I am planning my first long road trip for summer 08. I am also pretty sure that I want to do it solo. I have lived in the US all of my life and have only seen SC (where I am from), NC, GA, FL and a little bit of NY (from a weekend trip). I have also never done anything on my own. I married young and have never even lived alone for a long period of time. I am a full-time Nursing student and I can't take classes in the summer so I don't have to worry about leaving anything (like a job). Also, I am a mom, but my children spend a month in the summer with their dad so I have no obligations there as well. My biggest fear is the reactions of my family- I am sure they will think I am crazy for traveling alone! I am really excited about it though.
Right now I am trying to decide exactly what general route to take. I can't decide whether to go North or go West (although I am leaning a little more toward West). I don't want to try to fit in too much b/c I want to be able to really enjoy the trip and not feel rushed. I really want to visit historical sites and national parks. So, I need some opinions from more seasoned travelers.... which would you recommend....west (basically to colorado and back) or north (to new york and back)???
I am also planning to tent camp which will be new to me. I have only camped before in a camper (which I loved but was jealous of the people in tents). I am planning to take the kids tent camping in the spring for a couple of weekend trips so that will give me some practice with setting up camp, etc. I want to camp for the obvious financial advantage but also b/c I really want to experience nature on my own and I am not a big fan of hotels.
Any other suggestions or opinions are welcomed. I can use all of the help I can get!