[sradnidge]

The US is probably out - due to VISA requirements you can't stay there for any length of time. But if you do go there, I would advise setting yourself up with HSBC Premier in the UK first, then getting USD bank accounts setup via them (they are real, local US accounts with cheque books and debit cards - not just a "currency account"). In fact that advice probably applies irrespective of where you move - get a local account setup from here first if you can. Setting up local bank accounts as a foreigner can be a real pain in the arse, and yet they are so essential if you want to get any kind of income (or even just to avoid wild exchange rate fluctuations).

Start going minimalist now, if you are not already. The worst thing you can do is lug all this useless shit with you around the globe, or move somewhere and start accumulating crap. Yes I am speaking from experience.

Finally, if you are not that well travelled, start by actually travelling :). By that I mean use the net to target some places, then take yourself on a holiday and hit all those places. Don't plan any of the usual touristy crap, just try to take in the environment you are in. See if the place gels with you or not, as much as something can in a week.

Good luck with it.