Destination Expert - Corfu

Amanda Simons

My name is Amanda, and I’m a Destination Expert for CV Villas. This is my 7th year living in Corfu after reaching a crossroad in my life and making the decision to start a new chapter here on this glorious island which I first visited over 40 years ago and seemed to be pulled back to many times. For many years I worked within the airline and travel industry whilst I was living in England, taking on sales and marketing roles then more front line at airport locations guiding passengers through the airport process. Travel has always been my passion and, having explored many different countries around the world, I love the excitement of a new adventures in far flung or more immediate destinations.

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Destination Expert - Corfu

Amanda Simons

My name is Amanda, and I’m a Destination Expert for CV Villas. This is my 7th year living in Corfu after reaching a crossroad in my life and making the decision to start a new chapter here on this glorious island which I first visited over 40 years ago and seemed to be pulled back to many times. For many years I worked within the airline and travel industry whilst I was living in England, taking on sales and marketing roles then more front line at airport locations guiding passengers through the airport process. Travel has always been my passion and, having explored many different countries around the world, I love the excitement of a new adventures in far flung or more immediate destinations.

Describe the perfect day in your destination?

To wake up slowly to the sound of the birds singing, then opening my blinds to the sight of a beautiful blue sky and feeling the warmth of the sun shining through the window. I would wander outside into my garden with a cup of tea and soak up all the beauty nature has to offer. Then put a beach bag together to set off to one of the lesser-known sandy beaches where the scenery is amazing and the waves are wild. Later in the afternoon, I would head home to shower and prepare to go out into Corfu Town for a sundowner cocktail, followed by a meal in one of the many restaurants with so much variety to choose from.

What are your top travel tips for your destination?

The diversity of the island invites, if possible, the opportunity to rent a car. The main roads from north to south are quite direct and signage is normally written in Greek and English. Parking can be an issue in Corfu Town especially in high season but elsewhere there's normally somewhere close by where you want to be located. Corfu is so much more than a holiday destination with its rich history and culture different to other Greek islands you may have visited.

What local cuisine would you recommend to people staying in your destination?

Of course, there's the infamous Greek salad which is available in most of the tavernas on the island. In recent times some restaurants have expanded their menus to cater for alternative dietary needs. Some restaurants specialise in fish and seafood offering a wide selection of local produce. Also beef stifado, pastitio and souvlaki are firm favourites with locals and people visiting the island alike.

What experiences would you recommend to our customers in your destination?

Besides hiring a car, there's the possibility to rent a boat for a day to explore the coastline, observe the beauty of the island from the sea, and access secluded beaches only accessible from the sea. For a more relaxed experience you could book a skipper and then just sit back and soak up the scenery. Horse-riding can also be found on the island, and sunset beach rides can be arranged.