What isnt in travel books.

[brendan]

Hello travel punks-
Im new to this site, new to very idea of backpacking throughout europe and looking for guidance. My life is certainly blessed, as i have already traveled much of the world, but never before have i been searching for something so unlike me. Im at a crossroads in my life here in Baltimore, MD and having finally admitted being overwhelmed with life, i have just sold my car and decided i will take off to europe, alone, with no destination, no real plan. My goal is rid myself of all vices, find peace with myself if you will. In doing so, i understand times will get rough, lonely etc. This i invite and for the first time in my life, i am looking forward to. My only fear is that i wont follow through on what im dreaming it will be like now. Ive done the travel tours, the travel books and vacation guides and with little satisfaction. I care not about another temple or things of the nature that everyone has seen or done, but instead, i want to live through the best of memories from people of all walks of life, all over the world. I am looking for the experiences that very few know or talk about, that havent been mass-produced and marketed, experiences that atleast seem dear and distinct to each person, the best times you have all had throughout europe, sortfor those experiences that have had a lasting and profound impact upon ones life, the most extreme and outrageous thing youve ever done, any life-changing experiences, anything at all of the sort. Im sorry to write so much, but i have one chance at this and i dont want to blow it. Please send any and all guidance, advice, do's or donts for traveling throughout europe. Thanks alot if youve managed to read this far, its much appreciated. Cheers!
-Bman

[Ozpacka]

I hear ya mate...

Just sold both my cars over the past two weeks, sold my shares, and still looking to sell anything of any materialistic value to fund this trip that im doing. Your right though, its a awkard balance of knowing/planning your trip and setting off on the ultimate unplanned adventure.

I wish you luck mate, and im sure that you will find your inner peace...

Leeroy

[Sean]

Hey Brendan-
First of all let me say that I think what you are doing is awesome, really just great. Although, I haven't been to europe yet (next fall) I have had some insanely awesome experiances while traveling and a few rare moments that i can truely say have effected my life in a lasting way. Some were beautiful (running for miles along the beach on Rarotonga and not seeing a single other soul) some were fun (a week of drunken wildness with a bunch of other teenagers I met in NZ) and some were just freaking scary (almost being eaten by sharks while diving in Australia.) The one thing that they all had in common though is that they were all completely unexpected. So I guess in my experiance the greatest moments of my life have been things that I hadnt planned for and that totally took me by surprise. But now i'm rambling and I totally didnt answer your question. Im sure someone else will be able to give you lots of great ideas. Best of luck to you, have an amazing time on your adventure!
Sean