Backpacking Europe... The World?

Hey guys, it's been a dream of mine for years to travel across the world... or at least Europe (actually my heart is more in South America or Asia, but my lack of language knowledge would get to me more there. In Europe, at least you can survive only knowing English - even if not the most pleasantly at times).

I'm trying to figure out how to do this cheaply. It doesn't have to be the exorbitant expense many people think it is. Hostels instead of hotels. Buses instead of trains. Making friends in advance to stay with. Applying for a British passport in advance so I can legally work in Europe should I decide to settle down... or some random opportunity come up (my mom is from Northern Ireland so this is an option for me). Grocery stores instead of eating out. Exploring instead of "tourist experiences" (that charge admission fees). Without saying (since I wouldn't do this anyway) no drinking your head off in Berlin, prostitutes in Amsterdam, etc (I'm not saying those cities are like that, just that those are, true or not, the stereotypes). No cell phone, no luxuries.

Just see the world, pray for it, and gain a greater appreciation for God's creation and a greater understanding of my place in it.

I don't have a plan in place yet, once I do, I'm going to create a blog for my trip - or my attempt at one. Right now, more than anything, I'd appreciate the prayers of friends and family. I love you all so much,

Mark