Hi Chas. I really don't like coming to this forum anymore. As an analogy, it's like opening a glossy magazine looking for the table of contents to find where and what the articles are and instead you wade through pages of advertisements and waste (ie WIRED). This site is like entering a pen for livestock where you are shunted from here to there in an opaque manner rather than an open arena where you can clearly see where you want to go and what you can do. This is not a reflection on the work of the moderators or the content of the contributors but rather on the layout of the site...this is not a simple place to be.
Regarding the thread, you can ‘survive’ as a parasite with your hand outstretched, you can ‘survive’ doing illegal things but you won't survive in isolation because you will need people. Your first question should be “what are you worth to anyone?” and second “is this path worth it?” for you. I'm being nice here.. look at my smile. Integrity is not a luxury so keep your self-respect whatever you choose so that when you look back at the choices you made you won't be ashamed...they may not be the best and you may regret some but keep your nose and conscience clean.
Assuming you do get in... don't give up a ‘live’ passport or travel papers. Have a plan in action to have these documents replaced and accessible to you at some future point in time. Next, save at least half of everything you earn. Next, learn how to play cards well.. cigarettes are (almost) as good as money. Times have changed since I was there but I recall it being akin to a prison environment where being smart, strong (mentally and physically) and being supportive of your group will work in your favour. If you need to do anything, do it without witnesses, leave your mark and never talk about it. Ever. Just make sure that you are a light sleeper in case you need to welcome some late night visitors to your cot..so like the Scout's motto "Be Prepared."