I have traveled solo to Europe three times and don't mind it a bit, in fact, I prefer it now. If you are OK traveling solo in the states, then you won't have any problems overseas. Since this is your first time over, I would start in the UK, then on to Bruges, Antwerp, and/or Amsterdam. Everyone in those cities speaks English. That will probably fill up your 2 weeks, don't go overboard and try to do and see everything. Stay at family-run hotels or B&Bs where you get a chance to talk to the owners. Be friendly on the street and trains, smile and say hello to strangers, people are very responsive. Just asking for directions often turns into a 15 minute conversation with a local. Bon voyage.

Life for the day! Travel, explore, see the world. Remember though that your friends will not be as enlightened when you gte back and you may need to upgrade to a new level of buds.

John,<BR><BR>I would totally go for it! I've been to europe with 2 friends of mine two summers ago and loved it. This year I am going to Ireland with a friend for 2 weeks and then I'm going off on my own to see the world for another couple of weeks. I too am apprehensive, but am excited to do something TOTALLY FOR ME! I suppose I'm most apprehensive about the language issues...I have visions of getting lost and not knowing how to ask for help!!! haha <BR>Anyway, I'm not letting this stop me. I too am trying to figure out where to go. I know I'm going to Sweden but I'm also thinking about Amsterdam and Copenhagen.<BR><BR>I think you definately should go. Your friends will look at you and be envious that you experienced such a memorable trip.<BR><BR>Cheers!

John,<BR><BR>In addition to the countries mentioned above, you will find that the vast majority of the population in the Scandinavian countries also speak perfect English. I can also tell you that in the big 3 tourist cities of Italy, (Rome, Florence, Venice) you will have not problems finding English speakers in the tourist zones. The countryside is another story. What ever you do, have fun.

In addition to the good advice above, I might suggest staying in youth hostels if you really want to easily and quickly meet people. I know, you think you're too old for that, but most hostels are open to all ages and, if you're selective about which ones you go to, you can even snag your own private room (costs more, of course). Also, there's an organization called Servas you should check out. It's a program designed to promote international understanding, and you can spend a couple of nights with various local families in the countries you're interested in travelling in. <BR><BR>Good luck!

I agree with Russ, who pointed out the Scandinavian countries. Denmark and Stockholm both were no problem at all in this respect, and I'm sure Oslo would be similar in that 90 percent of the folks we encountered spoke English. It simply never was a problem and they are really fascinating places.

ttt

John - I have taken several solo trips lasting 10 days to two weeks, and yes it's fine like everyone says, but there really will be times when you get lonely and would just like to have a little company and conversation. Tom's tip about Servas is very worthwhile. In addition to the hosts that you stay with, they also have people who sign up to be "day hosts" and will meet you just for the day or lunch and give you the local info on the area, etc. It takes awhile to go through the steps to sign up with Servas (they will screen you because they don't want crazies) and then you get booklets for the countries you're visiting that contain the contact hosts. They have very briefs bios that give ages,occupations, etc. for example, you could look for architects...and then you just make your own arrangements as you wish. These are educated ,(started with teachers) interesting people who believe in promoting understanding between countries and cultures and can really add to your visit. You can get more info on the website Servas.com

Oops, John, gave you an incorrect URL, Servas is now at www.servas.org/

One more yes. I like traveling alone. My brother went to Amsterdam alone and liked it so much he stayed. Maybeyou'd like to pick 2 or 3 cities--London, Edinburgh, Amsterdam--and use them as bases, see the things in those cities and take day trips.<BR> <BR> And a big vote for taking little tours. Londonwalks.com is fantastic, I imagine there are things in other places. There are brochures for day trips in all big hotel lobbies. <BR><BR> When you know where you're going, post here to ask for names of places to eat at the bar. Or if that situation brings out your shyness, I think you will definitely find people to chat with, and probably have a meal with, if you go on tours. It's easy because you have something to talk about. <BR><BR> I met people (I'm a woman older than you so it's different people) when I'd go to the theatre tohang around looking for a last-minute ticket--there were always some other people doing that.<BR><BR> And remember people who live someplace usually like to give you advice about what to do.