<p>Way back in the day after HS I hit the road for parts unknown and ended up in Chicago from NJ with $200 in my pocket. I had planned to work but no good job offers came so I just left after tiring of my parents' nagging. I knew exactly 1 person in Chicago--a spring vacation friend from our trip to Florida. Had a grand time for about a month hanging at my friend's house and going to clubs. That was until the rent on the hotel was due and my job selling ice cream on the Chicago beaches was not as lucrative as I had hoped. It was the summer of 1968 and there was lots in the air in Chicago. I left just before the convention unfortunatley. I had to have my parents wire enough money for gas to drive home. That was a tough call. I learned it can be tough out there on your own but I was never afraid to get up and go anywhere after that.</p>
<p>I have just skimmed through these messages so my apologies if this has been mentioned. If your son/daughter is interested in Europe, check out the Rick Steves site. There is a message board dedicated to hostels. Many recommendations of where to stay and what to avoid are given. I found this very helpful.</p>