Technically, Michael Clarke’s occupation reads as “Director and Photographer,” working for some of the biggest brands out there. This includes shooting commercials for Samsung, capturing photos for Outdoor Voices, and developing videos for Equinox. Speaking more liberally, you could add former professional skier, and dog handler to his dream co-pilot, Walter (more on that below).

Born and raised in Lake Placid, NY, winter sports have always been second nature to Michael. When he’s not traveling to capture content for work, he frequently jumps on a plane (or into a helicopter) to find the world’s best slopes, from Switzerland to Austria and further afield.

Part of our Insiders series, this is your window into the worlds of the coolest people in Safara’s network. These are the contacts we’d hit up for travel inspiration, whether it’s a hotel recommendation, a new track for our in-transit playlist, the best mini-products to pack, or just to daydream about where we’d open a boutique island hotel (this changes with each Insider guide we read – we’re easily and happily influenced).

Read on for travel inspiration from Michael Clarke.

Name three of your favorite hotels?

Baldface Lodge, Canada. A nice, remote mountain lodge with good food, decent lodging, and some great skiing and snowboarding for just about any ability. Plus, you get to take a helicopter in, which is always fun.

Dunton Hot Springs, Colorado. I had a reservation here for a week a couple of years ago that I had to cancel last-second. Looking forward to spending some time here in the not-so-distant future.

Hotel Almhof Schneider, Austria. The Arlberg Valley has some of my favorite skiing in the world.

Lake Placid Lodge, New York. I had to give an additional one here. I grew up in Lake Placid, and while this place has gone a bit downhill in recent years, it’s a special one. A beautiful central lodge with individual cabins right on Lake Placid is hard to beat.

What are your favorite “offices” while traveling?

A few summers ago I spent some time boat camping on a Norwegian tugboat, island-hopping through the San Juan Islands in Washington. During that time, I frequently worked on my computer from my tent, pitching on a couple of different film projects. It was a pretty cool “office”.

Where would you go for a digital detox or just generally to get off the grid?

The Adirondacks (but not in the Spring).

What three songs are on your travel playlist?

Gente Aberta, by Erasmo Carlos. My Lady’s On Fire by Ty Segall. And Oogum Boogum Song by Brenton Wood.

What do you always bring with you in your carry-on?

My Sony camera with a 35mm lens (and usually many more than that one said lens, but that’s a must).

If you’re going to a new place, and your friends have not been there, what do you consult for advice?

This could come off as moderately pretentious, but I typically try and seek out interesting clothing boutiques when I’m in a foreign city and ask the person working for advice. I’ve found that these places have pre-made lists or maps with suggestions for travelers. For example, Void in Mexico City or Bastille in Cape Town both had great suggestions.

If I’m in a more remote place, Google Maps in satellite mode followed by a quick image search can go a long way. Beyond that, I find apps like The Infatuation tend to be helpful. Also, I always respect a New York Times 36 Hours story.

Best travel advice you’ve ever received?

I was driving down to the Algarve in summer, after a week-long project in Lisbon with my friend, Todd Martin. Todd suggested that we use Google Maps in satellite view to look for hidden beaches along the coast. It was one of the best travel experiences I’ve had to date, and we managed to keep a Google Map starred with all of our favorite stops.

Who is your dream “co-pilot” or travel partner?

My dog Walter, but he does make it hard to go to certain places.

What’s your go-to outfit for getting through security quickly, and still looking good?

TSA PreCheck.

Beach, city or mountains?

All of the above. But, if I have to pick one, mountains.

Lost luggage, or lost phone?

Lost phone.

Favorite subscription service you’ll never delete?

New York Times.

Read more from our Insiders series, here.

Originally from Ohio, Megan Puleri broke into modeling when she walked the Victoria’s Secret PINK fashion show in 2015, alongside Taylor Hill and Selena Gomez. From there, she was signed by Ford Models in New York, and soon moved to Brooklyn to pursue the career full-time. Her work has since taken her around the world, from Tokyo to Sydney, LA, and back. She has modelled for brands including Alice & Olivia, Marchesa, and Theory, and publications including Elle magazine.

When she’s not in front of the camera, she can usually be found painting or illustrating – sometimes for pleasure, and sometimes for commissioned pieces. And hanging out with her music producer other half, Avi Snow, and their adorable dog, Freddie.

Part of our Insiders series, this is your window into the worlds of the coolest people in Safara’s network. These are the contacts we’d hit up for travel inspiration, whether it’s a hotel recommendation, a new track for our in-transit playlist, the best mini-products to pack, or just to daydream about where we’d open a boutique island hotel (this changes with each Insider guide we read – we’re easily and happily influenced).

Read on for travel inspiration from Megan Puleri.

Name three of your favorite?

Hyatt Regency, Huntington Beach, CA. The hotel is right on the beach and the food is to die for. The resort has everything, from bonfires to multiple pools and hot tubs, and I got to attend a week long conference there, where spiritual teachers such as Eckhart Tolle spoke.

Gramercy Park Hotel, New York, NY.  Because this was the first place I stayed when I came to New York. The art throughout the hotel is extremely interesting, the lighting creates a solid vibe, and I have so many fond memories of my stay there.

Santa Maria Suites, Key West, FL. This wonderful resort was so cozy. I stayed here for my cousin’s wedding, which took place nearby. The staff was amazing, they even gave me a discount for an Instagram shout out!

As a creative, where do you find most inspiration for your work?

I can get creative anywhere: planes, trains, castings, etc. As an artist, all I need are my tunes and I’m good to go. Of course, it helps if there’s a cool coffee shop or lounge nearby. I’m also a sucker for people watching, so anywhere I can sit and do that inspires me.

You travel for work a lot, was this something you were seeking in a career? And how do you make it as relaxing and fun as possible?

Yes, it was. I have lived in Tokyo, Sydney, Melbourne, and Los Angeles, but mainly New York. Coming from Columbus, Ohio, I had a desire to travel wherever I could. I don’t really have much of a say re: where I go, my agency sends me where I’m wanted! I believe I’ll be traveling a lot more this year. I make it relaxing by being present and grateful that I am able to travel for my work.

What is your favorite travel book?

My favorite book to travel with is Mandala Of Being by Richard Moss, because I can practice mindfulness and awareness as I read it and apply practices in real time.

What’s your go-to outfit for getting through security quickly, and still looking good?

To be completely honest, I don’t care how I look at the airport as long as I’m cozy. I usually wear leggings, my boyfriend’s oversized sweatshirt, and my Blundstone boots. The comfier the better.

Where’s next on your bucket list to travel to?

I want to go to Bali. My sister and so many of my friends have been, and I have heard amazing things about it. I want to leave my phone and submerge myself in nature and yoga. I think having time to yourself can do wonders for inspiration.

What three songs are on your travel playlist?

Killing Jar by Marcus Marr & Chet Faker. Sonate Pacifique by L’ Impératrice.And Love you gotta lose again by Nicholas Jaar.

Read more from our Insiders series, here.