• On my first trip to Europe, I visited 11 countries in just one month. • I had an amazing time, but also made some mistakes that cost money and added unnecessary stress. • If I could do my trip again, I'd pack detergent pods, invest in a large backpack, and eat out less.

I always wanted to travel the world.

As a child, I fantasized about adventuring to places I'd see in movies, meeting new people, and expanding my horizons beyond the city I was born and raised in.

Growing up, though, travel was only viewed as a necessity reserved for family emergencies.

It wasn't until I was in my 20s that I was able to make my dream come true. After a demanding three months at work, I decided to treat myself to a monthlong European trip.

Before this trip, I had never been to Europe. I've lived i

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