The 26-year-old actress - who is in a relationship with music video director Scott Speer - insists she isn`t an expert on romance but likes to pass tips on to her friends.

She said: "I give dating advice on a regular basis. It`s not that I`m any expert, but it`s always nice to share that with your friends."

Ashley`s biggest relationship tip relates to the importance of communication, particularly as she and Scott spend so much time apart.

She told People: "Communication is so key. Especially in this business, I`m always travelling and doing something else. So I think communication is the foundation of it all."

And the `High School Musical` star - who split briefly from Scott in December after over two years together - admits she is "old fashioned" at heart when it comes to dating.

She said: "I`m very old fashioned when it comes to dating, so I definitely wait for the guy to text me or call me."

As well as her acting work, Ashley has co-executive produced new TV show `Miss Advised` and she is excited about Scott getting to see the programme.

She said: "Scott hasn`t seen [the show] yet. He`ll see it when everyone else sees it."
sections: Celebrities