Hitchhiking to Athens 2016
When I was in my final year of university, I decided to go on a big adventure. At first I was not sure whether I could really do this trip — yet I was excited by the idea. At the time I had already gathered some hitchhiking experience and read a few blog posts about it.
The Start
My journey started directly from my home. I only had a large backpack with me — with a tent and a sleeping bag. I walked to the main road, put out my thumb, and waited for a car. I find these moments particularly exciting, because you never know where you will go or when someone will stop.
My first ride was with an older woman who took me to Brno. From there the journey continued to Vienna and later to Graz. In Graz I had found accommodation through Couchsurfing. I was very happy to have managed this stretch — at the time I could not speak German and had to use English everywhere.
Slovenia & Croatia
The next day I continued to Slovenia and then to Croatia. I had never been to Croatia before and I liked this country very much. I remember many cats and the many stone houses. I had a good feeling and was happy to have reached Croatia in just two days.
I had previously heard that hitchhiking in Croatia can be difficult — but I was lucky. I met a Frenchman who was traveling by car with a friend. The previous year he had hitchhiked to Albania; this year he had decided on a road trip. His plan was simple: to meet different people and gather new experiences. I traveled with them for three days.
Montenegro
After my three days with the French guys I continued alone to Montenegro. The country surprised me with its wild coastline, rugged mountains, and the heartfelt hospitality of the people. Montenegro is one of those countries that is barely on anyone's radar — and then completely overwhelms you.
Albania
From Montenegro I traveled on to Albania — for many Europeans still a blank spot on the travel map. And that is exactly what makes it so special. The people are incredibly open and helpful, the landscape is breathtaking, and the country has its own raw beauty. Overall I was very satisfied with Albania.
Greece
From Albania I traveled to Greece, where I met up again with my French friend. We traveled together for a week and discovered many interesting places — such as the fascinating Meteora monasteries, the legendary Mount Olympus, and many beautiful beaches. Greece was the crowning highlight of the entire trip.
Athens – the Destination
In Athens our paths separated. I had no idea where I would sleep, so I decided to join a Couchsurfing event. We had a few beers, visited various bars — and in the end I slept at someone's home.
That was the end of my adventure. I made my way back to the Czech Republic. The trip lasted about three weeks. I met many wonderful people, saw countless sights, enjoyed beautiful landscapes, swam in the sea several times — and in total spent only about 130 euros.
