Nicola
Travel Specialist
There's no better feeling than arriving in a new country and taking in all the culture.
My travel career started in 1996, although my love for travel began much earlier. While friends set their hearts on marriage and houses, I dreamed of exotic destinations. For me, there is no better feeling than arriving in a new country and taking in all the culture, when all my senses are alive with the sounds and smells, and the excitement of a new adventure begins.
I have been extremely lucky to visit some of the world’s most beautiful and exciting destinations that I look forward to sharing with you.
My travel specialism
My primary specialist areas are South Africa and America, but I’ve been in the industry for over 25 years, so my travel experiences are vast.
I’ve explored much of Asia, from the Fast East to Indochina, as well as Australasia. I’ve also cruised extensively.
My most memorable travel experiences
The one that stands out to me was during a trip to Halong Bay in Vietnam. I got up at 4.30am to watch the sun rise behind the limestone karsts that are dotted around the bay. The rock formations cast their silhouettes onto the sea – it was simply magical.
I’ve seen a lot of sunrises in my time, but nothing will beat that.
My favourite destination: Grenada
I have travelled extensively around the Caribbean and love its laid-back vibe, long stretches of golden beaches and the gentle sound of the sea lapping at your feet – always the best way to recharge.
Nothing quite matches the excitement of a Christmas shopping trip to New York. Apart from the amazing shopping, New York takes Christmas to a whole new level. From ice skating under the Rockefeller tree and carriage rides round Central Park, to the amazing window displays at Saks Fifth Avenue and the Radio City Christmas Spectacular, New York always gets me into the festive spirit.
My favourite hotel: Calabash
I have been extremely lucky to stay in some amazing hotels but if I had to decide on one, it would have to be Calabash in Grenada. A warm welcome is always given at this beautiful intimate hotel, with their suites arranged around lovely gardens, facing out towards the secluded white sandy beach of Prickly Bay. From the moment we arrived it was so clear how much they pride themselves on delivering exceptional service and a unique experience for all their guests.
Service commitment from you:
To ensure you come back with the best memories, I always make sure the right holiday is in place depending on your requirements and that every detail is meticulously checked.
I try to put myself in your shoes. Meaning, once I know your interests, what you’ve enjoyed on previous holidays and what you’re hoping to get out of the trip, I can start building a completely bespoke itinerary with you at the heart of it.
Your top tips for travellers:
- Plan for the ‘just in case’; have a photocopy of passports in your email, pack enough medicine for a couple of extra days and take a change of underwear in your hand luggage.
- Save on adaptors; take a UK 4-plug extension lead, then you’ll only need one adaptor.
- If, like me, you always forget where you park, take a photo of your car park bay number!
