What's menopause like?

I have about another 22 years until then, and can't wait to put this horrible curse behind me when that time finally comes. But I'm aware that menopause can be a huge drag and can last 10 years which doesn't sound like much fun. But what exactly should I expect? I know there are hot flashes, how long do those last? How constant is it through the ten years? Will I hate it even more than I hate my periods? Will I wish I was still on my period? (From an immature 18 year old who wishes to have been born with the girl parts on the outside and the boy parts on the inside.)