America's Cross-Country Hitchhiking Journey: Conclusion (Part 11)
## A Hitchhiker's Journey Across America
The sun rose over Seaside, Oregon, as Jack prepared for an adventure of a lifetime. With a backpack full of essentials and a map, he embarked on a hitchhiking journey that would take him across the United States, from the Pacific coast to the Atlantic. His destination was Ocean City, Maryland, a beloved beach town on the east coast.
## Westward Bound
As Jack made his way westward, he marveled at the towering evergreen forests and serene lakes. His journey took him through Boise, Idaho, where he met Mark, a truck driver who shared tales of the open road and offered advice on navigating the country. Mark dropped Jack off in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, where he hiked through the breathtaking Teton Range.
## Across the Heartland
From Wyoming, Jack traveled to Chicago, Illinois, where he hopped into a car with a family on vacation. In Chicago, he explored the vibrant city life, visiting iconic landmarks like the Willis Tower and taking a stroll along Lake Michigan. He then hitched a ride with a college student heading to Ohio, where he stopped in Cleveland to visit the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
## Eastward Ho!
Continuing east, Jack entered Pennsylvania, where he was picked up by a musician heading to New York City. In NYC, he spent a day exploring Central Park and visiting the Statue of Liberty. His next ride took him through New Jersey and into Maryland, where he finally reached his destination, Ocean City.
## An Unforgettable Journey
As Jack arrived in Ocean City, he reflected on his journey. He had seen the grandeur of the Rockies, the bustling cities of the Midwest, and the historical landmarks of the East Coast. More importantly, he had met people from all walks of life, each with their own stories and experiences. Ed, a professional yacht builder, offered him a personal tour of the Maryland coastline. Nebraska, a former military brat with a passion for cooking and eating alligator meat, gave him a ride for approximately 40 minutes to Trappe.
Jack's hitchhiking adventure not only crossed the country but also connected him with its diverse cultures and landscapes. He celebrated the end of his journey on the hot sand with a group of sunbathing bikini girls named Shai, Marina, and Laurentia. The total distance of his journey was 3,500 miles, taking 37 days and 36 rides. The modes of transportation included plane, train, cars, motorcycle, big rig, and boat. The total money spent was approximately $700.
Ocean City, the final destination, was a beach town with a boardwalk, carnival rides, resort hotels, and saltwater taffy. As Jack stood on the beach, looking out at the ocean, he felt a sense of accomplishment and a newfound appreciation for the beauty and diversity of America.
During his hitchhiking journey, Jack traveled across America, venturing from the Pacific coast to the Atlantic, and in the process, experienced diverse lifestyles and traveled through mesmerizing landscapes. As he traversed the country, he engaged in conversations about travel with fellow travelers, learning about their journeys and sharing his own experiences.