Hi, I’m Ashley Carlson

I founded Carlson Travel Co to help busy parents take the world-class vacations they’ve earned—the kind full of eye-opening, heart-warming connections at every turn. 

My Story

I first fell in love with travel on a trip with my new husband to Italy. Yes, it was no surprise that the land of la dolce vita stole my heart (the castles, the vineyards, the gelato!). But one thing that did surprise me? How much I enjoyed meeting new people and making connections. 

It wasn’t something I was expecting on this romantic, just-for-two trip. But I loved learning how to roll pasta from our Italian host who taught us her best secrets (without speaking much English) in her Tuscan kitchen that dated back to the 15th century. And I loved swapping stories with fellow travelers who hailed from all over the world and hearing what their lives were like back home—wherever that was. 

That trip taught me that it's not just about the destination you visit, but the people you meet who shape your experience into something special worth remembering.

Crafting Connections

Through Carlson Travel Co, my job isn’t just to take all the travel planning off your hands—though I will!—but it’s to ensure that your travel experience is full of authentic, soul-stirring connections. 

I work closely with my vetted travel partners to craft an itinerary that’s brimming over with interesting places, experiences, and people sure to spark your curiosity. Like many of my clients, I’m a parent myself (of three boys—I’m outnumbered!) so I know how to tailor a trip for differing ages and interests. And, as a former 2nd grade teacher, I know how to infuse your itinerary with stealthy learning—the kind that feels way more like fun than homework. 

So whether it’s the big family trip you all have been fantasizing about, or the long-overdue couples’ escape with just your spouse, I hope you’ll trust it to me—all you have to do is connect to get started.