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