The World According to Phil Harwood
Phil Harwood, the first person to paddle the Congo River from its source to the sea, explains his travel habits and why he’d like to be a victorious Viking
Mountain/desert/jungle/ocean which are you?
Jungle. It’s full of life, there’s always something happening and you never know what might be lurking in the shadows… a bit like me.
First travel experience?
The hustle and bustle of Bangkok where on my first day I saw a dead body being towed along by the neck from behind a boat, a huge fish being filleted while still alive and a beggar with half his face missing.
Favourite journey?
Driving from London to Cape Town with some close friends, trying to get far off the beaten track. Endless adventures, shenanigans and mischief to be had, and interesting people to meet, along with memorable nights sleeping out under the stars around the campfire.
Top five places worldwide?
The breathtakingly beautiful mountains of northern Pakistan; smack bang in the middle of Borneo far from the logging tracks; Alaska in the autumn dripping with colour; the solitude of the Sahara desert; and the west coast of Scotland when it’s not raining.
Special place to stay?
The enchanting village Karimabad high up on the Karakoram highway in northern Pakistan – beauty personified. The healthiest climate I’ve ever known. Breathing in the mountain air high up in the hills is better than sex!
Three items you always pack?
Bush knife sharpened to hell; a small pot of betadine paint (iodine) for minor wounds; and a small tin of anchovies for when the going gets tough.
Passport stamp you’re proudest of?
Democratic Republic of the Congo.
