I've known Nicole for donkeys and she is an amazing lady. With COVID-19 the travel industry has taken a massive hit, and Nicole - just keeps swimming like Dory! Nicole is a fab travel agent - I highly recommend her for a next-level trip. Here's her story:
How long have you been living in Fig Tree Pocket and what do you love most about it?
I moved here in June 2000 so I've just passed 20 years. I really do love the community and my neighbours; I love being on the bend of the river and walking my dogs; Yoga at the park and feeling SAFE.
What are the positive changes you’ve seen over the years?
A toilet block at the colour park – LOL, but seriously the best thing is there have not been many changes, it is still pristine.
How do you spend your weekends?
Yoga, theatre with my adult kids, love the Queensland Ballet and go to every show. I am enjoying my garden more now, given there is less to do inside the house, with the kids being independent. I also love dinners with friends, I love the Farmers markets to inspire my love of cooking and will spend the occasional weekend with my Mum in Noosa. However, it's always nice to come home to the peace of the Pocket.
What type of work do you do?
I have owned and operated my own Travel Agency since 1988 – so for 32 years I've been sending people to all corners of the globe. Most recently I have a special interest in women’s group travel and work with Women’s Fitness Adventures on their hiking tours; local artist Di Kelly on her water-colour tour of Italy and France, and, Brisbane yoga identity, Julie Smerdon on her International yoga retreats. I also take a group of friends and clients every 2nd year on my personally curated EAT PLAY LOVE small group tours. We've been to Bali, India and Italy so far, and the Greek Islands will be in 2022 now.
What’s the best holiday you’ve been on and why?
There are soooo many, maybe Brazil and Argentina, or maybe 6 months in Europe in 1986 with 4 summer weeks island-hopping in Greece. Maybe the Eastern Oriental Express from Singapore to Bangkok, or maybe summer in New York and a road trip to Martha’s Vineyard and Boston with art dealer Jan Murphy. Or possibly a toss up between a BBC Arts group I escorted to Italy, France and the UK with my son and daughter and the gorgeous BBC Theatre teacher and her daughter, AND, 14 mischievous boys. My two kids and I added on an extra week in France and drove the Normandy Coast from a base at Honfleur; my kids are both actors so there is never a dull moment. But in the last few years 3 weeks in Italy with my girlfriends last spring would be hard to beat – so much wonderful food and laughter.
What gives you fits of giggles?
My kids are clever and hilarious – no competition on that one!
What lessons (if any) have you learnt over this COV19-19 period?
Stay strong, stay focused, stay loyal – believe it will be OK in the end.
What are your plans for the next 10 years?
I love Fig Tree Pocket, but I do love to travel and come home - so Eat Play Love trips to Greece, Morocco, maybe Peru and Chile and who knows what else will pop up in between.
Why are we here and what’s the meaning of life?
To live and love your best every day – make a difference to others.
Nice one Nicole! Even though overseas isn't an option at the moment - hit her up for local travel - she will really look after you and your fam bam. [email protected]
