Where travel and politics go hand in hand

Helping Women Confidently Navigate The World.

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Gemma Lawrence with long brown hair wearing a sleeveless blue top, smiling while posing for a selfie indoors.

welcome to this brits life

Hello! I’m Gemma

I’m a British immigrant living on Canada’s West Coast, solo traveler, writer, and firm believer that understanding the world is just as important as seeing it.

Years ago, the thought of travelling overseas alone terrified me. That changed when I unexpectedly found myself alone in Canada. Since then, I’ve built a life abroad, traveled extensively on my own, and attended everything from major festivals and sporting events to concerts and cultural experiences solo.

On This Brit’s Life, I share practical advice to help women travel confidently, navigate life abroad, and better understand the political and social issues that shape our lives, communities, and travel experiences.

Because travel doesn’t happen in a vacuum. The places we visit, the countries we move to, and the opportunities available to us are all shaped by political, economic, and social decisions.

I want to help you become the confident “cruise director” of your own life, whether you’re booking your first solo trip, considering a move abroad, or trying to better understand the world around you..

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solo destinations

City Breaks

Culturally rich cities that are easy to explore solo. From Calgary and Vancouver to North American and European city breaks, these guides focus on safety, things to do alone, and how to make the most of short solo trips.

Take a city break

Events

Enjoy solo travel that is built around iconic experiences. Here you will find solo-friendly events starting with a deep dive into the Calgary Stampede – what to expect, how to plan, what to wear, and how to enjoy it fully on your own.

Enjoy events solo

Bermuda

A laid-back island that’s surprisingly perfect for solo travelers. Think pink sand beaches, coastal walks, history, and slow travel, with practical guides on where to stay, how to get around, and what makes Bermuda feel safe and welcoming alone.

Explore Bermuda

Does this feel familiar?

You’re in the right place if…

  • You want to travel solo but still have questions or doubts
  • You’re done waiting for friends to come along on adventures
  • You want practical advice and helpful tips, not sugar-coated travel inspiration
  • You care about safety, feeling confident, and being fully prepared
  • You’re ready to travel alone on your own terms, even if it feels a little scary
Explore solo travel tips
Gemma Lawrence taking a selfie on a bridge overlooking a canal in Venice, Italy. Below, several boats, including water taxis and gondolas, navigate the canal, with historic buildings lining the waterway in the background.

solo travel

You’re Calgary Stampede Bestie Is Here

In-depth, practical guides for enjoying the Calgary Stampede solo. From planning and outfits to events, safety, and what it’s really like day to day, this is honest advice from someone who’s experienced the Greatest Show on Earth alone, multiple times. No fluff, no hype – just everything you need to feel confident going solo.

EXPLORE THE STAMPEDE GUIDES

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let’s work together

Ready To Collaborate?

I welcome the opportunity to partner with tourism boards and like-minded brands that align the This Brits Life community.

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