So after Berlin, we headed for Paris, spent 2 days there, thought it was pretty but didn't like it that much.
I guess if you're going to Paris, unless you spend a lot of money, stay and eat at expensive places, and go shopping, you won't really enjoy it. Also, it's hard to get by armed only with English and universal sign language. French people don't seem to appreciate non-French speaking people very much, and this may seem like a biased generalization, but we found it to be true for the most part. Of course, if you don't believe me, you can always go find out for yourself.
Oh, and the Eiffel Tower was nice. Very impressive. And if you ever go see it, if you go to the top and sift through all the graffiti, you'll find our names up there somewhere. :)
So anyways, if anyone out there is planning to go backpacking, here's a couple of tips you might find useful:
1. Get the Lonely Planet for wherever you're going.
Especially if you don't speak the language. We had one for Berlin, and it helped enormously. Then we didn't have one for Paris, and we were completely and utterly lost. It's worth the couple of bucks you're gonna pay for it. It'll probably save you more than that, too.
2. Always keep your money, your passport, and important stuff like train and plane tickets ON YOUR PERSON.
Don't put them in a bag, unless you're absolutely certain you'll never put it down. And keep whatever pocket they're in zipped or buttoned or something. Wallets should preferably be in your front pocket, not back.
3. If you're checking out Youth Hostels, don't bother calling.
A lot of them will just tell you there's no room. Physically go there and ask for beds. Even if they're full, chances are they'll have mattresses or something for you to use.
4. Check around for the best price.
You're obviously not local, and people will try to rip you off. And don't be afraid to try bargaining.
5. Get travel insurance.
You never know how useful it's gonna be.
6. Bring a sleeping bag.
In Berlin, it was impossible to get rooms. We ended up getting a single room in a fancy hotel, which cost a bomb. There being 3 of us, however,
we sneaked 2 of us in and split the total cost. The sleeping bags were a godsend.
7. Don't be too trusting.
A lot of people will seem like they're helping you, and BAM... you'll have lost $50 bucks.
8. Don't let little things get you down.
Get over whatever setbacks you have and enjoy yourself.
9. Make friends with fellow travellers and locals, try the local food, get over your jetlag and vacation lethargy immediately, and make sure you have a hell of a time. :)
Of course, I'm an amateur in this area. I'm sure there's plenty of people who can tell you much more.