18 to Thirtysomethings: Milly’s South American Journey Journey

At 25, graphic designer Milly from Aotearoa, New Zealand, determined she wasn’t going to attend round for another person to be able to journey. After an unforgettable G Adventures journey by way of Southeast Asia, she joined 18-to-Thirtysomethings for a second journey — this time by way of South America.

From mountain climbing the Inca Trail and discovering unimaginable landscapes to creating associates from world wide, Milly’s journey gave her the journey she was in search of, whereas serving to her develop into extra assured travelling solo. We caught up along with her to seek out out why she selected group journey, what made the journey so memorable and the place she’s heading subsequent.

Taking the leap into solo journey

“Kia ora! My identify is Milly, I’m 25 years outdated, from Aotearoa, New Zealand, and I presently work as a Graphic Designer.
Sometimes it’s important to cease ready for another person to hitch you and simply go alone, so I booked the G Adventures 18-to-Thirtysomethings tour. As a solo feminine traveller, it gave me that additional peace of thoughts when it got here to security, whereas nonetheless letting me expertise the journey I used to be craving. It’s additionally a good way to make lifelong associates with individuals from everywhere in the world.”

From Southeast Asia to South America

“In 2025, I travelled to Southeast Asia with G Adventures 18-to-Thirtysomethings and had the time of my life, so I decided to join them for a second time in South America! All I knew was that I wanted plenty of adventures, new experiences and to push myself. My last G group was one-of-a-kind, so my expectations were set really high, and somehow this group matched them! It ended up being one of my favourite parts of getting to know everyone.”

“As usual, the trip exceeded my expectations. I met the most wonderful people, saw the most incredible landscapes, immersed myself in the local culture, pushed my body to the limit and soaked up every possible experience I could.”

Conquering the Inca Trail

“As an avid hiker, I used to be tremendous excited to do the Inca Trail — 4 days and three nights surrounded by nature.
The views had been unbelievable and I felt so linked to the tradition strolling within the footsteps of the traditional Incas. It was by far the toughest multi-day hike I’ve ever completed. The path actually pushed me with its excessive elevation, nevertheless it’s the very best factor I’ve ever completed! At the tip of every day, I felt an enormous sense of accomplishment and euphoria.”

“The guides were absolutely amazing too, filled with knowledge and endless positive reinforcement. I also have so much respect for all the porters who carry everything needed for us to complete the Inca Trail.”

Why group journey is ideal for a reset

“As a female traveller, I found the 18-to-Thirtysomethings tour was a great way to ease into the solo travel lifestyle. You’re surrounded by like-minded people and you get the freedom and adventure of travelling without having to stress about planning every single detail yourself.”

“I think it’s a really great option if you’re looking for a bit of a reset or trying to figure out what you want from life. Being somewhere completely new, where nobody knows you or has any expectations of you, gives you the freedom to just be yourself.”

“You can take some time to reflect, do a bit of soul searching and work out what’s important to you, all while having an adventure at the same time.”

Pushing your self and making an attempt one thing new

“As a self-proclaimed adrenaline junkie and adventurer, I’m normally the primary to enroll in something that will get the guts racing.
While I didn’t essentially really feel exterior my consolation zone on this journey, it’s such a good way to construct confidence and provides new issues a go! Whether that’s mountain climbing, ziplining, mountain climbing or something in between!”

“Being in a group dynamic means you form close relationships with people fairly quickly, and there’s a lot of encouragement, support and kindness from others. Everyone looks out for one another, making sure no one is left behind.”

From strangers to lifelong associates

Honestly, there’s so many issues! But most likely how rapidly a bunch of full strangers from all world wide develop into your pals inside just some days.”

“You go from the initial awkward introductions to sharing multiple inside jokes, supporting each other through activities and making plans for the next adventure. I love you Pimpilalas! 🦋 And Sexy Llamas! 🦙”

“I was also impressed by how good everyone’s Spanish was. I probably should’ve done a little more Duolingo before I came to South America because I was relying heavily on the basics I learnt back in school.”

“Luckily, I picked up more as the trip went on, and the group were absolute legends at helping me communicate when I got stuck.”

Why the timing was proper

“I’m very fortunate to work for some superior individuals who let me take unpaid day off work to pursue my journey goals.
South America had been on my bucket checklist and I wasn’t going to attend for somebody to be free to come back with me. I crave journey and love getting on the market, seeing new locations and making an attempt new issues.”

“The 18-to-Thirtysomethings tour meant I could just take that leap, meet a bunch of cool people and make some pretty epic memories along the way.”

Finding confidence in travelling alone

“Absolutely! Two 18-to-Thirtysomethings trips later and I feel more than confident enough to head off on an adventure completely on my own. I think these trips have shown me that I’m more than capable of getting out there and figuring it out.”

“I also feel more confident now because I’ve realised how effortless it actually is to meet new people and form connections when you’re travelling. You’re all in the same boat, so it’s really easy to strike up a conversation and make friendships.”

“I’ve also learnt that you don’t have to have every single day planned or a jam-packed schedule. You can just take each day as it comes.”

It’s not all in regards to the partying

“I actually think it’s a few things, but when people hear “group tour” they assume it’s a jam-packed schedule where you have no time to yourself or explore on your own.”

“The 18-to-Thirtysomethings experience offers a perfect balance of planned activities, optional activities and free time, so you have time to do the things you want to as well.”

“I think a lot of people also assume that when it’s young people in a group tour it’ll just mainly be partying, and that couldn’t be further from the truth. Yes, you may go out a couple of times, but everyone’s there for the same reason: to experience a new country and to explore.”

What’s subsequent? Kyrgyzstan

“Absolutely, without a doubt! I cannot fault a single thing about these trips. Every time I go, I have the time of my life, new-found friends and memories that will last a lifetime.”

“I already have my eyes on the Kyrgyzstan tour, which looks absolutely incredible. The nomadic living and breathtaking scenery definitely make it high on my list of things I want to do next.“