1. Don't be afraid
It will spoil the moment, even if just for yourself. Experiencing things you've never experienced before is the best part of travelling. Unfamiliarity will always be accompanied with a bit of fear, but once you've conquered that, the best moments are had.
2. Learn a little bit of the local language
You don't need to be fluent in German after 4 days there, but learning hellos, thank you's, excuse me's and sorry's could help you in sticky situations and you never know, but you may just become friends with some locals.
3. Learn about the sightseeing of each destination, even if you don't intend to visit them
Personally I couldn't think of anything less interesting than walking to each main attraction at each destination, photographing and continuing. Some may be worth the visit, however I'd rather visit the locals markets and coffee shops. However I have found myself on occasion being asked about the such and such in town (being the main attraction) and actually never having even heard of it, now I like to learn what there is even if I don't intend on visiting.
4. Have a few realxing days
Trust me, you'll need them. And you'll be thankful for them.
5. Document your days in photographs and films
They tell stories too, so make sure you let them.
6. Experience something alone (if you're travelling with someone)
Even if it's just a quick trip to the nearest grocery store, you will look at things you didn't before. Small talk with some locals is usually on the cards and confidence is found in the slightest of accomplishments, like deciphering the foreign language on the back of the chocolate.
7. Journal your days
Just like photographs and films, reading back on what you spent your days doing will make your heart sing. And make you reminisce some of the happiest moments. Things people have said that you've forgotten. Places you saw. Meals you ate.
8. Make friends
In the end, it's not about where you are but who you're with that matters the most. Make sure you make memories with strangers, even if just for a night. It may well just be the best night of your life.
9. If a majority the reviews say the hostel is terrible, it usually is.
If you want to #YOLO it, and go for it merely for the name or whatever, then so be it, but just remember that when you're lugging your bag up ladders to your sleeping den or doing your washing at 3am, you'll have wished you listen to the advice of the reviews.
10. Go places people have never heard of before
If someone you've just met mentions the great hiking mountains a train ride away or the derelict buildings, behind the East Side Gallery, that can only be accessed by climbing a tree over a 12ft wall. You've just gotta do it.
11. Not everything will go as planned
And that makes it the journey it is. You may miss trains or planes or get lost at 11pm looking for your accommodation. You'll see things you may not have seen if it didn't happen.
12. You'll realise how much kindness is left in the world
There will always be room for the evil too, but a hell of a lot for the kindness.
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