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toilet, for example, make the space feel a bit outdated.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.
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.
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.
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.