Villa Specialist

Sally Donaldson

Working in the travel industry is truly something special. With over 20 years of experience under my belt, I still get excited every day—whether it’s learning about a new destination or discovering a different culture. Best of all, I get to talk about my favourite thing in the world: holidays! After studying Leisure and Tourism at college, I landed my first job in travel selling ski & lakes holidays for a well-known tour operator. It was the perfect start—my love for skiing and snowboarding meant I was genuinely passionate about the trips I was helping people book. That role also gave me my first taste of a “Educational” trip and sparked a serious case of wanderlust. Fast forward a few years, and that same company grew into an even bigger brand, expanding to sun-soaked destinations across the Mediterranean. I had the joy of selling beautiful villa holidays while also managing to squeeze in three unforgettable winter seasons working in the French Alps, in Méribel. Eventually, it was time to come back to the “real world” … via a scenic detour through the Caribbean! More recently, I’ve been working for a luxury travel company, designing bespoke honeymoons and once-in-a-lifetime adventures. From dreamy boutique islands in the Maldives to cultural journeys through Sri Lanka and unforgettable safaris in Africa—I’ve loved every moment. Helping people plan their perfect holiday is something I genuinely care about. I know what it takes to create a trip that not only runs smoothly but becomes a treasured memory.

Email: sally.donaldson@cvvillas.com

Villa Specialist

Sally Donaldson

Working in the travel industry is truly something special. With over 20 years of experience under my belt, I still get excited every day—whether it’s learning about a new destination or discovering a different culture. Best of all, I get to talk about my favourite thing in the world: holidays! After studying Leisure and Tourism at college, I landed my first job in travel selling ski & lakes holidays for a well-known tour operator. It was the perfect start—my love for skiing and snowboarding meant I was genuinely passionate about the trips I was helping people book. That role also gave me my first taste of a “Educational” trip and sparked a serious case of wanderlust. Fast forward a few years, and that same company grew into an even bigger brand, expanding to sun-soaked destinations across the Mediterranean. I had the joy of selling beautiful villa holidays while also managing to squeeze in three unforgettable winter seasons working in the French Alps, in Méribel. Eventually, it was time to come back to the “real world” … via a scenic detour through the Caribbean! More recently, I’ve been working for a luxury travel company, designing bespoke honeymoons and once-in-a-lifetime adventures. From dreamy boutique islands in the Maldives to cultural journeys through Sri Lanka and unforgettable safaris in Africa—I’ve loved every moment. Helping people plan their perfect holiday is something I genuinely care about. I know what it takes to create a trip that not only runs smoothly but becomes a treasured memory.

What is your favourite destination? 

It’s so hard to choose, but the place I keep going back to is Barbados. I absolutely adore this stunning Caribbean Island for so many reasons—the vibrant culture, the beautiful beaches, those breath taking purple and pink sunsets. The people are incredibly warm and welcoming, and the food is simply delicious. There’s so much to see and do on this small but mighty tropical island—it’s always an unforgettable experience, and it’s just so much fun!

Which destination is top of your bucket list and why?

Bora Bora is right at the top of my list—it's just so picturesque and feels like a true escape, tucked away in the middle of the ocean. If I ever won the lottery, that’s exactly where I’d head! I'd love to go diving there and soak up every bit of that tropical paradise.

Japan is a close second—I'd absolutely love to go snowboarding there and experience the world-famous powder snow. Plus, the culture, food, and scenery would make it such a unique adventure.

How do you spend your time whilst on holiday?

I’d love to say I spend my holidays relaxing horizontally by the sea, cocktail in one hand and a good book in the other—and once upon a time, that was absolutely true! These days, it’s more about chasing shade, reapplying sun cream, and being joyfully splashed in the pool by my two wonderful children.

Holidays definitely look a little different now, but there’s still nothing better than quality time together. For me, the idea of a villa holiday is perfect—a little home away from home, complete with a private pool, a fully stocked fridge, and maybe even a cook. Bliss!

What's your top travel tip?

  • First things first—always check your passport expiry date and get travel insurance sorted as soon as you book. Essentials!
  • After that, it’s all about the little things that make a big difference. My noise-cancelling earphones are a lifesaver on flights (especially if there’s a crying baby nearby!).
  • If you're travelling with kids, download their entertainment the night before—airport Wi-Fi is never reliable.
  • I never leave home without a small first aid kit either—plasters, a thermometer, and teething powders are my go-tos.
  • A pack of cards is also great to have on hand—perfect for delays or a quiet evening in.
  • Always keep a euro in your pocket for the luggage trolleys.
  • Most importantly? Go with the flow, soak it all in, and explore—you never know where your next adventure might begin!