Hi Polo,
I am also a widow, and have done 4 JY long haul tours. It's a great way to travel with other lone travellers. Your fellow travellers will also be on their own so you all start in the same boat. Once you get to the airport, there will be rep to help with check in, then. if your JY tag is on you hand luggage, you will soon meet up with other members of the group. I went China in 2013, it's an incredible country. Have a wonderful time
.