The Building and Location
Langham Place’s sleek, futuristic exterior is one of the
first things that catches your eye. It’s a visual standout, located just across
from the main Import-Export Exhibition Center, making it a prime spot for those
attending the Canton Fair. Though the hotel isn’t brand new, the architecture
still feels fresh, modern, and impressive. That said, it’s clear that the
property is beginning to show signs of wear. It was built several years ago
and, while well-maintained, could benefit from some minor upgrades.
The hotel is positioned right in the heart of the Pazhou
district, which houses the sprawling Canton Fair complex. While this is ideal
for business travelers, the hotel is a bit isolated for those looking to
explore more touristy parts of Guangzhou. You’ll find yourself quite far from
Zhujiang New Town and other popular attractions, though the nearby metro
station makes commuting manageable.
Facilities
The facilities at Langham Place are robust, though not
without some hiccups. The check-in experience was smooth, with friendly and
efficient staff who allowed me an early check-in, which was much appreciated
after a long day of travel. The room itself, a riverview upgrade, was spacious
and comfortable with a soft bed and excellent linens. However, it’s obvious
that the furnishings have seen better days. The room decor, while elegant, has
aged, and certain areas, such as the shower and bath combo, could use a
refresh. Still, the basics—an ironing board, plush robes, and a well-equipped
workstation—made it a suitable spot for a business trip.
Service and Amenities
One of the highlights of my stay at Langham Place was the
service. The staff was friendly and professional, consistently ensuring that my
needs were met. From the front desk to the housekeeping team, the level of care
was top-notch. Small details, like fresh towels and an impeccably clean room,
were handled with precision.
As for the amenities, the hotel offers everything you’d
expect from a business-centric five-star property. The international TV
channels, high-speed internet, and well-appointed workspace made it easy to
stay connected and productive. However, a few elements reminded me of the
hotel’s age—like the outdated Apple dock in the room, which hasn’t been
compatible with iPhones for years. These are small but telling signs that an
upgrade is due soon.
Food and Dining
Dining at Langham Place is a bit of a mixed bag. On one
hand, the breakfast experience was exceptional. It’s rare to find a hotel that
offers personalized seating at breakfast, but Langham does it well, ensuring
guests feel attended to right from the start of the day. The buffet selection
was decent, though not particularly groundbreaking.
However, the prices for dining are quite steep. At 200 RMB
for a hamburger, you’re better off exploring the local food scene, where better
value can easily be found. For those who want the convenience of dining in, the
hotel offers a well-curated menu, but it comes at a premium.
One of the key selling points of Langham Place is its
proximity to the Canton Fair. The hotel is ideally located for those attending
events at the convention center. However, don’t let the fact that it’s across
the street fool you—it’s still a 20-30 minute walk to reach the various halls,
due to the sheer size of the complex. This can be a bit of a surprise,
especially in Guangzhou’s heat.
The room itself was comfortable, but I did encounter a
significant issue with the bed. What looked like a large king-sized bed turned
out to be two twin beds pushed together, resulting in an uncomfortable dip in
the middle. This wasn’t ideal, and it left me with a sore back the next day.
Final Thoughts
Langham Place Guangzhou is a solid choice for business
travelers, especially those attending events at the Canton Fair. The service is
excellent, the facilities are more than adequate, and the location can’t be
beat for those with business in the area. However, for leisure travelers or
those looking for a more updated luxury experience, there are newer options
popping up across the city that might offer a fresher feel.
- Location:
8
- Facilities:
6
- Amenities:
6
- Décor:
6
- Staff:
8
- Food:
6
- Cleanliness:
8
- Comfort:
6
- Uniqueness:
6
- Value:
7
Total: 67/100