How to live abroad
How I did it: I volunteered as an English teacher in Kiev, Ukraine. I didn't get paid, I actually paid them to send me! I learned so much, and got an in-depth feel for the culture.
I spent about 5 months actually there, the rest was prep time. I learned all about Ukraine, worked as much as I could to get the money I needed, and attended training for the volunteer program.
Lessons & tips: Sign up to volunteer. They generally need help for longer periods that reasonably qualify for 'living' instead of just visiting. It was so much fun, and gave me so much more confidence than if I had just gone for my own enjoyment. I knew I was needed there, and that kept my homesickness at bay.
Resources: Make sure you have the newest version of whatever guidebook you need. Once you do have it, don't treat it like a bible. Use it to get familiar with the area, but go out and do your own exploring too! That is what will make or break your trip.
