danny

i'm heading to italy in august with a friend. our plan is to do it as cheaply as possible. i'm quite comfortable hitch-hiking in the states and have done some extensive trips that way. i'm curious if this means of transportation is as safe, not as safe or (possibly) safer in italy than the united staes. or if anyone might have a reasonable alternative to hitch-hiking (rideshares, bus or train) that are cheap -- please do not direct me to eurail, i've already compared prices. (it isn't compatable with my itinerary) i'd be very thankful for some direction.