To avoid getting into close-quarters situations, especially with dynamite-toting Ganados about, wait you are just out of sight at the top of the ladder before jumping down if there are any enemies close by. Usually they will attempt to climb the ladder to wherever you are. Once they reach the top, it takes a moment for them to get off the ladder. Pick them off at your leisure. This is much easier than dancing around avoiding thrown hatchets and the occasional arrow. It is also fun to knock the ladder down with several of them climbing up. The same applies for enemies lurking around hallway corners. Wait for them to peek around the corner and shoot them before they can mount any offense. Always try to stash Ashley in a safe place before fighting a mob of enemies.