I've made a number of visits to the Galapagos Islands over the years, so I was excited when I learned of an opportunity to try something a little bit different on a recent trip there.
Instead of immediately embarking on a small-ship expedition as I normally do, this time I would begin my trip with an onshore adventure, a chance to explore local culture and some of the wildlife from a land-based perspective.
The Hotel Indigo Galapagos provided a home base for my exploration of the island of San Cristobal. At just 35 rooms, it is the smallest Hotel Indigo in the world. The reason for that diminutive size: The laws on the islands are quite strict when it comes to construction, and 35 units is the most a hotel can have.
It is also the only brand name hotel on the island, and as a result it is one of only a handful in the archipelago where guests can earn loyalty points: Hotel Indigo is owned by IHG Hotels & Resorts and is a member of IHG's One Rewards program.
At one with its surroundings
There are intentionally no two Hotel Indigo properties that are alike. At each, the designers take pride in researching and integrating the local energy and interests into the look and feel.
The design of the property pays homage to the region's culture and natural beauty. I noticed immediately upon arrival a lobby that was rich in volcanic stone and natural greenery. The reception desk uses stone similar to what visitors might recognize from a local landmark, Kicker Rock. Suspended from the ceiling are upside-down cones, reminiscent of the underwater volcanos that formed the archipelago.
Hotel Indigo's nod to its surroundings continues with light fixtures meant to look like the shells of the giant tortoises the Galapagos are perhaps best known for. Bathrooms have stone surfaces, and toiletries are made locally. The decor has an animal theme -- after all, isn't that why we visit the islands? -- and is different on each of the hotel's three floors.
But the designers did not ignore modern conveniences; they went in the other direction to look for the things that would impress guests. For example, in addition to bedside power outlets there are wireless charging shelves that keep cellphones tucked into a vertical nook on the wall while guests snooze. I've stayed at many hotels, and this was the first where I've found this neat feature.
The lobby of the Hotel Indigo Galapagos on the island of San Cristobal. Photo Credit: Courtesy of IHG Hotels & Resorts
The Hotel Indigo is also the only hotel on San Cristobal with an elevator, making it accessible for those with mobility challenges. And despite being so small, the hotel still carved out space for spa treatment rooms and a lovely fitness center on the beachfront level.
In the lobby, guests can easily make their way to an elevated, panoramic terrace with a small pool overlooking the bay, lounge, bar and restaurant, which serves cuisine representative of the islands. The property emphasizes its use of local cheeses from dairy farmers as well as fruits and vegetables grown on the islands.
Its design enables the Hotel Indigo Galapagos to fit right into the almost bohemian nature of the town outside, where local shops, cafes and bars draw a mix of islanders and tourists. Miami Beach this is not. But you will not be disappointed as you stroll the promenade, where large pelicans, sea lions and sea turtles abound. The hotel is planning to add its own bar out front, which is also a popular spot to snap photos with the Charles Darwin statue.
I relished my balcony views of the Pacific Ocean and the marine life that was constantly changing from morning to night. I was lucky enough to spot a sea lion make its way to a fisherman's boat and slip into the driver's seat while the proprietor was ashore.
The view from the Presidential Suite at the Hotel Indigo Galapagos. Photo Credit: Courtesy of IHG Hotels & Resorts
Good neighbor
Hotel Indigos pride themselves on fitting into and becoming a part of their neighborhood. They also must rely on local suppliers and hire mostly locals, which can be challenging given that not everyone has the same level of hospitality experience that IHG might expect.
I must say, though, the service was amazing; there was a level of pride that I found to be heartfelt and genuine. I would say it was above and beyond the service I have received on the mainland.
The Galapagos property is rather new, but by bringing in more tourists to support the waterfront strip of local shops and restaurants (and not to mention sightseeing tours), Hotel Indigo is indeed being a good neighbor.