RyanH

As long as I can remember, I've held incredible respect for those who've managed to live abroad. The idea of throwing one's self completely out of one's element is highly appealing. Not that I'm looking to "find myself", escape, run from the current administration... I just want the experience.

Cutting to the chase: my question is this: how can I, as someone with no savings, no college degree, and no specialized skill (as far as trades go...I'm one hell of a waiter) spend 6 months+ in another country soon.

Without military service.

freeload

Damn! For a moment I tought I had a good solution.
Check with international airlines for a trainee position, work as an au-pair or find a selection of countries you're interested in and contact the embassy - they might give you a clue.

Or participate in some drug trafficing

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The future ain't what it used to be.

joemc91

The people I have met traveling do it by first saving up enough money to buy a ticket somewhere and a completely open ended ticket home (because you can't be too careful). Also, to have enough to live in a cheap hostel for a month so they can find work without worrying where the next meal comes from.

A lot of countries have "travel work" allowances without needing a visa. Usually these must be unskilled work (waiting tables, cashier, etc) and only for one year. Most of the "backpacker" hostels I have stayed in will help you find a job in the area. Once you have a job it doesn't take much money to keep living in a hostel as long as you cook for yourself and are frugal.

If you speak another language it will be a great help. For instance Buenos Aires is ridiculously cheap to live well in (by US standards) but of course you need to speak spanish to work. Good luck with your travels!

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I prefer desert wines to dessert wines.

Dry and red