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I did the cheap travel/backpacking experience several times to Europe in the college years and I really enjoyed the whole cheap travel experience.
I will admit that travel like this can be stressful, especially if you aren’t willing to try the local language or learn a few basic phrases.* Personally, I enjoyed the idea of trying to speak the foreign language, going to local restaurants, but you should also be resourceful and not panic if you miss a train, get on the wrong bus, get confused with military time (I actually did all 3 of these at one time or another), but everything worked out and now I have really good stories.*
Youth hostels are fun and cheap, but check out some of the backpacker books first to get reviews (“Let’s Go” makes very popular books), or you might end up in a frat house type atmosphere.*
The really touristy areas like Paris or Florence will fill up fast in spring & summer, so you probably want to make reservations, even in the hostels.* Lots of the hostels have websites these days and accept reservations online.*
Also, be careful on the second class overnight trains as petty crime can be common.* Try to get off the beaten path and prices will be a lot cheaper.* The food at the mom and pop place will be a lot better and cheaper than the Hard Rock Cafe.* Enjoy…those travel experiences will stay with you forever.*
Aaron
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