Today we’d like to introduce you to Nikki O’Neill.
Hi Nikki, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
After a long career in Operations and Human Resources, I came to realize that the corporate environment wasn’t the right fit for me. I was craving more creativity and purpose- something that not only sparked joy but also allowed me to help others in a meaningful way. That’s when I was inspired to start something of my own- something that blended my love for travel with my passion for creating unforgettable experiences.
In 2020, right as the world began to shut down, I launched The Mint Scooter Travel Co. My first client had to cancel their trip as international borders closed, but even during that uncertain time, I knew I had found my calling. It wasn’t just about booking trips- it was about curating personalized journeys that bring people closer to the world and to each other.
As a boutique travel planner, I specialize in crafting bespoke travel experiences tailored to each client’s unique needs. Whether you’re too busy to plan a trip or unsure where to begin, especially if it’s your first time traveling internationally, The Mint Scooter Travel Co is here to help. I take care of all the research, booking, and logistics, while offering transparent pricing and insider recommendations. From hidden gems to unforgettable moments, my goal is to give you the gift of time and the freedom to fully enjoy your journey with the people you love.
The name and logo of The Mint Scooter Travel Co are inspired by the vintage 1970s Vespa Ciao my parents gave me. Imagine gliding through the cobbled streets of Paris with a baguette, a bouquet of fresh flowers, and a bottle of wine in tow. That same spirit of whimsy, elegance, and adventure lives in every trip I design.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The road has been fairly smooth with my biggest obstacle so far being the pandemic. New changes to visa requirements seem to the only real hurdle I have had but it is completely manageable.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
One question I get asked all the time is: “What makes you different from a traditional travel agent?”
It’s a great question—and an important one. Traditional travel agents typically earn their income through commissions paid by cruise lines, hotel chains, and tour companies. That means their recommendations may be limited to the suppliers offering the highest payouts.
At The Mint Scooter Travel Co, I take a different approach. I charge a flat fee per travel day, which allows me to work solely in my clients’ best interest. There’s no incentive for me to steer you toward a particular hotel, cruise, or tour company—I recommend what’s genuinely the best fit for you.
Here’s how it works: 50% of the planning fee is due when I begin researching your trip, and the remaining 50% is paid once your itinerary is finalized. I always prefer to meet in person to go over your itinerary or, if that isn’t possible, by a video call. This allows ample opportunity to ask any questions, ensure the app is working perfectly on your phone and to tie up any loose ends.
While travel agents are a great resource for cruises and all-inclusive resorts, I wanted to offer something more elevated and personal. I curate travel experiences based on your specific preferences considering your travel style, price points, and interests plus making sure your accommodations are not only beautiful but also in safe, convenient locations close to everything you want to see and do.
From start to finish, I handle every aspect of your trip from flights, accommodations, local transportation (YES, even how to navigate the water taxis in Venice, a tuk-tuk in Africa, or a panga boat in Nicaragua!), restaurant reservations tailored to dietary restrictions, hand-picked tours and excursions based on your comfort and adventure levels, and even the best local spot to catch a sunset—complete with the exact time it sets.
Every detail is delivered through a custom mobile app that works both online and offline. It even provides real-time flight updates, gate changes, delays, or cancellations so you are never left guessing.
All YOU have to do is show up on time for your flight. I take care of the rest.
What makes me proudest? It’s those moments when my clients are mid-adventure and take a second to text me a photo—smiling, exploring, and living their best lives. That’s when I know I’ve done my job well.
Do you any memories from childhood that you can share with us?
When I was 10, we took a family road trip cruising up the Pacific Coast Highway from San Diego to Oregon in my grandparents’ brand-new conversion van. It was the ultimate adventure! I remember feeling so excited to hit the road, especially because that van had all the bells and whistles (including a bed in the back, swivel seats and even a table with cup holders)!
It was the first time I ever saw and swam in the ocean! We explored Chinatown with their Chinese dragons dancing in the streets and the bustling wharf in San Francisco complete with a barking sea lion colony. We even got to pick out Mandarin inspired pajamas- we thought we were so cool! Everything felt so alive and different from home!
The trip ended with a visit to our cousins in Oregon, but the whole journey—coastal views, new cities, and all the childhood joys has stuck with me ever since and probably is where my love of traveling began.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.themintscooter.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themintscooter/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheMintScooter
