Donna Jenkins
I have always loved the great outdoors. As a farmer’s daughter, the land, sea, clifftops and close-knit communities of Pembrokeshire that were ever-present in my childhood crafted my appetite for authentic adventures in nature. I fled the windswept nest of ‘little England beyond Wales’ to study languages in the architecturally charming city of Bath. In this iconic World Heritage Site, I explored the quintessentially English cobbled streets, meandering waterways and delicious eateries. The next decade was a warm embrace of cultural and linguistic immersion. I studied History of Art in Italy, taught English in rural villages in Argentina and Mexico, road-tripped through Paraguay and Brazil, and island hopped around Scandinavian archipelagos. Always attracted to the less-trodden paths, I find that this is where culture, history and authentic recipes come alive and lifelong memories are made. Since firmly rooting myself back in the UK, I have fallen in love all over again with the impressive variety that these small isles have to offer. Our cities are iconic; brimming with history, excellent food, character and charm and our landscapes are rolling, dramatic and wild, changing with every season. I have spent the last decade as a Spanish and Italian teacher in the home counties inspiring students to challenge themselves and travel the world. I accompanied numerous school trips to Europe, supported students conquering the Three Peaks Challenge and encouraged young adults through a wild hike and camping adventure in the Zambezi gorge. I loved the hybrid of attractions that bustling London and the restorative countryside had to offer but when the opportunity arose to move my young family back to West Wales I couldn’t resist.
What places and activities do you specialize in?
"Working for Routescape, I inspire and support travelers in exploring this rich, cultured yet wild corner of the world which I know best. I take great pride in tailor making trips that showcase the very best of Britain, trips that spark a true interest and create lasting memories."
How did you get involved in travel?
"I have been drawn to travelling and exploring since as long as I can remember. On reflection, it must be the result of being born and raised in rural West Wales and having a knack for languages at school. Studying languages opened my eyes to the wealth and variety that the world has to offer. By the time I turned sixteen, I had independently arranged a residential trip for two friends and I to Barcelona to put our Spanish to the test and see Gaudi’s creations with our own eyes. Fast forward a decade and numerous adventures later, I found myself in education and inspiring others to follow in my own footsteps, studying languages and travelling the world. Now, I have been drawn back to my roots in West Wales and l love arranging trips for others to fulfill their curiosity and experience the culture and history that interests them from firsthand. "
Donna's favorite itineraries and travel advice
Top itineraries and travel advice
This adventurous itinerary checks off the top historical and recreational highlights in Wales. Hike through the Brecon Beacons National Park, get wet and wild coasteering along...
On this week-long itinerary, you'll immerse yourself in the cosmopolitan atmosphere of London, visiting Big Ben, Trafalgar Square, the Tower of London, and much more. Then...
Taste your way through the Highlands and islands of Scotland on this 10-day self-drive itinerary that combines stunning scenery with unforgettable culinary excursions. Start in...