Expert of the month

Explain your role and how long you’ve been at CV

I started with CV as a Resort Representative in 2006 and in 2015 become the Assistant Operations Manager based in Corfu. My role involves supporting Julie, our Operations Manager, and the overseas team with any issues they may have within their role and helping to solve customer problems while in resort. I also look after some of our CV exclusive villas in Agios Stefanos where most of our customers visit year after year.

Describe a typical working day as a Representative

There is no typical working day as a rep as each day can throw up something different that was not in your plan for the day. Monday is Corfu’s changeover day where I would check the villas for all new arrivals while coordinating the departing guests’ transfers. This is a long day but very rewarding when everyone is in and settled and enjoying their first evening. Tuesday involves visiting all new arrivals and having a chat to see if they need anything or have any problems. Most of our Corfu visitors I’ve known for many years and it’s like seeing old friends again. Wednesday is mainly admin before starting on the arrivals for the next Monday by emailing the guest to say hello and to check everything is in place for their arrival. Wednesday evening sees our famous Drinks Party, held in the Wave Bar in Ag Stefanos where guests new and old come together for a drink and a chat either with us or each other. Thursday morning brings our office meeting with Friday taking us round our arrivals again to confirm departure details. Saturday morning I’ll be finalising all arrival and departure paperwork for Monday. Then everything starts all over again, but I love every minute of it.

What makes Corfu special? Why should people holiday there?

Corfu is CV’s homeland and needs no introduction. It has everything you could want from a villa holiday with as much privacy as you want, while being assured of 24 hour help if needed. The small bays with amazing clear blue sea, a handful of tavernas and cocktail bars can be explored by taking a boat out by yourself or have a skipper to drive you. Try some watersports, see the history of Corfu Town or jump on a water taxi for dinner in a nearby bay. Corfu is also close enough for a day trip to Albania. You could even have your own chef in the villa to prepare and cook a special meal. In early and late season the island has an abundance of wild flowers, butterflies and birds and is the perfect time for walkers and photographers.

If I visit Corfu, what’s the one meal I shouldn’t miss?

Personally, one of my favourites is Pastitio which is pasta with mincemeat and béchamel and all the herbs of Corfu. However, I tend to dine on ‘meze’ which is a mixture of starters such as courgette balls, saganaki, feta filo with honey, calamari, Greek salad, fresh chips, pita bread with spicy cheese dip, taramasalata or tzatiki all washed own with local wine or ouzo.

Which is your favourite villa within our whole portfolio and why?

It’s not possible for me to choose a favourite as my heart lies with so many of them after all these years. Although more simple, I prefer the smaller villas with a sea view, nice pool and walking distance to the tavernas and bars.

Would you recommend Corfu as a good destination for a family holiday?

Corfu has everything for a family of all ages. It has sandy, shallow beaches for little ones (Kalamaki) and shingle/pebbly beaches for diving and snorkelling (Ag Stefanos through to Barbati). There are children’s play areas, bowling, horse riding, boat trips, water taxis, history, island tours, wine tasting, yoga, cooking lessons, cinema and an amazing selection of tavernas and bars.

What would be your top tip for someone considering a villa holiday in Corfu?

My top tip for holiday in Corfu would be to be prepared for a slower, more simple pace of life. Bring a good book, good music and a sense of humour. Taxis are not readily available for short journeys so have this in mind when booking your choice of transfer, as a car may come in useful during your stay. If you need any special food items please let us know as soon as possible and we can order in advance.​

If you're feeling inspired by Christina's love for Corfu. Browse our full range of Corfu villas, or if you'd like some help with your search send us an enquiry today.