My Guangzhou

I visit Guangzhou at least once a month to source furniture, lights and collectibles for my villa, resort and commercial projects. It has a wide range of furniture and collectibles that are of high quality, and well designed to fit the international market. I go to the districts of Foshan for furniture, Zhongshan for lighting and Shenzhen for collectibles. I also get my furniture custom-made.

The first thing I notice about Guangzhou is the fact that it is a big, modern and advanced city. It highlights the success of China as an urban marvel, which you can only experience once you get there.

Recommendations
My favourite hotel in Guangzhou is The Garden Hotel because of its old-world charm, large, open spaces and beautiful landscape. It also has excellent service and is conveniently located. The W Hotel is another tastefully designed, ultrachic hotel with upscale facilities. It is perfect for business travellers, offering luxury facilities at an ideal location. The Park Hyatt is also a great stay, with its minimalistic design and sculptural décor.
 
For business meetings, the rooftop of The Garden Hotel is ideal. Additionally, The Sofitel Foshan near Guangzhou is a magnificent property offering the best meeting rooms and office floor with plenty of space.

For eating out, I suggest Tiger Prawn, a famous Vietnamese restaurant with an unending menu. I highly recommend the chicken in pandan leaf and fried calamari with tangy green chili sauce. The Happy Monk is another exceptional gastro pub; it serves the best international cuisine. I love its Lebanese dishes, and make it a point to dine there.

After Hours
One of the most unique and well-known party destinations in the city is Party Pier, which overlooks the Pearl River. The Catwalk nightclub and the famous rooftop Skybar at the Park Hyatt are some of my top suggestions.

Guangzhou offers a complete shopping experience; be it designer international brands, high-end Chinese brands, high street shopping of ‘Beijing Lu’ or street-style goods of ‘Zhan Xi Lu’. From vintage teas to high-tech goods, clothes and accessories, the city will not let you leave empty-handed.

Tips
It can become difficult to find your way in a city where no one speaks the same language as you. Hence, try to spend time where you find people who speak English.

The writer is the founder and architectural designer, Villa Ortiga Design Studio.
Coordinated by Jasodhara Banerjee