Julia, I agree with the other...

Julia,
I agree with the other comments that are saying "just do it." The other main advice I add is the two words TRAVEL LIGHT. You need your documents, cell phone unlocked for around the world, your camera, and your credit card. You can carry all of that in good cargo pockets. Everything else is just gravy. I've had friends travel with trunks larger than some houses filled with a months worth of clothes, blankets, and pots and pans! Are you a snail? I think not!
I give lots of advice on what not to do in my book, "Pickpockets, Prostitutes, and Police." You can download it at www.talestogo.com .
Good Luck, Heather B

Heading South?