As a graduation present to myself, I am going to Europe in the summer of 2014 for anywhere between one and two months. I'm in the early stages of planning so far, so any input on where and what to do would be appreciated. I've decided to visit Hamburg, Berlin, Istanbul, somewhere in Italy, somewhere in France (watch a stage of the Tour), the Swiss Alps, Girona/Roses, Amsterdam, Brussels, and maybe London. For all those who have been to any of these places or perhaps even reside there, where should I stay? (For most of these locations I am considering homestays, as they will allow me to meet locals and live like they do.) What should I see? What to avoid? (I want to skip the touristy spots.) Any other tips or suggestions on traveling alone in Europe are welcome...Planning for this trip has been so exciting and yet so daunting.