My rite of passage.

I'm going to Europe.

Yeah, I know what you're thinking - I've been there five times.

This time I'm going to BACKPACK through Europe. As in, the verb.

Yep. I've decided. My bookmarks tab on my laptop is full of guide websites and advice columns, community forums and hostel locations. I've already ordered Rick Steves' College Student's Guide to Europe, and Let's Go! Europe.

I've joined CouchSurfing.com (on the advice of Yvonne Brett, whose sons apparently love it) - an online community of people ALL over the world who will host travelers, and vice versa, in their homes ("on the couch"). It's all free, as an international "pass it on" kind of exchange, and traveler guests simply do chores or help out around the house in return for a place to sleep. I was skeptical when Yvonne first told me about it, but every host is verified with the site and other people who have stayed with them vouch for them. And it has amazing reviews from over 2 million people and acclaimed guide sites/sources, so I'm a bit relieved.

And of course, I have Bjorn. But his taste for the luxurious, however tempting to me, is going to be on the backburner for this trip. I want to do this old-style - literally with only the things on my back, and a damn good pair of walking shoes, I'm going to travel through Europe. Doing whatever I want, whenever I want, for as long as I want...or until my money runs out, of course.

Oddly, I'm not that scared. I'm EXCITED beyond belief. It's a daring, nerve-wracking, courageous kind of excited though - it's taking a plunge I've never taken before, but I know deep down that I want this more than anything.

I want to see things without a time constraint. I want to walk around and soak up the art, architecture, history, culture, natural beauty, languages, and the people. I want to go "wherever the wind takes me" - and discover myself along the way.

I know it's not all romanticized fun and pleasure and relaxation. But regardless of the trials I encounter, I truly think this will be a rewarding journey of self-discovery. I'm SO excited to go!

So. I think I know what I want for my birthday now... :)