My Just You Story: Sylvia

I started travelling with Just You in March 2010, a few years after the loss of my parents. I had previously spent holidays with friends and family, but as circumstances changed I found myself alone and spending time at home.

In the summer of 2009, my boss at the time mentioned that his uncle travelled on his own and that I should try it. At primary school, my teacher was from New Zealand so my interest in that country stems from there. I had been following newspaper ads for trips to New Zealand and discovered Just You. I followed this up by looking on the internet at Just You and other similar companies.

Just You sounded good but I was unsure if it was for me. Not having the confidence to book, I emailed Just You expressing my interest and asking if someone could ring me to discuss. A week or so later, I received a phone call and without further procrastination took the plunge and booked New Zealand there and then. I decided if it didn’t work out, at least I’ve visited my favourite country.

Family and friends were delighted and some said I was very brave. I felt it too, until I reached the airport, where doubts were creeping in, as I had not done long haul before. A fab tour manager and chats with the group soon allayed my fears as we shared our experiences and expectations. The odd glass of wine helped, too!

I had a fabulous trip doing most of the excursions including the float plane to Mount Tarawera, a helicopter flight over and landing on the glaciers, there was superb weather on the Milford Sound voyage and I met two ladies who I still keep in contact with. On return to the UK, though jet-lagged, I was buzzing and couldn’t wait to book another holiday. I chose Prague, Vienna & Budapest in September 2010.

As my confidence grew, I decided to do a long haul trip every two years in March, with lots of shorter ones in between. That did not last and I found myself doing a long haul every year. I’ve discovered if you plan your holidays around bank holidays, your annual leave entitlement goes further!

Like many other Just You travelers I am now addicted to travel and I have visited many amazing places including Iceland, where I saw spectacular fireworks and the Blue Lagoon, Canada, to enjoy its mountains, lakes and waterfalls, the stunning scenery in Hawaii, Norway – twice – to see the Northern Lights and take a husky ride, Alaska for superb wildlife and Austria, where I drove my fellow travelers crazy singing ‘The Sound of Music’!

So, anyone interested in travelling alone but hesitant, just go for it. You’ll have a wonderful time and it will boost your confidence no end. You’ll also make life-long friends.

Family and friends were delighted and some said I was very brave.

  1. Mountains and river in New Zealand

    Breathtaking New Zealand

    Discover the emerald-green landscapes, thermal springs and hot geysers of the North Island, then journey to the South Island with its snow-capped mountains, shimmering glaciers and sparkling lakes on this holiday showcasing New Zealand's natural wonders and fascinating cities.

    • 14 nights in 3 & 4-star hotels and 17 meals
    • Many amazing experiences

    15 days from
    C$9,924
    was C$10,099
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  2. Iceland - the northern lights

    Icelandic Splendours

    Discover an array of natural wonders and go in search of the Northern Lights on this exciting tour to Iceland.

    • 4 nights in a 3-star hotel
    • 7 meals: 4 breakfasts, 3 dinners

    5 days from
    C$3,874
    was C$3,999
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  3. The Rocky Mountaineer train, Canada

    Canada & The Rocky Mountaineer

    A spectacular journey on the iconic Rocky Mountaineer train is the ultimate experience to carry you through Canada’s spectacular highlights, from sparkling Lake Louise to beautiful Vancouver.

    • 10 nights in great quality hotels
    • 14 included meals: 10 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 1 dinner

    11 days from
    C$9,849
    was C$10,199
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