Today we’d like to introduce you to Gabriela Matthews.
Hi Gabriela, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today.
I’m 26 years old and I have a passion for travel. I started traveling when I was young and once I turned 18 I didn’t want to stop. I did the normal route attending college on campus (Go Knights!) and working a regular job (WDW Cast Member!) and that lasted 3.5 years.
It wasn’t long till I wanted more adventure. I sold everything I owned, took a break from school, and purchased a one-way ticket to Europe. Fast forward 6 years, I graduated with a bachelor’s degree in business from an online college, went through 3 jobs, and visited over 30 countries and I’m still going.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The biggest challenge was definitely Covid-19 coming in. There was a “short” 3-year time of lockdown and restrictions when it came to oversea travel. Another challenge that many don’t realize you can come across is actually feeling lonely. Yes, I’m always having fun and exploring new things and making new friends but it’s never consistent.
You make great connections in one city to just leave and be forced to start all over just days later.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
My work ranged from babysitting, housesitting, dogsitting, cleaning, and bartending during my time abroad. I’ve worked at hostels to earn free accommodations. I’m not extremely tech-savvy but I have started to be a little creative with promoting myself and my travels on TikTok and Instagram.
What’s next?
After being in Europe for 6 years I have officially returned back to the U.S. so now that I’m here I have a few plans in store but definitely taking it slower.
I’m actually in Colorado at the moment visiting my boyfriend and soon I’ll be heading to Georgia to visit family and friends. Also, get to see Taylor Swift in concert while I’m there. I will be visiting North Carolina as well and of course, coming back to Orlando.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gabbytravels4ever
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/Gabriela-matthews/
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@gabrielatravels?_t=8aXH4ZUpRXq&_r=1
