You can learn it yourself. Obviously, proper O&M training would be ideal, but if you're in a part of the world where you literally don't have access to it and it's not an option, well, then it's not an option.

That said, you should try and learn proper cane technique as best you can. They're the standard because they work well, and you don't want to pick up unsafe habits. I would look for some books on orientation and mobility and cane travel technique. O&M is more than just cane travel, it's also about learning to use other environmental clues to orient yourself and navigate the world.

You could start with this article from the NFB: $1

The main thing will be to really focus on establishing good technique from the beginning and then practice, practice, practice. The biggest "risk" is that you end up practicing an incorrect technique and train yourself to do something that is unsafe. Bad habits can be really hard to unlearn.

See if you can get a sighted friend to study up on it and join you when you go out with your cane the first few times. It won't be the same as having a qualified instructor, but a good friend to accompany you as you learn and to make sure you're safe when doing so could help a lot, for moral support and peace of mind, if nothing else.

**Edit:** Oh, and as for the cane tip, personally I think the rolling marshmallow tip is a good place to start and then learn the constant contact technique (it seems a little easier). Your cane length should be at least up to your armpit, many people like them longer.

Look up the NFB book "Care and Feeding of a White Cane". It's free to read online and several of my friends who didn't have any other options used it to help teach themselves how to use their canes. I would suggest starting with a basic, not fancey type of cane. I learned using an Ambutech folding cane and I think those are the most common. I use an NFB long white cane now and have a spare folding one I cary when I'm out with my guide dog. But the good old Ambutech folding cane was my big resource for at least twenty years. They're sturdy and portable, which might be helpful for you. Good luck!

People have suggested the book Caring and Feeding of the White Cane. Here is a link to another book that you might want to check out. I think you're supposed to buy it, but the publisher has it online, so you may not feel like buying it. http://tech.aph.org/sbs

I am so far a self taught can user, but plan to take a course sometime soon. I would be happy to type up what I learn if you’d like to share emails.

That said, so far I prefer a good old walking stick. Wooden. I feel safer with it, and if I start to fall it can catch me (foldable canes cannot support weight). I still tap from left to right, and it feels comfortable to me, but I have an old fashioned soul.