WHAT’S IT LIKE? The soaring ceilings and miles of marble call to mind Grand Central Station - this has got to be one of the largest lobbies in the world, certainly in Asia. Thankfully, the perennial buzz of people coming and going doesn’t impinge on the cool tranquility that characterises the guest floors.
WHERE IS IT? In a vibrant commercial hub where consulates are located and trendy shops and restaurants and clubs dot the streets. The Guangzhou East Train Station and Chinese Export Commodities Fairground are both 5km away.
HOW MANY ROOMS? Over 1,000 guestrooms and suites, while serviced apartments are housed in the adjacent Garden Tower, along with offices. The recently rolled out Elite Rooms were designed with the business traveller in mind.
ROOM FACILITIES: A rare occurrence – two pairs of slippers in different sizes: one for a man and the other for a lady; Pioneer radio, bedside controls and firm mattress. The interiors of the Elite Room are beautifully coordinated, from its uber elegant curtains in copper to the well-chosen Chinese illustration above the headboard. The bathroom, though small, has all the modern fixtures.
RESTAURANT: Twelve, including two Chinese restaurants – Peach Blossom and Lai Wan Market,which don’t disappoint when it comes to business entertaining.
BAR: Two – the lobby lounge and the Englishstyle Tavern, boasting an unusual feature: computers (whet your whistle while you work?).
BUSINESS FACILITIES: The team at the business centre is trained to provide typing in English or Chinese and translation.Conference rooms for six to 15 people are available.
LEISURE FACILITIES: Gym with all the required machines is located on the fifth floor. The pool is undergoing renovation and will be usable only in August.
PRICE: A special rate of CNY928 (US$116) for a Deluxe Room and CNY1,288 (US$161) for an Elite room is available until December 31, except during Trade Fair periods. Perks include buffet breakfast at the Greenery Coffee Shop and shuttle bus service between the airport or railway station and the hotel. VERDICT: Don’t be put off by its extreme size. The exellent location and comfortable rooms will have you returning.
CONTACT: 368 Huanshi Donglu,Guangzhou 510064, China, tel 86 20 8333 8989, www.gardenhotel.guangzhou.com
Margie T Logarta
