Episode 138: Thumb Life Around the Globe with Daniel

“For me personally, it doesn’t matter if I have a billion dollars or zero dollars, I would hitchhike for the experience. ”

— Daniel

Today, we delve into the fascinating world of hitchhiking, also known as thumbing. Our guest, Daniel from Los Angeles, California, has embraced the thumb life since 2013, embarking on over 10 epic long-distance hitchhiking journeys across North and South America, Africa, Europe, and Asia.

Tune in as we explore his incredible adventures and gain insights into the unique experiences and challenges of hitchhiking around the globe.

Daniel also discusses:

1:45 - Why hitchhiking?
2:40 - Long-distance hitchhiking adventures
4:30 - Favorite experiences from his travels
7:35 - How people in other cultures view hitchhiking
10:45 - Surprising experiences along the way
13:45 - Where his curiosity came from
16:50 - When his energy and outgoing behavior started
18:50 - Freedom and happiness
19:50 - Making himself more approachable
22:30 - His first time hitchhiking
24:45 - His early lessons on strangers and safety while growing up
26:45 - Rules of thumb while traveling
29:30 - Precarious situations he’s experienced hitchhiking
33:00 - Cultural differences he’s experienced
37:00 - How he addresses not knowing the cultural norms of a new area
42:00 - Asking people why they picked him up and the answers they give
43:10 - Advice for people who still think hitchhiking around the world is dangerous
45:40 - The most welcoming country he has been to so far
46:45 - The best way to learn more and follow his journey
47:00 - Who is going to play him in the Hollywood movie about his life