Hello
I am just about to book this holiday for the same date and also from Birmingham.  I went to Lake Como in early June of this year.  It was my first time with JY and first holiday on my own.  It was lovely and I made friends very quickly.  In fact, one of the ladies I met on that holiday and I are going together to Lake Maggiore next year as we got on so well despite the fact that she is in her early 70s and I in my late 40s - she is such good company!  I would never hesitate on going on another holiday with JY anyway, even if I had to go 'on my own' again, as it was super.  Hope to see you in Italy or on the plane next June!
Rosemarie