Page 17 - AAA Every Day – AAA Hudson Valley – January/February 2020

We sat down with Ashlee to learn more about her and her time as a Travel Agent.
AAA Every Day: How long have you been in the travel industry?
Ashlee Romero: I have been in the Travel Industry for
5 years, but my interest in linguistics and learning about different cultures around the world started about 16 years ago when I took my first international trip to Costa Rica.
I always knew that I would have a career in the travel industry and what I knew for sure was that I loved to plan!
AED: What is your favorite place that you have ever visited?
AR: This is probably both the toughest and most frequently asked question for a travel enthusiast to answer. I’d have to say that I’m completely enamored with France, although my French is terrible; I can’t wait to go back! I visited a perfect storybook village called Riquewihr in the Alsace Region (pictured above), which is the setting that Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast” was inspired by. While strolling through, there was even
a baker who came out with a tray (like always) and a wishing well like the one Belle sings next to during the intro musical number!
AED: Which types of vacations are your favorite to plan for your clients and why?
AR: I really enjoy planning European river cruises. Every day you’re visiting a new city on a luxurious floating hotel. It is a great combination of relaxation and adventure! I also like when people are celebrating something on their vacation. I love being a part of the process from turning
someone’s dream destination into reality and then into a fond memory with their closest family and friends.
AED: We hear you have little kiddos at home. Can you give us some suggestions for family-friendly destinations?
AR: I love Disney Vacations! I adore the idea of a place where you can step out of the real world and generations of families can get together and spend some real quality time. It makes for great family memories! My youngest is 1 and she has already been to Disney! She was the perfect age for it largely because of the planning ahead and free admission. The best part is that I will always remember the expression on her face with every new magical surprise.
I was nervous, but she was extremely well-behaved the whole time, including her first plane ride.
AED: Any additional pointers for those traveling with young families?
AR: Although quick getaways are possible, one of the biggest misconceptions I see with traveling is that it is less expensive to vacation within a three-hour radius of your home. I’ve seen many scenarios where trying to save money with smaller trips becomes relatively close to the cost of farther destinations.
AED: What is one really fun fact about you that you’d like our readers to know?
AR: I have taken a huge interest in minimalist packing and the longest trip I’ve packed for with only one carry- on was three weeks!
To book your next vacation with Ashlee Romero, call 518-426-1000, ext. 2111, or email aromero@aaahv.com.
JAN/FEB 2020 I 17 MAY/JUNE 2019 I 17
TRAVELER’S GUIDE
Travel Agent Spotlight:
Ashlee Romero
Photo: Shutterstock: leoks