/lit/ here. I felt like this would be a cool place to ask about this. Let me first by explaining about my current position in life. Basically, I've decided to take two years off of work and schooling to advance my education by myself, constantly reading, reading, reading, and studying, studying, studying everyday. Learned numerous things the past year.

However, I would say that reading alone is not good enough to farther one's education and live the patrician lifestyle. You must actually go out and DO things. Apply the skills and knowledge you've learned from reading. /out/, this is where you come in. I'm curious what you guys think I should do, particularly in these two locations.

Over the next year, I have two trips planned. First, in the summer, I'll be going to Arizona. Haven't put much thought into it yet, but I'm most likely going to do some camping out there. I've always been a fanatic of westerns and the desert region of the United States. What locations do you think I should go to and what books would you possibly recommend as some pre-reading about the recommended places?

Second trip will be an archaeological tour of many Ancient Greek locations. I'm in the process of learning about Greece. I don't really need recs for this, but I'm curious to hear stories from you guys about archaeological tours you've been on. What kind of magnificent ancient societies have you had the chance to explore?

Also, any other recommendations you have for me to do this year, please post in this topic. I'm not an outdoorsman, but I'm very open to ideas.