America or Europe?

[seaborn]

Hi, I'm thinking about doing some travelling starting next month for approx. 6 months (poss. longer), I'm 30, single with no ties and a few thousand in the bank and work for myself, so no real reason to stop me at the moment, and want to see more of the world while I can.
I've already seen most the world through holidays and business trips etc, however 6+ months is a little different!!
So can't decide at the moment:
I love France, Italy & Spain and would love to see more, so am thinking about buying a cheap LHD car/camper and doing some touring & picking up jobs where I can. But am a little worried about the language barriers (I don't speak the language) and also because of that will it be a lonely experience, as I'll be going it alone.
Or do I go to America & Canada � once again 2 countries I've always wanted to see more of. I don't have the same language worries � obviously! But different worries: visas, getting around etc�

These are the only 2 areas I really fancy, as I did India, Australia, New Zealand and the Far East when I was a student, and went with friends. Also i love sports such as rock climbing, water sports etc. and both these places are good for that

So any thoughts??

Also any tips (esp. on packing) would be much appreciated.

Thanks

[sunflower68]

seaborn I would personally do Europe. You will see more of a diverse range of cultures. You can see lots travelling thro the states/Canada which I have done, but it is so flipping huge you spend so long on the Greyhound bus (spent 3 days on one once; sent me a bit mad after a while!)
In Europe you can be in major, interesting places every day if you want to .
When I got back home from the states, I have to say I felt it was just a bigger.......UK. I lived and worked in France for 2 years, it is so very different and I would go back in an instant. Also you will get the ski season coming up; you could be working and getting free skiing in too.
Don't worry about the lingo - the locals like it if you at least make an effort with a few basics and you sound pretty smart - learning a few basics before you go is very very easy.
As for being alone don't even consider it. You have run a business and are brave enough to go travelling alone. That in itself shows you have confidence to make new friends.
Dunno about the packing, all I can say is buy a back pack. Sorry! Have a great time whatever you do. x

[Pisceangirl]

If it was me I'd probably do America and Canada because I've never done it before, it's a big trip too, and because I could always go to Europe on cheapie Easyjet jobbies every now and again at a later date. Up to you though...read some travel books to get a taster. Good advice from sunflower68...sounds like travelling from place to place might get a bit boring in the states. Packing?! A map/travel book, multi european phrase book- tell you all the basic phrases to get by. Insect repellant (hate Mozzies!), travellers cheques, write down where all the British Embassy's are incase of passport loss!!! Also...why not stay in Youth Hostels...you'll meet loads of interesting people and make tons of new friends from all over the world. Then you can stay with them when you travel next time, hehe! You'll love it anyway whatever you do...have the time of your life! :)

[seaborn]

Hi , I just wanted to say that even though the last two answers were a diverse as I possible; I really love AB, the people on it and the sensible, helpful & thoughtful answers they give (please see my other question today in �Body & Soul� entitled � �Hi all, some advice would be greatly appreciated � thanks�).
To see what I mean, and all answers are appreciated!!!

Thanks

[sunflower68]

Yes seaborn I see the other thread now. Having read it I, like the others who replied there, really hope you take the advice. It appears that you are quite a catch! Your level-headedness will take you far, as it already has done in your career. I can promise you that as soon as you step off that plane/train you will feel utterly daunted for a day but also utterly, utterly, blissfully free, a freedom you won't know until it's there and a feeling you will never know until you try. Happy travels xxx

[Pisceangirl]

Oh Sunflower! and seaborn! hav my 3 legged cat on my knee purrin like mad and ripping my best dress! LIVE YOUR LIFE IT'S THE ONLY ONE!!! x :)

[jno]

the USA and Canada together are vast, and it does indeed take days to get from A to B (unless of course you fly)... but you don't have to see it all! Going to France doesn't mean you have to see Croatia; going to New York doesn't mean you have to make it to Utah. Why not restrict yourself to one area - New York/New England, say, going maybe as far as Washington and the adjacent area of Canada (Niagara, Toronto, Montreal). There's lots to see, the people are tremendously friendly (they aren't nearly as warlike as their government makes them seem), shopping is fabulous, and the countryside is lovely, especially if you're there in autumn.

[water-garden]

Definitely USA and Canada. I've done both and speak French fluently but it is still a more isolated experience. The North Americansm as you know, are fascinated by the English speaking english and go to huge lengths to talk to you. Packing - take lots of inner layers, Tee-shirts etc, a few middle layers, fleeces,or sweaters, and a couple of top layers, 1 waterproof and 1 coldproof. Toiletries etc are SO cheap, don't bother taking them with you and dump any unused if you don't want to bring them home!
Have a good time!

[Ferjuan]

I recommend you travel to Europe and specially Spain. Don't worry about language, you will meet good people and best food.

Just in case you rent your camper van and need information about campings, check here.
http://www.campingsclick.com/
http://www.campingsclick.com/campings_costa
http://www.campingsclick.com/campings-playa

I hope it will be useful.

Good luck