Experiencing the Cantonese Side of Guangzhou

Guangzhou still famous by its old name Canton with many westerners is the first place most people want to visit in China. It is a unique fusion of ancient and modern China, with its historical temples and architecture standing side by side with the futuristic buildings of the new Guangzhou. With its many sightseeing opportunities and a rich cultural experience the city of Guangzhou has become a famous tourist destination and receives millions of visitors each year.

There are frequent flights available for Guangzhou from around the world, the Chinese airlines like Air China, China Airlines, China Southern and China Eastern flies direct flights to Guangzhou from most of the Europe and Asia. You may also decide to travel with KLM, Air France or Lufthansa from Europe and Delta Airways or United Airlines from the USA.

Guangzhou is a fast paced city and is quite a lot influenced by the neighboring Hong Kongand its consumerism. As the economic and purchasing power of the people is increasing so are the number of restaurants and markets in the city.  If you have travelled to the city a few years ago you may find it a little different experience this time. The Chinese urbanization trend is not more evident in any other place in China than in Guangzhou. But hiding somewhere under the entire new futuristic architecture one can find the old Canton. Accommodation is still quite cheaper if you compare it with Hong Kong, you can find a room in a two star hotel for as little as 8 GBP while a five star room can cost you as much as 60 GBP.

Guangzhou Museum is a great place to start your tour as it provides a deep insight into the history of City from the times of different dynasties to the years of western influence to the present Guangzhou. The famous Shamian Island with its European styled villas and churches is a great place to experience the old Canton. The area has been renovated and is now open for tourists.  Another historical place to visit is the Temple of Five Immortals built in 1377 in honor of the people who established the city of Guangzhou.

No trip to Guangzhou is complete without its food; the Cantonese cuisine rose to fame during the 19^th century and that is the reason why Guangzhou boasts the highest number of restaurants per capita in China. A trip to Guangzhou will surely be one that you won’t be able to forget for a long time.