[1] https://www.businessinsider.com/google-employee-tests-positi...
I don't know about your "friend," but I don't share their experience.
I have occasionally had to stay in hotels that were more expensive than the "reasonable price" listed due to higher fees than normal. Sometimes it's impossible to get a room in Seattle or New York -- or especially San Francisco -- for less than $300 a night, especially during busy seasons like summertime.
The travel portal does warn you if a room charge is in excess of "reasonable" rates, but it will still allow you to book your stay. And I have never had a hotel room expense claim denied after the fact, even if I had to pay excess rates.
Overall, my impression of our travel and expense policies is that they are totally reasonable. I've had far fewer issues traveling as an Amazon employee than I have at other companies.
The only hard limit that's ever been imposed on us is that we must fly economy coach rates; any excess must be paid out of pocket or come out of airline frequent flier benefits. And there are even some exceptions now for extremely long flights for some employees, where they are permitted to upgrade to Premium Economy.
Is there something more you're trying to say here? That we are less valuable or something?
I am trying to reinforce the parent point in this thread. That Amazon is cheap even more so when it comes to travel.
There are other ways Amazonians get rest, like flying the day before a meeting and staying in a hotel the night before. And even with the added hotel and meals expenses, the total cost is often cheaper than flying business class.
Again, just my opinion, not speaking for Amazon.
Again, not sure what you're saying here.