Having recently explored the Balkans with Contiki, I decided to take the leap right at the 35-year mark. While the classic "party trip" stereotype exists for a reason, the reality of doing a group tour at 35 is far more nuanced, and surprisingly empowering.

To the outside observer, my travel planning looks like overkill. I have spreadsheets, colour-coded maps, and folders of printed backups. People often tell other travellers to, "Just show up and see where the wind takes you!” But for a traveller with anxiety, the "wind" usually feels like a hurricane of unknowns.

I used to think solo travel was just about seeing a landmark and taking a photo. I didn't realize it was actually about dismantling everything I thought I knew about myself and the world.