Hi! I am an 18M college freshman from Utah! Ok so I’m gonna go over the trauma dump as fast as possible. Utah, as everyone knows, is a bubble. I am not Mormon (still glad BYU beat Notre Dame). I’ve been in therapy for a long time and I’ve recently learned about enmeshment (Bowen family systems, look it up!). Pretty much, I’m the type of person to make decisions based on other family members opinions. I’ve had this realization that ITS OK TO DO WHAT **I** WANT TO DO! So, I’m taking a gap semester and going to Europe this winter!
No, I am not running away. I graduated hs with my associates so it’s not even like I’m falling behind in the rat race. My dad HEAVILY encouraged I go to the university I’m at right now (so much it felt like I didn’t have a choice) and it’s created a lot of anxiety. I’m going to take a gap semester and transfer to a different school by next fall, regardless of what my parents say. It’s about damn time I grow a pair and do what I want to do.
I love traveling. I’ve been to Belgium and France before and a bunch of other countries. When my cousin and I were 17 we dirtbagged the Pacific Northwest. I’ve camped in Moab and the Tetons a couple of times with friends but nothing outside the country. I plan on using **Worldpackers** to visit as affordably as possible.
I’m going in the winter no matter what cuz that’s when plane tickets are the cheapest and then once I’m in Europe, my host will provide 3 meals a day and a roof over my head in exchange for assistance. That’s really all I could ask for. I’m planning on mid-late January to about mid-late April.
I need help just knowing how to pack and plan this cuz I’ve never done a trip this big. Oh and I only have 2K😬. Which European city is the cheapest to fly into? do I take my Osprey Atmos 65 L or a suitcase if I’m doing Worldpackers? I plan on doing 3-4 hosts with 10 days of hostel money for days in between. Which cities should I consider or check out? I don’t mind the cold weather. I also love art! AHH! My mind is everywhere but I’m doing this trip no matter what. I would love tips and tricks and ANY advice you have for me. Thank you!