[Chris]

You never mentioned how old you are. Young, probably. Older guys have more sense. Do you have resources to do this?
Wait until you are older and can afford a trip like this. We all want to make a trip like this, but we wait until the time is right.

Sounds like a diaster to me. Young guy heading out with no money, no job, no plans, no place to stay. Soon you'll be turning tricks just to eat.
I'm a romantic more than most folks, but some common sense in in order here.
See if you can get your old job back or another one like it. I've spent decades counseling guys like you off drugs or out of jail. Usually dosen't work and their life rapidly runs downhill.

Chris, common sense, retired in Atlanta (don't call)