An Apple and a Mango Go Travelling

Confession time: I’ve never really been one for girls’ weekends. Actually, if I’m being brutally honest, I don’t think I’ve ever been on one. My team once bought me a t-shirt that read “Does not play well with others”— so maybe there’s a hint there. Truth is, I’m pretty happy at home with the old fella.

But, life has a funny way of surprising you. After decades of friendship, one of my oldest friends and I finally packed our bags and spent a few days together in glorious Tassie. Just us. And when I left? My cup runneth over.

We’ve known each other forever but don’t see each other much—different states, different lives. Kids, families and careers all took priority. And now, as women of a “certain age,” it turns out that the pull of old friends is something you can’t ignore.

Now, don’t get me wrong—we’re not exactly twins. Sure, we share a few quirks (Anglo-Indian roots, our cats managed to die on the same day, and we’re both highly disciplined). We might be Two Fruit, but we’re not the same. She is highly competitive. I think it’s funny when I lose.

I’m a Mango with a Banana rising—give me adventure, fun, variety, and a good laugh any day. Money? Meh. She, on the other hand, is a dyed-in-the-wool Apple with a Mango rising—a determined, focused, money-making machine. (A talented and successful one. You could call her a monster, but not to her face).

So, why do we click?

Because when we travelled together, it just… worked.

• We’re both punctual—no waiting around, not even for a minute.
• We’re both fast —decisions made in a snap.
• We love the same little joys—cups of hot chocolate, aimless drives, poking about in shops and galleries.
• And we talk. And talk. And talk some more. I know. Girls, right?

There’s something magical about spending time with someone who knows exactly who they are, but also who you are. No denial, no pretence. Just a healthy dose of “yep, these are my flaws” mixed with the desire to do better.

She laughs at my Mango enthusiasm—excited to see flowers, trees, blue skies, grey skies, wine, chips! Anything! I love that she’s laser-focused and driven, with a taste for the finer things. We even learned new things about each other. (She takes sugar in her tea. I read every line of a menu like it’s a legal contract, terrified of making the wrong choice.)

Here’s the thing.
We adore our husbands and children, but let’s be honest—daily life comes with its fair share of love and challenges. Old friends, though, are something else entirely. They bring a different kind of joy. I treasure my special friends deeply—and this time away truly filled my cup.

I came home refreshed, energised, and loved. And maybe, just maybe, I’ll admit—I do play well with others.

What Fruit are You? For half the cost of a coffee you can find out in our short taster quiz

A few places in Hobart

Moss Hotel Dier Makr Mary Mary Fish Frenzy Lisa Wise Ceramics Frogmore Creek Winery Born in Brunswick Machine laundry Cafe