The Chimelong Hotel and International Circus in Guangzhou,
China, provided a memorable experience blending resort accommodations with
world-class entertainment. Opened in 2012, the Chimelong Hotel features 1,500
rooms, making it one of the largest hotels in mainland China. Despite being
over a decade old, the property has been well-maintained and offers lush,
expansive grounds. This sprawling resort is part of the larger Chimelong
complex, which includes Chimelong Paradise (an amusement park with roller
coasters), Chimelong Water Park, the Chimelong Safari Park, a crocodile park,
and a bird park, among other attractions. It’s a destination designed to cater
to families and thrill-seekers alike.
The lobby was both inviting and grand, with spaces designed for
relaxation and convenience. The adjacent Tiger Exhibit was a particular
highlight, offering guests the unique experience of seeing majestic tigers
lounging just outside the hotel windows. Despite the high temperatures, the
tigers seemed content, making for an extraordinary backdrop while exploring the
property. The resort grounds were lush and well-landscaped, embodying a
tropical theme that complemented the hotel’s safari-style décor.
Our room was one of the recently renovated units. It featured an open layout with modern furnishings and unique safari-themed elements. Despite the renovation, some aspects like the TV showed their age, but the room was spacious and comfortable overall. The small details, such as complimentary keychains and thoughtful amenities, added a nice touch. The bathroom included a smart amenity set arranged like a puzzle, showcasing the hotel’s attention to design and guest experience. The presence of three robes, including one for children, and a small kid’s chair underscored the family-friendly nature of the hotel.
The room’s balcony offered a view of the resort grounds,
with pathways winding through dense greenery. The Chimelong resort features
both indoor and outdoor swimming pools, with the main pool being particularly
expansive. Unfortunately, many of the pool’s features, like the swim-up bar and
waterfall, were not in operation during our visit, which detracted slightly
from the advertised five-star experience. The lifeguards on duty were efficient
but seemed a bit strict.
One of the highlights of the visit was the dining experience
at the Chimelong Hotel, which offers a diverse spread catering to both Western
and Asian palates. The unique feature of this dining area was the view of the
tiger enclosure, allowing guests to enjoy their meal while observing the tigers
being fed as well. This combination of a breakfast buffet and wildlife
interaction was a novel experience and particularly exciting for families with
young children.
Later in the day, we attended the Chimelong International
Circus, which is widely regarded as one of the best circus performances in the
world. The show exceeded expectations, featuring incredible acrobatics, animal
performances, and elaborate staging. The production value was on par with
top-tier international entertainment, making it a must-see for visitors to the
resort. The Chimelong International Circus has received numerous accolades for
its performances, often described as a mix of traditional circus acts with
modern, theatrical flair. The staging, lighting, and costumes created a
visually stunning experience, further cementing Chimelong’s reputation as a
premier entertainment destination in China.
Rojo Rating:
- Location: 9
- Facilities: 6
- Amenities: 8
- Décor: 6
- Staff: 6
- Food: 7
- Cleanliness: 6
- Comfort: 6
- Uniqueness: 7
- Value: 6
Total: 67/100