After living in Dubai for more than 4 years I am not easily impressed with luxury. I don’t mean to brag, but I have seen 7 star hotels, been to world-class international food buffets and felt how fluffy the beds that royals and celebs sleep in are. I didn’t stay at these Dubai hotels, I shot commercials in them… and that’s why I can’t really brag! ;)
On our recent trip to the Galapagos Islands, we were invited to stay for a few nights at the Red Mangrove Aventura Lodge in the town of Puerto Ayora, in Santa Cruz Island. This hotel took my concept of luxury to a whole new level. Any hotel can invest in expensive decoration, in the best PR campaigns, in offering luxurious services and other things that money can buy. Red Mangrove is all about natural luxury, surrounded by a level of beauty that will take your breath away.
The oceanfront rooms, like the one we stayed at called “Verde”, are a perfect window to the wonderland that Galapagos is. Without leaving your room, you get incredible views of the ocean and also of the town of Puerto Ayora! Add to this a very comfortable room set up and it’s quite likely you’ll even feel lazy to leave the hotel!
Apart from the lovely terrace, my favorite feature in the room was the panoramic window in the bathroom. Where you would normally find a mirror, Red Mangrove decided to place a window that, even in the shower, keeps you immersed in the blue surroundings.
Downstairs, by the Red Mangrove Restaurant and Sushi Bar, you can sit indoors and enjoy the cool temperatures or on the porch where you will be visited by plenty of friendly creatures. You wouldn’t think having breakfast with sea lions sleeping next to you is something that common, right? In this hotel, it is. And this is something that truly makes this place unique.
Food was delicious on every single meal we had at the Red Mangrove. Start your day with a selection of International and Ecuadorian delicacies from the breakfast buffet and gather all the energy you will need to explore the island – and keep in mind you can use the complimentary bicycles provided by the hotel!
The lunch and dinner menu includes some typical Ecuadorian preparations but the Asian inspired dishes stand out and are a great alternative to the typical food you’ll mostly find in town. Intense flavors, healthy combinations, mouth-watering presentation, all complemented by delicate and friendly service.
What else could a foodie ask for?
Red Mangrove has lodges in the Galapagos islands of Santa Cruz, Isabela, and Floreana making it a great option for tourists doing land-based tours. What’s better is that the hotel can arrange your island hopping tour in-house and they are experts at doing so!
Coming to the Galapagos is a once in a lifetime experience. Make it count by staying at this amazing place!
More info:
Red Mangrove Aventura Lodge
salesteam@redgalapagos.com
Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz Island
Galapagos
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*drools* wow, what a great place to stay. you guys are kings…
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It took me a few days to read your whole blog but now I’m up to date. We are selling our house and hope to start our own vygoae in a few years, it will be very interesting to follow your journey and learn from your experiences. Be safe,Erik.
Good luck for your travels, have a great time! :)
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