Stanley1588
Google
Guangzhou, Guangdong Province—a city that speaks through its details. Its stories are told through flavors, sounds, textures, and sights. As the cultural capital of Southern China, Guangzhou seamlessly blends historic tradition with modern innovation, from the scenic Baiyun Mountains and Pearl River to its dynamic culinary scene and growing urban economy.||The Setting: Pazhou Island and the InterContinental Experience||Pazhou, the eastern island district of Guangzhou, is a hub for international trade and innovation, home to corporate headquarters, exhibition centers, and the historic Huangpu Port. Nestled on the island’s edge, overlooking the iconic Canton Tower, stands the InterContinental Guangzhou Exhibition Center, sharing its modern tower with the Poly Development headquarters. Designed with business travelers in mind, especially those attending the Canton Fair, the hotel offers more than just convenience—it delivers thoughtful hospitality.||My Return Visit: A Stay With Purpose||Having visited before, I returned on June 23–24 to experience the hotel again amid a changing hospitality landscape. As part of my IHG Diamond Ambassador membership, I booked a one-night stay for just under ¥900 (~$125 USD) in a Classic Room, which was graciously upgraded to a 1 King Premium Tower Bath View Room.||A day before my arrival, I was personally contacted by Martha Roberts, possibly the only Argentine front office manager in IHG China—a familiar face who ensured every detail of my stay was arranged. Upon arrival, I was greeted not only by Martha but also by the General Manager, Bruno Bohl, who has brought seasoned leadership and a personal touch to the property. To my surprise, he even gifted me a plate of lychees he picked with his family—a gesture that set the tone for a deeply personal and memorable stay.||The Room: 1 King Premium Tower Bath View||Located in a corner of the building, Room 2917 offered sweeping 270-degree views of the Pearl River and Canton Tower. The 60 sqm room featured floor-to-ceiling windows, minimalist wood and marble interiors, a walk-in closet, and a tranquil bathtub with views that capture the spirit of the riverfront. The bathroom was well-equipped, with a shift from the usual Byredo products to local Calmac amenities—a refreshing touch.||Club InterContinental: Lounge Above the Clouds||Thanks to my IHG Milestone Rewards, I enjoyed access to Club InterContinental on the 39th floor—a refined lounge with panoramic views, elegant furnishings, and a calm atmosphere. Led by Claire He, the lounge team delivered exceptional service across breakfast, afternoon tea, and happy hour. It’s also a great setting for private meetings or simply soaking in the city skyline.||Dining: A Culinary Highlight||The hotel boasts three main dining options:||CHAR Restaurant – A Michelin-guide steakhouse with a dramatic minimalist design. Highlights include the USDA Prime Ribeye and open kitchen concept. CHAR also has a sister location at Hotel Indigo Shanghai, famed by “Max the Meat Guy.”||Canal Luna – A celebration of Cantonese tradition, offering refined local dishes crafted by a master chef. Ideal for those seeking authentic regional cuisine.||Café Aqua – The all-day buffet offers everything from fresh seafood and international fare to Cantonese specialties. A vibrant and inclusive dining space for hotel guests and locals alike.||I took advantage of the 618 Sale, similar to Double 11, with excellent value F&B packages:||Café Aqua Semi-Buffet Lunch (¥168/$24): Featuring main dishes like curry chicken and steak, with a side buffet of seafood, sushi, and salads—prepared by the veteran Winson Wang.||Canal Luna Dim Sum Set (¥138/$20): A traditional Cantonese dim sum menu including shrimp dumplings, wonton noodles, and mango sago. A complimentary dessert voucher made it even sweeter.||Breakfast at Café Aqua: A broad selection from Western classics and dim sum to Lanzhou noodles, fresh juices, and even milkshakes and ice cream. I enjoyed breakfast with Bruno and was warmly attended by Winson and F&B Director Victoria Li. For a quieter option, the Club Lounge provides à la carte selections with stunning morning views.||Facilities: An Exceptional Pool Experience||The swimming pool is among the best in any Guangdong hotel—spacious, clean, and well-equipped with thoughtful extras like a high-speed dryer, sauna, and top-tier locker rooms.||Final Thoughts: Service Defines the Stay||This was my 7th visit, and it ended on a high note—a group photo with the team I’ve come to know and appreciate: Bruno, Martha, Claire, Winson, and Victoria. One absence stood out—Catty Chen, the new Director of Rooms, who had long been a key figure during my early visits and helped establish the relationships that keep me coming back.||To me, the essence of a great hotel lies not only in its architecture or amenities, but in the genuine service and passion of its team. The warmth, attentiveness, and heart shown here are what make this property exceptional.||Verdict:||Without a doubt, this is the best IHG property in Guangdong Province, and personally, my favorite among all IHG hotels. If you’re visiting Guangzhou—whether for business or leisure—this hotel is worth every yuan. Treat the staff with kindness, and you’ll experience hospitality at its finest.
