Johannesburg - Donna Lee Roberts put on her travelling shoes while filming her latest movie, Vir Altyd, venturing from Paarl to Mauritius for the rom-com.
First holiday memory?
Visiting my dad in America in the winter. Snow, Christmas decorations and the smell of cinnamon and coffee everywhere.
Favourite place in South Africa?
This is a bit of a tough question as I love South Africa… and I love various places for the unique sensory memories I have made in each place. But for now it’s the Paarl. It’s the most lovely town with the kindest people. That’s why we decided to film half of Vir Altyd there.
Best holiday?
When I was 19 I travelled across Southeast Asia with my mom and aunt… it was my first true travelling adventure. The three of us had such a wonderful time exploring, it was truly a feast for the senses!
What have you learnt from your travels?
Pack economically! And take in every single moment because it might literally be a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Ideal travelling companion?
My mom, dad and Ivan [Botha]. All three are my best friends, they are adaptable, easy-going, make the best of any situation and we always end up having a great time and making awesome memories!
Beach bum, culture vulture or an adrenalin junkie?
A perfect holiday would include all three!
Greatest travel luxury?
Taking a taxi from the airport to where I am staying so that I can orientate myself and I don’t have to schlep around with my luggage.
Holiday reading?
I like investing in an interesting travel book of whichever country I’m visiting – to read up on everything, and I also enjoy taking a fun reading book for long train or bus rides.
Where has seduced you?
Mauritius, the amazing “unknown” gems the country has to offer when you take the time to explore and the lovely people, they are so warm and inviting and they have beautiful souls. It was such a dream come true to make a local film inter-nationally, Mauritius is beautiful in Vir Altyd.
Worst travel experience?
I can’t think of one, even lesser fun experiences have turned into great stories.
Best hotel?
Long Beach Resort, Mauritius. We got to film Vir Altyd for three weeks at this amazing resort so it will always be synonymous with a dream come true.
Favourite walk, swim, ride or drive?
Walking, swimming, driving AND diving… I love all four… each one gives you an unique way of experiencing a place.
Best meal abroad?
Marlin barbecued by locals on the beach in Mauritius.
Favourite city?
New York, I lived and studied there for a couple of months. It’s such a vibrant city and when you live there you actually become part of its rhythm and heartbeat.
Where next?
I have a loooooooong list… everywhere… best would be to close my eyes, spin my desk-globe and go wherever my finger lands.
l Donna Lee Roberts put on her travelling shoes while filming her latest movie, Vir Altyd, venturing from Paarl to Mauritius for the rom-com, currently on circuit.
Saturday Star