Well, if you want some guidance, here is some for you to work on....

Take a stroll through the Cartographers Choice forum to see what you like, get inspired, take a look at the map threads for the maps that you like to find the WIP (Work In Progress) thread where the work is shown. In those threads you will pick up all kinds of tips and tricks, and if you are lucky enough, a linky to the tutorial that help the creator get there. Once you find a tutorial for a style you try it out and post a WIP of your own. THAT thread is where you REALLY start to learn to map, because we are a friendly bunch and we enjoy seeing people develop what talent they may have (and you will be surprised at how much you may be hiding ). The critiques and comments that come your way are the BEST way to learn. You should also ask any questions that come up...

Anyhoot, welcome to the Guild, The Mappiest Place on the Web