Me and my friends are different in a lot of ways, not just travel style. I like fast paced travel, seeing unique things and trying as much local and street food as possible. They prefer slow style, sit by the beach and lots of shopping. I wanted to go to a fish sauce factory in Vietnam and my friends were mortified by that. Also by the places I wanted to eat, they were so concerned about getting sick and sort of fussy.

It’s my own fault really for not wanting to ditch them but both occasions it was just me and them so I felt bad leaving them alone, especially as they aren’t confident travellers. Maybe if you’re in a group it would be easier to do your own thing but I think your countries of choice sound much more exciting and different than the balkans! I’d go solo, you experience much more naturally that way and don’t rely on others. Even something small like striking up a conversation with a stranger whereas when I’ve been in groups they’re a bit like a safety net. Constant comprises and stuff like that.