I too have some of my happiest memories from travelling in my youth. At 23 a friend and I came to England from Australia and spent 6 months cycling and hitching around Britain and Europe. It was a wonderful, wonderful 6 months and I never at any time felt unsafe. I met so many people who were friendly, helpful and kind. People who would give us a lift then take us to the door of the hostel we were heading for, go out of their way to get us to the right place, offer us a meal or a bed (no strings attached) a lorry driver who stopped to buy a packet of cigarettes and bought us a bar of chocolate each and many others who bought us cups of tea at truckers' cafes. I look back now and think..."Couldn't do that today!", but is that true? i don't think the world and people have changed that much, just our perceptions.

Love Lynne