The Galápagos Islands are not a destination for the novice traveler. It takes a long time to get there — no matter where you're coming from — and when done right, your trip will be jam-packed with incredible adventures.
Professional travel blogger Trevor Morrow, who runs the blog Trevor Morrow Travel: Dude-Approved Travel, Food, and Gear, was recently invited to stay at the luxury resort Pikaia Lodge on the island of Santa Cruz. He got the VIP treatment from the moment he disembarked from the plane.
Morrow's experience included spa treatments, a gorgeous private yacht, and snorkeling adventures conducted by a Galápagos native who has also led private tours for Google cofounder Sergey Brin.
"A trip to the Galápagos really falls into the 'trip of a lifetime' category," Morrow told Business Insider. Morrow would know — his travel writing has taken him across the world, including to Belize, Nepal, Iceland, and Amsterdam. "It's a legendary destination and one that takes a bit of planning and dedication to visit."
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Morrow left his home in Los Angeles at 11:30 p.m. on a Saturday night to catch a red-eye to Miami. From there, he flew into Quito, Ecuador, where he stayed one night before flying to the island of Baltra in the Galápagos on Monday. He got to the Pikaia Lodge at 5 p.m. on Monday, after clocking in well over 24 hours' worth of travel.
Morrow's luxurious experience with Pikaia Lodge began at the airport. "I saw a woman standing there with a sign with my name on it. While everyone else went right, she ushered me to the left and into the airport’s VIP entrance," Morrow said.
"All guests staying at Pikaia Lodge are treated to the same VIP welcome," he said.
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