Feed your mind

A magnificent synthesis of glass, granite and steel, the was designed by architect Zaha Hadid and features a steady stream of international drama troupes, touring musical productions and classical orchestras. Just across the way is the cuboid Guangdong Museum, a treasure chest of Chinese culture and handicrafts.

Shop like a local

Mandarin Oriental, Guangzhou is situated in the same building as TaiKoo Hui, the city’s premier shopping mall, filled with international brands including Hermès, Fendi, Gucci and Armani. It also includes an array of restaurants and a supermarket which caters for all. In fact, all the best shopping sites are right on the hotel’s doorstep, including Tee Mall and Grandview Mall. Parc Central, a hybrid of green design and high-end retail, is an increasingly popular option thanks to its serene environment.

See some sights

You don’t have to search the skyline very hard to identify the Canton Tower, one of the tallest buildings in the world. At night it flashes through a rainbow of hues while equally colourful boats sail past, taking people on tours of the river. See it from the Mall of the World, which is flanked not only by the opera house and the Guangdong Museum, but also by the main city library – built to look like cascading books – as well as an ever-increasing number of impressive skyscrapers. Gorgeous 19th-century European mansions await on the island of Shamian, which is immensely popular with engaged couples taking pre-wedding snaps.

Toast your arrival

Emanating casual elegance, Taikoo Lounge offers an atmosphere that’s almost as bubbly as the chilled Champagne you’ll sip among the bright, cream interiors. Nearby, Lotus Lounge is where the city’s in-the-know people hide away. Its disguised entrance is concealed at the back of a typical-looking Cantonese diner, and the bartenders mix bespoke cocktails according to your flavour preferences.

Dine in style 

If Guangzhou had a Michelin guide, Social & Co, the owners have combined casual décor and home-cooked Western favourites to create a surprisingly cosmopolitan eatery.