Episode 104

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Published on:

28th Oct 2025

104: Yoga, Solo Travel & Nicaragua – How Gabi Arbesu Built a Life Abroad and a Business on Her Own Terms

Travel holds an unparalleled ability to transform lives. It’s not just about the destinations visited but the personal growth and self-discovery that happen along the way. In this episode of Transform with Travel, I sit down with Gabriella Arbesu, a long-time friend and avid traveler, about the profound impacts of her travel journey.

Gabi shares the influence of her Cuban-American heritage on her identity, painting a vivid picture of growing up in a bustling and loud Cuban household against the backdrop of a quieter American culture. This duality of cultures shaped her into a bold, unapologetic individual, proud of her heritage and open to the world’s diversity.

This episode is a testament to the power of travel and personal growth. It’s a reminder that we all have the power to transform our lives through our journeys, both literal and metaphorical. I encourage you to embrace the unknown, pursue your passions, and let the world open your minds and hearts to new perspectives.

Share your thoughts: How has travel transformed you? Join the conversation and let us know your story of transformation through travel!

We talk about:

  • 00:00 Intro
  • 01:47 Exploring Cuban-American Heritage and Growing Up in South Florida
  • 05:09 Gabby's Yoga Journey: From Trauma to Transformation
  • 09:27 The Art of Holding Space: Lessons from Yoga and Retreats
  • 09:53 The Impact of Travel on Personal Growth and Cultural Connection
  • 29:14 Navigating Relationships and Travel: Moving to Central America
  • 29:51 The Reality of Living Abroad: Challenges and Triumphs
  • 35:21 Falling in Love with Nicaragua
  • 36:13 The Decision to Buy Land
  • 36:59 Understanding Property Ownership in Nicaragua
  • 37:42 Building a Dream: From Vision to Reality
  • 39:41 Exploring the Future of Yoga Retreats
  • 41:57 Embracing Creativity: The OnlyFans Journey

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About the Podcast

Transform With Travel: Trip Planning Made Easy For Busy Professionals Craving Bucket List Adventures
Are you sitting behind your desk craving an adventure to make you feel alive again? But with thousands of travel options out there, where do you begin?

Transform With Travel is designed for busy professionals who want more bucket lists trips that reignite adventure, go beneath the surface and feel unique to you WITHOUT the overwhelm of planning, the endless midnight scroll and the crowded tourist traps.

About your host

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Kelly Tolliday

Kelly is the Founder of Transform With Travel, with over 11 years in the travel industry. She's a Wellness Travel Expert, Retreat Facilitator, Travel Advisor & Podcast Host.

She's also a 500-Hr Registered Yoga Teacher & an Accredited Continued Education Provider for the Yoga Industry.

She's traveled to over 45 countries and lived across 4 continents. Now, it's her mission to inspire and support you in stepping outside of your comfort zone and into the life of your dreams.

She's passionate about immersive and transformational travel. She believe when you travel with intention, by combining wellness, adventure & cultural enrichment, you can truly transform your life, one trip at a time.

She's now based in South Florida, and she's married to her husband Sam with 2 beautiful daughters & 2 crazy dogs.