The Solo Traveller
Your independence, passion, and lifelong memories.
Fellow Travellers
Anu and two friendly locals during her visit to Sacred Valley, Cusco, Peru
Anu Verma
Anu is deeply passionate about mental health awareness, trauma recovery, and empowering others, because these are all parts of her own personal journey. For Anu, travelling solo was not just about seeing the world; it was a path to healing childhood trauma, rediscovering her strength, and reconnecting with herself in deep, profound, and lasting ways.
Where is home, Anu?
Coventry, UK.
What can you share with us about the first time you travelled solo?
What started as a 6-month trip turned into a 16-month adventure I’ll never forget. I booked through STA and kicked things off in the US, stopping in LA and San Francisco before heading to Australia. I began in Cairns and travelled the East Coast with the Oz Experience, working for three months in Sydney, then hopping a train to Melbourne and later Perth. I even worked in a remote outback pub in Moora, Western Australia! My journey continued up the West Coast, then onto both islands of New Zealand, and finally through Southeast Asia –Thailand, Laos, Malaysia, Cambodia, Vietnam, and Singapore. I kept extending my trip because I was completely obsessed with the freedom and excitement of it all.
What kind of research did you do before your first trip?
I relied on Lonely Planet guides but mostly travelled with a free spirit. I loved the spontaneity of showing up in a place without even booking accommodation. Hostels kept my budget in check, and I often took overnight travel options – whether by bus, train, or even sleeping at airports. I even rang in New Year’s Eve on a train with complete strangers-turned-friends.
What do you love the most about travelling solo?
The complete freedom to follow your instincts. You create your own schedule, follow your own rhythm, and most importantly you get to discover who you really are. It’s empowering, peaceful, and deeply healing.
What lessons have you learned about life by travelling solo?
Solo travel was the most powerful personal development journey I’ve ever been on. It built resilience and independence, taught me patience and acceptance, and gave me the space to truly heal from childhood trauma. You start to realise what really matters, and what doesn’t. The world becomes smaller and more beautiful.
Is there a destination you keep returning to, and why?
Thailand has my heart. I’ve been back multiple times because I’m in love with the culture, the people, the food, and the breathtaking beaches. The white sand, turquoise waters, and peaceful vibe are pure bliss. I even fell in love with Buddhism through time spent at Thai monasteries.
Did you make friends while travelling solo that are still in your life?
Absolutely. Solo travel opens you up to deeper, more meaningful connections. I met so many like-minded people – some of whom I travelled with, shared rooms with, and keep in touch with today through social media. Whether it was Bali, Thailand, or Australia, those memories and friendships are lifelong.
Anu during her visit to Bali's Anu Tirta Empul Temple
Who inspires you?
Thich Nhat Hanh. His teachings on mindfulness and presence resonated with me when I was seeking inner peace.
What is on your ‘Bucket List’?
Honestly, I feel like I’ve done so much already! Now, my bucket list is about living a fulfilling life, following my passions in film, and being the best mum I can be. I want to inspire my children to explore the world the way I did.
What is the single greatest life lesson you learned from travelling solo?
That peace comes from within. No external situation can define your happiness when you’ve truly connected with yourself.
What causes are you passionate about, and why?
I'm deeply passionate about mental health awareness, trauma recovery, and empowering others, because these are all parts of my own personal journey. Travelling solo was not just about seeing the world; it was a path to healing childhood trauma, rediscovering my strength, and reconnecting with myself. I believe everyone deserves the tools, support, and freedom to heal and thrive – whether that means finding peace at home or courage abroad. I’m committed to using my voice through my Victim 2 Victor podcast, experiences, and future work in film to uplift others, especially women, who are on their own journeys toward self-discovery and empowerment.
What are your top 3 tips for success?
1. Trust your instincts. Whether it’s choosing a destination or deciding who to trust, your gut will always guide you right.
2. Pack light, live lighter. You don’t need much to experience the world. Travel with intention, not excess.
3. Say yes to connection. Be open to people. Some of the best parts of solo travel are the spontaneous friendships you’ll make along the way.
Is there anything else you’d like to share?
Solo travel changed my life. It gave me healing, clarity, courage, and stories I’ll never stop telling. If you’re thinking about it, take the leap. You’ll come back stronger, freer, and more you than ever before.
Anu Verma is a trauma expert and the founder of Victim 2 Victor. She is a certified complex trauma recovery coach and therapist and shares her own story of survival and healing in her acclaimed book Victim 2 Victor and on her podcast of the same name.
