One of our most memorable experiences in Yellowstone was the people. We were surrounded by tourists from all over the world and immersed into many different languages, customs and fashions. Everyone showed a common joy and excitement at seeing all the wonders of the park.
As we drove around, we began to notice groups of young people with cardboard signs indicating they were in need of a ride to various sites within the park. Curiosity got the best of us and we pulled over to ask if they were indeed hitch hiking. Within minutes we were taxiing two young ladies to Old Faithful and by some quirk of fate, met up with them again in the evening. We stopped at a couple of places along the way to our respective lodgings and enjoyed sightseeing and conversing with them about their home in Belarus. A group of two boys and three girls from Taiwan rode with us another day. It was from them that we learned about Stinky Tofu and a fascination with our fast foods.
These young people were participating in an international travel program that connects participants with summer job opportunities. We didn't get a lot of details on how the program works, but all of them were very excited about what they were seeing and learning. All were university students, each in different programs but all with high goals for success. They represented themselves and their countries well and it was a good feeling to be able to help in this small way.
We've been in several National Parks but this is the only one where we've seen this program. If you travel to Yellowstone and you have room in your vehicle, stop and offer a ride. You will be richly rewarded and maybe even asked to be in a photo with your passengers.
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