China Panorama: From Guangzhou to Guilin

A trip to China once meant arriving at typical destinations like Beijing and Shanghai, to well-loved tourist-friendly places bookmarked in one’s travel guide. Travelers wanting to explore the whole breadth of the sprawling nation eagerly welcome the modernization and promotion of new entry points, such as the city of Guangzhou. Located in Southern China along the Pearl River, Guangzhou is the capital city of Guangdong Province. It is the third largest city in China.           Formerly known as Canton, the port city boomed in the early 1600s with bustling trade. At the Dr. Sun Yat Sen Museum, one can make a quick stop for history lessons of Canton and China revolution. The Guangzhou of today is poised to reclaim its position on the global stage as a business hub in South China. This is evidenced by the mushrooming growth of skyscrapers in the newer side of Guangzhou. At the business district, skyscrapers make a race for the sky. The steel wonder of the Guangzhou TV Tower is proclaimed as one of tallest in the world.           Evidence of the city’s rapid growth is everywhere. The Asian Games Complex in Guangzhou was specifically built to host the games in 2010.           Sprawling and just as ambitious, the Chimelong Resort is set to be the biggest attraction in Asia, mega-entertainment complex complete with a circus, water park, safari, golf center and theme park. While other features are still in development, guests can already visit the Chimelong Xiangjiang Safari park, an impressive wild animal park, home to over 20,000 rare animals.            But the real soul of Guangzhou is best felt at the old side of the city. Re-revolution style buildings are architectural treasures. At the oldest shopping district in the city, Shangxia Jiu Lu, the Qi Lou style is faithfully recreated in restaurants, boutiques, and tea shops that line the road.            At night, Shangxia is a neon wonderland. It is also haven for shoppers and foodies raring to have a go at Guangzhou cuisine. Whether it’s hot and steaming street food, or lavish 10 course buffet dinners, a meal at Guangzhou is sure to satisfy a craving for authentic Chinese. No meals-in-a-box here. Intricate displays and sizzling sauces make up the typical Guangzhou meal.           After the glitter and bustle of Guangzhou, visitors to the region may opt for something more quiet...like a relaxing sojourn to the green city of Guilin.           Located on the west bank of the Li River, Guilin is home to a number of ethnic groups that make up China. The five-hour cruise along the river is the city’s main attraction. Nipping cold or hot summer sun doesn’t stop the flow of visitors who come yearly to view nature’s impressive vista along the riverbank. Limestone karsts, banyan trees, and rugged cliffs are the main actors in the serene drama that unfolds after each bend. Along the banks, watch fishermen and their cormorants. The tour comes to a stop at the Silver Cave, but not without some shopping for local trinkets first.           The Silver Cave extensive network of chamber, stone pillars, and rock formations is made even more interesting by the dramatic play of light within. The paths are tourists and child-friendly, with rails to hold on to as visitors explore and learn more about geology and caving, the easy, fun way.           Nestled among hills and mountains, Guilin is the perfect backdrop for musicals and plays. The Impression Luishanjie Cultural Show is famed for its ingenious use of Guilin’s panorama. An abundance of parks allow for easy relaxation within the day. Elephant Trunk Hill is a constant favorite, as visitors never leave without making sure they get their photo alongside the elephant taking a sip.            Whether travelers prefer the serene call of nature, or the excitement of adventure. The heady high of shopping, or a gastronomic culinary trip. The verdant vistas of Guilin, and the glitter of Guangzhou are ready for anyone to enjoy, and always remember.