like me) to go right to the little residence, there are rivers and no path to get to the station, there are no other ways than walk along the road. Be careful when walking here, the space between you and cars is minimal.<br />
<br />
:''Just recently I hitchhiked out on Utrechtsbrug - first on the onramp after the bridge, after being pushed away by cops on the petrol station - and was harassed by the police that I can not stand on a petrol station (!) to hitchhike but have to go into the city to the liftplaats near Amstel Station. They were close at arresting me because I wanted their identy and the law by which they want to ban me from the petrol station and they couldn't give me any of it. In the end I convinced them that if I bought a coffee at the store and asked if I could hitchhike that there was no law against me standing there then and they accepted. But they were really pushy and blamed me for "coming as a guest to this country and not accepting rules" and how bad I should feel. If you hitchhike from Utrechtsbrug try to get to the petrol station without being seen, also ignore the signs that you are not allowed to walk, its just 50 meters than there is enough space.'' [[User:Farben.rausch|Farben.rausch]] ([[User talk:Farben.rausch|talk]])<br />
<br />
NOTE: Though the spot is generally awesome, you are likely to spend hours waiting for cars going as far as [http://nl.wikipedia.org/wiki/Verzorgingsplaats_Haarrijn Haarrijn] on Sundays (and probably Saturdays too). It might be reasonable to try further spots to avoid local traffic during the end of week.<br />
<br />
Just before Utrecht, after exit 5 ([[Breukelen]]) and just some kilometres before the Utrecht Ring you find a big petrol-station called [http://nl.wikipedia.org/wiki/Verzorgingsplaats_Haarrijn Haarrijn]. This is an excellent spot to find drivers for larger distances.<br />
<br />
== Boats ==<br />
It is very possible to [[hitchhiking a boat|hitch boats]] around the Amsterdam canals. Just sit next to the water and thumb and eventually someone will stop. This is more aimed at sight seeing than getting somewhere specific, but more worth it than paying for the touristy ones.<br />
<br />
== Sleep ==<br />
If you are caught in the rain with nowhere to go, the best place to stay dry that [[User:Zac Stewart|Zac]] found was outside the train station.<br />
<br />
: ''After walking all night in the pouring rain, trying to stay dry and warm wherever I could, I finally crashed outside the train station until the wee hours of the morning. At that time I moved inside of the station. This had mixed results. It was warmer and drier, but the security guards walked by and gave me a kick every time I dozed off.''<br />
<br />
There is another solution if you're caught in the rain : you can sleep on one of the tour boats parked along the river in front of central station, some of them have a roof outside the cabin and it can be a quite comfortable place. Policemen or guards sometimes come and kick you out, but far less than in the station.<br />
<br />
== Buy ==<br />
"Philip's compact atlas Europe" shows service stations in some countries, is pretty compact and was available for 7 euros at the New English Book Store in [[Amsterdam]], in June 2008.<br />
<br />
It's not recommended to carry any type of illegal drugs with you while hitchhiking. A bit of weed inside the borders of the Netherlands is not going to get you into trouble. But taking any amount of weed (or anything else) across the border could be a problem for you and possibly your driver. And it's not worth it.<br />
<br />
== Public Transport ==<br />
As of 2010 if you take a tram or bus inside the city, for any distance, and you will spend at least 2.60 euro, you need a "chipkaart", "nationale strippenkaarten" aren't valid anymore in all of the Netherlands (since November 2011). Check this for a good overview: http://www.gvb.nl/english/travellers/tickets-and-fares/ov-chipkaart-travel-products/Pages/ov-chipkaart-travel-products.aspx<br />
<br />
For example, a one way ticket by train from Amsterdam Centraal to Zaandam is 2.40 EUR, a return ticket costs 4.50 EUR (to be used on 1 day, until 4:00am next day). (See http://ns.nl/)<br />
<br />
So staying in a location that's easily reachable by train might actually turn out cheaper!<br />
<br />
__NOTOC__<br />
[[Category:E35]]<br />
[[Category:E19]]<br />
[[Category:E22]]<br />
[[Category:Route Amsterdam - Berlin]]<br />
[[Category:Route Amsterdam - Copenhagen]]<br />
<br />
<br><br />
<br><br />
[[trash:Amsterdam]]<br><br />
<br />
[[de:Amsterdam]]<br />
[[es:Amsterdam]]<br />
[[fr:Amsterdam]]<br />
[[tr:Amsterdam]]</div>Lanigirohttps://hitchwiki.org/en/index.php?title=Antwerpen&diff=81931Antwerpen2016-01-13T13:38:14Z<p>Lanigiro: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Hitchhiking Zine nomination}}<br />
{{Infobox Location<br />
|country = Belgium<br />
|map = <map lat='51.219142189396' lng='4.4254302978515625' zoom='12' view='3' float='right' /><br />
|pop = 472,071<br />
|state = [[Antwerpen (province)|Antwerpen]]<br />
|motorways = {{Abe|1}}/{{E|19}}, {{Abe|11}}/{{E|34}}, {{Abe|12}}, {{Abe|13}}/{{E|313}}, {{Abe|14}}/{{E|17}}, {{Abe|21}}/{{E|34}}, {{Rbe|1}}, {{Rbe|2}}<br />
}}<br />
'''Antwerpen''' is a nice city in [[Belgium]], close to the Dutch border. <br />
<br />
== Hitching out ==<br />
Hitchhiking is pretty common in Belgium, especially in the North, so you won't have a difficult time.<br />
<br />
[[File:20080701 antwerpen hitchhiking-2 alex.JPG|thumb|right|348px|A [[Hitchhiker's safety#Women hitchhiking|woman]] hitchhiking oft of [[Antwerpen]] at the hitchhiking spot direction [[Liège]], [[Eindhoven]].]]<br />
<br />
=== Southwest towards [[Gent]], [[Paris]] ===<br />
Follow Amerikalei to the on ramp for the A14/E17. You have to go under a tunnel before getting out to the ramp. A good place to stand is [http://hitchwiki.org/maps/?place=355 here]. Although it's easy for cars to stop here, it's illegal and dangerous to walk trough the tunnel. A safer and still good stop to start is just before the tunnel [http://hitchwiki.org/maps/?place=11210 here].<br />
<br />
A better option is to hitchhike at the "Waaslandtunnel". Often called by locals the "konijnenpijp". There is much room because of the bus stop and cars drive slowly because of the nearby traffic lights. Many drivers go direction Gent, so you shouldn't be standing longer then 15 minutes.<br />
[http://hitchwiki.org/maps/?place=5227 here].<br />
<br />
Another convenient option is to take a tram in the city centre. Tram 2 direction Hoboken or tram 6 direction Olympiade. Get off at the stop called "De Singel". Right where you get out of the tram you find the ramp for the motorway. There is plenty of space for yourself and cars to pull over. I use this spot frequently and never waited more then 7 minutes for a ride to Gent. A sign could be helpful. Before Gent there are 2 petrol stations coming up if you need longer rides to for example Paris. The first one is Kruibeke and the second is Kalken. <br />
<br />
=== South towards [[Brussels]], [[Luxembourg]] ===<br />
<br />
Get a train or some other form of public transport towards "Oost Station". When you leave the station, walk under the train bridge, walk straight down to the signs for Brussels. Here, you should stand after the traffic lights and in a position that you get the attention of cars coming from the two different sections of the junction.<br />
<br />
Another option<br />
<br />
Take a tram/bus to STENENBURG stop - any of 21, 24, 242, 420, 421, 422, 423, 429. Once you get off there, turn left and go under the bridge. After you cross the bridge, turn right and keep going straight on, until you see signs of Brussels. After a while you will notice a motorway on your left going in direction of Brussels. Go until the traffic lights and cross them twice following the road signs. You will notice a good interstate, with an emergency line, where you get your rides very fast (took me around 2 minutes).<br />
<br />
=== East/northeast towards [[Liège]], [[Eindhoven]] ===<br />
<br />
Tram 10 or several buslines to Borgerhout Turnhoutsepoort, walk northeast over the Turnhoutsebaan for only 250 meters, passing the railway tunnel and crossroads and hitch after the motorway sign, start of the A13/E313, on the bridge over the R1/E19. Later on this highway splits in two highways (A13/E313+A21/E34), so make sure you find a ride in the right direction. A sign could be very useful. Just before the split is a petrol station. This is in 'Wommelgem/Ranst'.<br />
<br />
=== North towards [[Amsterdam]] ===<br />
<br />
Take tram 6 direction 'Luchtbal' and get of at 'Merksem Lambrechtshoeken'. Follow the direction of the tram. You will notice McD. Just behind it, the highway to the [[Netherlands]] starts. The traffic is quite sparse but the cars go by slowly. There is plenty of space for you and a car to stop.<br />
<br />
If you are heading for [[Utrecht]] or [[Amsterdam]], make sure your driver isn't going to [[Bergen op Zoom]]. <br />
<br />
There is a massive service station (Hazeldonk-Oost), before [[Breda]], on the Dutch-Belgian border, where it is easy to hitch-hike for example near the exit from the petrol-station. You just have to write a board, because the highway divides into two directions nearby.<br />
<br />
=== Most directions ===<br />
[[File:Erga hitchhiking from Antwerpen to Paris.jpg|thumb|348px|right|Hitchhiking towards [[Paris]], on-ramp of the Luitenant Lippenslaan]]<br />
Another option is the motorway at the Luitenant Lippenslaan (a continuation of the Plantin en Moretuslei), the on-ramps there are good for heading to [[Gent]], [[Paris]], [[Brussels]], the west of the [[Netherlands]] and possibly more directions. Make sure to make a [[signs|sign]] as people can go many directions.<br />
<br />
Nearby metro stops include 'Draakplaats' and 'De roma'. <br />
<br />
== Sleeping ==<br />
Hitchhiker [[User:Robbel|Robbel]] has a spare room close to Antwerp Berchem railway station and can be contacted by SMS. Please text to +32&nbsp;474-one-two-four-eight-zero-zero.<br />
<br />
=== Other useful info ===<br />
If you need to charge your mobile phone or other electronic devices, one option to consider is going to the Antwerpen-Berchem station. In the corridor are more than 5 sockets to get your phone charged.<br />
<br />
A good map with tips and suggestions what to do and where to go in the city center can be found here:<br />
[http://www.use-it.travel/cities/map/2013_antwerp/?zoom www.use-it.travel/cities/map/2013_antwerp/?zoom]<br />
<br />
[[Category:Antwerpen (province)| ]]<br />
[[Category:E17]]<br />
{{IsIn|Antwerpen (province)}}<br />
__NOTOC__<br />
<p><br />
[[trash:Antwerpen]]</div>Lanigirohttps://hitchwiki.org/en/index.php?title=Apeldoorn&diff=81930Apeldoorn2016-01-13T13:38:02Z<p>Lanigiro: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{stub}}<br />
{{Infobox Dutch Location<br />
|country = Netherlands<br />
|map = <map lat='52.1975497172120874' lng='5.96832275390625' zoom='11' view='3'/><br />
|pop = 136.208<br />
|state = Gelderland<br />
|motorways = [[A1 (Netherlands)|A1]], [[A50 (Netherlands)|A50]]<br />
|hitchbase = 732<br />
}}<br />
'''Apeldoorn''' is a city in the [[Netherlands]].<br />
<br />
== Hitchhiking out ==<br />
You can find the [[A1 (Netherlands)|A1]] in east-west direction in the south of the city, and the [[A50 (Netherlands)|A50]] is passing '''Apeldoorn''' in the east of the city in north-south direction.<br />
<br />
[[Category:Route Amsterdam - Berlin]]<br />
[[Category:E30]]<br />
[[Category:Route Amsterdam - Copenhagen]]</div>Lanigirohttps://hitchwiki.org/en/index.php?title=Arnhem&diff=81929Arnhem2016-01-13T13:37:52Z<p>Lanigiro: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Infobox Dutch Location<br />
|native name = Érnem<br />
|country = Netherlands<br />
|map = <map lat='51.992' lng='5.926' width='350' height='330' zoom='12' view='3' /><br />
|pop = 148.320 (april 2011)<br />
|state = Gelderland<br />
|BW = NL/Provincie%20Gelderland/Arnhem<br />
|motorways = [[A12 (Netherlands)|A12]], [[A15 (Netherlands)|A15]], [[A50 (Netherlands)|A50]]<br />
|hitchbase = 916<br />
}}<br />
'''Arnhem''' is a city in the east of the [[Netherlands]]. It is the capital of the province of [[Gelderland]] . Hitchhiking out of this city is fairly average. <br />
<br />
== Hitchhiking out ==<br />
=== West: A12 ([[Utrecht]], [[Amsterdam]]) ===<br />
[[User:guaka|guaka]]<small><sup>[http://guaka.org site], [[User talk:guaka|wikitalk]]</sup></small>, coming from [[Nijmegen]], walked from the center towards the '''Amsterdamseweg''' where he quickly hitched a ride at a bus stop right after the city borders. If that wouldn't have worked fast enough he would have continued walking towards the on-ramp of the A12.<br />
<br />
[[File:langewaterarnhem.jpg|thumb|right|350px|Arnhem - [http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0075784 a hitch too far?]]]<br />
<br />
=== North: A50 ([[Apeldoorn]], [[Hengelo]] and Northern [[Germany]]) ===<br />
* A Total [[petrol station hitchhiking|petrol station]] on the Apeldoornseweg (see map) north of busstop 'Moscowa' is a good place to head north on the A50 towards Apeldoorn. When travelling to Northern German cities like [[Bremen]], [[Hamburg]] or [[Berlin]], this would be the preferred route (using Dutch motorways A50 northbound and A1 eastbound). You can take a bus 91 toward Apeldoorn from Arnhem station here. It's a few 100 meters further up the road than the bus stop.<br />
<br />
[[User:Ostkreuz|Ostkreuz]] left from here on a trip to Berlin and caught a ride to an A1 service station after 15 minutes. He came across many people actually taking the A12 toward [[Utrecht]] from here.<br />
* Secondly, there is a bridge 300 meters down the road from the Moscowa busstop. There is some room for cars to stop, but they might see you too late. If you prefer using a sign, this is an OK spot. 'A50' or 'Apeldoorn' would be a usefull sign.<br />
<br />
=== East: A12 (Ruhr Area ([[Oberhausen]], [[Düsseldorf]]) and Southern [[Germany]]) ===<br />
* One good option is a petrol station on the IJsseloordweg (N325, in the south-east of town, see map). From the city centre the walk can be long, but bus number 5 will take you close. (Walking there is impossible, but getting a lift for the last bit was easy for user Soccie.) The traffic there is busy, and much of it will be going directly to Germany via the A12. However if the driver is not going as far as Germany, ask for a ride to a ride to motorway service station 'Oudbroeken' - it's on the A12 between exits 28 and 29. This petrol station is probably the best option available - use it if you can.<br />
* The Total pertrol station on the north side of the city (see above) on the Apeldoornseweg is also usefull for heading toward the A12.<br />
* There is a petrol station in the south of Velp, 100 metres away from the 'Velperbroek' roundabout (the junction of the A12 and A348 motorways).<br />
* Another option is to try your luck on the Velperbroek roundabout itself (see map). Although the hard shoulder is small, there is still a small amount of space on the sliproad leading to the motorway, and cars may stop here.<br />
* There is also a petrol station about 40 minutes' walk east from the town centre (see map). It's more difficult but still possible to get a ride from here.<br />
<br />
Bear in mind that although vehicles have free passage from the Netherlands into [[Germany]], this is still an international border and chances of getting rides are rarer than usual. Beware that IJsseloordweg and the other spots mentioned are all some distance away from Arnhem city centre.<br />
<br />
[[User:tmoon|Tom]] had large problems hitchhiking out of Arnhem, as the IJsseloordweg petrol station was out of service when he was around (summer 2006). Also, he noticed an unusually high proportion of older drivers (over 60 years of age), and of gangs of youths showing off their modified saloons. Certainly no-one was interested in giving a lift, and definitely not over the German border. Any attempts were met with sour looks from the pensioners, and middle fingers from the youths.<br />
<br />
[[User:Ostkreuz|Ostkreuz]] used the IJsseloordweg petrol station to go to Düsseldorf in August 2012. It was a long long walk from the closest busstop and the last 300-400 meters were through high grass. The station was open though, and the first person he spoke to took him to a petrol station on the A12 eastbound (Oudbroeken).<br />
<br />
The A12 is a major route into Germany, and it's worth sticking at Arnhem to get a ride. But if you do get frustrated and want a change of scenery, then it may be worth accepting a lift to [[Nijmegen]] (very close to the border), and negotiating with the driver to make a short diversion and take you over the border. The roads on the German side of the border are secondary roads, but seem to be fairly effective for hitchhiking. See [[Nijmegen]].<br />
[[trash:Arnhem]]<br />
<br />
=== South: A325, A15, A50 ([[Nijmegen]], [[Eindhoven]], [[Rotterdam]]) ===<br />
Be sure to study the routes of motorways in the Arnhem-Nijmegen area before you leave as they can be tricky to navigate when hitching. There are many intersections and not that many service stations in this region. If you're headed to Eindhoven or Rotterdam, you'll have to go toward [[Nijmegen]] first. <br />
<br />
* A good starting point is a BP petrol station on the Eldenseweg (on the south bank of the Rhine river). This station is a few turns away from the minor motorway A325 toward Nijmegen. Use this station as a stepping stone to get to the A325. Not many people will be headed further away than Nijmegen. To get to the BP service area from the Arnhem railway station, take trolley 7 toward Rijkerswoerd or buses 31 (Weezenhof) or 36 (Heteren) and get out at 'Transferium'. Turn back the way the bus came and cross the big intersection, but watch out, as there are no pedestrian crossings here. Be advised that bus stop 'Fonteinstraat' is actually closer to the BP pump, but is seperated from the buslane by a busy road with a guardrail in the middle.<br />
* A few kilometers down the A325 you will find a Shell station called 'Kempke' where more long distance drivers make a stop. You will have to hitch here from the above mentioned station, as it is nearly impossible to get here any other way.<br />
* From 'Kempke' you should only accept rides that take you past the many intersections in this area. For direction Rotterdam that should be service station 'Varakker' on the A15. For direction Eindhoven and Den Bosch this should be 'Ganzenven' on the A50.<br />
<br />
<br />
[[Category:Gelderland|Gelderland]]<br />
[[Category:E35]]</div>Lanigirohttps://hitchwiki.org/en/index.php?title=Assen&diff=81928Assen2016-01-13T13:37:42Z<p>Lanigiro: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Infobox Dutch Location<br />
|map = <map lat="53.000617119377" lng="6.5560285972912" zoom="11" /><br />
|province = Drenthe<br />
|pop = 67329<br />
|motorways = [[A28 (Netherlands)|A28]] {{E|232}}<br />
}}<br />
'''Assen''' is a city in the [[Netherlands]]. It's the capital of the most rural Dutch province called [[Drenthe]]. It's located around 30km south of [[Groningen]].<br />
<br />
== Hitching out ==<br />
=== North towards [[Groningen]] / South towards [[Zwolle]] ===<br />
For both directions the on-ramp 33 ''Assen-Centrum/West'' works best. From the city centre, walk in western direction along the canal. After some time you'll have the northbound on-ramp on your right. For southbound cross under the highway and turn right until you hit the roundabout.<br />
<br />
== To Do ==<br />
Around 5km west of the city centre you can find the [http://g.co/maps/f55r7 Fochteloërveen], one of the biggest bog areas still remaining in the Netherlands. At the south side there's a lookout tower from where you have a nice view on the whole area.</div>Lanigirohttps://hitchwiki.org/en/index.php?title=Bastogne&diff=81927Bastogne2016-01-13T13:37:32Z<p>Lanigiro: </p>
<hr />
<div>'''Bastogne''' is a town in the South East of [[Belgium]], close to [[Luxembourg]].<br />
<br />
== Hitchhiking Out ==<br />
<br />
=== North towards [[Brussels]], [[Liège|Liege]] ===<br />
<br />
Very close to the bus terminal there's an on-ramp to the N4. In August 2010 there were was some work on the road and [[User:Guaka|guaka]] was told not to hitch on the N4 itself. The on-ramp looks like a good hitching spot but people are not very eager to pick up hitchhikers there.<br />
<br />
<br />
=== East towards [[Luxembourg]], [[Germany]], anywhere? ===<br />
<br />
There's a local bus into Luxembourg (the country), 1,50 EUR for a ticket valid for 2 hours, including changing bus or train in Luxembourg. You might be able to reach one of the excellent gas stations on the Luxembourgian highways with such a ticket.<br />
<br />
{{IsIn|Belgium}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Belgium]]<br />
[[Category:E25]]</div>Lanigirohttps://hitchwiki.org/en/index.php?title=Flanders&diff=81926Flanders2016-01-13T13:37:22Z<p>Lanigiro: </p>
<hr />
<div>'''Flanders''' is the northern part of [[Belgium]], where most people speak Flemish. [[Hitchhiking]] in Flanders is mostly pretty easy.<br />
<br />
==Language==<br />
Flemish has the same official dictionary and grammar as the Dutch spoken in the [[Netherlands]], but with a slightly different pronunciation. Many people also speak English and French. There are strong Flemish nationalist tendencies so it might be better to approach people in English if you speak both French and English.<br />
<br />
<br />
==Various==<br />
There is an organization called [[Myoto]] that has the goal to promote hitchhiking.<br />
<br />
{{IsIn|Belgium}}<br />
{{stub}}</div>Lanigirohttps://hitchwiki.org/en/index.php?title=Bruges&diff=81925Bruges2016-01-13T13:36:00Z<p>Lanigiro: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Infobox Location<br />
|country = Belgium<br />
|map = <map lat='51.200215' lng='3.225517' zoom='11' view='0' float='right' height='380' width='350'/><br />
|pop = 117,073<br />
|state = [[West-Vlaanderen]]<br />
|motorways = [[A17]], [[E40]]<br />
}}<br />
'''Bruges''' (Brugge) is a town in [[Belgium]].<br />
<br />
== Hitchhiking out ==<br />
<br />
=== Towards [[Oostende]], [[Calais]],etc ===<br />
Take the bus for 'Loppem' from the main station. Get off at the stop just before Loppem village. There is a motorway exit to stand at 200m from here. <br />
<br />
'''Method 1: '''<br />
Walk away from the station of Brugge, direction A17 is your best shot. Heading St-Michiels, at the Koning Albert laan, there are some Gas stations, and this road leads to all major motorways. It's still easy to stop here for cars to pick someone up.<br />
<br />
To get to there from the Brugge train station you can take bus number 7 heading for cinema center Kinepolis and then just follow the people going to the cinema:), as it is located very close to the motorways.<br />
<br />
Addition on 8 Feb 2011: Reconstruction of the 'Expresweg' of E403/N351 around Bruges, makes it now NOT the best place to hitchhike out of Bruges. Before it were good, fast and safe spots. Now I would prefer Method 2.<br />
<br />
'''Method 2: '''<br />
Go to the beginning of the 'Baron Ruzettelaan' (10/15 min walk from train station and city centre). There are 2 gas stations, people drive slow and there is enough place to pull over. Even by night it's a great spot. Once there, you hold up a sign that says '4km', ask if they go to 'Oostkamp' (Most people are), and if they could drop you off at the entrance of the motorway there (E40).<br />
<br />
From that entrance in Oostkamp, you can go in any direction and country. Make a sign that says: 'Gent', 'Torhout' or 'Jabbeke'.<br />
<br />
Waiting time for the 2 spots are very little.<br />
<br />
=== Towards Oostkamp, [[Gent|Ghent]], [[Brussels]] ===<br />
When getting out of the main entrance of the train station, walk straight and follow the main road to the right. Walk straight for about 1,5 km. You'll pass some bus parkings, some small channels and a huge bridge. Just behind this bridge, at the traffic light, walk to the right again. There you'll find three petrol stations. You can just hitch next to the road at the first or second station, passing traffic can easily stop here. Most rides go to Oostkamp, ask your driver to drop you out close to the on-ramp of the highway. There, you can continue hitchhiking east- or westwards.<br />
<br />
<br />
== Camping ==<br />
There is a camping place, close to the city. Direction to it is marked on the city map. A night there cost 14 EUR for a tent, BUT it is possible to get in there for free. When you arrive at the camping spot, just turn right before their fence, follow the fence, till you find a small gate, which is open. The next morning, blend in the rest of the campers and take a free shower.<br />
<br />
{{IsIn|West-Vlaanderen}}<br />
[[trash:Bruges]]<br />
<br />
[[Category:West-Vlaanderen]]<br />
[[Category:E40]]</div>Lanigirohttps://hitchwiki.org/en/index.php?title=Charleroi&diff=81924Charleroi2016-01-13T13:35:29Z<p>Lanigiro: </p>
<hr />
<div>'''Charleroi''' is a city in Wallonia, the southern part of [[Belgium]]<br />
<br />
Brussels-South Charleroi airport is an important low-cost airlines hub located nearby the city.<br />
<br />
You can hitchhike from the airport by standing at the car park exit gates located near the exit. It is good to ask the drivers where they are going when they are paying at the toll gates. Many cars are going in the direction of [[Brussels]] and [[Lille]].<br />
<br />
<br />
'''<br />
From the city to the motorways''' <br />
<br />
If you are in the city of Charleroi and want to take the motorways to Brussels, Mons/Paris or Liège/Germany, the best way is to reach the Square Yernaux (the roundabout with the Marsupilami) and stand along the way in to the A54. <br />
<br />
{{stub}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Belgium]]<br />
[[Category:E42]]<br />
{{IsIn|Wallonia}}<br />
<br />
[[fr:Charleroi]]</div>Lanigirohttps://hitchwiki.org/en/index.php?title=Den_Bosch&diff=81923Den Bosch2016-01-13T13:35:19Z<p>Lanigiro: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Infobox Dutch Location<br />
|country = Netherlands<br />
|map = <map lat='51.69575675061' lng='5.315322875976562' zoom='12' view='3'/><br />
|pop = 137,123<br />
|state = Noord Brabant<br />
|motorways = [[A2 (Netherlands)|A2]], [[A59 (Netherlands)|A59]], [[A65 (Netherlands)|A65]]<br />
}}<br />
'''Den Bosch''' (or ''''s-Hertogenbosch''') is a Dutch city in the province of [[Noord Brabant]]. It is on the [[A2 (Netherlands)|A2]].<br />
<br />
== Hitchhiking out ==<br />
=== East towards [[Nijmegen]], [[Arnhem]], North towards [[Utrecht]], South towards [[Eindhoven]] ===<br />
If you're in the city center, walk to the market. There go into the ''Hinthamerstraat'', quite a big and well known shopping street. It's near the big cathedral. Walk it all the way down, until it ends in front of a bridge. There walk right into the ''Zuid Willemsvaart'' street and go til the crossing. Walk straight forward into the ''Van Veldekekade'' street, and after 500 meter you'll find a bridge. Walk it up and swing your thumb somewhere on the big biking path. <br />
Alternatively, you can try it some 50 meter further directly on the road towards Nijmegen and the [[A2 (Netherlands)|A2]].<br />
<br />
=== All other directions ===<br />
There are quite a lot more good spots in '''den Bosch''', have a look at the [http://www.liftershalte.info/?lat=51.6957567506&lng=5.31532287598&zoom=12 liftershalte map] to find them. Thanks to [[User:fverhart|Frank]] for finding them all. Even with information how to get there with the busses.<br />
<br />
[[Category:Noord Brabant]]</div>Lanigirohttps://hitchwiki.org/en/index.php?title=Den_Haag&diff=81922Den Haag2016-01-13T13:35:10Z<p>Lanigiro: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Infobox Dutch Location<br />
|country = Netherlands<br />
|map = <map lat='52.051645977410494' lng='4.316253662109375' zoom='11' view='3'/><br />
|pop = 501,725 (as of 1st of february 2012)<br />
|state = Zuid Holland<br />
|motorways = [[A4 (Netherlands)|A4]], [[A12 (Netherlands)|A12]], [[A13 (Netherlands)|A13]]<br />
}}<br />
'''Den Haag''' or '''The Hague''' is a city in the [[Netherlands]]. It is located in the province of [[Zuid Holland]]. After [[Amsterdam]] and [[Rotterdam]] it's the 3rd largest city in the Netherlands. Scheveningen used to be a seperate municipality, but is now part of the city of Den Haag.<br />
<br />
== Hitchhiking out ==<br />
<br />
=== North, West, South towards [[Utrecht]], [[Amsterdam]], [[Rotterdam]] ===<br />
<br />
The [[liftershalte]], a spot for hitchhiking at the beginning of the [[A12 (Netherlands)|A12]] next to the (north-eastern edge of) Malieveld is great when you're going in the direction of [[Utrecht]]. It could also work when going north towards [[Amsterdam]] or south towards [[Rotterdam]] and [[Belgium]]. The official sign now seems to be removed and replaced with a regular bus stop sign.<br />
<br />
To get there from the '''Den Haag CS''' (the central station), walk along the ''Koningskade'' in north-western direction until you see the ''Malieveld'' (big grass field) on your right. The spot is right across the field on the other side.<br />
<br />
[[trash:Den Haag]]<br />
<br />
[[Category:Zuid Holland|Zuid Holland]]<br />
[[Category:E30]]</div>Lanigirohttps://hitchwiki.org/en/index.php?title=Eindhoven&diff=81921Eindhoven2016-01-13T13:34:59Z<p>Lanigiro: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Infobox Dutch Location<br />
|country = Netherlands<br />
|map = <map lat='51.43046754788' lng='5.46947479248' zoom='11' view='3' float='right' /><br />
|pop = 210,876<br />
|state = Noord Brabant<br />
|motorways = [[A2 (Netherlands)|A2]], [[A50 (Netherlands)|A50]], [[A58 (Netherlands)|A58]], [[A67 (Netherlands)|A67]]<br />
}}<br />
'''Eindhoven''' is a city in [[Noord Brabant]], [[Netherlands]].<br />
<br />
A reconstruction of the A2 and A58, which forms a bit more than 50% of the ring road around the city, was started in 2007 and will continue for some years, perhaps 2011. Two previously great access lanes for hitchhiking are not suitable anymore due to that, being the ones at A2 access lane 33 ("Waalre"/"Valkenswaard"). <br />
<br />
In a few years the fly overs on junction Leenderheide will be realised and the current traffic lights on the junction will not exist anymore. A few more hitchhiking spots will then disappear, but they are not really essential (Floraplein should work!).<br />
<br />
== Hitchhiking out ==<br />
<br />
=== All Directions ===<br />
Same as for going South, try it at the busstop at roundabout "Floraplein",here all cars go to the junction Leenderheide from where they can go in any direction.<br />
<br />
=== South towards [[Maastricht]], [[Aachen]], south-west towards [[Antwerpen|Antwerp]], east to [[Venlo]] ===<br />
There is a petrol station and a roundabout named "Floraplein" one kilometer north of the motorway-junction A2 x A67 (junction "Knooppunt Leenderheide"). There is a bus stop where people can easily stop just by this petrol station. This is a well known spot for hitchhiking, which was very popular in the times when Dutch students still had to pay for public transport. You can get here by taking the bus from the Central Train Station. You have two choices - bus 173 to Floraplein or bus 7 to Korianderstrasse.<br />
An alternative for "Floraplein" is walking 2 km in south west direction. There are two entrances (towards Antwerpen, and Venlo) to the A67/A2 next to the "Van der Valk Hotel Eindhoven", at the Aalsterweg. Due to traffic lights, people clearly see you, and can stop easily.<br />
<br />
=== North towards [[Den Bosch]], [[Amsterdam]], west towards [[Tilburg]], [[Breda]] ===<br />
A2 access lane 31 "Veldhoven" (A2 x Noord-Brabantlaan). Take bus 401/402 from Eindhoven Central Station. Get out at the bus stop just before the motorway, should take about 10 minutes. There are traffic lights to stand beside nearby.<br />
<br />
=== South towards [[Maastricht]], east towards [[Venlo]], southwest towards [[Antwerpen|Antwerp]] ===<br />
A2 access lane 31 "Veldhoven" (A2 x Noord-Brabantlaan). Several modern buses per hour to Veldhoven. Get out at the bus stop just before the motorway. Use a sign on the onramp. Or ask at the traffic lights on the side of McD's (situation Feburary 2009). Do not confuse with A2 access lane 32 "Veldhoven-Zuid", this one is quite unsuitable in both directions.<br />
<br />
=== North towards [[Nijmegen]] ===<br />
There is a Shell petrol station on the ''J.F. Kennedylaan''. Go there to find a lift to the [[A50 (Netherlands)|A50]]. Hitchhiking on the road itself is not allowed because of the status of the road, although you might get away. The road has an emergency lane with traffic limited to 70 km/h. You may as well stand on the merging lane of the petrol station.<br />
<br />
This gas station is really small, but it still could be possible to find a ride here. Myself, I did not like the place too much so I walked direction A50 to Nijmegen. If you decide to leave the gas station, you can walk for about 30+ minutes. At a certain point just before the actual ramp is a very tiny triangelish place of tarmac where a car can stop. However, this is far from an ideal spot. The flow of traffic is very dense. Go stand about 10-15 meters in front of the little spot so the car can stop on the tarmac. If you don't find a ride at the gasstation, this is an option to consider. This place might work better out of rush hour so there is more space and time between each car.Be carefull!--[[User:Robbel|Robbel]] ([[User talk:Robbel|talk]]) 13:39, 15 November 2013 (CET)<br />
<br />
The employees at this petrol station might send you away, or tell you that standing on the emergency lane is too dangerous. Another option is to stand at the acceslane from "Tempellaan", there's an emergency lane here where cars can easily stop.<br />
<br />
=== From the [[airport]] ===<br />
When you arrive at the airport, just follow the signs to the motorway, you'll reach it in 15 Minutes. The airport traffic merges here with the traffic from the city, so it's easy to get a ride, but you will need a sign. According to Fverhart due to the motorway works this A2 access lane 30 "Eindhoven Airport" is not suitable any more to the north, to the south unknown. Alternative, walk further on the Anthony Fokkerweg until a small side-road and hitchhike there, or walk further to the second road crossing after the motorway. There is a bus stop, use sign. Or in stead walk towards the south-east for three kilometres to A2 access lane 31 "Veldhoven". Or try to find a ride on the parking area of the airport.<br />
<br />
__NOTOC__<br />
<br />
{{IsIn|Noord Brabant}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Noord Brabant]]<br />
[[Category:E25]]<br />
[[Category:E34]]<br />
[[Category:Airports]]</div>Lanigirohttps://hitchwiki.org/en/index.php?title=America&diff=81920America2016-01-13T13:34:42Z<p>Lanigiro: </p>
<hr />
<div>'''America''' can mean eather:<br />
<br />
* [[Americas]], the lands and regions in the Western Hemisphere.<br />
* The [[United States of America|United States]] of America.<br />
<br />
<br />
{{Disambig}}<br />
<br />
[[trash:America]]</div>Lanigirohttps://hitchwiki.org/en/index.php?title=Breda&diff=81918Breda2016-01-13T08:57:05Z<p>Lanigiro: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Infobox Dutch Location<br />
|map = <map lat='51.56' lng='4.763' zoom='11' view='3' country='Netherlands' height='300'/><br />
|country = Netherlands<br />
|state = Noord Brabant<br />
|pop = 170,491<br />
|motorways = <br />
|footnotes = <br />
}}<br />
'''Breda''' is a town in [[Noord Brabant]] in the [[Netherlands]].<br />
<br />
=== South towards [[Belgium]], [[France]], etc ===<br />
Go to Ettensebaan and stand after the traffic lights just before the A16 motorway. You can get here by taking a bus from Breda Central Station. There is two massive service stations just before and after the Belgian/Dutch border. You can reach the frontier by hitch-hiking from Breda in less than 10 minutes.<br />
<br />
[[Category:Noord Brabant]]</div>Lanigirohttps://hitchwiki.org/en/index.php?title=Bogot%C3%A1&diff=81917Bogotá2016-01-13T08:56:53Z<p>Lanigiro: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Infobox Location<br />
|country = Colombia<br />
|state = [[Distrito Capital]]<br />
|map = <map lat='4.61002528850565' lng='-74.08183288573814' zoom='9' view="0" /><br />
|pop = 7,674,366 (2013)<br />
|plate = Bogota DC, Bogota STFE<br />
|motorways = 40, 50, 55<br />
}}<br />
__TOC__<br />
<br />
'''Bogotá''' is the capital and largest city in [[Colombia]]. <br />
<br />
== Hitchhiking out ==<br />
<br />
=== Southwest towards [[Ibague]]/[[Cali]]/[[Ecuador]] ===<br />
<br />
Instead of hitching on the side of the road, it is best to go to a '''[[gas station]] in Soacha''' ([http://hitchwiki.org/maps/?place=20457 map]) and talk to [[truck]] drivers. To get there, take the TransMileno to the southernmost station, "Portal Del Sur". Follow the signs leading to "Autopista del Sur", and take a van going to "Soacha". Ask to get dropped off at the end of town, past "El Parque". From there, walk to the gas station.<br />
<br />
There you will find plenty of trucks going all the way to [[Cali]], especially early in the morning, as it ''normally'' is a 13 hour ride. <br />
<br />
=== Northwest towards [[Medellín]], [[Manizales]] ===<br />
There is a '''Terpel gas station''' ([http://hitchwiki.org/maps/?place=20458 map]) with plenty of trucks going this way. From the bus/transmileneo station "Portal 80", take any bus going towards "Villamery" or "La Florida" and ask to get off at "Parque Agroindustrial de Occidente". It will be right before a pedestrian bridge and a big sign that says "Kokoriko". The staff at this station were hitchhiker-friendly (2014). <br />
<br />
It can take 14 hours to get to [[Medellín]] by truck so leave early! <br />
<br />
== Accomodation and sleep ==<br />
{{infoneeded|Add places to sleep here. Wild camping places are good. Please '''do not''' add regular hostels. }}<br />
<br />
== Public transport ==<br />
<br />
The '''Transmilenio'' is an extensive and confusing rapid transit metrobus service. There are no ticket controls on the buses, fares are paid when entering the stations. You will need to buy a 3,000 COP card which is not returnable. Some zones require the use of different cards. You can vault the turnstyle when the blue-clothed security guard isn't looking. Kids often run accross the street and jump on the bus between the platform and bus to avoid fares. <br />
<br />
There are regular buses as well which are sometimes easier and don't require a card. They can't be blackridden though. <br />
<br />
== Internet ==<br />
{{infoneeded|Places with free computers or WiFi}}<br />
<br />
== Eating ==<br />
{{infoneeded|Free or cheap food}}<br />
<br />
== Places to avoid ==<br />
{{infoneeded|Dangerous Neighborhoods, tourist traps}}<br />
<br />
== Other useful info ==<br />
{{infoneeded|Other info}}<br />
<br />
== Personal experiences ==<br />
''Hitching towards Ibague, Feb´14: I took a minibus to Soacha and got off when a bus turned from the main road to the town. I stayed at the side of the road, waited about 10 minutes and got a ride from a truck which went to Neiva.'' -[[User:che.apelsin|che.apelsin]]<br />
<br />
{{IsIn|Colombia}}<br />
[[trash:Bogotá]]<br />
[[nomad:Bogotá]]<br />
<br />
[[Category:Colombia]]</div>Lanigirohttps://hitchwiki.org/en/index.php?title=Kenya&diff=81916Kenya2016-01-13T08:50:37Z<p>Lanigiro: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{infobox Country<br />
|country = of Kenya<br />
|map= <map lat='0.6591651462894632' lng='37.1337890625' zoom='5' view='3' float='right' /><br />
|language = Swahili, English<br />
|capital = [[Nairobi]]<br />
|pop = 39,002,772<br />
|currency = Kenyan Shilling (KES)<br />
|hitch = <rating country='ke' /><br />
| avp = Kenya<br />
}}<br />
<br />
'''Kenya''' is a country in East [[Africa]]. It has a large variety of tribes living in different areas of the country, with the Kikuyu tribe being the biggest. The famous Maasai tribe lives near the border with [[Tanzania]].<br />
<br />
== Trans-African Highway ==<br />
This road, going from [[Cairo]], [[Egypt]], to [[Cape Town]], [[South Africa]], leads through Kenya as well. In the north of the country, it is little more than a dust track through the desert, and this used to be a dangerous part of the road to travel on, with several hold-ups reported. [[User:gerbennap|Gerben]] travelled here in the summer of 2010, and he was told the banditry had drastically decreased after negotiations on illegal weapons possession in the region had been conducted by local authorities.<br />
<br />
Take care with the rainy season in this part of the country as well, as the dusty roads quickly turn into slippery mud roads once the rain starts pouring down. An asphalt (or ''tarmac'', as it is called here) road to the border at [[Moyale]] is under construction, but will take at least until 2015 to complete.<br />
<br />
== Cities ==<br />
* [[Nairobi]]<br />
<br />
{{IsIn|Africa}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Eastern Africa]]<br />
[[Category:Africa]]<br />
[[Category:East Route from North Cape to Cape of Good Hope]]</div>Lanigiro