I, too, think it's great that you're doing this, and I wish you the best of luck!!! I've done some solo traveling myself--nothing as adventurous as your tour--but still, I got the same reaction that you got. Some people just make a career out of worrying. The truth is that those were the best trips of my life. I love my husband and my friends, but the time I've spent in my own company and under my own steam are some of my most cherished memories.

Happy and safe travels!