500 euros Rotterdam to Paramaribo, what I heard. Why mess around? Complaining saps you of vital energy.

You seriously think starting in Alaska is equivalent to starting in Paramaribo? Naw, can't be true. You're impulsive, but not ignorant. Either you're joking or you're answering someone else.

You could ship to South America for 500 euros last I heard, which was two years ago. That's cheap--cheaper than 2007, in fact. Suriname is a bit out of the way, sure, but the whole area is fun and interesting and not overpopulated by riders who look just like you. It's not even terribly remote compared to lots of places. You want to go to South America, or you want to go someplace where they speak a different language but basically everything works much like it did back home? Your choice.

Or if you prefer, buy in the States and spend an extra month or more riding through Central America. That's also great fun, and it has the added advantage of making South American borders seem fast and efficient.

Or: If you're short on time and want to see the southern tier, pay the going price and ship to Chile. Buck up.

If your real goal is to spice up your morning coffee with some whining (or whinging, depending on personal preference and national origin), please carry on. Pay no attention to practical suggestions which address your original plaint, because the point is not to find solutions.

safe travels and fun times,

Mark