Anybody know the absolute cheapest way to travel from Paris to Amsterdam. Would hitchhike but traveling with 2 other friends. I'm afraid 3 guys will never be able to catch a ride.

Go to Shakespeare & Co. and the American Church. Post notices on the bulletin boards that you will pay for the gas for a ride to A'dam. Posting is free.

There is at least one English language ex-pat newsletter/journal in Paris where you can run an ad. That will probably cost. Readers will probably have no sympathy for your situation or means to help you unless you offer to pay for gas.

Hitchhike one at a time. Agree to meet in a centrally located specific cafe or hotel, say at even numbered hours so the early lucky guys can get in some city life while the last ones are still standing out in the cold windy rain waving their thumb around. You must wave your arm and thumb and not stand like a wooden Indian or you'll never go anywhere. Get a book on hitchhiking in Europe before you try it.

Wishing you <i>bonne chance</i> and <i>geluk</i>!

P.S. I am fascinated by Ed Buryn's book <i>Vagabonding in Europe and North Africa</i>. It's about 30 years old but is certainly worth reading if you are traveling on the cheap.

If you hitchhike, please write back and relate your experiences. I have hitchhiked short distances in Europe and have picked up hitchhikers when driving. I would like to hear about your experiences.

Also, I have heard about an off-beat bus that makes the journey. Never tried it. Google for it.

Eurolines coach is advertising 39 Euros each way if booked 15 days in advance.

How long is the trip by air? car? bus? train? I am trying to do the same thing. Thanks!

On www.tgv.com they are showing advance purchase tickets Paris to Amsterdam for 32.50 euros which is a really good price....the train is direct show it only takes slightly over 4 hours, so a really good deal.