About A Globe Well Travelled

A Globe Well Travelled is a collection of thoughtful, practical travel guides designed for curious travellers who want to see places properly — without rushing, overspending, or pretending travel is effortless.

With 300+ published posts, this site offers realistic itineraries, honest advice, and destination guides shaped by how trips actually unfold, whether you’re travelling solo, as a couple, or with family in tow.

Who are you, anyway?

I’m Ashlea — an Australian traveller, writer, and photographer who’s been planning trips and itineraries for as long as I can remember. I’m naturally organised, and happiest when I’m figuring out the most efficient way to get from A to B without wasting time, money, or energy.

That instinct is what shapes everything I share here. I care about the details that really matter on a trip — how to get around, when something is worth the effort, what’s overrated, and how to experience a place in a way that feels meaningful and realistic.

I grew up in Hobart and have lived in a few different cities along the way, including Newcastle, Sydney, and New York City. While I’ve travelled widely, Sydney has always felt the most like home — it’s the place I keep coming back to, even as travel continues to shape how I see the world.

What’s your travel experience?

Travel has always been a big part of my life. I grew up road-tripping around Australia with my family, and when I took my first international trip to Europe at 18, I was instantly hooked. Since then, I’ve travelled in pretty much every way you can think of — solo, with friends, with family, and now mostly with my husband, plus the occasional press trip where I’m travelling on my own or with a group of other bloggers.

I’ve done everything from backpacking in hostels to sailing on luxury cruises, but these days I’d describe myself as a budget-conscious traveller who loves finding good deals and spending money where it actually adds value. I’m just as happy wandering city neighbourhoods and people-watching from a local café as I am exploring naturally beautiful places.

Above all, I care about seeing places properly — understanding the history, the everyday rhythms, and the small details that turn a destination into something memorable. That mix of experiences means my advice is especially suited to travellers who want depth and flexibility, without luxury price tags or unrealistic expectations.

How did this blog come about?

A Globe Well Travelled began in July 2014, when I was sitting at my work desk contemplating a move to the United States. I wanted a better way to share my travels than a handful of quickly forgotten social media photos — and realised that as a former travel agent and frequent traveller, I had a lot more to offer.

What started as a personal project quickly grew into a long-term passion. Over the years, A Globe Well Travelled has grown into a comprehensive travel resource, with more than 300 published posts covering destination guides, trip itineraries, travel tips, and practical planning advice — all shaped by real-world experience.

Today, my focus is on helping readers travel smarter and more confidently — offering guidance that’s honest, well-researched, and grounded in experience, rather than hype.

What do you do for work?

My primary source of income is this blog. It took me 11 years to turn a long-term passion into a full-time career, and I’m incredibly grateful to now call travel blogging my work.

The site is primarily monetised through affiliate marketing, which means I sometimes earn a small commission when readers book tours (through booking platforms such as Viator and GetYourGuide), accommodation (through hotel comparison sites like Expedia and booking.com), or other products through links on the site — at no extra cost to them. I only recommend things I genuinely believe add value, and transparency is important to me (you can read more on my sponsorships and affiliates page).

Along the way, I’ve also worked as a travel agent and in marketing and communications, and freelanced in travel writing, content management, and social media. Outside of travel, I also run an online shop selling sewing patterns — another creative outlet that keeps me happily busy.

Where are you travelling to next?

I just got back from a domestic trip to Far North Queensland (Cairns) with my family in August 2025.

My next international trip is to Singapore in early 2026.

My ultimate travel goal is to visit every continent. I’ve crossed off 44 countries over 5 continents so far, with only Africa and Antarctica still left unchecked.

Which countries have you visited?