Explore Shangri-la Hotel's Oasis In Guangzhou China
The Shangri-La Hotel in Guangzhou stands as a benchmark of luxury in the city's hospitality scene, particularly due to its strategic location next to the Canton Fair’s convention center. The property is an excellent choice for business travelers, especially those attending major exhibitions like the Canton Fair or the Guangzhou Auto Show. Despite being an older hotel, the Shangri-La exudes an energy typical of five-star hotels, combining elegance, tradition, and modern amenities.
Location: Convenient for Business Travelers
Shangri-La Guangzhou boasts a prime location right next to the Canton Fair's convention center, making it incredibly convenient for business visitors. Along with other top-tier hotels like The Westin and The Langham, it's among the best choices for those attending the fair or other conferences. Moreover, it’s just a short drive from Guangzhou’s central business district, Zhujiang New Town, offering proximity to cultural landmarks like the Canton Tower and the Opera House.
While it's primarily aimed at business travelers, the hotel’s serene riverside location offers an oasis amidst the bustling city. You’re only a few blocks away from Zhujiang New Town, but the hotel's gardens and open spaces give it a much more relaxed feel compared to the high-rise atmosphere of downtown.
Room Experience: Classic Elegance with a Touch of Age
Although the rooms show some signs of age, they maintain the classic elegance expected of the Shangri-La brand. You’ll notice some wear and tear in the décor, especially in the carpets and furnishings, but the rooms are kept impeccably clean. The layout is traditional, with dark wood finishes, plenty of counter space, and a workspace equipped with HDMI inputs, ideal for business needs.
The bed in my room was a real king-sized bed—not two twin beds pushed together, which is a welcome feature—and the linens were soft and luxurious. One downside is that the rooms could use some modern updates, particularly the bathrooms, which are on the smaller side compared to newer luxury properties in Guangzhou. The single-sink setup and lack of an electric toilet, for example, make the space feel a bit outdated. But, it’s hard to overlook the hotel’s attention to cleanliness and the inclusion of essential amenities like ironing boards, comfy robes, and high-quality disposable toiletries.
Facilities: Comprehensive Yet Elegant
This property shines when it comes to its facilities, particularly for those looking to host or attend large-scale events. With multiple conference rooms, a sprawling ballroom, and various event spaces, it’s perfect for weddings, corporate events, and exhibitions. In fact, the well-manicured garden area, complete with a putting green, feels like a hidden sanctuary. There’s even an option to set up tents along the river, offering a unique outdoor experience right in the heart of the city.
The outdoor pool is closed during the winter months, but the indoor pool is a great alternative for those who want to keep up with their fitness routines. Speaking of fitness, the Shangri-La Guangzhou has a top-notch gym and spa area that are popular with both guests and locals alike. The spa, in particular, comes highly recommended and offers a range of treatments that make it the ideal place to unwind after a long day.
Dining: Expensive but High-Quality
Like many luxury hotels, the Shangri-La’s dining options are quite pricey. The dinner buffet costs around 468 RMB per person, while breakfast is about 131 RMB. Despite the steep prices, the selection is impressive, offering a mix of Western and Chinese options, all of which are well-prepared and served with excellent customer service. However, if you're looking to save, there are nearby cafes and restaurants that offer more affordable dining options.
One issue I encountered was the cost of basic items like water. A bottle of water at the lobby lounge was 35 RMB, which felt like a bit of a cash grab, but the hotel staff quickly addressed the issue after I raised it. The professionalism and willingness to correct mistakes is a hallmark of Shangri-La's five-star service.
Service: Top-Notch and Attentive
The staff at Shangri-La Guangzhou is exceptional. From the front desk to the event coordinators, everyone makes you feel like a valued guest. I was particularly impressed with how the lobby ambassadors handled guest inquiries—rather than just pointing in the direction, they personally escorted me to my destination. Small gestures like these set the Shangri-La apart from many of its competitors.
The turn-down service was another highlight. After returning to my room one evening, I was greeted with a beautifully arranged fruit plate and complimentary beers. These thoughtful touches elevate the overall experience and show the hotel's commitment to guest satisfaction.
Final Thoughts: A Classic Luxury Stay with Room for Improvement
While some aspects of the Shangri-La Guangzhou could use a modern update, it’s still a great option for business travelers and those attending events at the nearby convention center. The hotel’s service is impeccable, the facilities are extensive, and the location is ideal for both business and leisure. If you're willing to overlook some dated elements, you’ll find that the Shangri-La offers an excellent blend of luxury, convenience, and hospitality at a slightly more affordable rate than some of the newer five-star properties in Guangzhou.
Rojo Rating:
Location: 9
Facilities: 8
Amenities: 7
Décor: 6
Staff: 8
Food: 5
Cleanliness: 8
Comfort: 7
Uniqueness: 7
Value: 7
Total: 72/100
The Shangri-La Guangzhou offers a classic five-star experience with a strong focus on service and guest satisfaction. Though it may not have all the bells and whistles of more modern properties, its attention to detail and exceptional service make it a worthwhile stay for business and leisure travelers alike.