Travel

Dim sum darling

By Yan Yiqi (China Daily European Weekly)
Updated: 2011-01-05 10:31

The new Guangzhou Tower is nicknamed Xiaomanyao, meaning the waist of a young woman. Provided to China Daily

Bustling Guangzhou is now a more Tourist-Friendly city thanks to the successful hosting of the Asian Games.

China's third-largest city has witnessed many phases of development - all at breakneck speeds - but in recent years its transport infrastructure was unable to keep pace. The lead-up to the Asian Games was a catalyst for change.

Five new subway lines, the expansion of its international airport and a new railway station all have helped boost transport services making it more easier for tourists to get around. Another impressive legacy of the Games, which finished in December, is the Guangzhou Tower, a combination of advanced technology and cutting-edge architecture design.

The new city landmark is nicknamed Xiaomanyao (the slim waist of a young lady) because of its feminine appearance.

The famous Pearl River banks have also received a facelift and are now decorated with multicolor LED lights on both sides, adding a romantic flavor to this city once known for its industrialization.

Guangzhou has a moderate climate with an annual average temperature of 22 C. It has the least temperature variation in the country and now is a good time to visit.

The famous China Import and Export Fair or Canton Fair has lured business people from everywhere since its debut in 1957 and the presence of so many foreigners on the streets gives the metropolis of 10 million people an international flavor.

Guangzhou residents are very dedicated to what they eat and food is diversified, ranging from large meat/pork/chicken dishes and tasty soups to porridges and its famous dim sum.

Capital of South China's Guangdong province, Guangzhou is close to Hong Kong and Macao, making it convenient for visitors to venture to these exciting cities as well.

Here are our top five things to do:

Shamian Island features many European-styled buildings and offers a quiet retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. Ru Baile / For China Daily

1. Shamian Island

Located in the southern part of Guangzhou, this lovely place is probably one of the most European-styled districts in China. In the 19th century the island was divided into two concession areas split between the United Kingdom and France and now serves as a reminder of the colonial period. The tempo of life on Shamian Island is rather slow and locals spend their afternoons sitting at exquisitely designed tables, chatting and drinking tea.