Episode 86

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Published on:

24th Jun 2025

086. The World Is Not Your Oyster: Self-Awareness Is The Key To Transformative Travel | Gabi Arbesu

Have you ever heard the phrase, “The world is your oyster”?   Well in today’s episode, Gabi Arbesu explains why that mentality is preventing you from traveling deeper and respectfully. 

This week, we share an excerpt from one of our top episodes of all time with Gabi Arbesu — soulful traveler, storyteller, and advocate for culturally conscious travel — to talk about something that really matters: how we show up in the world as travelers.

In this honest and thoughtful conversation, Gabi shares why self-awareness and cultural respect are the real keys to going deeper with your travel experiences. No more performative photo ops or “collecting cultures”. Gabi invites us to travel not to consume, but to observe, learn, and connect — with humility and intention.

If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Am I doing this travel thing right?” - this episode is for you.

What We Talk About:

  • Why self-awareness is your most important travel tool
  • The difference between observing vs. appropriating culture
  • How to notice (and check) your internal biases while abroad
  • Real talk on how not to be that tourist

Resources & Links:

Connect with Gabi

Connect with Kelly

PS. Click Here to Learn More About our 2025 Travel Planning Packages & Services: https://transform-with-travel.captivate.fm/packages 

Show artwork for Transform With Travel: Trip Planning Made Easy For Busy Professionals Craving Bucket List Adventures

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.