You’ll get the most for your money in SE Asia. Don’t hitchhike, there’s ducking psychos out there. But I’ve been in your shoes before and I’m back in them now.

Maybe think about what you want to get out of the trip and what kind of lifestyle you think you’d enjoy most. Because while it’s really good to get out of your comfort zone, you also want to enjoy it. Eg for me, while staying in dodgy hostels would be out of my comfort zone I know I would be miserable not being able to have a luxe shower every day. It’s like my one thing haha.

If you’ve never travelled alone before and you’re from a ‘ western’ country then Europe is always a good option. Ease yourself into the solo travel. Then next time branch out into something more challenging where the language is completely different.