Annie Singh, a retired banker and dedicated professional, enjoys life in Vancouver, BC, with her husband. A proud mother of two and grandmother of three, she treasures family while pursuing her passions for cooking, entertaining, music, travel, and yoga.
Transformative Journey to India: A Path of Self-Discovery
As I sat in the serene surroundings of a yoga retreat in Costa Rica—lush greenery around me, birdsong in the air—I never imagined this peaceful moment would spark one of the most profound journeys of my life. My husband had joined me for the final motivational class, where the topic of discussion was: “Do we do enough for ourselves, or are we always caring for others?”
The instructor, after listening to my story of a life spent raising family, supporting friends, and exploring many professional paths, asked me directly: “Annie, what do you do for yourself?” The question struck me silent—but it also lit a fire within me.
A month later, with clarity and determination, I told my husband I wanted to travel to India. Not just as a visitor, but to go alone and teach in village schools. This would be my way of doing something meaningful just for me—an act of self-love through service.
With my husband's unwavering support, I partnered with two charities. The first, a school in a Jodhpur village, gave me the chance to share knowledge and inspire young minds. The second, a charity in Kolkata, supported destitute women in one of the city’s most challenging neighborhoods.
That journey to India became so much more than a trip. It was a voyage of self-discovery—a reminder that the most transformative adventures often begin with a simple, courageous question: “What do I do for myself?”
A New Path Unfolds: Sharing the Magic of India
When I returned home, I carried India with me—its colors, its chaos, its warmth. My five years living in Delhi with the Canadian International Development Agency, and later working with top hotels and travel agents, had already given me a deep love of the country. But this time, I felt called to share that magic with others.
At first, my son suggested I set up a business as a travel consultant. But I wanted something different—something heart-driven, not profit-driven. My goal was to take groups to India, especially women, creating experiences that blended cultural immersion with opportunities to give back. Donations to schools were optional; the real focus was connection and discovery.
Since then, I’ve led friends, family, and groups on unforgettable journeys. Recently, I guided ten women from the B.C. Travel group, including fellow Sole Sisters, through a vibrant circuit of India’s landscapes, heritage, and spirituality. We marveled at palaces, trekked through bustling bazaars, and shared moments of awe that only India can spark.
India is a country that challenges, humbles, and transforms. It awakens something deep within, reminding you how vast and varied the world truly is. Its diversity of languages, religions, cultures, and traditions makes every visit an education in openness and resilience.
Some of my favorite places include:
Udaipur – Known as the “Venice of the East,” Udaipur enchants with its shimmering lakes and white marble palaces. Watching the City Palace glow in the evening light is pure magic.
Rishikesh – Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, Rishikesh carries a spiritual energy unlike anywhere else. The Ganges flows swiftly here, lined with ashrams, yoga retreats, and nightly aarti ceremonies that fill the air with music and devotion.
Manali – A mountain escape framed by snow-capped Himalayan peaks, apple orchards, and rushing rivers. Manali’s crisp air and stunning vistas make it feel like another world.
Goa – Where Portuguese heritage meets palm-fringed beaches and vibrant markets. Goa pulses with life—whether it’s savoring seafood at a beach shack, dancing barefoot in the sand, or wandering its colorful churches.
Tiger Safaris in Madhya Pradesh – The thrill of spotting a tiger in its natural habitat is unforgettable. The forests are alive with peacocks, monkeys, and deer, but it’s the sudden rustle of the jungle that makes your heart race with anticipation.
Kerala – Perhaps my favorite of all. A patchwork of tea plantations, lush forests, and tranquil backwaters where houseboats glide silently past villages and coconut groves. Kerala’s Ayurveda traditions, spices, and gentle rhythm make it a place of deep healing and beauty.
Of course, there are also the iconic destinations:
The Golden Triangle of Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur, with their majestic forts and the Taj Mahal.
The spiritual heart of Varanasi, where pilgrims gather along the ghats of the Ganges.
The lively bustle of Mumbai, India’s city of dreams.
Every state in India offers something new. It would take a lifetime to see it all, let alone understand the nuance of this nation of 1.4 billion people. But with an open mind, patience, and curiosity, you can learn to navigate its richness—from Himalayan peaks to velvety beaches, from historic temples to lush palaces.
India isn’t always easy. It’s chaotic, intense, and overwhelming. But it is also profoundly rewarding—leaving you with unforgettable memories, a renewed perspective, and perhaps even a shift in how you see yourself. The street children I met there were among the happiest people I’ve ever encountered, teaching me more about joy than I could have imagined.
As I continue leading journeys, I’m reminded that travel is not just about seeing new places. It’s about expanding the heart. India, above all, does just that.
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It was a pleasure reading your Journey Annie. I am so touched by your experience. Thank you for sharing you journey with Sole Sisters.
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