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Guangzhou

Guangzhou (广州; Gwóngjāu in Cantonese, Guǎngzhōu in Mandarin, traditional English name: Canton) is the capital of Guangdong Province in southern China.

According to the 2010 census, it has a population of 12.7 million, making it the third largest city in China after Shanghai and Beijing. It is a part of the Pearl River Delta, which also includes Shenzhen, Dongguan, Hong Kong, Macau, Foshan, Jiangmen, Huizhou, Zhongshan and Zhuhai.

In the era of tea clippers, Guangzhou was known in the West as "Canton". The food and the language of the area are still known as "Cantonese" and it is perfectly acceptable to use either the Western or Chinese terms interchangeably. The Cantonese are proud and hard working people known throughout China and the world over for their famous cuisine and talent for business.

Guangzhou has been a major international trading hub for centuries, and it holds China's largest trade fair, the Canton Fair. While in modern times it is mostly known for its skyscrapers and shopping malls, the city is not bereft of culture, and Guangzhou boasts a large number of cultural and religious sites, and, in addition, is home to several internationally recognized music venues, museums, and galleries.

Understand
As a major entry point for overseas culture for many centuries, foreigners are not the anomaly here that they are in other Chinese cities. Consequently, travellers are afforded more personal space and freedom. In addition, tucked away in the back streets away from the skyscrapers of the central districts, the old Guangzhou of traditional neighbourhoods still moves at an age-old pace, with families and friends often sitting outdoors enjoying tea and banter.

Guangzhou also has the largest urban park in China, an island of refurbished colonial buildings, an internationally recognized skyline, and a number of world class galleries and exhibition spaces. Modern-day Guangzhou is one of China's most prosperous cities and is considered the nation's most liberal, free, and cosmopolitan urban center.

Districts

Like many Chinese cities, Guangzhou municipality includes a vast rural area in addition to the urban core. There are 11 districts in Guangzhou. Among them, Liwan, Yuexiu, Tianhe are the city's core, of most interest to tourists.

History
Formerly known as Canton to the West, the city of Guangzhou has a history dating back roughly 2,200 years.

A legend tells of five celestial beings riding into the area that is now Guangzhou on five rams carrying sheaves of rice. The celestials bestowed blessings on the land and offered the sheaves to the people of the city as a symbol of prosperity and abundance. After the celestials left, the rams turned into stone, and Guangzhou quickly developed into an affluent and influential city. Due to this legend, Guangzhou has gained several popular nicknames: Yangcheng (羊城; City of Rams), Suicheng (穗城; Sheaves of Rice City) and Wuyangcheng (五羊城; City of Five Rams). In addition, due to the abundance of flowers along the city's main thoroughfares, Guangzhou is often referred to as Huacheng (花城; City of Flowers).

According to historical records, the city was built in 214BC and was known as Panyu (番禺). The name Guangzhou referred to the prefecture in which Panyu was located. As the city grew, the name Guangzhou was adopted for the city.

Guangzhou was also part of the so-called Maritime Silk Road that linked southern China with India, South-East Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. As a result of its links with the Middle East, a mosque was established in the city in 627, and a small Muslim community continues to live in Guangzhou to this day. Additionally, the sixth patriarch of Zen Buddhism was born in Guangzhou and taught the famous Platform Sutra in the city. As a result, Guangzhou has retained a strong connection with this school of Buddhism, and the monastery where the sixth patriarch studied is considered a local treasure. The first Protestant missionary in China, Robert Morrison, entered Guangzhou in 1807. This started the spread of Christianity in the country. Guangzhou now has the largest African population in China.

In 786 the city was sacked by the Persians. In 1514 the Portuguese were the first Europeans that arrived in Canton. They obtained a monopoly on the trade in China and took Macau as a base; their monopoly lasted until the Dutch arrived in the 17th century. In 1711 the British East India Company established a trading post here. In 1757, the Chinese government designated the city as the only port allowed business transactions with foreign nations. This continued until 1842 when the Treaty of Nanking was signed, when four other "treaty ports" were added. Losing the exclusive privilege pushed Guangzhou to become more industrialized later.

Many overseas Chinese can trace their ancestry to the area, with the overwhelming majority of overseas Chinese in English-speaking countries like the United States, United Kingdom, Canada and Australia being of Cantonese descent. In Southeast Asia, Cantonese people also form a substantial portion of the overseas Chinese communities, with Kuala Lumpur and Ho Chi Minh City being home to large and influential overseas Cantonese communities.

Since the opening up of China under Deng Xiaoping, Guangzhou has seen an influx of investment from Hong Kong and overseas Cantonese communities and has continued to grow as an economic center. Guangzhou's GDP surpassed that of Hong Kong in 2019.

When to visit
Visitors will find the best weather between October and November, and April and May are also good months. Guangzhou has a sub-tropical climate with humidity levels at their highest in the summer. Temperatures can reach almost 40 °C. Typhoon season is from June to September. The Canton Fair takes place annually during the weeks from mid-April to early May and mid-October to early November, so finding accommodation at those times can be difficult and expensive. See the information section under Sleep.

Talk
Locals in Guangzhou speak Cantonese as their native language. As the Guangzhou dialect of Cantonese is far less influenced by foreign languages than that of Hong Kong, this is a good place to learn the language in its "purest" form.

Cantonese in Guangzhou is spoken with several different accents, the best known ones being the Dongshan Accent (东山口音) and Xiguan Accent (西关口音). While there are noticeable pronunciation differences between the different accents, if you are already fluent in Cantonese, this should not pose too much of a challenge.

As Mandarin is the official language of mainland China and the medium of instruction in all schools, most younger locals will be bilingual in Cantonese and Mandarin. As one of China's most prosperous cities, Guangzhou is also home to many migrants from other parts of China who speak Mandarin but not Cantonese. While Mandarin is sufficient for communication, breaking into the social circles of locals would almost certainly require knowledge of Cantonese. Foreigners living in Guangzhou usually choose to learn Mandarin instead of Cantonese because it is much more broadly useful.

English is spoken by more people than in the rest of China (save for Beijing and Shanghai), but still not by the majority, so it is a good idea to carry your hotel's business card with you. To save yourself the hassle and agony when asking for directions, have names of your destinations clearly written down in Chinese by the hotel staff before venturing out. Many educated younger people will have a basic knowledge of English, and staff at hotels, bars and restaurants frequented by foreigners generally speak an acceptable level of English.

By plane
Flying to Hong Kong is another option. From Hong Kong International Airport, there are direct ferries to Guangzhou that allow you to bypass Hong Kong immigration. Alternatively, there are cross-boundary buses that run direct to Guangzhou and other cities in Guangdong from the airport, although you do need to pass through Hong Kong immigration to use these. Bus companies include China Travel Service, Trans-Island Chinalink and Eternal East, fares range from HK$220–250 one way. At Kowloon station of the Airport Express, next to West Kowloon Railway Station, you can transfer to high-speed trains bound for Guangzhou.

At Guangzhou Airport, citizens of 54 countries may obtain a visa waiver to visit Guangdong province for up to 144 hours (6 days) if they are in transit to a third country. See the Guangdong article for more details.

By train
Guangzhou has impressive high-speed rail services across China, focused on Guangzhou South ("Nan") Railway Station. Chief connections are:

Hong Kong (West Kowloon Station) is less than an hour by the fastest trains, via Futian, Shenzhen and Humen, Dongguan; single fares from HK$200 - see Hong Kong. These run every 30 min or so. All the border procedures are at West Kowloon Station, so from Hong Kong to Guangzhou you should check in at the station 90 min before scheduled departure, then on arrival, you don't need to allow much transfer time for an onward train. Going to Hong Kong you're okay till about 20 min before departure, but factor in immigration at the other end if you're going that way to catch a flight.

There are also trains between Hong Kong West Kowloon and Guangzhou East ("Dong") Railway Station (but the journey time is longer), and cheap options involving a Chinese train from Guangzhou to Luohu (罗湖) in Shenzhen, walking across the border bridge, then taking a Hong Kong MTR train (East Rail Line). Lots of locals do this.

Mainland China: Fast trains run to Wuhan (3 hr), Beijing (8 hr), Xian, Shanghai (7 hr), Nanning (4 hr) and Kunming. The most amazing train is to Lhasa in Tibet, just under 5000 km away over dizzying high-altitude passes. This train runs alternate days from Guangzhou Station (广州站), taking almost 55 hours. A sleeper costs ¥923 and up; see also Overland to Tibet.

There are three major train stations in Guangzhou. Countless travellers have gone to the wrong station and missed their trains, so carefully check your ticket. You're unlikely to use, while Guangzhou West Railway Station is a freight yard.

By bus
Coach services are available to bring passengers from Hong Kong International Airport to several locations in Guangzhou. Among the destinations are recognizable landmarks like Jinan University (暨南大学) on Huangpu Avenue (黄埔大道), Garden Hotel (花园酒店) and China Hotel (中国大酒店) (see hotel section). The trip takes over 3 hours and costs HK$250. There are also cross border bus terminals throughout Hong Kong. One of the stations is at Austin Road and Canton Road near Kowloon Park. A one-way ticket costs about HK$100.

Domestically, it is possible to hop on a bus from any corner of Guangdong province and get to Guangzhou. There are also many options from nearby provinces like Guangxi, Hubei and Fujian. Here are some of the main stations in the city: English and Chinese names of bus stations vary from one sign to another—coach terminal, coach station, bus terminal, bus station, passenger terminal or passenger station. The different names may be referring to the same station.

By boat
There are two major passenger ports - Nansha Port and Lianhuashan Port, and many other smaller ones.

Get around
Guangzhou has a fairly efficient and rapidly expanding public transportation system. If you intend to stay in Guangzhou for a long time, buy a multi-purpose Lingnan Pass - Yang Cheng Tong (岭南通-羊城通) stored value card, similar to the Octopus Card in Hong Kong. The card can be used in most metro areas in Guangdong province (but not Shenzhen). It can be used not only for public transportation (bus, subway, parking meters and some taxis), but also for public phones and designated shops, places of interests and certain vending machines. The card costs ¥50, which includes an ¥18 deposit and a starting balance of ¥32. You can purchase and recharge the cards in many places, such as some 7-Elevens, Metro customer service counters, and Tiantian Laundry. Returning your card at the end of the trip can be done at any Yang Cheng Tong service centers. The best locations include centers near metro station Gongyuanqian Exit J, Tiyu Xi Exit G, and East Rail Station exit HJ. It may be worth it to keep the card as a souvenir.

By metro

Guangzhou's Metro opened in 1999 and has been expanding at a breakneck pace ever since. Most places in Guangzhou of interest to visitors are within walking distance of a metro stop. The Metro cannot be beaten for its combination of convenience and affordability.

Most signs are in both Chinese and English, while announcements are generally trilingual in Mandarin, Cantonese and English. Trains can become extremely crowded during morning and evening rush hours, especially on Line 3. The fare varies by distance, from ¥2 to ¥21. You can buy tickets from vending machines in the stations. These accept ¥5, ¥10 and ¥20 bills and ¥1 coins, giving change; other machines take phone payment via Chinese app Alipay which you're unlikely to have. You can break up big bills, or change worn bills that the machines won't accept, at the customer service counters. The ticket is a small round plastic token, which you tap over the reader at the gate to enter the platform, and at the exit where you surrender the token into the slot like a vending machine. The Yang Cheng Tong card (see details above) is easier to use, and also gives you a 5-40% discount.

As per Chinese standard, you will pass through security when entering metro stations. However, security is somehow laxer, with some stations only needing a pat by metal detector.

There are 15 lines in operation (not including APM):

 Line 1  runs southwest to northeast, from Xilang in Fangcun to Guangzhou East Railway Station in Tianhe. It runs underneath Zhongshan Road in the city centre, and is the most useful for accessing shopping areas and tourist sights.

 Line 2  runs north-south from Jiahewanggang in Baiyun District to Guangzhou South Railway Station. It serves Baiyun Mountain, Guangzhou Railway Station, Yuexiu Park and Haizhou Square. If you're staying in west or central Guangzhou, this line is also useful for reaching the airport by changing to Line 3 at Jiahewanggang.

 Line 3  is a Y-shaped north-south line serving eastern Guangzhou. The 'main line' runs from Panyu Square to the Tianhe Coach Terminal Station, whilst the 'north line' splits off at Tiyu Xilu and heads towards Airport South, via Guangzhou East Station.

 Line 4  serves Guangzhou's eastern outer suburbs, and runs from Huangcun in Huangpu District down to Nansha Passenger Port. It serves the Olympic Sport Centre and the University Town.

 Line 5  runs east-west from Jiaokou (Liwan) to Wenchong (Huangpu District), following the inner ring road through the city. Serves Guangzhou Railway Station, the Garden Hotel and Zhujiang New Town.

 Line 6  runs on the north coast of the Pearl River. Serves Beijing Lu, Cultural Park, Huanghuagang, Tuanyida Square, and Dongshanhu Park.

 Line 7  runs east-west across the southern suburbs.

 Line 8  runs east-west through Haizhu District from Fenghuang Xincun to Wanshengwei. Serves Sun Yat-sen University and Pazhou Exhibition Centre.

 Guangfo Line  is China's first intercity metro, connecting Guangzhou to downtown Foshan. Central Foshan can be reached in approximately 45–60 minutes from central Guangzhou. Transfers from GZ metro lines and Yangchengtong cards are accepted.

 Zhujiang New Town APM  is a driverless people-mover serving downtown Tianhe District and is the least-used line on the Metro (which is handy if you want to avoid the most crowded section of Line 3). The line has 9 stops running from Linhexi to Canton Tower, and serves tourist sights including Guangzhou Opera House, Haixinsha Island (where the opening ceremony for the 2010 Asian Games was held) and the Canton Tower. This line uses separate tickets (flat fare ¥2, 5% discount with the Yangchengtong card). Unlike other metro lines, you should insert your token at the entrance gate - the exit gates open automatically when approached.

Lines     and  serve far-out suburban areas and are of little interest to tourists.

The system is still being expanded and there is talk of adding connections to Dongguan, Huizhou, and Zhongshan.

By bus
There is also a comprehensive public bus service that covers Guangzhou from end to end. By far, it is the cheapest way to move around. Bus fares are ¥1 for the older buses and ¥2 for the air-conditioned ones, although the older buses have been mostly retired. Information at bus stops is mostly written in Chinese, although the current stop's name is also written in either pinyin or English (not always consistent with the recorded announcement in English) and stops close to subway stations are (usually) marked with the Guangzhou Metro logo, which is handy if you are lost. On-board announcements are made in Mandarin, Cantonese and sometimes English. Exact fare or a Yang Cheng Tong card is needed when boarding. If traveling on a quiet bus, it is advisable to signal to the driver that you wish to get off when approaching your stop by pressing the red buzzer next to the exit door or by saying "xia yi zhan you xia (pinyin:xià yī zhàn yǒu xià)," meaning "I'm getting off at the next stop" or simply "you xia (有下, pinyin:yǒu xià)." In Cantonese "you xia" is "yau lok (有落)."

Bus stops served by many routes are usually divided into multiple sections, each one with a different number. The stops are usually all on the same side of the road, one after another, but in some cases (such as Haizhu Square), the stops are found all over the place.

Buses are only handy for traveling within one district or for reaching suburban districts that are not served by the subway. Heavy traffic can lead to a slow, uncomfortable journey although they can be handy for a cheap but slow sightseeing tour. Trolley bus lines (Routes 101-109) are handy for exploring Liwan and Yuexiu districts.

Most bus routes run from around 06:00 to 22:00 or 22:00, after which there are night buses with the prefix Ye (夜, night). The night route numbers are not related to the normal route numbers. The fare is usually ¥3. Virtually all night buses stop running around 01:00 or 02:00, and some start again around 05:00. In most cases, taking a taxi at night is a better idea.

Guangzhou has over 30 commuter express bus lines (高峰快线) run mostly during peak hours from major bus and subway interchanges to congested areas and outlying districts. Fares are from ¥1-4. There are also four special lines for University Town (大学城专线). You can find these in most major stations in the city that would take you to University Town. Fares are from ¥2-4. There are also 2 tourist bus lines (旅游专线) passing through many scenic spots in the city. Other special lines are: Lines to some commercial districts, shuttle buses for many different residential complexes such as Favourview Palace and Star River, and even complementary shuttle buses for some shopping center. The driver of a shuttle bus may ask for your receipts.

By BRT
The Bus Rapid Transit system went into service in early 2010. It is essentially a long segregated bus lane (not an elevated busway like in Xiamen) running along the Tianhe Road and Zhongshan Avenue corridor towards the eastern suburbs. Some intersections are traversed by bridges and tunnels, which cuts journey times considerably, but other intersections have traffic lights and therefore traffic jams, and crowds can be as dense as in Metro stations but with fewer doors and a narrower standing area compared to Metro trains.

All buses that use the BRT start with a B prefix (B1, B22, etc.), though some without the "B" stop nearby. When reading a bus route (in Chinese) you can see the BRT logo above each BRT station name, like the GZ Metro logo above bus stops that are near Metro stations. The B1 stops at every BRT station, but other B routes use any number of BRT stations (sometimes just one) and use normal roads the rest of the time.

If boarding a BRT bus at a normal (non BRT) bus stop, the normal fare of ¥2 applies, however you can transfer to other BRT routes for free, provided you transfer at a BRT stop. If boarding at a BRT stop, insert ¥2 (coins only) into the entry turnstile or use your transit card to enter the platform area; no payment is required when boarding the bus, and you can board at the rear.

As with normal bus routes, there is almost no English at BRT stations, and only the current station name is in pinyin. Overall it isn't much use to tourists who can't read Chinese.

By taxi
Guangzhou taxis are very affordable. The starting charge is ¥12 for the first 3 km, or about 1.9 miles. After that is ¥2.6 for each km. No fuel surcharge is added. A 20% and 50% surcharge is automatically added when the trip reaches 15 and 25 km respectively. A few taxis also accepts Yang Cheng Tong as payment, but it is not preferred by the drivers. The taxi hotline is 96900. This comes in handy if you forget your valuables in a taxi. Save your receipt because it contains the taxi's identification number.

Most taxi drivers do not speak English or any other foreign languages, so be sure to have the name and address of your destination written in Chinese to show your taxi driver. Many are from the poorer northern provinces and do not even speak Cantonese. If your destination is not well known, have a nearby landmark included in the address, e.g. "across from the Garden Hotel."

Whilst the majority of taxis are the regular VWs and Hyundais found in almost all Chinese cities, there are an increasing number of 'London taxis' on the streets of Guangzhou (which comes as no surprise as the latest generation of London black cabs are built by Geely Motors in China). They are wheelchair accessible and can carry up to 6 passengers. Many people recommend using the yellow taxis as that company only employs local Guangzhou drivers who know the city well - other taxi companies usually hire migrant workers from other provinces who may not know where they are going.

Most taxi shift changes take place between 15:00 and 17:00. During this time, it is hard to find a taxi as many drivers stop working by displaying the "out of service (暂停服务)" sign before the end of the shift, unless you are going in their direction. Taxi can be also hard to come by during commuter peak hours of 07:30-09:00 and 17:00-19:00. Finding a taxi during the evening or at night is usually not a problem.

Scams
Most people find taxi drivers in Guangzhou to be honest. However, during the Canton Fair near the Pazhou Complex, it is common to see drivers violate rules, such as refusal of service and pre-negotiating a price rather than using the meter. It is also difficult to find an available taxi elsewhere in the city.

Beware of taxi driver as sometimes, in addition to going around the block one too many times, they will also try to pass counterfeit bills. Pay close attention as to what they pay when passing toll booths. Good drivers will show you the toll receipts. Only add the toll amount to what is displayed in the meter. A trip between the airport to the East Railway Station will cost around ¥120-130.

When paying with ¥100 notes, ensure that the money does not leave your sight until accepted. Some taxi drivers will turn around, do something, turn back and hand you back fake notes instead, especially if you are foreigner on the way to the airport. In this situation there is almost nothing you can do.

By car
While driving in Guangzhou is an option, drivers unfamiliar with the driving conditions in China's large and densely populated cities should be aware that the experience can be extremely daunting and potentially dangerous. However, it is common in Guangzhou to rent a car that comes with a driver.

Similar to other Chinese cities, congestion on the roads is also a major problem that Guangzhou experiences.

Car rental companies in Guangzhou: See also Driving in China.
 * Avis (安飞士汽车租凭), 9 Huali Road, +86 20 3829-6279, 08:30–17:30.
 * Hertz (赫兹国际汽车出租), 89 Linhe West Road, first floor of Jingxing Hotel. +86 20 8755-1608.

By motorcycle
Although a convenient way to navigate the city's back alleys and lanes, motorcycles are banned in the city center, and riding a motorcycle into these prohibited areas can lead to fines and possible confiscation of the bike. In addition to the central motorcycle ban, electric bicycles are banned from the city roads.

By bicycle
Due to the improvement of public transportation and increasing affordability of private cars, bicycles are in sharp decline in Guangzhou. The government has been promoting this low-carbon mode of transportation. Over 100 rental outlets are now available along many BRT lines and subway stations. The rental fee is by the hour and up to ¥30 a day. One popular bike route is along the Pearl River on the Haizhu District side. Other dedicated bike lanes are slowly appearing in the city center, including Tianhe District. Yangchengtong Card is accepted in many public rental outlets.

New bikes are available in major hypermarkets from ¥200 for a cheap single-speed to around ¥800 for a 21-speed mountain bike, although quality leaves a lot to be desired. Giant and Merida are the two most common international brands (both are from Taiwan) and whilst a little more expensive (expect to spend over ¥1000 for anything with more than 1 gear), they offer something a little faster and of better quality. Get a decent quality lock too - bike theft is rampant!

Folding bikes are permitted on the subway (but not on buses) and can be carried in the trunk of a taxi at the driver's discretion, but non-folders are not permitted on any form of public transport other than the cross-river ferries. Bicycles are not permitted to cross the river via the Zhujiang Tunnel or Zhujiang suspension bridge, but are permitted to go on the public ferries for ¥1 (see below).

By ferry
The ferry is the cheapest way of crossing the Pearl River (Zhujiang). Ferries were very popular in the 1980s and early 90s, carrying tens of thousands of passengers across the river each day. Nowadays its popularity declines substantially, mainly due to the completion of several bridges over the Pearl River and metro tunnels under it. The river narrows when going through the city center (a little wider than the Thames in central London). It is usually faster and more convenient for people to use the bridges or metro to cross the river, rather than wait for the ferries. One still-popular ferry route connects Huangsha Pier (by the seafood market next to Shamian Island) to the pier at Changdi Road on the Fangcun side. Ferries depart every 10 minutes from 06:00 to 22:00. The fare is ¥0.5, or ¥1 with a bicycle. The fare can be paid in cash (no change given) or by using Yangchengtong Card. There are separate boarding gates for cyclists and pedestrians, and you pay at the boarding gate.

On foot
Due to the sheer size of the city, walking is not advisable if you are trying to reach destinations in different districts. However, walking is a great way of exploring individual districts, and treats such as markets, small antiquities shops and local restaurants can be found up almost every little alley. Walking along main roads can be a nightmare - construction work can result in some inconvenient pedestrian diversions. Open manhole covers or sidewalks blocked by huge piles of cement are common. Take caution when crossing roads, even when the light is green, as bicycles and cars routinely expect everyone to move out of their way and drive through blindly. Many major intersections must be crossed using complex underpasses and footbridges. Make sure you have a map with you. It is all too easy to get lost in the rabbit-warren of small streets and alleys, even if some street signs are also in English.

See
Guangzhou's long history can be experienced in the Liwan and Yuexiu districts. Traditional buildings are slowly disappearing due to the city's rapid growth, but they can still be found near Yide Road, Renmin Nan Road and Zhongshan Road. They make great photo spots. Shamian Island (Liwan) was the European settlement in Guangzhou in the 19th century, and colonial buildings can be seen there. The Chen Clan Academy (Liwan) is a famous example of traditional Cantonese architecture, and Yuexiu contains several temples which are popular destinations. Yuexiu is also home to 20th century historical sites like the Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hall.

The Tianhe district has become home to a new business district (Zhujiang New Town), with towering office buildings and some new cultural institutions. Canton Tower (Haizhu district) is the world's second-tallest skyscraper, with an observatory 449 meters above the ground.

Guangzhou is a massive city, but it is also home to beautiful natural sites. Baiyun Mountain, located just north of the city center, is a large mountain park with forests, streams, and long hiking paths, as well as a cable car to the top for the less adventurous. The Chimelong theme parks in the city south (Panyu district) include a popular safari park as well as roller coasters and other attractions.

Do

 * Pearl River Night Cruise (珠江夜游) Dashatou Pier (大沙头码头), Tianzi Pier (天字码头), and Xidi Pier (西堤码头) – This is a one- to two-hour cruise in the evening and a great way to see the Guangzhou skyline along the Pearl River, including a light show at Bai-E-Tan. Tickets for the deluxe dinner cruise can be bought from most high-end hotels. Prices from ¥50–200 per person. Higher end cruises usually include dinner buffet.
 * Daytime River "Cruise" As cheap as ¥5, you get a ride down to the last terminal at ZhongSan University and back. Just tell the ticket seller at the jetty, in front of Riverside Hostel, you just want a joyride. On your way back, you can get off on the other side of the river at the heart of the commercial district. After spending a couple of hours walking around or even dinner, it will cost you only ¥1 to cross back to the Riverside Hostel.
 * Ride the public buses. Cheap and generally safe, but beware of pickpockets. The electric trams are even cheaper at flat rate of ¥2. Hop on to any one of the public buses. Drivers are generally very friendly and helpful. So long as you have sufficient small change for the journey, tell the driver you are in just for a joyride. (In Cantonese Yau Cheh Hor literally meaning just for the ride or just for fun. Where the journey terminates, ask anyone what buses will take you back and request the driver to let you know when to get off. So long as you sit not too far away, he (sometimes she) will tell you. Don't worry, everyone is very helpful on these buses. Being paranoid about scams and perceived crimes takes the joy out of what would otherwise be a marvellous holiday.

Festivals

 * Chinese New Year/Spring Festival (春节 Chūnjié) occurs on first day of first lunar month, usually in January or February. This is a 15 day celebration and some districts can be quite deserted as many migrant workers return to their home provinces. The flower fair is popular during the days before New Year.
 * Dragon Boat Festival (端午节 Duānwǔ jié) on fifth day of fifth lunar month, usually in May or June. This festival commemorates the sacrifice of Qu Yuan (屈原), a famous poet who drowned himself in the river by way of making a statement against government corruption during the Warring States Period. The highlights are dragon boat racing along the Pearl River, and eating rice dumplings wrapped in bamboo leaves (粽子).
 * Mid-autumn Festival (中秋节 Zhōngqiū jié) is on the 15th day of 8th lunar month, usually in September or October. Cantonese moon cakes are enjoyed during this holiday. Lian Xiang Lou and Taotao Ju's moon cakes are especially famous (see "Eat" section). Kids' favorites are paper lanterns. Many locals also enjoy riding ferries and watching the full moon on the Pearl River.
 * Tomb Sweeping Day (清明节 Qīngmíng jié) is around the spring equinox, usually on April 5. Involves visits to the family tombs for cleaning and making offerings.
 * Double Ninth Festival (重阳节 Chóngyáng jié) is on the 9th day of 9th lunar month, usually in October. Cantonese has the tradition of hiking up Baiyun Mountain. This is also the fall version of the Tomb Sweeping Day in April.
 * Qi Xi, or Chinese Valentine's Day (七夕 Qīxī) is on 7th day of 7th lunar month, usually in August or September. According to legend, a heavenly fairy Zhinyu (织女) fell in love with a mortal farm boy Niulang (牛郎). This was forbidden; as punishment, they were only allowed to meet once a year on this day. There are usually parades and carnivals in the city celebrating the holiday. This is the Chinese equivalent of Valentine's Day, but it is steadily losing its appeal among the locals; many have adopted the Western Valentine’s Day on February 14.
 * Winter Solstice (冬至, 过冬 Dōngzhì), which literally means the Coming of Winter is on December 22. Traditionally, Cantonese people observe the day with a family feast, which often includes preserved duck and sausages. However, the highlight of the day's festive dishes is hot soup served with flour dumplings (汤丸).

The Canton Fair
The Canton Fair (China Import and Export Commodities Fair) is held twice a year (spring and fall) in the Pazhou Complex in Haizhu district. It lasts for several weeks each time — for example, the Fall 2018 Fair is October 15 to November 4.

Through most of Mao's era — from the first Canton Fair in 1957 until the "reform and opening up" under Deng Xiao Ping began in 1978 — the Canton Fair was almost the only way Chinese and foreign business people could meet and make deals. It is still much the largest trade fair in China; the October 2012 Fair had over a million square meters (11 million square feet) of exhibit space, over 24,000 exhibitors, and over 188,000 overseas buyers. Around $32.5 million worth of business was done at that Fair, and almost certainly much more was done later from contacts made at the Fair.

If you are going to the fair, book a hotel well in advance. Hotels tend to be booked and expensive during the Fair. Metro is a good transportation option to go to the fair ground, and many hotels provide free shuttle services.

There are two lesser, but still important, trade fairs in Xiamen every year. These are scheduled so that it is possible to visit one of the Xiamen fairs and the Canton Fair in a single trip.

Learn
Guangzhou is home to Sun Yat-sen University (中山大学 Jūngsāan Daaihhohk in Cantonese, Zhōngshān Dàxué in Mandarin), one of the premier universities in China, and the most prestigious in Guangdong province. It is also historically significant, having been founded by and named after the founding president of the Republic of China. There are opportunities for international students to enroll in the university, and for students at foreign universities to study here on exchange programs.

Other institutes that might be of interest to prospective international students include:

Street markets
If time and weather permit, walking is perhaps the best way to see the city as the back alleys, which are littered with antiquities, are not accessible by motorized vehicles. Most trades and goods categories are concentrated in a specific area or along one main street.

Malls and shopping centers
Many large shopping malls have been built in areas like Yuexiu and Tianhe.

Eat
Cantonese cuisine is well known for its blend of color, fragrance, taste and presentation, and it is ranked among the top four in the country. In particular, dim sum, a delicate pastry, is famous for being simple yet delicious. Local customs, as well as a long history of contact with the West compared to other regions in China, have played a major role in the development and diversity of Cantonese cuisine. "Chinese food" in Western countries is usually Cantonese food, albeit slightly adapted to Western tastes, meaning that many Western visitors will be familiar with Cantonese food to a certain extent.

Authentic Cantonese cuisine is also famous throughout China for another reason — Cantonese people tend to eat absolutely anything. A well-known Chinese joke is that they eat anything that has four legs other than a table, anything that flies other than an airplane, and anything that swims other than a submarine. In addition to that, various internal organs of animals are regularly eaten, such as the liver, kidneys, heart and even brain. This means that Cantonese cuisine is one of, if not the, most adventurous in China due to their expansive use of exotic ingredients, and their extremely broad definition of what is considered edible. This is how Guangzhou earned the distinct name of "Eating in Guangzhou (食在广州)."

Unlike Sichuan food and many other cuisines across China, Cantonese food tend to preserve the original flavor of the ingredients and is generally not spicy. The taste of Umami is strongly emphasized in the dishes. Soup is also an important part of Cantonese cuisine. Cantonese soups are distinct by having been cooked for an extended period (typically 4h+).

Due to its cosmopolitan nature, cuisines from many different parts of the world are also available in Guangzhou. In particular, due to the large number of Africans living here, there are several restaurants serving various African cuisines to cater to that demographic.

What to eat

 * White Cut Chicken (白切鸡) This is one of the most popular Cantonese dishes. It is lightly flavored to allow one to savor the true taste of the chicken meat, and is usually served with a dipping sauce of ground ginger and spring onion on the side. Many Cantonese restaurants have their signature dish based on this, such as the Wenchang Chicken from Guangzhou Restaurant, Real Taste Chicken from Bingsheng Restaurant and Qingping Chicken from various restaurants.
 * Yum Cha / Dim Sum (饮茶/ 点心) "A pot of tea with two pieces (一盅两件)" is Guangzhou's dim sum culture. Many locals stay for hours chatting and reading newspaper with just a small order of food. The varieties of dim sum dishes in many restaurants are easily over a hundred. The bite-size quantity of each dish allows one to venture out and try new things that will satisfy one's taste bud.
 * Siu Mei / Shao Wei (烧味) Cantonese barbecue is famous around the world where many have seen the image of roasted ducks and chicken hanging in front of a store. Siu mei is a staple item in Cantonese restaurants. Some varieties include barbecued pork (叉烧), roast goose (烧鹅) and roast pig (烧肉).
 * Seafood (海鲜) Eating fresh seafood the Cantonese way is a good way to explore Cantonese culture. From picking live fish or lobsters in front of your eyes to eating the sea creatures with their heads attached, this is a great adventure for any visitors.
 * Dessert (甜品, 糖水) A Cantonese meal is not complete without Cantonese desserts. Soupy or custard desserts are common. Two distinct Guangzhou favorites are double layered milk (双皮奶) and ginger milk curd (姜撞奶). Other popular choices include tofu pudding (豆腐花), red bean paste (紅豆沙), green bean paste (綠豆沙), guilinggao (龟苓膏), black sesame paste (芝麻糊) and sago (西米露).

Foreign chains
Foreign fast food, ice cream and coffee chains are well established in Guangzhou. These include Subway (赛百味), Dairy Queen (冰雪皇后), Saizeriya (Japanese Italian food chain), Papa John's Pizza (棒约翰), KFC (肯德基), Pizza Hut (必胜客), McDonald's (麦当劳), Burger King (汉堡王), Starbucks (星巴克) and Häagen-Dazs (哈根达斯). Most of these can be found in the Zhengjia Plaza (See "Shop").

Convenience stores
Convenience stores are on almost every street corner and most are open 24 hours. Major convenience store chains include 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, Circle-K and C-Store. Prices are a little higher than in local shops or supermarkets, particularly at 7-Eleven. Some FamilyMarts and Circle-K's do not sell cigarettes, but C-store does. Corner's Deli is a specialty food chain store with several locations in the city with a good selection of imported foods. One of the locations is at unit 6, Backstreet, CITIC Plaza.

Supermarket chains
Carrefour (家乐福) This French hypermarket has four stores in Guangzhou. One of them is at Kangwang Road (康王中路656号) near Chenjiaci station. It is cheap and has a good selection of products.

Jusco (吉之岛) There are several locations including Tee Mall at Tiyu West Road and Linhe Middle Road near the East Train Station. This Japanese chain has a good selection of imported groceries.

Park 'n' Shop (百佳) This Hong Kong chain has several locations ranging from convenience stores to hypermarkets. The largest stores are in the shopping mall above Metro Changshou Lu Station and at Tianhe North Road close to the Longkouxi bus stop. It is a little more expensive but has a good selection of imported groceries.

Tesco This British hypermarket is on Zhongshan 6th Road above the Metro Ximenkou Station. The store spreads over 4 floors and the price is reasonable.

Wal-Mart (沃尔玛) The lower-end market has numerous locations in Guangzhou. Formerly known as Trust-Mart (好又多) but rebranded after acquired by Wal-Mart (沃尔玛). Wal-Mart has been upgrading the stores, and the prices while they are at it. This chain has a large stock of non-food items but the grocery selection is limited. It is often crowded on the weekends.

Vanguard (华润万家) This is the flagship operating supermarket chains of China Resources. It is the third largest supermarket chain in Hong Kong. It operates approximately 450 stores in China. There are over 20 stores in Guangzhou.

Lotus (卜蜂莲花) There are several locations ranging from convenience stores to hypermarkets. One of the locations is at 399 Chebei Road (车陂路399号).

Drink
When it comes to drinks, Guangzhou is one of the best cities in China to knock back a few. With a relatively large population of foreigners here, the city offers a wide variety of nightspots that cater to all tastes.

Tsing Tao and Zhu Jiang are the two major Chinese beer brands that are sold almost everywhere. Both are fairly standard light lagers. Carlsberg is also brewed in Guangzhou, which explains the reasonably large amount of Carlsberg taps in the bars.

Pubs tend to be in Yuexiu and Tianhe district, while dance clubs are clustered in Yuexiu, particularly around the Garden Hotel (Metro 5 Taojin).

Tea houses
The culture of tea drinking, also known as Yum Cha (饮茶), runs deep in Guangzhou. After all, the city was at the center of the massive tea trade that existed between China and Europe during the 19th century.

Sleep
Hotels can be found across the city, but particularly in the Yuexie and Tianhe districts.

Youth hostels are uncommon in Guangzhou, unlike many other big cities in China. Most hostels in the city are illegally operated and unlicensed, mostly located in residential apartment buildings. The management usually discourages most socializing activity, worrying that any noise may lead to complaints from their neighbors and result in government crackdown.

Stay safe
Guangzhou, which was the first open port in China, is generally tolerant of different cultures. Crimes that target foreigners are not common despite the city's reputation for petty crimes, and violent crime is rare. Pickpockets are active in shopping area and transportation hubs. Safety has improved a lot since the 2010 Asian Games but the best defense, as always, is to avoid flashing your valuables in public. Use only official taxis and change money at banks instead of money changers in the street.

As the capital of the richest province of China, it has attracted an enormous number of immigrant workers from other provinces and some other developing countries. Drug trafficking is a serious offense and foreigners are not exempted from the death penalty. Even consumption is taken very seriously by the police; expect to be fined, imprisoned and deported if you get caught. The police is recruiting more Arabic- and English-speaking officers to deal with the rising drug trade among foreigners.

Guangzhou hosts the largest African population in China, mostly concentrated in Sanyuanli (三元里) in Baiyun, and Xiaobei (小北) and Guangyuanxi (广园西) in Yuexiu. The relationship between Africans and local Chinese is tense: most local Chinese hold negative views of Africans, their neighborhoods have a reputation for crime, and there are episodes of mistreatment and harassment of African residents.

Traffic conditions in Guangzhou have drastically improved and rules are practiced - relatively. However, though the government is trying to improve it, like many places else in China, cars still do not yield to pedestrians and zebra crossings are for display only.

Emergency numbers are: Police: 110; Fire: 119; Medical: 120; Traffic accident: 122. If you're not sure which to call, 110 is always the first choice.

Connect

 * The area dialing code for Guangzhou is 020. From overseas, dial +86 20 XXXX-XXXX. Phone numbers are 8 digits. Mobile numbers are 11 digits and city code is not required when dialing from within Guangzhou. From outside of Guangzhou, add 0 before the number (0 XXX-XXX-XXXXX). From overseas, dial +86 XXX-XXX-XXXXX.
 * Complimentary wi-fi is offered throughout national airport via SSID "AIRPORT-WIFI-FREE."
 * Internet cafes are common in major Chinese cities, though are often the target of government crackdowns. Popular ones in Guangzhou include:
 * Worldwide Network on Jiangsu Road
 * the famous elite cafe Sparkice (实华开) in Central Plaza on Huaihai Middle Road
 * China Mayors Plaza (市长大厦). 189 Tianhe North Road (天河北路189号)
 * Budget Internet Cafe on Fuzhou Road
 * Starbucks
 * Starbucks

Consulates

 * 🇦🇺 Australia
 * 🇧🇪 Belgium
 * 🇰🇭 Cambodia
 * 🇨🇦 Canada
 * 🇨🇺 Cuba
 * 🇩🇰 Denmark
 * 🇫🇷 France
 * 🇬🇭 Ghana
 * 🇩🇪 Germany
 * 🇬🇷 Greece
 * 🇮🇳 India
 * 🇮🇩 Indonesia
 * 🇮🇱 Israel
 * 🇮🇹 Italy
 * 🇯🇵 Japan
 * 🇰🇷 South Korea
 * 🇲🇾 Malaysia
 * 🇲🇽 Mexico
 * the Netherlands
 * 🇳🇴 Norway
 * 🇳🇿 New Zealand
 * 🇵🇰 Pakistan
 * the Philippines
 * 🇵🇱 Poland
 * 🇸🇬 Singapore
 * 🇨🇭 Switzerland
 * 🇹🇭 Thailand
 * the United Kingdom
 * the United States
 * Vietnam

Banking
ATMs that accept foreign credit or debit cards are common in shopping malls and tourist areas. Withdrawal is available in Chinese currency only. Most banks in the city center also accept exchanges from your local currencies to ¥. Your passport is required for this service. Some banks allow you to change back to your local currency with the original exchange memo.
 * Bank of China (中国银行) There is a branch inside Garden Hotel. ATM is available on the ground floor of White Swan Hotel and over 100 locations in Guangzhou. Their ATMs are the best bet for using foreign cards.
 * Bank of America Rm 2506, 555 Renmin Middle Road +86 20 8130-0888. The bank has alliance with China Construction Bank.
 * Citi Unit 101, Fortune Plaza, 118 Tiyu East Road. +86-20 3898-1688. This bank has a full service branch with currency exchange services and 24-hour ATMs.

Laundry
Few lower end hotels and hostels have coin-operated self-service laundry room. Self-service laundromats are not available on the streets, although dry clean and laundry stores are available to clean your clothes. Normally you can drop your clothes off and pick them up the next day. One laundry chain is Tiantian (天天洗衣), which is conveniently located in most Metro stations. There are many stores on Shamian Island that have laundry service. An average load of laundry costs about ¥100.

In other parts of the city, there are laundry and dry clean shops sprinkled throughout neighborhoods. An average load should cost no more than ¥40. If you are doing sheets and blankets, they should charge no more than ¥10 for a blanket, ¥30 for a quilt. Dry-cleaning a sweater is about ¥8.

Television
Hong Kong’s international channel, TVB Pearl, is available in most hotels, and has a great selection of programs from the UK and US, plus news at 19:30 and late (23:00 or later) every day. However, their broadcasting in China is subject to censorship by Chinese authorities.

Newspapers and magazines
The China Daily and/or Global Times are the two only English language newspapers available in Guangzhou (unless you go to a library), and both can be found on newsstands throughout the city. There are several bookstores throughout the city that sell current English and Foreign periodicals. The South China Morning Post from Hong Kong is also available by subscription only. South China TALK and That's Guangzhou are monthly English-language magazines based in Guangzhou.

If you can read some Chinese, the Southern Metropolis Daily (南方都市报) is a major Chinese newspaper in the region. The newspaper takes a liberal stance, and often clashes with official censors regarding controversial incidents. The newspaper can be regarded as an alternate view to official news.

Places of worship
All the religious sites listed in the See section are open to worshippers.

Gym
Guangzhou has over 15 branches of Total Fitness. One of the locations is at the 8th floor of Grandview Mall (Zhengjia Plaza 正佳广场). The Guangzhou Marriott (see sleep) has a complete new gym with Star Trac equipment, a swimming pool, tennis court, sauna and steam.

Health

 * Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital is near the Garden Hotel. 106 Zhongshan 2nd Road +86 20 8382-7812, +86 20 2062-2031.

Mail
China Post, the official post office, is your best bet for regular letters and postcards. For packages, other than the post office, there are many shipping centers around the city who are agents for DHL, FedEx, UPS, TNT and EMS. There are usually shipping counters at higher-end hotels. Ask your hotel for the nearest shipping locations.
 * Post Office (China Post) - Post Office is usually slow and little English is spoken. EMS service is available through the post office. The following are locations close to tourist areas.
 * Shamian Post: Shamian 3rd Street (沙面三街) 09:00-17:00, closed on Sunday.
 * Liuhua Post: 151 Huanshixi Road (广州市环市西151号) between Guangzhou Railway Station and the Provincial Coach Terminal.
 * Taojin Post: 5 Taojin North Road (淘金北路正平中街5号) +86 20 8357-1583

 * DHL There is a branch in Garden Hotel +86 20 8384-9210.
 * UPS 1121 Guangyuan Middle Road, +86 20 8657-9898; China Hotel, +86-20 8666-2696; TeeMall +86 20 8230-4008.

Go next

 * The watchtower dwellings of overseas Chinese from the early 20th century in Kaiping (开平). Take a 2-hour bus form Fangcun Bus Station (芳村汽车站) (Metro 1 Kengkou Exit B) ¥60.
 * Foshan (佛山) is an hour away from Guangzhou. Famous for its Ancestry Temple (祖庙), it is also the hometown legendary martial artists Wong Fei-hung and Ip Man. Take the Foshan Metro at the Xilang Station of Guangzhou Metro Line 1.
 * Hong Kong (香港) is barely an hour away by high-speed train or around 2 hours by conventional railway, though you need to factor in border delays. You will also exit Mainland China, so your visa needs to be multi-entry if you intend to come back.
 * Humen (虎门) in Dongguan (东莞) is famous for its Opium War era relics (虎门销烟). It is a bridge away from the Nansha District. Most high-speed trains to Shenzhen or Hong Kong stop at Humen.
 * Shaoguan (韶关), visited for its nature including the beautiful Danxia Mountains, and home to a large ethnic Yao minority. An hour north by high-speed rail.
 * Shenzhen (深圳) is less than an hour away by bus or train, on the border with Hong Kong. Check out theme parks such as Window of the World, the China Folk Culture Villages and Splendid China.
 * Zhongshan (中山) is the hometown of Sun Yat-sen, the leader of the revolution than toppled the Qing Dynasty, and founding president of the Republic of China.
 * Zhuhai (珠海) is another special economic zone to the south, bordering Macau. You can get a bus from any of the major stations in the city. You can also take a high speed train at the South Station (Metro 2 Guangzhou South Railway Station) and it only takes about 45 minutes (¥44).
 * Chaozhou (潮州) is famous for its wood cutting art, city walls, river bridge and nice parks. Take a high speed train at the South or East Station and it only takes about 3 hours to Chaoshan, the high speed train station between Chaozhou and Shantou. Frequently running city buses connect to downtown (take north exit).

title: Guangzhou


text:
Guano

Guano is a city in Chimborazo Province in Ecuador.

Understand
Guano is a small, quaint town in a valley near Riobamba.

Get in
There are several buses that leave each day for Guano from Riobamba. They cost $0.25 and the ride takes about 20 minutes.

Get around
Guano is small, the downtown area can easily be seen on foot.

See

 * Guano has a small museum (entrance fee $1) that showcases some pre-Columbian pottery, textiles, and the mummy of a monk that was found entombed in the wall of an old church. There is a small beautiful park in the center of town.

Do

 * One popular activity is to climb the hill located at the end of town near where the bus drops you off. The hill has a large staircase with several stone carvings, and offers a spectacular view of the city and the surrounding mountains.  On a clear day one can see El Altar, the erupting volcano Tungurahua, and Chimborazo, the highest peak in Ecuador.

Buy

 * Guano is known for its shoes- the street where the bus drops you off is lined with stores selling everything from hiking boots to high heels. Beware, though: No one carries anything in a size bigger than 42 (European), which roughly corresponds to a 10 in American sizes.
 * Guano's other claim to fame is its rugs- myriad shops sell rugs and carpets of all shapes and sizes, and if one haggles you can get a very good price.

Eat

 * Cholas are small rolls filled with a sweet, sticky filling not unlike molasses. They are only made in Guano, so buy some while you are here.  You will see signs all over for cholas, they should cost about $0.25 apiece.
 * Guano is also known for its fritaderias, restaurants that sell plates of pork that has been stewed in juices until it is falling off the bone. A plate, which normally costs about $3-4, also will contain boiled choclo, or corn, and sometimes a fried plantain or banana.  Look for the numerous 'Fritaderia' signs.

license: Creative Commons - Attribution Share-Alike - https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/

title: Guano


text:
Guantánamo Bay

Guantánamo Bay is a bay at the southeast end of the island of Cuba. The area surrounding its southern part hosts a United States Naval Base. The northern part of the bay is under Cuban control.

Get in

Access to the northern part of the bay can be made from Guantánamo city or one of the smaller towns on the bay itself such as Caimanera and Boqueron, which are to immediate north of the U.S.-held territory. Guantánamo city has trains to Havana.

Getting in to the U.S. sector is generally limited to those with business at the naval base. Non-U.S., non-military personnel have been to the base. Some are still there.

By plane

 * Cubana de Aviación flies from Havana to Guantánamo City, which is close to the bay and near the town of Paraguay.

The U.S. sector is not served by Cubana de Aviación. The naval base's remaining airstrip, Leeward Point Field, does not have an international airport code of GTMO.

By land
Hotel Islazul, Guantánamo city may be able to arrange tours to the American military for around $40 though this service is not always available.

Until the 1953-59 revolution, thousands of Cubans commuted daily from outside the base to jobs within. In mid-1958, vehicular traffic was stopped; workers were required to walk through the base's several gates. Public Works Center buses were pressed into service almost overnight to carry the tides of workers to and from the gate. By 2006, only two elderly Cubans still crossed the base's North East Gate daily to work on the base, because the Cuban government prohibits new recruitment.

In the past, Cubans fleeing the revolution found refuge in the US controlled territory. Later, both the U.S. and Cuba surrounded the naval base with mines. The U.S. has since removed their minefield, though the Cuban mines remain.

Get around
The U.S. naval base's main settlements are located near the disused McCalla Airfield on the eastern side of the bay's mouth. Ferries ply the water between there and the larger, functioning Leeward Point Airfield.

Buy
There is a small souvenir stand within the camp itself, selling small items to take home. These include goggly-eyed small fluffy toys, and clothing featuring the phrase "I went to Guantanamo Bay, and all I got was this lousy T-shirt. Allegedly."

title: Guantánamo Bay


text:
Guanzihling

Guanzihling (關子嶺) is a hot spring resort in Tainan, Taiwan.

Understand
In the foothills above the plains of Tainan, Guanzihling is divided into two parts: "old" Guanzihling in the valley near the hot spring source, and the "summit" (山頂) atop the nearby hill. As the names hint, the old part has older, cheaper hot spring resorts, while the hilltop has newer, pricier ones.

Even by Taiwanese standards the romanization of the name is confused: alternative spellings include Guanziling (Hanyu Pinyin), Kuantzuling and Kuantzeling, and the Chinese characters used to be written as "關仔嶺".

Get in
Buses leave hourly on the hour from Chiayi's Zhongshan Rd bus station, several hundred meters down the street from the TRA railway station. The journey on rattletrap local buses goes through Baihe and takes around one hour (NT$79), crossing through old Guanzihling and terminating at the summit near the Toong Mao resort. Alternatively, you could take a taxi, which will cover the distance in around half the time for around NT$400.

Leaving from Tainan, the easiest way to get here is to take the TRA (local, not high speed) to the Sinying station stop (about a 30 minutes train ride). There are also eight buses daily (30 min) from TRA Sinying (新營) station. A taxi from the TRA Sinying station takes about 25 minutes and will cost around NT$600 depending on where in Guanzilin you decide to go. Remember to get the taxi driver's telephone number before getting off because there are very, very few taxis in the hot spring area waiting to take guests back to the train station.

Get around
Sightseeing in Guanzihling requires your own wheels, but traveling between the two parts on foot is reasonable. There are three possible routes: the meandering main road (~2 km), a fearsome pedestrian staircase (好漢坡) of about 300 steps, and a wooden stairway that passes by the hot spring source (温泉源頭).

Do
Guanzihling is famous for its muddy hot springs. This may not sound very appealing, but the waters have a reputation for treating skin allergies, and the spring is reportedly one of only three of its type in the world (the other two being in Kagoshima, Japan and Vulcano, Italy). The standard course of treatment is to slather on the stuff, let in dry out for a few minutes, then rinse it off in a pool and repeat.

Buy
Dry hot spring mud for your own treatments is sold in every souvenir shop in town (around NT$50 for a half-kilo bucket).

There are many hot spring resorts offering the "muddy water" hot spring treatment that is unique to this town. The King's Garden Villa (popular among locals and well known by taxi drivers) offers use of their full facilities for the low rate of NT$350/adult in the summer time (other seasons might be different). Their services include: fish-pedicure (small carp eat the dead skin off of your feet - painless but not for the easily tickled), machine massages, feet hot spring bath, high temperature hot spring (43.5 °C), moderate temperature hot spring (39 °C), cold hot spring (17 °C), swimming pool activities and more. This villa can accommodate overnight guests as well as day time hot spring users. Make sure you have a good phrase book or can speak passing mandarin as there are no English speakers or signs. This is a must do if you come to the Tainan area.

title: Guanzihling


text:
Guaramiranga

Guaramiranga is a town in Ceará, Brazil. At an altitude of some 900 metres, it is a cool refuge for the upper class of Fortaleza, a good 100 km to the southwest. Its attractions spin around lush green hills with waterfalls.

Get in
Buses from Fortaleza via Baturité

Get around
Most of the town is walkable, but many known attractions (such as Pico Alto, the summit; or restaurants in near districts) require a car.

Do
An alternative carnival of nationwide fame is also offered here: Jazz and blues.

Sleep
Sleeping can be pricey, or simply not available. Baturité, 17 km downhill, has more of everything.

title: Guaramiranga


text:
Guaranda

Guaranda is the provincial capital of the province of Bolivar in Ecuador.

Understand
Located in the heart of the country, quaint Guaranda is the smallest provincial capital in the highlands. Its pleasant climate (22 to 25 degrees Celsius in the tropical regions) make it very popular with visitors, who are also attracted the area’s cool paramo. The Carnaval festivities of the area have gained fame throughout Ecuador.

Surrounded by the peaks of San Jacinto, Loma de Guaranda, San Bartolo, Cruzloma, Tililac, Talalac, and el Mirador, Guaranda is known as the City of the Seven Hills. At 2650m, this highland city is the smallest provincial capital in Ecuador. The Carnival festivities are very traditional and last for several days. Visitors are offered chicha (a local, maize-based alcoholic drink) and the popular firewater known as Pájaro Azul (Blue bird) which help them get into the spirit of the festivities.

Get in
By Bus: The bus station is located towards Riobamba and Babahoyo at Eliza Mariño Carvajal. Bus service to: Guayaquil, 4 1/2 hours, ticket value around US$2.50. To Quito, 3 different cooperatives every few minutes, 4 to 5 hours, ticket value around US$2.50. To Riobamba, 2 hours, ticket value around US$1.60. To Ambato, 2 hours, ticket value around US$1.60. There are also daily buses from San Luis de Pambil.

See
Over shadowing the whole town 3 km in the distance is the impressive 5 meter high sculptured statue of the El Indio Guaranga in the northwest, who sits perched on a main hill opposite. From here a magnificent view of the area may be enjoyed along with the snow crested peaks of Chimborazo Volcano. Take a taxi for around $1 or enjoy a hike, the statue is next to a Cultural center and also has a history museum in addition to the ethnographic history region by region.

The main market days are always colorful with the locals fully clothed in their typical dress and are open on Fridays and Saturdays (the main one) on Plaza 15 de Mayo while the best days for strolling the town and soaking up its atmosphere of old Colonial bygone days is best done around these days when it is less hectic.

Parque El Libertador is worth strolling around in and is frequented by many local residents in the evening from 6-9pm. In the center is a statue of Simón Bolivar that the inhabitants have informed us has had nestled under its right armpit a bees nest for many years. The park is surrounded by colonial houses and municipal buildings with panoramic views from the towers and a nice courtyard. On 7 de Mayo and Olmedo, there is an anthropology museum with pre-Inca at the Escuela de Educación de la Cultura Andina. Then there is Plaza Roja Guaranda, the other main city venue surrounded by restaurants and shops.

There are also some interesting paintings by local artists in Salón de la Ciudad. Opposite the park is a Cathedral constructed in stone surrounds and inside has an impressive marble altar complete with stained glass windows and wooden ceiling.

Two kilometers up from the statue Guarango is El Troje on the road to Salinas de Guaranda, a chance to see another set of nature’s wonders. Here you can walk 2 hours along a canyon to view a splendid 8 m high waterfall called El Infiernillo.

Carnival time is teeming with visitors from the whole province as well as neighboring ones also and has a dazzling combination of parades, dancers, strolling poets and masked partiers who roam the streets at random. A group of local musicians also meanders in and out of various houses through the day often receiving alcoholic beverages or the locals drink called Pajaro Azul (Blue Bird) which is a twist on the national drink aguardiente and mixed with local herbs.

The carnival is actually opened by a large landowner who is warmly referred to as Taita Carnaval (Father Carnival) who finances the party himself and officially opens the festival upon entering the town.

Dating back centuries, the Guaranda Fair is a well known local celebration during which locals parade through 15 de Mayo Plaza on mules and on horseback, dressed up in gold ponchos, black hats, and masks.

 * San Miguel, the Guardias Caves (10 minutes from town) and the
 * Virgin of Lourdes Grotto (20 minutes from town)
 * Cruz Loma Hill offers a panoramic view of the entire city of Guaranda. The town is also home to a monument to the Indio Guaranga as well as a small museum containing the independence arms, historical documents, archaeological remains, and centuries-old artwork.
 * Lake Cochas is an artificial lake located 10 km from Guaranda. It is a popular destination where visitors can go for a boat ride, admire the beautiful gardens and surrounding landscape, and try some local delicacies.

Do
Carnaval: The Carnival in Guaranda is celebrated as in every other part of the country. But, additionally this town celebrates this holiday with festivities; masks, parades, guitars, poetry and dances all over the place. Considered one of the best carnivals of Ecuador.

Taita Carnaval (Father Carnival), is a grand celebration opening in which the sponsor of the party makes his grand entrance into town. After this opening, the party starts. Celebrations last for about 8 days.

Note: Carnaval is celebrated with water throwing in the whole country (except in Ambato).

Buy

 * Salinerito: Address: General Enríquez, Plaza Roja.
 * Artesanías de PHD: Woolens, crafts & decorations. Address: General Enríquez, Plaza Roja.

Eat
Fritada (fried pork), mashed plaintains (known as bollos), Salty hornado (roasted pork), and empanadas (pastries filled with meat and cheese) are traditional fare in Guaranda.

Connect

 * Post Office: Address: Azuay and Pichincha.

Go next

 * Nearby Villages
 * San José de Chimbo (20 km from Guaranda) is famous for its skilled craftsmen who handcraft guitars as well as fireworks.
 * Chimbo has a museum dedicated to the story of Christ's shroud and the locals worship the El Guayco Virgin.
 * Zumbi Hill A few kilometers from Chimbo stands the pyramid-shaped Cerro Zumbi. It’s considered to have been an ancient place of worship to the Gods Cuiche and Katekil.
 * Catequilla Hill These hot springs are a few minutes from Chimbo and their medicinal properties attract visitors from all over.
 * Near Chillanes (67 km from Guaranda) you can visit the archaeological remains of the Chillanes tribe.
 * Salinas de Guaranda self sufficient village

title: Guaranda


text:
Guarapari

Guarapari is a popular beach resort town in Espirito Santo, counting about 127,000 people in 2020, a figure that quickly multiplies in high season.

Understand
Guarapari is a very popular holiday escape for people from landlocked Minas Gerais state and for people from Vitória and Vila Velha. The place is fervent between Christmas and Carnaval, with smaller peaks on school holidays throughout the year.

By plane
Guarapari has a small domestic airport with no regular passenger traffic.

Vitória Airport (VIX) - also known as Eurico Salles Airport - in the capital city of Vitória, is the closest airport to Guarapari. It receives daily flights from most state capitals in the country. Among the main airlines serving the airport are LATAM and Gol. A number of smaller carriers also serve the airport, including Azul, TEAM, and TRIP.

A taxi to/from Vitória Airport will set you back about R$ 150. There are two daily, direct buses between the airport and Guarapari, by Alvorada, R$ 20, 1,5 hours. From the airport at 09:30 and 16:30. From Guarapari at 08:10 and 14:50. Otherwise, take a bus Alvorada to Vila Velha, get off near Terminal Vila Velha, and to take a local bus to the airport. Total travel time is about 2 hours, and it costs around R$ 10.

By bus
The new (2015) bus station is possibly the most modern, and definitely the most shopping-mall-like in all of Brazil. Its being situated some 7 km out of town, on the main highway BR-101, makes it somewhat inconvenient. Consider long-distance buses to Vila Velha), as an alternative. Main lines include Vitória (some via Vila Velha), Rio de Janeiro (3 times daily, 8 hours, via Campos and Niteroi, by Kaissara, 100 R$) and Belo Horizonte.

Frequent local buses (R$ 2.50) run straight to downtown, only slightly slower than taxis (Fixed price R$ 35)

The bus company still runs hourly buses (more frequent during peak hours) to Vitória via Vila Velha, until 21:00, by the coastal route. I.e. no need to go to the main bus station.

By car
Guarapari is on the coast 53 kilometers south of Vitória on highway 60, officially nicknamed Rodovia do Sol. There is also easy access from BR-101. You can locate a car at Vitoria Airport (Hertz, Localiza, among other companies), and drive south taking Rodovia do Sol.

Get around
Many local buses run throughout the night. Taxis are few on Praia do Morro. None have meters, but there should be a table available showing fixed prices between different neighbourhoods.

Do

 * Lounge about on the beach at . At its northern end there is a small nature reserve with a 1.5-km trail that leads to a small deserted beach.
 * There is a kind of an amusement park in the closed down part of a quarry, not far from Praia do Morro: Pedreira Adventures.  During high season parties are hosted here, -an amazing setting!
 * There is rental of windsurfing equipment and small sailboats near Quisque 55 at Praia do Morro. Lessons are also given. Kayak rental nearby.

Buy

 * Plenty of cheap T-shirts along Praia do Morro, where most shops are open evenings only

Drink
High season nightlife concentrates in Meaípe:
 * Kiosks line the beaches and always have plenty of beer, caipirinhas, and coconut water.
 * Quiosque 16 at Parai do Morro has live acts most every night until 22:00, R$ 1-2 cover charge.
 * Restaurante Janaina by Quiosque 40 at Praia do Morro has live pagode every Friday and Sunday.
 * Bar-come-club Tonteria is in the city center

Sleep
Praia do Morro is probably the best option for tourists. Also many hotels in the city centre. Furnished and equipped apartments for short term rent abound. Real estate agencies on every corner can offer you something.

Connect
The telephone area code for Guarapari is 27 (as well as in central and northern parts of Espírito Santo).

Go next

 * Vitória - The capital of the state of Espírito Santo, famous for its bay, beaches and nightlife.
 * Vila Velha - Famous for Convento da Penha (a 16th-century hilltop Franciscan convent), and the beaches of Praia da Costa, Itapuã, and Coqueiral de Itaparica.
 * Domingos Martins - To get a taste of a town colonized by German immigrants, and the famous Pedra Azul (Blue Rock).
 * Santa Teresa - To get a taste of a town colonized by Italian immigrants.
 * Itaúnas - Famous for its dunes and forró, a Northeastern Brazilian dance.
 * Rio de Janeiro - World-known city famous for its breathtaking landscape and annual carnival.

title: Guarapari


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Guaraqueçaba

Guaraqueçaba is a small town in Coastal Paraná.

By car

 * BR-277 from Curitiba via Paranaguá
 * PR-410 (Graciosa) from Curitiba
 * PR-405 from Antonina. This route is unpaved and can be in pretty bad condition during the summer months.

By bus

 * Viação Graciosa has a bus departing from Curitiba at 7AM. Tel. +55 41 3482-1236.

By boat
Ferries for Guaraqueçaba leave the dock in Paranaguá at 9AM and 1PM, with return trips at 6AM and 2PM. Tel. +55 41 3425-4542.

Go next

 * Antonina
 * Curitiba
 * Ilha do Mel
 * Paranaguá

title: Guaraqueçaba


text:
Guaratinguetá

Guaratinguetá is a city in the state of São Paulo.

Understand
The city's name means Land of the White Egrets in Tupi-Guarani language. For brevity's sake, it is often shortened to the simpler Guará.

By bus

 * From São Paulo's Tietê terminal, there are two lines run by Viação Cometa, tel. +55 11 2221-5618, and Viação Pássaro Marrom, tel. +55 11 2221-0244.
 * From Rio de Janeiro, there is one direct line run by Viação Sampaio, tel. +55 21 2233-8325.

title: Guaratinguetá


text:
Guaratuba

Guaratuba is a small town in Coastal Paraná.

Get in

 * A ferry connects to Matinhos on the north side of the Bay of Guaratuba.
 * PR-412 enters town from the south, connecting to BR-376 from Curitiba or BR-101 from Joinville.

Sleep

Go next

 * Joinville
 * Matinhos

title: Guaratuba


text:
Guarda

Guarda is a city of 43,000 people (2011) in Beira Alta, a region of Central Portugal. Guarda is the highest city in continental Portugal (altitude 1,056 m), located to the northeast of Serra da Estrela (the largest mountain in mainland Portugal). The main attraction in Guarda is its cathedral, known as the Sé da Guarda.

Understand

The main economic sectors of Guarda (/ˈɡwaɾdɐ/, GWAHR-duh) are: tourism, textiles, electric wire and cable industry for automobile manufacturing and for energy industries, wood, glass, marble and granite processing, metallurgy, aluminum manufacturing, chemical products, blinds, cold cuts, bakery and pastry, dairy industry, as well as construction companies. There are also handicraft activities and agricultural and agro-livestock activities in the rural environment of the municipality.

By train
The train station is served by Linhas da Beira Alta. There are trains to Lisbon via Coimbra 3-5 times a day and to Oporto via Viseu. Schedules are available online at the Portuguese railway company's website. The overnight train from Irun (France) to Lisbon stops at Guarda around 06:00.

The train station is about 3.2 km from the city centre. There is a local bus running from the main bus station (top of the mountain) to the modern train station (one-way ticket €0.95).

By bus
There are buses from Spain (Madrid, Salamanca) to Oporto which stop in Guarda. A one-way ticket from Salamanca to Guarda costs about €25. The bus station is in the centre of town, near the top of the mountain. It is connected by a local bus line to the train station.

By car
The principal road connecting Guarda to the rest of Portugal and to Spain is the A25 [Aveiro-Vilar Formoso).

Do
Ski in the Serra da Estrela Natural Park.

Buy
Tapestry; ceramics

Eat
The gastronomy of Guarda is associated with the gastronomy of the Serra da Estrela. Some of the most outstanding typical dishes are the following: roast lamb, rice with duck in the Guarda way, and Lagareiro cod, which can be easily found in regional cuisine restaurants. The gastronomy of the city includes a wide range of meat-based dishes, given the geographical location of the city, as well as the surrounding lands, which are conducive to grazing. There is also a wide variety of fish dishes from freshwater streams. Cod is the exception, since its conservation process (by drying) has always allowed its consumption in lands far from the sea. The pig occupies an important place in the local gastronomy, with countless dishes made with this type of meat. The ham cured in sea salt can be highlighted, as well as the typical local cured meats (black pudding, farinheira and chouriço), such as tripe with vegetables. Other common meats are lamb, goat, beef, and white meat. Carquesa (Genista tridentata) rice is also a very typical dish in the city and the region.

At the time of the hunting season, unique dishes, such as hare rice "malandrinho", or wild boar with beans are eaten.

In the fall, Trancoso's edible mushroom stew (champignons) and chestnut soup are popular (it can also be eaten cooked, boiled, or sweet).

Go next

 * Serra da Estrela Mountain
 * Castles in Terras de Riba-Coa (Pinhel, Sabugal, Marialva, Castelo Mendo, etc.)
 * Douro Valley / Vila Nova de Foz Côa / Côa Valley, Marialva, Sortelha
 * Viseu
 * Lamego
 * Salamanca, Spain

title: Guarda


text:
Palhoça

Palhoça is a city in Santa Catarina, Brazil.

title: Palhoça


text:
Guarujá

Guarujá is a city in São Paulo state, Brazil, and it is part of the Baixada Santista, the metropolitan area centered in Santos. One of the busiest holidays destinations of the state, only 87 kilometres from the city of São Paulo, Guarujá is a city that is devoted to tourism and has dozens of beaches that stretch along its avenues and urban zones, or are to be found in less accessible locations.

Understand
The municipality of Guarujá corresponds to Ilha de Santo Amaro, a large island that remained almost unexplored during the colonial and imperial times. In the end of the XIX century, an ambitious enterprise turned Guarujá into a beach resort town for wealthy Paulistas, and it became a full municipality in 1947. The beauty of the island gave its nickname "The Pearl of the Atlantic".

In the 1970s/1980s, tourism in Guarujá grew enormously, following the growth of São Paulo and the opening of new roads between the two cities. Although a bit further from São Paulo than Santos, São Vicente and Praia Grande, the growing beach pollution problems of these cities have turned Guarujá into the main holiday destination of Paulistanos.

In the central area, the blue waters of the beaches of Pitangueiras and Astúrias have great appeal to the tourists. Amongst the most popular spots are the beaches of Enseada and Casado. On the open sea and not good for bathing, the Tombo beach is excellent for surfers, in contrast with tranquility of Guaiúba, Prainha Branca and Iporanga where the fertile vegetation is enhanced by a waterfall and a freshwater swimming pool. Guarujá also has relics from history such as the Barra Grande Fortress built in the 16th century, the Forte Velho just 8 km from the centre and the Armação das Baleias, the first industrial plant set up in the state for the extraction of whale oil.

By air
Arriving the airports in São Paulo (Congonhas / ) or (Guarulhos / ), packtours can arrange convenient TAXI service to Guaruja, it may take slightly more than one hour to go.

By bus
Take a taxi or the subway to Jabaquara Bus Station. There you can take a bus directly to Guarujá. Estimated travel time: 1 hour and 20 minutes. More information: 11 50113421.

By car
From São Paulo, first it catches the Anchieta Highway (SP-160) until the city of Cubatão. There it has a bifurcation that it allows to follow for the Cônego Domenico Rangoni Highway (old Piaçagüera Highway) until Guarujá. Alternatively, it is possible to catch this bifurcation from the Highway of the Immigrants (SP-150), but it takes a little longer.

By taxi
A good way to move around to not-so-close places. They are not very expensive and drivers are mostly friendly, although small cheats are not uncommon. To avoid it, after getting into a taxi, check if the taximeter has been started. If not, ask the taxi driver to do so.

By bus
Buses are a cheap and nice way to get around by day although by night they are more scarce. The fare is paid on cash to a controller or the driver only inside the bus, by passing through a roulette. There are no tickets. Keep an eye out for pickpockets when the bus is crowded. Many people get still wet from the sea into the bus, so have a good look if your seat is dry before you sit. Check bus routes to the beaches on the beach section below. Bus n.81 goes to all the beaches.

By bicycle
Guarujá has an extensive network of cycleways, and among locals, bicycles are one of the most popular ways of getting around in the city. The Enseada beach has a cycleway along most of its extension. For a tourist, there are unfortunately not many places to rent a bicycle, but it is worth considering to buy one if you are going to have an extended stay in the city. Some hotels offer bicycles for borrowing or renting.

Beaches

 * Pernambuco. The rich and famous all have a beach house along this sophisticated and calm beach. When the tide is low, it is possible to walk from the beach to Ilha do Mar Casado, the island in front of it. Bus number: 17,55,77 and 81
 * Perequê. Traditional beach with authentic fisherman's villages. One can appreciate just-caught fresh fish and seafood in the many restaurants while watching the come and go of the villagers. The water is polluted in some areas and not safe for bathing. Bus number: 17,55,77 and 81
 * Pernambuco. The rich and famous all have a beach house along this sophisticated and calm beach. When the tide is low, it is possible to walk from the beach to Ilha do Mar Casado, the island in front of it. Bus number: 17,55,77 and 81
 * Perequê. Traditional beach with authentic fisherman's villages. One can appreciate just-caught fresh fish and seafood in the many restaurants while watching the come and go of the villagers. The water is polluted in some areas and not safe for bathing. Bus number: 17,55,77 and 81
 * Pernambuco. The rich and famous all have a beach house along this sophisticated and calm beach. When the tide is low, it is possible to walk from the beach to Ilha do Mar Casado, the island in front of it. Bus number: 17,55,77 and 81
 * Perequê. Traditional beach with authentic fisherman's villages. One can appreciate just-caught fresh fish and seafood in the many restaurants while watching the come and go of the villagers. The water is polluted in some areas and not safe for bathing. Bus number: 17,55,77 and 81
 * Perequê. Traditional beach with authentic fisherman's villages. One can appreciate just-caught fresh fish and seafood in the many restaurants while watching the come and go of the villagers. The water is polluted in some areas and not safe for bathing. Bus number: 17,55,77 and 81

Other attractions

 * Barra Grande Fortress - The fortress was built by the colonizers in 1584. In there we can see panels of Manabu Mabe’s. It is accessed by the Santa Cruz dos Navegantes road, or by boat, from the Ponte dos Práticos (Pilot’s Bridge).
 * Barra Grande Fortress - The fortress was built by the colonizers in 1584. In there we can see panels of Manabu Mabe’s. It is accessed by the Santa Cruz dos Navegantes road, or by boat, from the Ponte dos Práticos (Pilot’s Bridge).

Do

 * Surf! Guarujá hasn't the best waves around, but they are good enough for a great surf session. Each beach offers its own style of wave, so whether you are a newbie or an expert, you will sure find what you are looking for. At Pitangueiras beach you can find a School of Surf (to the southwest, close to the rocks) where you can take some classes or just rent a board. More informations: 013 33821827 or 013 97882558.

Buy
Pitangueiras is the commercial center of the city, and also hosts a shopping mall by the beach near Av. Puglisi. Every weekend and during holidays, local artisans gather in a square near the shopping mall to sell handcrafts. Some bargaining is allowed, so practice your Portuguese numbers before you go.

Eat
Not only seafood but many other cuisines can be found in Guarujá. Barbecue restaurants are a nice option after a whole day of walking on the sands (but never before swimming). Italian cuisine is popular in the São Paulo State and is well represented in Guarujá. Japanese and Arabian cuisine will add to the vastness of culinary options. Besides restaurants, vendors are everywhere selling coconut, sweetcorn, sandwiches, ice cream, etc. Kiosks are also easily found on the main beaches where you can try the excellent fresh and clean fried fish, crabs and shrimps.

Mid-range
There are several very good restaurants in and around the Rua Rio de Janeiro.

Drink

 * Barbirott's Bar, Av. Gal. Rondon, n/n, Astúrias. Videokê bar. English songs available.
 * Tahiti, Av. Mal. Deodoro da Fonseca, 367, Pitangueiras. A restaurant during the day, a happy and young bar during the night, in front of the beach. Good appetizers.
 * Tahiti, Av. Mal. Deodoro da Fonseca, 367, Pitangueiras. A restaurant during the day, a happy and young bar during the night, in front of the beach. Good appetizers.
 * Tahiti, Av. Mal. Deodoro da Fonseca, 367, Pitangueiras. A restaurant during the day, a happy and young bar during the night, in front of the beach. Good appetizers.
 * Tahiti, Av. Mal. Deodoro da Fonseca, 367, Pitangueiras. A restaurant during the day, a happy and young bar during the night, in front of the beach. Good appetizers.

Sleep
Due to the high demand caused by the proximity with São Paulo, accommodation in Guarujá is somewhat overpriced, and cancellation policies are often restrictive.

Stay safe
Guarujá does not have a good reputation for safety. Pedestrian robberies (especially in the sidewalks of Pitangueiras and Enseada beaches) and car robberies are relatively common. Try to avoid walking in the beach sidewalks if there seems to be few people on them, especially (but not only) during the night. Don't bring more than you need to enjoy your day.

Stay healthy
The water quality of the beaches in Guarujá tend to vary alongside the year. In the beach, before rushing to the water, check the CETESB flag. A red flag indicates that the beach is not safe for swimming. Before you go, you can also check the map of the latest weekly beach quality bulletin (in Portuguese, boletim de qualidade das praias) of the state's Environment Department (CETESB).

Go next
You find hostels and private rooms ...:

in the east:

 * Bertioga – 50 km. A laid-back sea-side town with excellent beaches. It's one of the safest towns of the São Paulo coast.
 * Camburi and Boicucanga – 100 km. It is considered by Paulistas as one of the best beaches on their coastline. There are also quite a few small restaurants and bars along the road going through Camburi. Camburizinho beach is right next door.
 * Ilhabela – 130 km. The island is considered one of the natural paradises of the São Paulo coast. (Ilhabela means literally "beautiful island" in Portuguese). It is known for its forest-covered mountains, its amazing beaches and its savage trails.

in the (south-)west:

 * Santos – 10 km. The biggest city on the São Paulo coast. Santos is known for its historical center and the Santos FC football team (team of the legendary Pelé). It has the longest beach garden in the world.
 * Itanhaém – 60 km. Surrounded by the Atlantic forest and with nice beaches. You can make a boat tour upstream the river. The city's nickname is "Princess of the South Seas" and "Amazônia Paulista".

in the north:

 * São Paulo

title: Guarujá


text:
Guarulhos

Guarulhos is a city in São Paulo, located in the metropolitan area of the city of São Paulo. Despite being a city with 1.2 million people, second largest in the state, Guarulhos is mostly known for its international airport, the most important of South America and the main gateway to São Paulo. Indeed, Guarulhos has not much to offer to a visitor, although there are remarkable exceptions, like the Cabuçu center of Parque Estadual da Cantareira, one of the most beautiful nature spots of the São Paulo metropolitan area.

Understand
With GRU airport, Guarulhos is a typical "airport city" of a larger, more important city, used by visitors almost solely as a meeting point or a stopover to somewhere else. Unlike most "airport cities", however, Guarulhos is a huge city. It is a major center of industry and services, but also partly a dormitory city for São Paulo.

The view that many visitors have of Guarulhos are the favelas and factories that surround the GRU airport. However, the city also has a large middle class, which has been growing due to the pressure of housing prices in São Paulo. For this reason, there have been many new developments in the city, including a new modern shopping mall.

As expected, Guarulhos' most common visitors are business visitors who come for short-term conferences and meetings, sometimes in the vicinity of the airport. For them, the city offers the conveniences (and inconveniences) of a typical large Brazilian city, but for the more adventurous visitor, there are also some nice nature areas that are worth checking out.

By plane
São Paulo's biggest and busiest airport is actually located in Guarulhos:

Guarulhos International Airport (GRU)

Leaving the airport, the only way to get into the city, or get to any other city around, is Rodovia Helio Smidt, which connects the airport to Avenida Monteiro Lobato (for Guarulhos destinations) and to Via Dutra and Rodovia Ayrton Senna (to get to farthest locations).

A taxi co-operative, Guarucoop (tel: +55 11 2440-7070), has a monopoly on cabs leaving the airport. They are plentiful and the queue is outside the arrival terminal. Credit-card users can pay for their journey in advance at the booth, although it's useful to have local currency as not all international credit or debit cards will work at all businesses in Brazil. Expect to pay about R$50 to any close destination.

Just across the arrival platform at terminals 1 and 2, there are some bus stops, where it's possible to take a bus to Cecap Terminal, and some other destinations inside Guarulhos, such as Guarulhos International Shopping and Cemitério da Saudade, in Picanço. From Cecap Terminal, there is a number of bus lines which can take you to any destination in Guarulhos.

By bus
The easiest way to get to Guarulhos, is get to São Paulo, and from there, take an intermunicipal bus. Although there is a bus terminal next to Guarulhos Airport:

From São Paulo
Several intermunicipal buses, operated by EMTU, serve Guarulhos from São Paulo metrô stations, such as Armênia, Tietê, Carrão, Penha and Tucuruvi. Due to the geographical location of Guarulhos, related to São Paulo, the best places to get a bus are at East and North regions of São Paulo.

By car
Guarulhos is served by many highways, connecting it to São Paulo, and many other Brazilian destinations:

Rodovia Ayrton Senna
Rodovia Ayrton Senna and Carvalho Pinto (its extension) is a modern and fast highway, that runs from São Paulo to Rio de Janeiro, crossing through Guarulhos.

Westbound, Rodovia Ayrton Senna links Guarulhos (Airport and eastern locations) to São Paulo, connecting to Marginal Tietê, from where it's possible to get many other highways to reach popular destinations, such as Campinas, Santos, Sorocaba, and the countryside of São Paulo.

Eastbound, Rodovia Ayrton Senna links Guarulhos to Rio de Janeiro (via Dutra), and popular destinations in São Paulo countryside, such as São José dos Campos, Campos do Jordão, and coastal cities, like Ubatuba (via Taubaté), São Sebastião and Bertioga (via Mogi das Cruzes) and Caraguatatuba (via Rodovia dos Tamoios).

Via Dutra
Sometimes referred as Guarulhos' main avenue, Via Dutra is not the best choice to travel long distances, due to its heavy urban traffic, and it runs alongside with Ayrton Senna, making the other one a more reasonable choice.

Fernão Dias
Fernão Dias is a federal highway which runs from Guarulhos (intersection with Via Dutra) to Minas Gerais capital and southern destinations. In Atibaia, Fernão Dias highway intersects the Dom Pedro I highway, which runs from Campinas to Jacareí, turning it to a more reasonable choice to get to countryside destinations, like Campinas, as you may avoid the frequent traffic jams at Marginal Tietê in São Paulo. However, it may be a little tricky to drive through this highway, especially when it's raining, due to the heavy traffic of cargo vehicles and the track layout.

Rodoanel Mário Covas
Best known simply as "Rodoanel", this modern highway is proposed to form a ring around São Paulo, connecting the entire highway system. Since the north section is not already built, it's possible to use "Rodoanel" system only to get to coastal cities like Santos (via Anchieta and Imigrantes), and Curitiba (via Régis Bittencourt), with the advantage of avoiding intense traffic inside São Paulo.

Jacu-Pessego avenue is a good alternative to "Rodoanel", since they run alongside until Mauá, where they intersect.

By train
There are two train stations in Guarulhos: Guarulhos - CECAP and Aeroporto Guarulhos, both on the Line 13 - Jade of the São Paulo train system. This line is only accessible through the station Engenheiro Goulart which is on the Line 12 - Safira.

Budget

 * O Postinho, Rua Luiz Faccini, (11) 2452-0256
 * Viola Brasileira, Rua Dona Olinda de Albuquerque, 39 (11) 2409-8235
 * Viola Brasileira, Rua Dona Olinda de Albuquerque, 39 (11) 2409-8235

Mid-range

 * Pizzaria e Churrascaria Cavacas, Rua Quitandinha - Vila Galvão, (11) 2452-8789
 * Restaurante Minhoto, Av. 7 de Setembro, 1555 - Vila Galvão,  (11) 2451-2000
 * Restaurante Minhoto, Av. 7 de Setembro, 1555 - Vila Galvão,  (11) 2451-2000

Stay safe
The area surrounding the GRU airport contains very poor neighborhoods, and these are certainly not a place to be explored in case you feel bored. Guarulhos' good neighborhoods are mostly in the area around the city center, although they require caution, especially during the night, as in São Paulo.

title: Guarulhos


text:
Guatape

Guatapé is a small, very pretty lakeside town in Eastern Antioquia, about 1½-2 hours from Medellín, Colombia.

Understand
The picturesque town of Guatapé is known as the Pueblo de Zócalos, named for the beautifully sculpted and painted depictions of village life that adorn the lower half of most buildings in the town center. On weekends, the waterfront malecón (boardwalk) fills up with local vendors selling beautiful Paisa art, food, and souvenirs, and the adventurous can take a ride on the Cable Vuelo, a canopy zipline over the lake. Popular boat tours visit the former site of Viejo Peñol, a town which was submerged by the creation of the reservoir, which is now marked by a giant memorial cross. Boat trips can also include a trip to see La Manuela, Pablo Escobar´s now bombed-out lakeside mansion, and ¨Fantasy Island¨, a pretty refuge in the middle of the reservoir, which has a swimming area, cabañas for rent, beautiful views of La Piedra, a tienda selling snacks and beer, and a pair of friendly resident scarlet macaws.

Get in
From Medellín: Direct buses from Medellín leave from the Terminal del Norte, these buses pass through El Peñol and by the entrance to La Piedra on the way to Guatapé (2 hours). The fare to Guatape is COP$18,000 (Nov 2023).

Two companies serve this route: Sotrasanvicente, +57 4 861-0595, and Sotrapeñol, +57 4 851-5912, ticket counters 9 and 14 respectively. Each company provides service approximately every hour starting at 6AM. Many buses continue to San Rafael. The last bus from Medellín to Guatapé is at 7PM. The last bus from Guatapé to Medellín is at 6:30PM (7:45PM on Sundays and Holiday Mondays).

Return buses from Guatapé to Medellín fill up quickly on weekends – buy your ticket in advance (can buy for exact time either in Medellín or in Guatapé bus terminal).

Get around
Around the region: moto-taxis (+57 314-731-2184) provide service from the Parque Principal in Guatapé to La Piedra (COP$9,000, negotiable) and around the local area. Buses and Willys (Jeeps) also provide service between Guatapé and El Peñol (COP$3000), passing by the entrance to La Piedra (COP$2,000). Men generally hang off the back, which allows for excellent views. To get to La Piedra, ask to be dropped off at the Zeuss gas station, from there it is a 1-km walk uphill. Chivas provide service to the remote countryside.

See
The majestic surroundings of the Embalse El Peñol – Guatapé, one of the country's largest lakes, were created in part by the construction of a hydroelectric dam that provides 30% of Colombia’s electricity supply. It's hard to miss the region's most famous attraction, a more than 200-m-high rock outcropping that towers over the surrounding area. It's named El Peñol de Guatapé, but more commonly called La Piedra (The Stone). Over 650 stairs have been built into the side of this enormous geological marvel, allowing safe access to the top, where a viewpoint offers spectacular views of the lake and surrounding areas, as well as souvenirs and snacks. Entrance fee to the La Piedra is COP$25,000 (Nov. 2023).

Do
The following activities and tours can be arranged in and around Guatapé and El Peñol, with English-speaking guides upon request: hiking, scenic boat tours, paddle boat rentals, kayaking, fishing, trips to hidden waterfalls and swimming holes, arts and crafts shopping, canopy zipline, mountain and road biking, horseback riding, rock climbing, and free tours of the local museum. The tours can be bought directly from the lakeside company Colombia Getaway in Guatapé.

Swimming
As of Aug 2023 you are not allowed to swim anywhere near the town because the underwater current, which have lead to some deaths. However, you my have boats take you to some little beaches further away to go in the water.

Boat trip on the lake
1hr boat trips on the lake will be offered by hawkers on the waterfront. These go via some famous people's houses, Pablo Escobars old residence and the memorial cross to old Peñol. Private boats cost COP$160,000 and collective boats cost COP$20,000 per person (Dec 2023)

Buy
On weekends, local merchants line the waterfront malecón selling a wide variety of arts and crafts and souvenirs.

Eat
A trip to Guatapé wouldn´t be complete without sampling the local specialty, fresh trout served in your choice of many delicious preparations. There are many good restaurants along the malecón and around the central park offering everything from traditional bandeja antioqueña to pizza and Mexican food. On weekends, local vendors also sell a variety of tasty snacks along the malecón.

Drink
While in Guatapé try some of the drinks typical of the Antioquia region, such as jugo de leche (juice with milk), jugo de aqua (juice with water), or Milo frio.

Sleep
There are a wide variety of good hotel and hostel accommodations fit for every budget. Most are around the central park or along the malecón.

title: Guatape