I think u could visit the forum singaporean oversea. In that
forum that are quit a few of them living in europe. Get to know
them and who knows u can meet them for travel. I have been
travelling to other countries bcos of work by myself alone and the
best thing in this is to train urself to be more independent. Its a
good time to train that and also get to know more friends.
As to ur friend who is going to 'fly ur kite', if I am u i will
never never ask her out for any trip. Ppl like this does not
deserve my attention anymore.
Lastly, while u are there for 8 mths, it an opportunity to travel
cos u might not have this chance again in the future and u will
regret it. Like myself now, I am also thinking ways to get out the
small town in the states altot I am very afraid of driving long
distance. Cheers~! 