This Morning star Ashley James has been criticised by followers after promoting a luxury solo holiday in Tulum, Mexico, amid the cost-of-living crisis. The 39-year-old influencer shared photos on Instagram yesterday, April 7, showing herself in a leopard-print bikini and enjoying the beach, describing the trip as a needed 'reset'.
James wrote that she spent time reading, unwinding, and eating good food, staying first at Villa Pescadores Tulum and then at Ahau Tulum. She recommended solo travel, saying Tulum or Bali are 'easy places to start' for those considering it. She added, 'Remember mums, we can't pour from an empty cup.'
However, followers accused her of being out of touch. One commented, 'Just book somewhere on the beach' because it's that easy. So tone deaf in a cost-of-living crisis.' Another wrote, 'I'd struggle to afford Bognor! ... You just don't seem to acknowledge that.' A third said, 'Wow the privilege! Most of us are lucky to be able to afford 1 holiday a year.'
Piers Morgan also joked, asking who took the photos, suggesting a 'male slave'. The backlash highlights growing sensitivity to influencer endorsements of luxury travel during economic hardship.
