How to properly enter a holding pattern?
to source from wikipedia:


  There are three standard types of entries: direct, parallel, and
  offset (teardrop). The proper entry procedure is determined by the
  angle difference between the direction the aircraft flies to arrive at
  the beacon and the direction of the inbound leg of the holding
  pattern.
  
  
  A direct entry is performed exactly as it sounds: the aircraft flies directly to the holding fix, and immediately begins the first turn
  outbound.
  
  In a parallel entry, the aircraft flies to the holding fix, parallels the inbound course for one minute outbound, and then turns
  back, flies directly to the fix, and continues in the hold from there.
  
  In an offset or teardrop entry, the aircraft flies to the holding fix, turns into the protected area, flies for one minute, and then
  turns back inbound, proceeds to the fix and continues from there.
  
  


As you can see the maneuvers are all inside the area circumscribed by the holding pattern (not counting flying directly to the holding fix) so you can assume the airspace is clear at your altitude. 

Important to note is that you should fly directly to the beacon and then reorient yourself as appropriate. 

The airport approach charts will indicate where the beacons/landmarks are located, which code they use and which heading the "inbound" leg (when flying towards the beacon) has.