How Gogglebox star manages lavish holidays despite being 'broke and homeless'

Ex-Gogglebox regular Sandra Martin has shared details about how she still manages to enjoy extravagant holidays despite being financially strained.

The telly favourite quickly captured hearts when she made appearances on the Channel 4 show between 2013 to 2017, alongside her best mate Sandi Bogle. Interestingly though, she's opened up about her journey from having "everything paid for" by Gogglebox to battling unemployment.

The star was staying in temporary accommodation and had resorted to selling merchandise to cover food expenses.

Bravely admitting that she is left "broke", surviving on Universal Credit, she's been targeted by online trolls who criticised her holidaying whilst in such a financial situation. Sandra has revealed, however, that her trips to holiday spots like Ibiza, Amsterdam, and Portugal were generously gifted by supportive fans.

The fan-favourite has marked five getaways since Christmas Day and has plans to jet off to Malta shortly, reports the Mirror.

She considers it a "miracle" that her fans care so much as to splurge on her. Sandra confesses to how her life took a drastic turn after appearing on Gogglebox and how the show "paid for everything".

She said: "I could have bought a house with all the money I made but I gave it away, I took care of my family and friends," while conversing with The Sun.

Sandra confessed that she disliked repeating outfits and would often foot the bill for her friends' meals. She indulged in good food, regular hair appointments, and taxi rides everywhere.

While acknowledging that she "could have spent more wisely", Sandra didn't want to be seen as a "miser and tight". Her stint on Gogglebox ended in 2017, a year after her co-star Sandi left to join Celebrity Big Brother.

She continued on the show with her daughter Chanchez, but admitted feeling uncomfortable watching shows about sex with her.

The TV personality revealed that some habits from her Gogglebox days persist, such as frequently ordering takeaways. "Gogglebox spoiled me rotten," she confessed.

"Even now I'm affected by it, I don't cook anymore."

Sandra disclosed that she hasn't cooked in six years and still enjoys takeaways, much like during her time on the show.

Fans even send Sandra takeaways, and she often receives complimentary food when visiting cafes and restaurants. Currently unemployed due to health issues, Sandra also mentioned that "normal" jobs are not an option because of her celebrity status.

The TV star's previous roles include being a postwoman, chambermaid, market seller, and most recently, a cleaner at a train station.

Sandra shared that she is now "booked up until next year" with complimentary trips and celebrity events. She candidly admitted: "I've gone from Brixton to the BAFTAs to benefits and now I'm broke but at least I'm happy and busy even though I'm technically homeless, have no money or anything."

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