About me
I started to get ‘itchy feet’ when I decided to take a year off between Sixth Form and art college to experience the world of work. I lasted six months before I packed my bag and spent the next four months inter-railing and backpacking around Europe. This sealed the deal! I had to see as much as I could, and from there on I have travelled around the world. To fund this trip instead of working the usual pub, supermarket or shop job I had the pleasure of spending five months working for Scott Dunn in Val d’Isere, France at Chalet Eagle's Nest!
All this has expanded my passion for travel to the extent that I couldn’t imagine a job working in any other industry and I hope to pass on my knowledge and let other people enjoy everything the world has to offer!
Where I've been
France – snow, mountains, Renaissance, fondue, Chablis Premier Cru
Germany – beer, Wurst, Gothic architecture, Checkpoint Charlie, Christmas markets
Austria – Lederhosen, Après, Europop, dancing on tables
Italy – pizza, ancient, art, sculpture, Italian ice cream
Spain – sun, sea, Paella, seafood, Matadors
India – Diwali, masses of people, Taj Mahal, extremes of life & death, curry
Thailand – stunning beaches, Chang, snorkelling, Grand Palace, Pad Thai
Malaysia – Asian metropolis, Patronas Towers, shopping Mecca, jungle
Singapore – clean, fantastic airport, fountain of wealth, Raffles
Bali – tropical paradise, paddy fields, temples, sandy beaches
Australia – Blue Mountains, Roos, Great Barrier Reef, golden beaches, surf
New Zealand – stunning scenery, milking, Kawhia, Mount Kakapuku, Boxing Day races
Fiji – Cava, hammock, snorkelling, flying fish, Bure
USA – Yankees, Hollywood, Pier 39, Grand Canyon, Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.
Travel nuggets
Kawhia, New Zealand – If you want a true Kwiana experience head to Kawhia in the North island. If there in February grab a feed at the Maori Kai (food) festival Try the green shell mussels on Maori fried bread, Paua fritters, or a Hangi. Then take a walk along the black-sanded Ocean beach!
For some unique Off piste take the Algulle Percee chair lift in Tignes ski across to the ‘Eye of the Needle’ Rock. Remove your skies climb up and through the ‘Eye’ and enjoy the deep un-touched powder on the other side!
For the best beach and snorkelling head to the island of Nacula in the Ysawas in Fiji. The white sands and crystal clear water mixed with the Fijian hospitality is not to be missed!
Hot picks
Chalet Eagle's Nest, Val d’Isere, France: the ultimate Alpine chalet, set on the cliff edge next to the famous La Face piste. The stunning views across the valley whilst sipping on Laurent Perrier in the outdoor hot tub is all but impossible to beat!
Chalet Artemis, St Anton, Austria: almost the opposite to the traditional Alpine chalet this ‘matchstick’, contemporary, free standing building offers more than just your usual chalet with a built in cinema with popcorn maker and huge selection of classic and modern films.
Quinta do Calma, Algarve, Portugal: this Portuguese manor house is great for the family with over 2 acres of grounds, large pool and playroom will keep the children entertained all week. Whilst the outdoor snug and cocktails will keep the parents quiet.
What my guests have said
"'Grateful to Mike Harlow for his patience, advice and excellent service throughout the booking process"
