I am studying in Spain next fall and would like to travel a bit before my classes start. I would like to visit France, Italy, Germany and Poland. What are my options for reasonably priced travel? Would it be cheaper to ride by train or fly? Do I have any other options?

I would like to travel to Panama sometime this year. I was wondering how much it would be to travel from San Antonio, Texas to Panama Central America by bus or train? Has anyone ever made this trip? I googled it but cannot find an answer. Any websites? Tips and info? Thanks!