We contacted the Hostal de La Rabida by email a day before we were to depart for Ecuador. Judy, the owner responded to our email right away. She assured us that a driver would be waiting for us at the airport with our name tag.
Our drive to the hostal was not only enjoyable, but the driver gave us a special tour of a beautiful monastery along the way. He also took time to share many things about Ecuador.
Upon our arrival at the Rabidal we were greeted by Gloria; what a wonderful, knowledgeable person. We knew once we arrived that we should have booked two days, but the hostal was booked the following day. Yet, Gloria made certain that we had reservations with another hotel for the same cost.
Our room was just right; it was quaint with french doors leading out to a balcony. Breakfast was served early enough that we could replenish ourselves for a day of adventure. Our itinerary for the day was mainly suggestions from Gloria and we were so delighted in her choices.
Our adventure continued on, but we made certain that we returned to the Rabida before we left. Another employee Carlos was available to guide and direct us once we were ready to depart. We cannot speak enough about how safe we felt at the Rabida and the hospitality that was shown to us was above and beyond our expectations. Carlos arranged our taxi to the airport and gave them specific instructions as to what our needs were.
If you are looking for that place that feels like home, a good choice is the Rabida. It is clean with hardwood floors, and a wood burning fireplace that was going each evening. The staff is knowledgeable and the owners have a rabbit that is also a part of the family.
Enjoy your time in Ecuador and make the Rabida a place that you will...
Read moreThis is a lovely hotel and indeed like family as in other reviews. Our driver notified the staff when we were arriving, and although close to midnight, they were already on the street when we pulled up, took our bags, were awaiting our check-in and, most importantly, bottled water and CHILLED glasses awaited In our room! It. is a boutique hotel so the room was small, but having the balcony made a big difference. Bed made and towels changed daily. The hotel only has 11 rooms and did not appear fully occupied. Breakfast was ready for us the next day with double clothed table but on each day was scrambled eggs, smoothie, and French bread. The place has antiques/vintage items throughout, and very good security. When we had to leave at 5:00 AM to catch our flight, the owner offered to prepare breakfast prior to our departure, and although we declined, was there to assist at that time although we could leave securely on our own. This was very impressive. My only disappointment was that the bar was no longer available and it was not a true restaurant, but nonetheless, I would...
Read moreMy family and I had a wonderful stay at Hostal de La Rabida in July 2023. We stayed for two nights, then went to the Amazon, then came back for two more nights. We loved this charming little hotel! The owner and everyone on staff were so friendly and courteous - they really went out of their way to make sure every need was met. The owner gave us insider tips about places to eat and things to see, let us store a bag in the office while we were in the Amazon, and a staff member woke up at 3am to make sure we didn't miss our flight home.
We ate there every night and the food was fantastic! We loved the garden courtyard as a place for our family to relax and share stories about the day while eating delicious food. The owner was so kind to sit with me and tell me how to make his Locro de Papa and we are going to make it at home this weekend to remember our wonderful trip. My daughter also fell in love with his wonderful dogs. We are not usually social on vacation, but we felt like we were treated like family at La Rabida....
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