As Ecuador’s largest and most populous city, Guayaquil is chaotic, frenetic and, dare we say, more than a bit brash. Which is to say: we love it.
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But even the most hardcore traveler appreciates a good escape once in a while. On our latest trip through Ecuador, we took refuge at the Sonesta Hotel Guayaquil (where they were kind enough to host our stay). We’re loathe to use catch-phrases like “urban oasis”, but in this case it’s apropos. After just two nights there, we felt rejuvenated and ready to thrust ourselves back into the constant hustle of downtown Guayaquil.
Here’s why …
The Skinny
The Sonesta prides itself on providing top notch, luxury amenities to business travelers and those who prefer to travel in first class style. In short, it’s:
… in the north of the city of Guayaquil in the financial, commercial and tourist center, on Joaquin Orrantia Avenue. The Sonesta Hotel in Guayaquil is located within La Gran Manzana, which is a new and modern building complex and next door to the Mall del Sol, the largest and most important shopping center in Ecuador. The mall features more than 200 stores and boutiques, entertainment center, restaurants, offices, apartments etc.
The hotel is just 3 minutes away from the José Joaquín Olmedo International Airport and 3 minutes from the Simón Bolívar Convention Center.
Amenities include:
- The VIEW, a full-service restaurant serving International Cuisine with local flavors
- The Terrace Bar for casual dining under the atrium
- Fitness center, spa, and pool
- E@ccess where guests can stay connected with each other and easily browse the Internet for free
- Full service business center
- 24-hour room service with extensive daily menus
- 24-hour concierge service
Modern Atrium at Sonesta Hotel Guayaquil © Mike Richard
The Traveler’s Take
Design + Atmosphere
The first thing you’ll notice is that angled metal and glass abound in the design, providing an atmosphere that’s upscale and modern, without feeling “cold”. It’s clearly designed for business travelers first, with luxury travelers a close second.
The Room
We were fortunate to crash in a corner unit Superior Single Room with an urban view overlooking the pool and surrounding skyline. At 31 square meters, the space was ample relative to almost any city hotel room floorplan. We could’ve easily fit another three king beds, with plenty of room left to host a disco party.
In-room amenities are typical of a first class hotel:
- 32” LCD TV with cable service
- Minibar
- Coffee maker
- Clock radio and IPod player
- Individual climate regulator
- Electronic safety box
- Wake up call service
- High speed Internet service Wi-Fi
Location
Situated near both the airport and convention center, the Sonesta is an ideal base for business travelers.
If you’re looking for a “resort” style experience (i.e. without having to leave the hotel), the nearby Mall del Sol offers all the shopping and dining experiences of any mall in the States. Bonus: the hotel is directly connected to the Mall, meaning you needn’t even step outside.
For travelers looking to experience downtown Guayaquil, a cab ride into the heart of the city (including the Malecon, Las Penas neighborhood, and more) is typically $5 or less.
Pricing
Rates start around $150+tax (USD) nightly for a Superior Single Room. A variety of specials and discount packages are available – check the latest.
The Bottom Line
Sure, you’ll find more affordable accommodations in Ecuador. But, if money is no object and you’re looking to visit Guayaquil in style, the Sonesta Hotel delivers. With first class amenities; a prime location near shopping, restaurants and attractions; and a sleek, luxurious atmosphere … it’s an “urban oasis” indeed.