First time - SEX

Me and my boyfriend have been together for about 5 months and we are very committed to each other. We have done practically everything sexual except for, sex. We are both 18 and both virgins. We have talked about it a little bit but not as much as I would like. I have no idea what to expect, all I've heard is that it's going to hurt and not feel good. Can anyone help me? I'm almost positive it's going to happen the weekend we go to New York.  I'm really anxious about doing it for the first time. Everyone makes such a big deal out of losing your virginity, is it really that big of a deal? I don't know what to expect. Help!!