Travel Information 4 U

 When you think of traditional festivals in China, chances are the Dragon Boat Festival pops up with images of colorful boats racing across the water. But if you’ve never experienced this vibrant celebration in Guangdong, you’re in for something truly unforgettable. It’s more than a holiday—it’s a window into local life, community pride, and centuries-old traditions. And trust me, being there in person is way more exciting than just reading about it. As someone who loves diving into culture while traveling, I found Guangdong’s Dragon Boat Festival to be the perfect mix of history, celebration, and local flavor (yes, zongzi included!). So, let’s explore what makes this time of year so special, and how you can plan a trip to make the most of it. What Makes Guangdong's Dragon Boat Festival Unique? You’ll find Dragon Boat races across China, but in Guangdong, they hit differently. Here, the festival isn’t just a show—it’s a deeply rooted tradition that brings entire villages and nei...

When we travel, we're often searching for stories—old streets that whisper secrets, temples that echo with past prayers, and houses that once belonged to people who changed history. Pingyao Ancient City in Shanxi is one of those rare places where all of that still lives. Walking through its timeworn alleys feels like stepping into a living museum, but one that’s very much alive. This place isn’t just about brick walls and pretty rooftops. Pingyao was once the financial heart of China, and the spirit of the old Shanxi merchants—known as Jinshang —still lingers in the air. If you're looking for a travel experience that blends culture, history, and a bit of mystery, Pingyao is a must-see. What Makes Pingyao So Special? I’ll be honest—I didn’t expect to be so enchanted by Pingyao. But once you step inside the preserved city walls, everything slows down. The entire city is a UNESCO World Heritage site, with architecture that dates back to the Ming and Qing dynasties. The st...

When we think of travel, it’s often the big landmarks that come to mind—famous museums, historical buildings, or iconic towers. But if you ask me, some of the best experiences come when the sun sets and the city lights flicker on. That’s exactly how I feel about Xihua Road , one of Guangzhou’s best-kept food secrets, especially at night. Tucked in the old part of the city, Xihua Road isn’t flashy or touristy. But that’s what makes it special. It’s where locals go to eat, hang out, and relax after a long day. If you’re visiting Guangzhou and want to taste authentic Cantonese street food in a lively neighborhood, this spot should definitely be on your list. Where Culture Meets Cuisine Guangzhou is known for its rich culinary history, and nowhere is that more obvious than on Xihua Road. Here, food isn’t just food—it’s tradition, family, and comfort, all wrapped into one. Think crispy-skinned roast goose served with steaming rice. Or fresh-off-the-wok fried rice noodles with beef,...

When we think of travel in Guangzhou, food, temples, and the Pearl River usually come to mind. But if you’re curious about Chinese culture in a deeper way, I really recommend checking out the Guangzhou Traditional Chinese Medicine Museum . It’s a hidden gem that blends history, science, and art—all focused on the fascinating world of Chinese medicine. One of the coolest things you’ll find inside is what locals call the “Crystal Palace.” It's a stunning display of over 600 traditional Lingnan herbs , each sealed in a glass bottle. The room sparkles with light and color, and it's not just for show—each herb has its own story, and you’ll come away with a real appreciation for how much thought and history goes into Chinese healing traditions. What You’ll Learn: The Deep Roots of Chinese Medicine This museum isn’t just a place to look at jars of herbs. It walks you through thousands of years of knowledge that have shaped health and wellness in China. From ancient medical texts to mo...

When most people think of Guangzhou, they picture delicious food, Canton Tower selfies, or maybe shopping in big malls. But if you're someone who travels to learn, discover, and soak in a bit of culture and history, there’s another side of Guangzhou that’s just waiting for you. In this post, I want to take you with me on a journey to two of my favorite cultural spots: the Guangzhou Cultural Center in Haizhu (often called the “Lingnan Mini Forbidden City”) and the Guangdong Museum in Tianhe. These places aren’t just about old buildings or ancient artifacts—they offer stories, inspiration, and a deeper look into what makes this city so unique. Let’s dive in! Guangzhou’s Cultural Gems: Why They Matter Both the Guangzhou Cultural Center and Guangdong Museum are more than just places with pretty architecture—they’re living spaces where past and present meet. The Guangzhou Cultural Center is like stepping into a southern Chinese palace. Locals sometimes call it the "Little Fo...

When people think of Guangzhou, they often picture modern skylines, crowded shopping malls, or endless dim sum feasts. But if you really want to relax and travel deeper into the heart of this vibrant city, there's one neighborhood I always recommend: Liwan District —home to some of the most charming old streets and cultural treasures you’ll find anywhere in Guangzhou. One place, in particular, stands out: Yongqing Fang . This isn’t just a tourist spot; it’s a beautifully preserved piece of living history, with old Cantonese architecture, trendy boutiques, and cozy tea houses tucked into every corner. If you’re curious about Guangzhou’s roots and love wandering through places that tell stories, this is where you should go. Why Liwan District Matters I like to think of Liwan as the “soul” of old Guangzhou. While other parts of the city have become high-rise jungles, Liwan has kept its historic charm. The narrow alleyways, the Lingnan-style buildings with curved roofs and patterne...

When we think of traveling to Guangzhou, many of us picture the buzzing food markets, gleaming skyscrapers, or iconic spots like the Canton Tower. But tucked away in quieter corners of the city are three lesser-known gems that give you a different taste of what Guangzhou is really about. If you’re looking to relax, learn, and connect with the city's rich past, then Yuyan Academy , Pinghe Dayout (Pawnshop) , and Chunyang Taoist Temple are must-visits. These places may not be as flashy as the big-name attractions, but that’s exactly why they’re special. They take you back to the roots of the city, giving you a glimpse into Guangzhou’s cultural, commercial, and spiritual history. Visiting them feels almost like stepping into a quiet storybook hidden behind the city's modern pages. Guangzhou's Deep History in Three Stops One thing I really appreciate about these three sites is how each tells a different story of the city: Yuyan Academy (Yuyan Shuyuan) is all about education a...

Looking for the perfect way to spend your holiday in Guangzhou? This vibrant city, with its rich history, modern attractions, and delicious food, offers something for everyone, even during the hot summer months. Whether you're into culture, shopping, or just relaxing by the river, Guangzhou has you covered. Here’s a special  summer-exclusive itinerary that’ll let you experience the best of the city while staying cool and comfortable. Day 1: Morning Markets & Iconic Landmarks Start your day with a local breakfast Begin your morning with a delicious Cantonese breakfast at a local restaurant or market. A popular choice is dim sum , served with tea. For a truly authentic experience, head to the Jiangnan West Road area, where you can try a variety of small dishes, like steamed buns, dumplings, and rice rolls. It’s a perfect introduction to Guangzhou’s food culture, which is as rich as its history. Visit the Canton Tower After breakfast, head to Canton Tower , the tallest struct...

If you're planning a trip to Guangzhou, it’s important to understand the local weather. Trust me, knowing when to visit and what to expect from the climate can make your trip much more enjoyable. Imagine this: you’re all set for an exciting day of sightseeing, but the weather’s so hot or rainy that it puts a damper on your plans. That’s not fun, right? So, in this blog, I’m going to break down everything you need to know about Guangzhou’s weather and how to pick the best time for your trip. I’ve traveled to Guangzhou a few times, and I'm here to share some insider tips and personal experiences to help you have a smooth and relaxed trip. Why Understanding Guangzhou's Weather Matters Guangzhou is a bustling, vibrant city, but its weather can be unpredictable. Getting a feel for the local climate means you’ll know how to pack, what kind of activities to plan, and how to stay comfortable. After all, you don’t want to be stuck outdoors in the middle of a downpour or sweating ...

Planning your dream trip to China? I’m here to make it simple and tailored to your preferences! Here's a step-by-step guide to how we'll create your personalized travel itinerary: Step 1: Initial Consultation We’ll begin by discussing your travel preferences! I’ll ask you about your travel style, interests, and any specific destinations or activities you want to include in your trip. Whether you're looking for a cultural exploration, adventure, or just a relaxed sightseeing tour, I’ll ensure that your preferences are fully understood. You can reach out to me through email or the contact form on the website. I’ll take the time to get to know exactly what you're hoping for in your journey. Step 2: Draft Creation (Within 3 Days) Once I have a clear understanding of your preferences, I’ll start creating your personalized itinerary. This typically takes about 3 days . I will recommend the best destinations, activities, accommodations, and transportation options to make s...

 Guangzhou is a massive and vibrant city, and getting around can be pretty easy once you know your options. From fast and convenient metro rides to relaxing river cruises, the city offers a variety of ways to travel, depending on what you’re in the mood for. Let me walk you through the best ways to move around Guangzhou without any hassle. Taking the Metro If you're looking for the fastest and most efficient way to travel around the city, the metro is definitely the way to go. Guangzhou’s metro system is large, with plenty of lines that can take you almost everywhere you want to go—whether it’s the busy shopping areas or historical sites. It’s super affordable, and it runs from early morning until late at night. The best part is that the metro stations are pretty easy to navigate, with English signs everywhere. Just grab a ticket or use a transport card that you can top up and use for both the metro and buses. While it can get crowded during rush hours (which is typical for big ...

 With China’s recent changes to the transit visa policy, it’s easier than ever for travelers from certain countries to visit, especially if you're just passing through. If you're planning a trip to China, here are some important things you should know to make your visit smooth and enjoyable. Visa and Entry Policy China has now extended the stay for transit travelers from 72 hours to 240 hours (that’s 10 days!) for citizens from 54 countries, including the US, UK, Russia, and Brazil. If you're one of those travelers and you're passing through China on your way to a third country, you can enter through one of 60 open ports of entry without needing a visa. Just keep in mind, this only applies if you're traveling through one of the designated airports or border checkpoints. If you're not eligible for the visa-free transit, you’ll need to apply for a tourist visa before you arrive. Make sure your visa is valid, and try to prepare all your documents in advance to a...

 Guangzhou, the capital of Guangdong Province, is a bustling city that blends modernity with rich cultural heritage. From stunning skyscrapers to ancient temples, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a history lover, foodie, or shopaholic, Guangzhou will not disappoint. Here’s a guide to some of the must-see attractions and the best route to explore them. 1. Canton Tower Start your tour at the iconic Canton Tower , one of the tallest structures in the world. It offers a stunning view of the entire city, especially at night when the tower lights up in a rainbow of colors. You can even take a glass-floored observation deck for an extra thrill! 2. Chen Clan Ancestral Hall Next, head over to the Chen Clan Ancestral Hall , a beautiful example of traditional Cantonese architecture. The hall is full of intricate wood carvings, pottery, and paintings that showcase the region’s history and culture. It’s a great spot to learn about the art and customs of Guangzhou. 3. Shamian ...