I have never taken a trip using Contiki but some friends of mine have. I believe that it is not worth it to use Contiki when travelling in Europe, Australia, America and New Zealand as these are places that one can easily travel on his/her own at ones own pace. I have travelled Europe many times as a single woman and got around just fine. Asia the same. I am not yet 30 and like the fact that I have freedom and space to see and do as I please. I suggest that you do your own research in checking out prices on transportation and accomodation to the destinations that you wish to visit and compare them to Contiki. You may do better on your own.