Meet Ashley Barnett of Johnson City, TN

Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashley Barnett

Hi Ashley, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
While I always loved traveling and dreaming of new destinations, the moment that truly changed everything for me was experiencing travel through my son’s eyes. Seeing his excitement, curiosity, and pure joy reminded me just how magical exploring the world can be. That’s when I knew I wanted to help others create those same unforgettable moments with their own loved ones. What began as a personal love for travel grew into a career that allows me to share that excitement with others. As a travel advisor, I get to help people create unforgettable experiences, turning their dream vacations into reality every day.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Like any great adventure, the journey to where I am today hasn’t always been smooth sailing. The travel industry is ever-changing, and navigating challenges like global travel disruptions, shifting regulations, and even just helping clients adjust when things don’t go as planned has been a learning experience. But those challenges have only made me a better advisor.

One of the biggest struggles early on was proving the value of working with a travel advisor in a world where people can book trips online with just a few clicks. But over time, I’ve built a reputation for handling the details, solving problems before they arise, and giving my clients stress-free, curated experiences they couldn’t have found on their own. Every challenge has reinforced why I love what I do—because at the end of the day, helping someone have the trip of a lifetime makes it all worth it!

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
As a travel advisor, I do more than just book trips—I craft experiences. I specialize in river cruising, all-inclusive Caribbean resorts, and theme park adventures, helping my clients find the perfect fit for their travel style. Whether it’s a romantic honeymoon, a multi-generational getaway, or a bucket-list European cruise, I take the stress out of planning so my clients can simply enjoy the journey.

One of my favorite moments as a travel advisor happened when a family came to me feeling completely overwhelmed with their vacation planning. They knew where they wanted to go but were overwhelmed with all of the other details. I helped organize information, get things planned and booked, and they were able to just go. Fast forward to their return, and they told me it was perfect—better than they ever could have imagined. That’s what I love most about what I do: helping people discover experiences that feel tailor-made just for them.

What I’m most proud of is the trust my clients place in me. Travel is personal, and I love getting to know my clients’ preferences, interests, and even their quirks so I can create trips that aren’t just great, but perfect for them. It’s not about just finding a great deal—it’s about finding the right trip.

What sets me apart is the level of care and attention I provide. My clients know that I have their backs from the moment they start dreaming about a trip to the moment they return home. I provide personalized recommendations and make sure they feel supported every step of the way. It’s that peace of mind that makes all the difference!

We love surprises, fun facts and unexpected stories. Is there something you can share that might surprise us?
Something that might surprise people is that before becoming a travel advisor, I was an elementary teacher! While the two careers seem completely different, there’s actually a lot of overlap. Teaching taught me patience, problem-solving, and how to break down overwhelming information into something clear and manageable—skills that come in handy when helping clients plan the perfect trip!

Another surprising fact? Even though I spend my days crafting seamless itineraries for clients, I actually love diving into the history and culture of destinations just as much as the travel itself. Whether it’s uncovering hidden gems in Europe or learning the stories behind iconic landmarks, I believe the best trips aren’t just about where you go, but the connections you make along the way.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.barnetttravels.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashventurechronicles/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ashley.treadwaytravelcompany
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashley-barnett-818452279/