I have been surfing a number of websites and reading many travel brochures (Contiki, Globus, Trafalgar, Australian Pacific, etc.) and have not found just the right tour to suit me. There are several good ones, but they each seem to leave out just one or two things. I'd also prefer to travel with people of my age range, but groups like Contiki that cater to under 35 (I barely still qualify!) seem to add in things like camping, and I expect to sleep in a hotel. I went with Globus to Italy last year, and while the tour was good, the only other person under 55 was the bus driver. If I go on my own, is safety a major consideration? Also, I'm afraid I may get too lonely and not enjoy everything as much as I should. Help!

Lisa:<BR>My wife and I traveled for 5 weeks in Australia and New Zealand this past October/November. No tours, just on our own. Booked daily tours after arrival in Sydney, Melbourne, Queenstown, etc.<BR>Can't tell you how many single young women we encountered traveling alone. Scores of them. All really enjoying themselves. None worried about safety. My advice, go and enjoy. Can't think of two safer countries to visit.<BR>John

Hello Lisa,<BR><BR>Try this company. http://www.scenictours.com.au<BR><BR>Check out their site and Email them and ask for a brochure to be sent to you and also for one of their sister company Evergreen Tours. There is no website for Evergreen Tours. <BR><BR>I am going to NZ on one in October and I am very excited.

Lisa,<BR>Check if Explore Holidays visit Australia. They are part of the Adventure World group. I did a tour with Explore in Thailand and Malaysia when I was single and most people were in their 20's and 30's, about half single and half couples. They are also small groups which you might prefer to 50-odd on a big bus.<BR>You might find loneliness a problem but try staying at backpackers or youth hostels where other single travellers will stay. <BR>On www.lonelyplanet.com in the Thorntree section there is a Travelling Companions section. It might be the answer you are looking for.<BR>Speaking from experience, it's better to go on the trip and have a few lonely days than not go and regret it later.<BR>Best of luck, Kay

You are probably better off seeking out the smaller operators - try looking at backpackeressentials.com.au or the state tourism board sites to point you in the right direction, they often have a listing of smaller operators - not always camping but hostels or small hotels - generally get a younger crowd (but not too young!). And the hostels are pretty good and you will never be lonely! Have fun