Strictly Come Dancing pro Katya Jones talks about her travels in France, Russia and China

Strictly Come Dancing pro Katya Jones

This week Strictly Come Dancing pro Katya Jones checks into our travel Q&A.

She talks about her favourite part of Russia, her first holiday memory, and her best memory from a dance trip – and more.

First holiday memory?

When I was three years old, my parents would leave me with my nan at her home in Lithuania for the summer. Her house was in a tiny village. We would pick potatoes, berries and have fresh milk from neighbours’ cows. I loved it. I even spoke fluent Lithuanian. It was wonderful.

Favourite part of Russia?

My parents’ house is in a little village outside St Petersburg, near the beach, on the Finnish Gulf. Every summer, people from the city go there to relax and have barbecues.

Top weekend break?

Two years ago, I went on my own to the South of France. I flew to Marseille, rented a car and went inland to the lavender fields, then drove past St Tropez and ended up in Nice. It was brilliant spending time by myself, stopping whenever I wanted to.

Katya has fond memories of a weekend break to Marseille, St Tropez (pictured) and Nice

Are you a good flyer?

I am an amazing flyer. Before we even take off, while the plane taxis, I’m already asleep. Nothing bothers me.

Best memory from a dance trip?

Beijing. We were invited to work in China for a week, to teach in a dance academy and perform in big competitions. During our time off, we visited the Forbidden City, which was an amazing history lesson, and the Great Wall of China, which was just out of this world. I love Chinese food, too.

What can’t you travel without?

A few good books. They tend to be non-fiction. I like ones that help you in life, so I can improve myself.

Dream holiday?

To see the Northern Lights in Norway or Iceland.

Katya is an ambassador for National Numeracy. Its Virtual Festival is on May 19.