Ecuador’s Best Guayaquil Hotel Makes the Exclusive List for Relais & Chateaux

Ecuador’s Best Guayaquil Hotel Makes the Exclusive List for Relais & Chateaux

by Stephanie Frias

Luxury travel is an essence, an aura, an articulation of spellbinding allure, whimsical locations,
and finely polished hospitality. Although desired and touted by many; true luxury hotels tout
ethos of a rare and exclusive category reserved for the elite and distinguished.
Such hotels embody a character that eludes mass numbers and evades the nature of facsimile.

As resembled by the standards of French nonpareil, the fleur-de-lis is a symbol of vogue
grandeur, elegance, and prestige. It also effectively represents exclusive hotels under
the honorable title of Relais & Chateaux. 

Discerning world travelers scout for these beau monde properties included in a collection of

approximately 500 honorable hotels around the globe. Previously restricted to incomparable

destinations in Europe, the UK, and North America, the prestige is now arriving with
unprecedented allure across Africa, Asia, and in particular - South America.

Oro Verde’s Hotel del Parque Historico is one such hotel to earn the coveted crown in 2019,

effectively catapulting the hotel to the #1 spot of the best luxury boutique hotels in Guayaquil,
Ecuador, and South America.

How do Hotels Qualify for Relais & Chateaux Status?

The illustrious Relais & Chateaux affiliation comes with more than the point of a finger or
the nod of a hat; rather it is earned after passing through the ranks of 300 criteria
responsible for separating the average from the elite. After all, veritable luxury embodies
sophistication and sovereignty, eluding all characteristics of the commonplace.

The complex evaluation was recently explained by Relais & Chateaux President, Philippe
Gombert in an interview with Forbes magazine. Mr.Gombert sheds light on how hotels like

Hotel del Parque Historico rise above the masses, earning a reputation among the best hotels

in the world. In essence, it’s not about material wealth but rather touches on the inner workings
of world-class hospitality through the principles of character, culture, and biodiversity.

Exclusively attainable by one-of-a-kind hotels, the Relais & Chateaux label hones in on
properties that boast intrinsic local heritage, genuine human touch, and a passion for
preserving multifarious principles related to the local macrocosm. The foundation is secured
by the underlying princples known as the “5 C’s,” which stand for the prominent inclusion of
Character, Courtesy, Calm, Charm, and Cuisine within each property.

Hotel del Parque Historico Guayaquil Among the 30 best Latin America hotels

 So what exactly is the allure held by Hotel del Parque Historico; the distinguishing elements
that make it one of just 30 Relais & Chateaux hotels selected throughout Central and South
America?

The star component is in its unreplicability of course; namely, the restored 44-room colonial
mansion wrapped within the realms of Guayaquil’s most prized green space, Parque Historico.
The 19-acre historic park is a habitat for more than 50 native animals and natural flora including
rare orchids, and endemic trees, plus endangered animals like the two-toed sloth, the harpy
eagle,and the spectacled caiman. 

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Not to mention the culinary opulence. Included in the criteria for Relais & Chateaux
consideration, eligible hotels must feature a note-worthy restaurant with principles that
naturally reflect responsible, regional cooking styles. Casa Julian is quick to impress with a
dazzling gastronomic affair presented through signature cuisine, served by chef Javier Urrutia,
on the Rio Duale riverfront. The illustrious land and sea menu serves unforgettable dishes ranging
from gourmet ceviche to octopus and sea bass, duck, veal, pork ribs, and ribeye prepared with
palate-stunning (locally sourced and sustainable) ingredients.

While many travelers look to Ecuador for the coveted experience of cruising to the Galapagos
Islands, perhaps a stay at the renowned Parque del Historico Guayaquil is a luminary reason to
visit Ecuador in its own right.

Even so, the two are a worthy pairing, offering two perspectives of Ecuador’s unsurpassing luxury
travel scene.

To book an upscale stay at the discernable Hotel del Parque Historico Guayaquil, contact us or
book online today. 

Galapagos Cruises: 5 Things to do in Guayaquil Before Boarding

by Stephanie Frias

The bucket list dream trip is an action - planned, booked, and paid; an ultimate journey
to the world-famous Galapagos Islands! The volcanic paradise is located in the Pacific
sea off the coast of the planet’s most legendary equatorial country, Ecuador.
But, there is no getting to the Darwinian paradise without touching on land first.
The wayfaring pilgrimage undoubtedly reflects an overnight stay in the multifaceted
coastal city of Guayaquil. It will soon be evident; this gleaming Latin city is far more than a
layover destination, so plan for a few days to cherish it all. 
Before setting sail to the Galapagos Islands, check out these top 5 things to do in Guayaquil:

Photo Source: shorturl.at/oZ168 

5. Shop at the First- Class Plaza Lagos

Plaza Lagos is a scenic town center brimming over with trendy restaurants, shopping boutiques,
and water gardens. Located in the Samborondon neighborhood, the plaza offers luxurious
amenities under the Ecuadorian sun, with distinguished locales for walking, relaxing, shopping,
or taking in the sunset. Regarded as one of the safest and most serene first-class locations in
Guayaquil, it’s a favorite place for locals and visitors alike any hour of the day.

Photo Source: shorturl.at/jkALZ

4. Walk Along the Dazzling Waterfront Malecon 2000

Malecon 2000 is the name given to Guayaquil’s incredible 2 km long, waterfront boardwalk.
Snaking along the city’s founding river, the Rio Guayas, the modern yet historically relevant
pathway is an icon of the city. A place of intrinsic pride for Guayaquileños, the promenade
has been recognized by the World Health Organization as a notable model of urban
regeneration. The pedestrian area highlights culutural monuments, gardens with fountains,
shopping opportunities, a boat dock, IMAX theaters, food courts, and more.

Photo Source: shorturl.at/iEIUZ

3. Mingle with Iguanas at the Parque Seminario

A popular highlight of Guayaquil travel is posing for photos or simply mingling with the
resident iguanas of Parque Seminario. Also known as Parque Bolivar or Parque de las
Iguanas, the breathtaking 17th century park houses the provoking Palace of Guayaquil
and the Cathedral of Guayaquil.
The magnificent framework provides a startling backdrop for capturing the native iguanas
who have resided in the park since the beginning of the city’s colonization.

Photo Source: https://www.flickr.com/photos/twiga_swala/2283483760 

2. Drive Over the Sparkling Velero Bridge

The sparkling Ecuadorian waterfront city of Guayaquil provides ample opportunities to capture
the scenic city reflected in the surrounding waterways.
One site that shouldn’t be missed is the Velero Bridge referred to locally as Puente El Velero.
Particularly picturesque after dark, a blue web of light stretches over the water resembling the
beacon of a sailboat drifting in the Guayas River.
The two best ways to see the Velero Bridge are by driving over it through Barcelona Ave
or from the boardwalk along Malecon del Salado.

Image Source: shorturl.at/nHIZ4

1. Stay the Night in Ecuador’s Central Park; Guayaquil Historical Park

Considered one of Guayaquil best secrets, the mystical Parque del Historico in Guayaquil
offers a delightful connection to history and nauture, right in the heart of the city.
For those with only enough time to visit one place in the city, this is the locale that takes
precedence over all others. The 19-acre Eden is a natural preserve effectively protecting both
the inherent local culture and the endemic animals of the Guayaquil region.
The experience is a true step back in time where visitors can relish the splendors of the old age
while commencing in the native habitats of rare and endangered Ecuadorian species.
A lucky few can even rest their heads for the night among the luxurious suites of the park’s
restored colonial mansion, Hotel del Parque, awarded as the best hotel in Ecuador.

Source: https://www.facebook.com/335180273337788/photos/a.335191516669997/1021676898021452/?type=3&theater

Most Instagramable Spots on the Ecuador Map: Galapagos & Guayaquil

By Stephanie Frias

Travelers on an Ecuador trip come with lofty expectations to photograph the Galapagos Islands,

one of the most beautiful places in the natural world.

Luckily, with today’s smartphone technology, anyone can be a photographer competing with

the best images on Instagram. 

Travel gurus and photography aficionados are already in-the-know that the Galapagos Islands

warrants pause-worthy landscapes. But, the pacific paradise is not the only Ecuador location

capable of capturing unforgettable shots. 

The city of Guayaquil also stands among the list of the Most Instagrammable spots in South
America. So, wipe off the lens and head out to the best places in Guayaquil and Galapagos
to take legendary photos (plus, tips on who to tag to get your photo featured on prominent
Ecuador Instagram accounts).

     5.   La Perla - the Largest Ferris Wheel in South America

This glistening cylinder on the big city waterfront is lovingly referred to as “The Pearl,” which
just happens to be the greatest gem in South America. That is, when referring to Ferris wheels;
La Perla is the grandest example on the full continent.
Reaching some 121 feet high, the circle of light is an icon of the Guayaquil skyline.
Capture it by day or by night, when the hue turns all shades of the color spectrum.

Mention @laperlagye or @ecuadortravel  in Instagram to get your images shared.

Photo Source: https://www.facebook.com/LaPerlaGYE/photos/a.1280058892004645/1926008630742998/?type=3&theater

  4.   Guayaquil Historic Park

Perhaps one of the most impressive cityscapes in South America, Guayaquil's Historic Park
is still one of Ecuador’s best-kept secrets.
The true green lungs of the 2.2 million-strong city, the Parque Historic is not only a must-see,
but is a must-photograph. Towering tree-lined curbs hem brick streets filled with ancient buildings,
including the restored mansion at Hotel del Parque.
But, the backdrop resembles nothing of the greater city, boasting a 19-acre backyard brimming
over with flowering trees and orchids. A lucky few might even spot the resident sloths, paradisical
birds, and butterflies, or even the rare, spectacled caiman.

To get high-quality photos showcased on Instagram, mention @hotel_del_parque.

Photo Source: shorturl.at/hyCHU

  3.   Guayaquil Metropolitan Cathedral

Ecuador’s southern-city of Guayaquil is the unrefutable gateway to the Galapagos Islands.
But, the sprawling city is far more than a landing pad and is indeed among the oldest cities
in South America. First founded in 1538, Guayaquil harbors countless historic plazas and
churches brimming with photographic opportunities. Metropolitan Cathedral of Guayaquil is
one of the most dreamy, offering outstanding perspectives for photography from above, outside
and within. The white neo-Gothic cathedral resembles a princess palace of epic proportions.

Mention @luxury_guayaquil_oficial or @ecuadorentusojos for a chance to be featured on their
Instagram pages.

Photo Source: https://www.flickr.com/photos/twiga_swala/2283484238

   2.   Gardner Bay on Espanola Island, Galapagos

After pausing for some highly warranted lens time in Guayaquil, sail your way to the intended
Instagram destination of the Galapagos Islands. The cluster of Pacific islands is no doubt an
endless playground for photographers. From penguins and sea lions to sea turtles, marine
iguanas and blue-footed boobies, many shutterbugs will flock to the pristine beaches and
aquamarine water for epic ocean life shots. Gardner Bay on Espanola Island is a prime shot for
capturing the Galapagos Islands in all their paradisical glory.

Maximize your exposure by mentioning @galapagosisland or @southamerica with stunning
Galapagos Islands images on Instagram

Photo Source: https://www.flickr.com/photos/roubicek/4154756521

1. Bartolomé Island, Galapagos

For a different perspective of the Galapagos Islands, head over to Bartolomé Island,
where it’s possible to capture the underlying allure of the volcanic archipelagos.
The tiny inlet offers the most startling landscapes of the Galapagos with volcanic formations
in an array of colors including red, orange, green, and black mineral deposits.
In the background, catch glimpses of the other nearby islands and the notable Pinnacle Rock
jutting out of the sea.

Mention @travelmoreecuador or @islands_com to gain more traction for Ecuador images on
Instagram.

Photo Source: https://www.flickr.com/photos/roubicek/4154756521

New Latin Food Destination: Guayaquil Restaurant Casa Julián

by Stephanie Frias

Guayaquil’s most notable historic site and greatest green space offers an exquisite ode to
culinary perfection. From beneath the boughs of the incredible Parque Histórico, tempt the
senses to discover the incomparable Casa Julián.
An extension of Ecuador’s most celebrated hotel, Hotel del Parque Guayaquil, only the
greatest impression can be expected. Step through the eaves to a place where antiquity
and modernity are embraced as one, luxury seamlessly blends with comfort, and the
flavors of yesteryear elegantly dance with present-day gastronomic allure.

The Distinguished Chef Javier Urruturia

Sink into the delectable cuisine crafted through innovative interpretations of local signature
cuisine by visionary chef, Javier Urrutia. A native Ecuadorian, the resident gastronomic
expert initially trained at the Institute of Higher Culinary Arts, following under the wings of
legendary chefs. Well versed in creative gourmet cuisine and a devout supporter of
sustainable cooking practices; presentations by Javier Urrutia are authentic, distinctive,
and unforgettable. 

Ceviche, Appetizers, and Starters

Chef Javier Urruturia’s inspirational menu at Casa Julián flirts with both land and sea,
offering a dazzling assortment of traditional Ecuadorian food prepared with a modern twist.
Diners delight in five ceviche (chilled citrus-cured seafood) options with a series of
enterprising flavors from roasted peanuts to ginger and tamarillo, coconut, passion fruit, and
orange marinade.
Easily regarded as the best ceviche in Guayaquil, this starter alone is worth coming to Casa
Julián for.

Beyond the appetizers, the menu springs salad and soup creations laced with innovative
ingredients including plantain croutons, sugar cane dressing, and an assortment of surprising
regional cheese from aged varieties to locally sourced goat cheese.
The third course offers a discerning range of starters fit for demanding gastronomes from fig
and bleu cheese empanadas to crispy humitas spilling out goat cheese foam with chili pepper
jelly, and grilled octopus, or smoked tuna carpaccio, just to name a few. 

Even so, the main course doesn’t sulk in the shadows, rather it rises to the table in epic culinary
flair from plates brimming over with classic favorites from both the surf and the turf.
From approximately a dozen temptations, lean towards blue-ribbon ocean winners like Seared
Sea Bass, Roasted Prawns with Sango Corn and Chimichurri, or Amazonian Paiche.

 Or, sink into timeless land offerings including Glazed Duck with Lulu Fruit Teriyaki, Veal Shank
with Roasted Oranges and Garlic, Braised Pork Ribs with Llapingachos and Peanut Sauce, or
Grilled Brangus Rib Eye. The distinguished vegetarian palate has not gone unnoticed at Casa
Julián, represented by savory main dishes from Chola Potato Gnocchi with Pumpkin Seed
Pesto to Moro Lentils with Camembert Cheese and Asparagus, and beyond.

 Ambiance, Prestige & Allure 

In the world of culinary allure, Ecuadorian cuisine is quickly rising the ranks for flavorful
and varied cuisine, as well as for eco-awareness. In 2019, the South America country most
famous for the Galapagos Islands has been proposed at the New Latin Food Destination.
The legendary cuisine, discerning location, and stylish presentation at Casa Julián, are
expected to earn this gourmet restaurant in Guayaquil recognition among the best restaurants
in Ecuador.

Respectively, Casa Julián along with the highly distinguished Hotel del Parque Historico,
turned heads earlier this year when it made the ultra-exclusive list for Relais & Chateaux,
a coveted collection of elite hotels with first-class restaurants. Part of the 300-point criteria that
earned Casa Julián the affiliation, is the restaurant’s participation with Fish Unknown, a program
that supports sustainable fishing destinations and cooking practices.
Chef Javier Urrutia is a longtime supporter of such principles.

 Special Events, Reservations & Hours of Operation

Casa Julián offers a sophisticated dining establishment set on the shores of the Daule River,
from within a restored 19th-century building. Diners can opt for indoor or outdoor seating,
exclusive private dining inside the park or on the dockside, and hotel patrons can also choose
room service. 

Casa Julián is open daily with special events and promotions each day of the week. 

Brunch is offered on Sundays with a complimentary welcome mimosa, buffet or a la carte menu,
unlimited beer, and live music. 

Lunch is served on Wednesday - Friday, and Saturday from 1pm to 11pm. 

Afternoon Tea happens Wednesday - Friday from 3pm to 6pm. Dinner is from 7pm to 10 pm
seven days a week. 

Mondays and Tuesdays offer a 15% discount. 

Drink specials are presented daily, with an ‘’all you can drink” special for 25 USD from 4pm to
8pm for margaritas, sangria, mimosas, mojito, and beer.

Please confirm availability 48 hours in advance. Reservations may be necessary and can be
booked on Open Table.