Ramsey Qubein is a freelance travel journalist covering hotels, cruises,…
As the only brand-name hotel on the island of San Cristobal and one of only two hotels in the archipelago where travelers can earn and redeem loyalty points, the new Hotel Indigo Galapagos is a showstopper. Not only is it a modern and design-filled property on the island, but it has quickly become an example of what IHG Hotels & Resorts wants for this boutique brand. Inspired by each destination and demonstrating a true connection with the community, Hotel Indigo properties are far from cookie cutter.
The beachfront location, small size and colorful design make this hotel one worthy of a visit in this South American bucket list destination. It also makes this hotel somewhat of a showpiece for the brand in general. Here are five top reasons to visit Hotel Indigo Galapagos.
The design
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Around the reception desk is the same local stone from the famous Kicker Rock, a natural formation jutting out of the water to the north of the island and famous for its marine life that flocks there. The island’s greenery is visible everywhere in the hotel along the walls and ceiling.
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In the rooms, the focus on nature continues with floor-to-ceiling windows surveying the ocean and surrounding island. The sea lions lying on the beach provide plenty of entertainment, but architects were savvy enough to assure that noise does not seep inside.
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The location
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The boardwalk along the water is where many local tours and shuttles depart so it’s an active and entertaining place. Since this is such a convenient and active spot, it makes San Cristobal the perfect jumping-off point for pre or post-cruise excursions.
In front of the hotel is Playa del Oro where sea lions come to relax all day with their babies. The hotel’s location is so ideal that tourists come from around town to snap pictures. Coming soon, a new waterfront bar and café will open with the best seats in the house.
The size
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This is the only hotel on the island to have an elevator, giving it the best accessibility for those with mobility issues. Guest rooms are also designed for the needs of wheelchair users. Several suites are also available adding a separate living room plus full bathroom with shower. These come with sofa beds in the living room making them great for families.
Each floor also has a small sitting area where guests can relax and read a book or plan their next day’s adventure. There is also a meditation area where guests can do yoga or relax in the sunlight without any noise from the waterfront.
The food
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Breakfast includes a mix of creative dishes including a Mediterranean brioche sandwich with eggs and avocado or shakshuka with local cheese. Later in the day, the ceviche is market-fresh, the salads use local veggies and the dinner menu showcases an array of exotic flavors.
The points
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IHG One Rewards uses a dynamic pricing model, which means the cost for a room in points is often tied to the cash cost. But, saving hefty amounts of cash in favor of using points, easily accrued by using IHG-branded credit cards or others that allow you to transfer points to IHG, makes it easy to save money when you travel.
Ramsey Qubein is a freelance travel journalist covering hotels, cruises, airlines, and loyalty programs from around the globe.