Advertise on podcast: Travel Chat with Ashley & Emily

Ok, no she wasn't ACTUALLY held hostage. But it sure felt like it. This week on Travel Chat with Ashley and Emily, Ashley shares the story of what may be the most spontaneous trip she has ever taken. After booking a cruise at the last minute, she packed her bags and headed to Miami the very same day, spending the night at the Hyatt Regency Coral Gables before setting sail. What followed was anything but smooth sailing. Ashley takes us through the series of events that left her desperate to leave the ship early. When she asked to disembark in an American port, the cruise line initially refused and even attempted to charge her a fee. Eventually, she was allowed to leave in a Canadian port, turning what had been a travel nightmare into an unexpected adventure. The story takes a surprising turn when Ashley discovers Halifax, a city she absolutely fell in love with, and checks into what she now considers potentially her favorite hotel stay of all time. Join us for a wild travel tale full of unexpected twists, travel lessons, and proof that sometimes the worst trips can lead to the best surprises. Do you want to fly in business class for the cost of economy? Join Ashley's free email list If you want to learn more about getting paid to travel the world, grab Emily's FREE Travel Creator Handbook Follow Them On Instagram:  Ashley Emily Click here to send Ashley and Emily a message

After getting completely sidetracked in their last episode, we finally get to hear all about Emily’s annual girls trip. This time to Belgium and the Netherlands! Emily shares why she loves staying overnight in popular day-trip destinations like Bruges, her favorite experiences in Antwerp, Amsterdam, and Utrecht, and all the best things to eat, see, and do along the way. We also dive into Amsterdam’s unique culture, some surprising observations from the trip, and whether Emily’s opinion of the city changed after visiting again. FAIR WARNING- This conversation takes a real turn as Emily shares about one of the adult entertainment shows she visited in Amsterdam. Definitely NSFW. You have been warned. If Belgium and the Netherlands are on your travel wish list, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical tips for your own adventure. Do you want to fly in business class for the cost of economy? Join Ashley's free email list If you want to learn more about getting paid to travel the world, grab Emily's FREE Travel Creator Handbook Follow Them On Instagram:  Ashley Emily Click here to send Ashley and Emily a message

In this episode of Travel Chat with Ashley and Emily, Emily finally takes the incredible flight deal she booked from Ashley’s email list and flies JetBlue Mint for the very first time — and after experiencing multiple business class products, she says this one might actually be her favorite. From the lie-flat seat to the overall onboard experience, they break down what made the flight stand out and whether JetBlue Mint lives up to the hype. But as travel conversations often do, this episode quickly goes off the rails in the best way possible as they dive deep into passenger rights, oversold flights, airline compensation, and what travelers should actually do when airlines start asking for volunteers. Ashley shares insider tips, practical advice, and the strategies every traveler should know before their next flight. If you love premium travel, flight deals, airline drama, and learning how to advocate for yourself while traveling, this episode is packed with helpful information and entertaining stories. Do you want to fly in business class for the cost of economy? Join Ashley's free email list If you want to learn more about getting paid to travel the world, grab Emily's FREE Travel Creator Handbook Follow Them On Instagram:  Ashley Emily Click here to send Ashley and Emily a message

In this episode, we’re heading from chaos to calm as Ashley shares the much brighter side of her French Polynesia trip—this time in beautiful Bora Bora. After last week’s wild experience in Moorea, this stay was exactly the reset she needed. Ashley gives us the full rundown of her time at the stunning The Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa, including a few minor bumps at the beginning and why the overall experience more than made up for it. From snorkeling in crystal-clear water to visiting a turtle rehabilitation center, this part of the trip finally delivered those dreamy, bucket-list moments. She also shares her honest hot takes on the food situation (because yes, it matters a lot at a remote resort like this), along with the one item she really wishes she had packed that would have made the trip even better. If you’ve been wondering whether Bora Bora lives up to the hype—or how to make the most of a luxury resort stay—this episode is packed with insights, opinions, and a refreshing dose of “this is what it’s really like.” Do you want to fly in business class for the cost of economy? Join Ashley's free email list If you want to learn more about getting paid to travel the world, grab Emily's FREE Travel Creator Handbook Follow Them On Instagram:  Ashley Emily Click here to send Ashley and Emily a message

In this episode, Ashley is spilling all the tea from her trip to French Polynesia… and let’s just say, it did not go as planned. After choosing it over the Maldives, she shares why she may have some regrets. What starts off as a dream trip quickly turns into a series of travel mishaps. From a disappointing New Year’s Eve and shockingly expensive in-flight Wi-Fi, to rental car issues upon arrival, things begin to spiral fast. After heading to Moorea, Ashley checks into a Hilton property only to discover mold in her room—and no option to switch due to capacity issues. But it doesn’t stop there. A missed tour pickup forces her to book a last-minute private excursion that turns into a full-blown nightmare, complete with misleading promises and an unsettling situation involving pressure over a negative review. It’s one of those stories you truly have to hear to believe. If you’ve ever wondered whether a bucket-list destination is always worth it—or how quickly things can go off the rails—this episode is a wild ride filled with lessons, cautionary tales, and plenty of “you can’t make this up” moments. Do you want to fly in business class for the cost of economy? Join Ashley's free email list If you want to learn more about getting paid to travel the world, grab Emily's FREE Travel Creator Handbook Follow Them On Instagram:  Ashley Emily Click here to send Ashley and Emily a message

In this episode of Travel Chat with Ashley and Emily, the ladies recap the incredible mistake fare that flew them to Europe for the Christmas markets in business class for just $857 round trip. What they expected to be a “good for the price” experience turned into one of their favorite business class flights of 2025—especially on the return journey with Discover Airlines. After connecting through Frankfurt on Lufthansa and spending time in the Lufthansa lounge, they boarded Discover’s 2-2-2 configured business class cabin. While not ideal for solo travelers, the setup worked well for two friends flying together. The seats converted fully flat, the bedding was comfortable, and the overall space felt roomy enough for a relaxing transatlantic flight. What truly stood out was the service. The crew was warm, attentive, and proactive—offering alternative meal options when the menu didn’t appeal, keeping drinks topped off, and adding festive holiday touches like gingerbread cookies, chocolates, and even memorable (and very chunky) ginger shots. The thoughtful service elevated the entire experience. They also compare the flight to their outbound journey on Air Canada, discussing seat configurations, operational reliability, and how price ultimately plays a major role in choosing business class. The episode wraps with a broader conversation about the growing demand for premium travel and why even leisure or low-cost carriers can deliver impressive value when the deal is right. Do you want to fly in business class for the cost of economy? Join Ashley's free email list If you want to learn more about getting paid to travel the world, grab Emily's FREE Travel Creator Handbook Follow Them On Instagram:  Ashley Emily Click here to send Ashley and Emily a message

I f you missed part one head back to last week to catch up. This week, we pick up exactly where we left off — at the Andaz in Prague — and what starts as a simple case of misplaced AirPods turns into something much stranger. After Ashley accidentally leaves her AirPods on the shuttle, they’re kindly returned to the property where she is staying in Prague… or so it seems. What should have been an easy reunion quickly spirals into a confusing saga involving a general manager, multiple front desk explanations that keep changing, AirPods that were somehow paired to someone else’s phone, and even an AirTag with its battery removed. At one point, Ashley is flat-out accused of lying. 👀 So what actually happened? And what did Ashley ultimately decide to do with the mysteriously “returned” headphones? You’ll have to listen to find out. Thankfully, the rest of their Prague stay takes a much happier turn. In a dramatic twist, the Andaz ends up being their favorite hotel of the entire trip — even though Prague earns the title of least favorite Christmas market. They break down the festive food, the atmosphere, and the magical lighting of the Charles Bridge at night. And to wrap it all up? Ashley experiences her very first beer spa. 🍺✨ From travel drama to cozy holiday vibes, this episode has it all. Do you want to fly in business class for the cost of economy? Join Ashley's free email list If you want to learn more about getting paid to travel the world, grab Emily's FREE Travel Creator Handbook Follow Them On Instagram:  Ashley Emily Click here to send Ashley and Emily a message

****This episode ended up being an hour and a half long, so we decided to split it into two parts. Stay tuned next week for the thrilling conclusion!**** Emily and Ashley share the story of their grand adventure trying to get from Salzburg to Prague- and the unexpected twists along the way. They debate whether to take a train or a bus before Ashley ultimately secures a special shuttle transfer just two days in advance. The only catch? A required stop in Český Krumlov. They give a full review of the shuttle experience and explain why it turned out to be such a fantastic option. The conversation then turns to their six hours exploring Český Krumlov, where they quickly fall in love with the charming town despite the chilly weather. From there, they continue on to Prague and check into the Andaz, where things start off on a very high note. Emily and Ashley share details of an incredible room upgrade to a stunning suite once owned by movie star Adina Mandlová, whose fascinating and heartbreaking life during the World War II era adds a layer of history to the stay. But after the magic of the room upgrade, the rest of the experience takes a dramatic turn........and that’s where we’re leaving you on a cliffhanger. The rest of the story is coming next week. Do you want to fly in business class for the cost of economy? Join Ashley's free email list If you want to learn more about getting paid to travel the world, grab Emily's FREE Travel Creator Handbook Follow Them On Instagram:  Ashley Emily Click here to send Ashley and Emily a message

Join Ashley and Emily as they explore the magical city of Salzburg, Austria, during the holiday season. Emily shares why this city holds a special place in her heart, from early travel adventures to celebrating milestones in her business. The hosts wander charming streets, cozy cafes, and festive Christmas markets, discovering both the popular spots and hidden gems. Experience their adventures sipping hot Lillay, wandering the picturesque Hellbrunn Market with its twinkling trees, baby animals, and cozy corners, and taking in breathtaking views from the fortress market. They also get up close to the thrilling Krampus Run, a unique local tradition, and navigate Salzburg’s buses, Ubers, and funicular like seasoned travelers. With stories of unexpected discoveries, festive cheer, and the unmistakable magic of Christmas in Salzburg, this episode is full of inspiration for anyone dreaming of a European holiday getaway. Do you want to fly in business class for the cost of economy? Join Ashley's free email list If you want to learn more about getting paid to travel the world, grab Emily's FREE Travel Creator Handbook Follow Them On Instagram:  Ashley Emily Click here to send Ashley and Emily a message

In part two of their Vienna story, Ashley and Emily share the redemption arc after fleeing the Ritz-Carlton and checking into the Almanac Hotel Vienna. From the moment they arrive, the experience is a complete 180, with an effortless check-in, warm and thoughtful service, and a stylish, loft-like suite that finally delivers on comfort and design. They walk through what made the stay so special, including the spacious room layout, spa-like bathroom, Japanese toilet, deep soaking tub, cozy wellness area, and standout breakfast experience. Ashley recounts an unexpectedly perfect late-night work session in the hotel bar that turned into a masterclass in hospitality, while Emily reflects on why the Almanac felt worth the splurge after such a rough start to the trip. The episode wraps with practical advice on booking hotels in Vienna during Christmas market season, using Amex Fine Hotels & Resorts, points versus cash stays, and why sometimes doing it “for the plot” makes the best travel story. Do you want to fly in business class for the cost of economy? Join Ashley's free email list If you want to learn more about getting paid to travel the world, grab Emily's FREE Travel Creator Handbook Follow Them On Instagram:  Ashley Emily Click here to send Ashley and Emily a message

****This episode was originally recorded as one long story, but it ended up being too wild not to split in two. Part one is the nightmare, and part two is the redemption.****  In this episode of Travel Chat with Ashley and Emily, they share the full, unfiltered story of what led them to sneak out of the Ritz-Carlton Vienna less than 24 hours after checking in. From exhausting travel delays and sky-high expectations to baffling service issues, tense front desk interactions, and a shockingly underwhelming suite, everything that could go wrong seemed to go wrong. Ashley and Emily walk through the moments that escalated from minor frustrations to a full-blown hotel breakup, including an unforgettable checkout attempt that turned into a literal escape. This episode sets the stage for the redemption arc to come in part two, when they move to the Almanac Hotel and finally get the Vienna experience they were hoping for. Do you want to fly in business class for the cost of economy? Join Ashley's free email list If you want to learn more about getting paid to travel the world, grab Emily's FREE Travel Creator Handbook Follow Them On Instagram:  Ashley Emily Click here to send Ashley and Emily a message

In this episode of Travel Chat with Ashley and Emily, Ashley and Emily kick off their European Christmas market series in Vienna, a city that completely surprised them. What they both once felt lukewarm about quickly became their favorite stop of the trip thanks to Vienna’s elegant decorations, abundance of Christmas markets, and magical holiday atmosphere. They share how the city transforms during the season, why staying multiple nights is worth it, and how each market offers its own vibe, food, and experience. From palace-front markets and cozy alley stalls to mulled wine mugs, snow globe shopping, and carousel regrets, they break down what made Vienna so special and why it’s now a destination they want to return to every Christmas. They also cover practical tips like what to wear in the cold, cash versus card at the markets, getting around the city, and how to plan your days to enjoy the experience without feeling rushed. Do you want to fly in business class for the cost of economy? Join Ashley's free email list If you want to learn more about getting paid to travel the world, grab Emily's FREE Travel Creator Handbook Follow Them On Instagram:  Ashley Emily Click here to send Ashley and Emily a message

Today on the Travel Chat with Ashley and Emily podcast, the girls are comparing their experiences flying United Polaris Business Class. Ashley shares a few smart ways to find lie-flat seats on domestic routes, including checking airplane configurations before you book. She also spills some insider tips for spotting the best-value business class options when you’re searching award flights. Emily shares all about her time in the Polaris lounge — and why it’s absolutely worth making sure you’re in the real Polaris lounge, not just the regular United Club. She gives the full scoop on the food, service, and her in-flight experience, while Ashley pays homage to the famous cookie skillet that everyone still dreams about. Together, they compare the bedding, seat setup, food, service, and overall comfort — and, of course, reveal whether they’d fly Polaris again. If you’ve ever wondered what makes this product stand out (and whether it’s really worth your points or cash), this episode is packed with firsthand insight, laughs, and honest reviews from both sides of the aisle. Do you want to fly in business class for the cost of economy? Join Ashley's free email list If you want to learn more about getting paid to travel the world, grab Emily's FREE Travel Creator Handbook Follow Them On Instagram:  Ashley Emily Click here to send Ashley and Emily a message

Today on Travel Chat with Ashley and Emily, Emily picks up with the second part of her incredible French Polynesian honeymoon — this time in dreamy Bora Bora. She shares how she scored an amazing deal at the Westin Bora Bora using points and gives a fantastic tip for flying between islands on Air Tahiti that every traveler should know. Emily walks through the check-in and resort tour process, including the unexpected shenanigans required just to get a bike, and shares her honest take on the hotel’s amenities, food, and breakfast options. She also reveals why she believes this property has the best view in all of Bora Bora. Finally, Emily opens up about what she learned during a tour of the main island — from Bora Bora’s dark past to the challenges locals still face today. It’s a mix of paradise, perspective, and practical tips you won’t want to miss. Do you want to fly in business class for the cost of economy? Join Ashley's free email list If you want to learn more about getting paid to travel the world, grab Emily's FREE Travel Creator Handbook Follow Them On Instagram:  Ashley Emily Click here to send Ashley and Emily a message

Travel Chat with Ashley and Emily is back — and this time, Emily’s fresh from her honeymoon in French Polynesia! In this two-part series, the girls dive into every detail of the trip, starting with their time in beautiful Tahiti. Emily shares why waiting a bit after the wedding to take their honeymoon turned out to be the best decision, plus all the details from their stay at the Hilton Tahiti — from the surprising average guest age to her honest thoughts on the pool and lounge chair situation. You’ll hear about a fun (and unexpected!) status perk, what lounge access really offers, and their favorite off-property excursions. It’s full of practical tips, funny moments, and all the dreamy Tahitian vibes. Be sure to tune in next week for Part 2, when Emily takes us along to Bora Bora! Do you want to fly in business class for the cost of economy? Join Ashley's free email list If you want to learn more about getting paid to travel the world, grab Emily's FREE Travel Creator Handbook Follow Them On Instagram:  Ashley Emily Click here to send Ashley and Emily a message