I moved to the island nineteen years ago, and fell in love with this quiet, slower- paced, beautiful gem in the middle of Puget Sound that is still an easy commute to the Emerald City with all the excitement that a contemporary metropolis has to offer!
But it's Vashon that I yearn to return to nightly... Its darkness enveloping me into a protective bubble from the noise, stress and chaos of city life.
I have circumnavigated the island in the Melissa Ann, kayaked three quarters around the island in a (heavy) wooden craft (ugh!), hiked its many trails, explored its many beaches, patronized every local business,
shopped at farm stands and the Farmer's Market, cried at the good movies playing on the big screen at our historic Vashon Theatre, read books from bookstore Vashon Bookshop and from our well- stocked library, tasted fine wines at our various wine outlets, attended as many live performances as I can fit into my schedule, and boogied (or at least tap my feet!) to the myriad of bands and live performances one can hear at multiple venues on any given weekend, and often mid week, too.
In the mid 80’s after working for UNHCR in refugee camps in Peninsular Malaysiafor three years, I back-packed solo throughout Southeast Asia for 6 months trekking off the beaten path in various countries: Thailand, Burma, Singapore, Indonesia, Australia, and New Zealand and experienced all types of accommodations: huts on beaches, hostels with visitors from around the globe, shared accommodations in private homes. During a three-month sabbatical to the Yucatán Peninsula in Mexico, I researched opening a palapa on the beach. I helped plant trees along the Panama border in Costa Rica and visited homes of orphans in a Kenyan village. Then after one of my many stints on the road, speaking, coaching and delivering training across North America, staying in so many hotels in various cities I’ve lost count; I knew I wanted to create a bit of a haven right back here, in my own back yard, for visitors near and far. A place to reflect… a place to unwind… a place to get pampered. A place of romance and intimacy... A place to soak away one’s weariness in a hot, hot tub! And a home base to explore all that this amazing island has to offer.
MiKo’s Guest House is a place as reflective as the island itself: cozy, quiet, comfortable -- with a bit of funk and lots of original art! And yes, it’s painted a deep purple on the outside – part of the “keep Vashon weird” movement! It’s a fully furnished cabin – with lots of “fancy kitchen toys” to inspire one’s creative side. A bit of rural rustic charm, filled with special touches that demonstrates my attention to detail in anticipation of what you would need from my own well-traveled experience. As your personal concierge -- bringing over 19 years of Vashon-Maury Island experience -- I want to ensure you have the most memorable stay.
And lest you think its décor is of Asian motif, MiKo’s is actually named for my beloved--though now deceased--standard poodles--"my kids," Mimi and Koko, who used to loved running out to greet our guests! They are dearly missed. Their namesake lives on...
Thank you for visiting this gem and creating your own experience.
Walking distance to town Hot tub with Jacuzzi jets Pastoral setting Queen-size bed Fully furnished Dining area Full kitchen On-site massage West-facing deck Wireless Internet Wood burning stove Welcome basket of Island treats