Ashli Komaryk
BIOGRAPHY
Ashli Komaryk is a leadership coach, MBA university instructor, professional speaker, and cruise destination enrichment lecturer with a passion for bringing culture, history, leadership, food, wine, and human connection to life through engaging storytelling.
Ashli’s childhood upbringing includes living in many Canadian cities and also five formative years in Freeport, Bahamas (aged 8-12). As a young adult, Ashli lived in Parma, Italy for 14 years, where she studied Art History entirely in Italian and earned her Level II sommelier certificate. Those years deeply shaped Ashli’s appreciation for European culture, culinary traditions, hospitality, and the art of meaningful human connection – especially around the table!
Today, living between Vancouver and Barbados, Ashli combine academic insight with warmth, humour, and real-world storytelling to create presentations that are both educational and entertaining. As an onboard enrichment speaker, she have delivered destination-focused talks throughout the Mediterranean, Caribbean, and Panama Canal regions, helping guests experience destinations with greater depth, curiosity, and appreciation.
PRESENTATIONS
The Spirit of the Caribbean: Born in Barbados
Raise your glass to Barbados, where rum was born and adventure was bottled! From sugarcane fields to Royal Navy decks and pirate coves, explore how this golden spirit fueled commerce, camaraderie, and Caribbean culture. Discover the legacy of Mount Gay—the world’s oldest rum—and toast to the island that started it all.
Revolution, Rivalry, and the Race to Build the Panama Canal
A century ago, ambition, politics, and perseverance collided in the tropics. Discover how revolutions, rival nations, and relentless engineers turned an impossible dream into reality. From France’s pioneering vision to America’s monumental achievement, this is the gripping story of how the Panama Canal reshaped world history—and human ambition.
In the Zone – Secrets and Stories from the Panama Canal Zone
For nearly a century, the Panama Canal Zone was a world apart — part American suburb, part tropical frontier. Behind its mighty locks unfolded a world of intrigue — from the gold-and-silver payroll divide to Cold War secrets and curious crocodile myths. Step inside “the Zone” to uncover the people, politics, and peculiarities that still ripple through Panama today.
Nutmeg, Empires, and a Dash of Intrigue
Beyond Grenada’s turquoise waters and postcard-perfect beaches lies a story of global intrigue, courage, and transformation. Discover how the brutal Nutmeg Wars in the faraway East Indies planted the seeds for Grenada’s rise as the Caribbean’s beloved “Spice Isle.” A captivating journey through history, flavor, and resilience—beneath the island’s beautiful surface.
Slow Food, Fast Joy: Savouring the Mediterranean One Bite at a Time
Born from a passionate protest against fast food in Rome, the Slow Food Movement champions tradition, authentic flavours, and the joy of shared meals. Journey through the Mediterranean’s rich culinary heritage, from Rome’s beloved Cacio e Pepe to Santorini’s volcanic wines, and discover how slowing down can transform the way you eat, travel, and experience life—one bite at a time!
Bubbles & Brilliance: A Sparkling Voyage Through Italy, France, and Spain
Embark on an effervescent adventure through Italy, France and Spain, beyond Champagne and Prosecco, to uncover some surprises along with the traditions, techniques, and terroirs that make the sparkling wines of Europe legendary. Perfect for enthusiasts eager to deepen their appreciation and knowledge of Europe’s finest bubblies.
The Elegant Art of the Italian Aperitivo (or “Happy Hour, Italian-Style”)
Aperitivo is more than just a drink—it’s a way of life and a cherished ritual. In this engaging session, we’ll explore the history, customs, and signature cocktails of Italy’s beloved pre-dinner tradition. Learn how Italians turn an ordinary evening into a celebration of connection, conversation, and culture. “Salute” to the aperitivo lifestyle!