Today we’d like to introduce you to Abri Joyner.
Hi Abri, 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?
For as long as I can remember, I’ve loved to travel—the languages, the food, the feeling of stepping into a place that teaches you there’s a vast world beyond your own routines and perspectives—each as real and as beautiful as your own. That curiosity turned into a calling: helping others experience the world as I aspire to—with confidence and cultural respect. Today I’m the founder and CEO of Life’s Abri’s—pronounced like “Life’s a Breeze”—a boutique travel agency dedicated to immersive, culturally rich international experiences.
My path blends scholarship with lived experience. I’m a Cornell University alumna who has studied five languages, which sharpened my ear for nuance and my respect for the cultures behind every one of them. I’m also pursuing a doctorate in business administration focused on how small and mid-sized companies can expand into advanced economies abroad—work that keeps me grounded in real-world policy, economic, and cultural dynamics that affect travelers and global movers alike.
Over more than a decade of world travel, I’ve built a trusted network of partners and on-the-ground experts. That global community lets me design trips that go beyond “seeing the sights” to meaningful connection—think local guides who open doors, thoughtful pacing, and experiences that honor local customs while matching each traveler’s style. I share those insights with my clients and across social media, using every journey as both research and relationship-building.
As my clients’ needs evolved, so did my work. In addition to curated trips, I launched Beyond Borders—a division of Life’s Abri’s (soon to stand as its own company) for people relocating abroad longer-term. Beyond Borders supports the practical side of an international move—visa strategy, step-by-step relocation plans, healthcare and housing recommendations, and more—so clients can transition from “visitor” to “thriving resident” with clarity and care.
In short: I started as a traveler, became a bridge-builder, and now lead a company that helps people experience the world with ease, depth, and dignity—whether they’re taking the dream trip or turning a new country into home. And I’m just getting started.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
No journey is without its bumps in the road—and as far as I’m concerned, I’m still climbing and always improving. My biggest challenge hasn’t just been the typical hurdles of funding or marketing that many entrepreneurs face, but rather the weight of doing everything all at once. There was a period where I was in school full-time, working full-time, and also running my business full-time. That kind of balancing act is incredibly stressful, and while things have shifted—my business has grown, and my doctoral program has moved from coursework into the dissertation phase—the pressure of carrying so much simultaneously is something I know many people can relate to.
On top of that, life doesn’t pause for ambition. I’ve walked through seasons of family health struggles and personal loss, and those experiences tested my strength in ways that no business challenge ever could. But I’ve learned that perseverance and my faith in God are what carry me through. The ‘everything all at once’ moments have been my greatest obstacle, but they’ve also been my greatest teacher, reminding me that growth often comes in the climb.
We’ve been impressed with Life’s Abri’s, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Life’s Abri’s isn’t your average travel agency. We specialize in curated, culturally immersive international experiences designed to help travelers connect meaningfully with the places they visit. What sets us apart is that as founder, I’ve personally traveled to over 20 countries as well as lived abroad, so when I design or recommend an experience, it comes from firsthand knowledge, not just a brochure. That real-world perspective is invaluable in creating itineraries that balance adventure, comfort, and cultural respect.
One of the innovations I’m most proud of is our client app, which keeps all travel details, documents, and updates in one place so our travelers feel supported every step of the way. It reflects our philosophy: travel should feel seamless, empowering, and enjoyable, not overwhelming.
And our work doesn’t stop at vacations. Through Life’s Abri’s we plan short-term trips, but we’ve also launched Beyond Borders, our brand at expatsbeyondborders.com, dedicated to long-term relocations. Whether someone wants to immerse themselves in a two-week cultural journey or needs a full relocation plan with visas, housing, healthcare, and more—we now cover both ends of the spectrum.
What I want readers to know most is that Life’s Abri’s is built on authenticity, innovation, and care. We’re here to make international travel and living abroad not only possible but deeply rewarding. That’s what makes our brand unique, and it’s what I’m most proud of.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
I think we’ve covered a lot of ground, but I’ll add this: travel isn’t just about checking destinations off a list—it’s about expanding your perspective, finding joy in new cultures, and sometimes even discovering a new home abroad. That’s the heart of what we do at Life’s Abri’s and Beyond Borders.
If your readers are curious to learn more, they can explore our vacation offerings at www.lifesabris.com or our relocation resources at www.expatsbeyondborders.com. We also share tips, stories, and cultural insights on our blog and social media platforms, so even if you’re just in the dreaming phase, there’s plenty to inspire you. And of course, I always welcome people to reach out directly—we love helping travelers turn big dreams into meaningful journeys.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.lifesabris.com
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@lifesabris?si=tcYpQaGiwyE5MUC2
- Other: https://www.expatsbeyondborders.com
