36 Hours in Guangzhou

by Robert Painter

Stepping off my China Southern flight at the airport in Guangzhou, China I was fully aware that I had 36 hours before my continuing flight to Kathmandu where I had plans to trek the Annapurna Circuit over the highest pass in Nepal – the Thorong La.    

Before boarding the flight in Los Angeles I knew I would be stopping in Guangzhou. Because I was using frequent flier miles I was given a somewhat indirect flight to my final destination. Except that I had to purchase a rather expensive visa for my short stay in China I really didn’t mind the layover. In fact, especially since I had never been in China, I was excited about the prospect of this first time visit.                                                                   Photo # 1410

Knowing almost nothing about Guangzhou I searched the internet for information about hotels and things to do during my 36 hours. I learned quickly that Guangzhou was to be the host of the 2010 Asian Games – a great honor for the city. I also realized that this might make finding a room more difficult. As in any major venue of this sort it seems that hotel rooms begin to fill up long before the actual event because of all the people involved in the planning, construction and development – and the Asian Games was to be a major event.              

Note that, even if you have never heard of it, Guangzhou is the third largest city in China so you can anticipate that you will hear more from Guangzhou in the future.  With the tallest TV tower in the world and a recently completed Opera House designed by internationally know architect Zaha Hadid, Guangzhou is a name that will not remain unknown. 

But, to be fair, I imagine you have heard of this city in the past. What I haven’t told you yet is the former name of this city on the Pearl River.  If I tell you that in the past it was known as Canton I imagine that will make a difference. The Canton Trade Fair is the largest event of its kind in China and has been held twice a year beginning in 1957.

Hoping to avoid any downtown congestion I opted to spend my one night in the city at the Crowne Plaza Guangzhou Science Center Hotel. I found that they had an efficient shuttle that could take me back and forth to downtown and the main things that I had planned for my brief stay.

When you arrive at the beautiful Crowne Plaza hotel check into your room, check with the concierge for the downtown shuttle schedule and make plans to visit the Guangzhou TV Tower. Completed in 2010, it is the tallest TV tower in the world and has an observation tower that will give you a terrific view of the city. While the air may be a bit hazy it’s worth the visit to overlook Guangzhou and the Pearl River.

Be sure and make reservations for an evening dinner cruise on the Pearl River for the best views of the city and its lights at night. 

The city of Guangzhou is a bustling place filled with activity. I visited about 6 weeks prior to the Asian Games and there were a lot of last minute details being completed. I was impressed with the wide streets and modern facilities.

The bicycle facilities really caught my attention. The bi-level bike racks on the sidewalk were fascinating. They were designed in such a way that double the number of bikes could be parked in the same amount of ground space.

I also noticed the bike share program. Apparently the bikes are free if used for less than one hour which seems to be the typical usage. Beyond that there is a charge. There are a large number of convenient bike stations and the first phase is providing 15,000 bikes for public use.

After a whirlwind visit to the city you’ll find the five star Crown Plaza Guangzhou Science Center to be a very relaxing and enjoyable hotel. Surrounded by mountain views you will enjoy the hotel restaurants for breakfast and lunch . . . and dinner if you didn’t happen to dine aboard a Pearl River Cruise.

Your spacious room has a large screen LCD television, a nice work space, a very comfortable bathroom, fine bedding and even a balcony. 

Enjoy a delicious seafood buffet in the ADD Pan Asian Restaurant, dim sum in the Mei Hua Chinese Restaurant or regional Chinese dishes in the Hao Chi Gourmet Restaurant. Of course, you will find western menu items available to meet your needs as well.

The curved steel and soaring glass is impressive. The service is impeccable. If you have a little work to do or just want to catch up on your email you’ll be pleased with the complimentary wireless internet throughout the hotel, especially in your room.

There is a fully equipped Fitness Center and both indoor and outdoor swimming pools. Tennis, anyone? The court awaits. Should you decide you’d like to get your exercise outdoors, the hotel is surrounded by wide streets, good sidewalks and as many miles as you need to get in a good workout.             

The Crown Plaza is about 45 minutes from the airport. If you’re a first time visitor you’ll enjoy the scenic city tour along the way.

There is a lot more to Guangzhou, formerly Canton, than I have room to tell you about.  But, I only had 36 hours – maybe you’ll plan your visit for longer.

Keep on Traveling!        

When You Go:

Crowne Plaza Hotel Guangzhou Science Center

Guangzhou, China – Find facts about the city here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guangzhou

Story and Photos by Robert Painter, Adventure Travel Editor