How I did it: I saved up my tip money that I earned as a cocktail waitress my last two years in college.  I drove an old beater car and saved everything I could until I had $22,000 saved up!  I booked my trip, flying into England, and set off with nothing but a Jansport backpack and a youth hostel book.  I made so many wonderful friends and saw some amazing sites.  If I can do this, anyone can.

Lessons & tips: Fly into an English-speaking country if this is your first time traveling.  You have enough stres without worrying about the language barrier.

Book your first night's hotel before you get there so that you have a place to go and aren't wandering around aimlessly while you are jetlagged.

Pack lightly!  But bring lots of underwear, two bras and some comfy walking shoes

The coolest sites are off the beaten track.  The Eiffel Tower?  Yawn.  It was some of the most amazing things you don't find in guidebooks that made my trip.        

Resources: Rick Steves' First Time Europe
European Hostel Guidebook (has contact information and reviews)
The Internet

Sep 10, 2008, 02:55PM PDT | 2 comments | 21 cheers