Hotel Review: Sheraton Guangzhou for Canton Fair Buyers

# Hotel Review: Sheraton Guangzhou for Canton Fair Buyers Navigating the Canton Fair is a marathon, not a sprint. After a long day of sourcing and networking, a comfortable and convenient hotel is crucial. Is the Sheraton Guangzhou the right choice for you? We've stayed there, explored its amenities, and are here to provide you with an honest review tailored specifically for Canton Fair buyers. ## Location & Accessibility: Your Canton Fair Home Base The Sheraton Guangzhou enjoys a prime location in the Tianhe District, the bustling central business district. This translates to excellent accessibility, which is paramount when you're juggling meetings, factory visits, and navigating the sheer scale of the Canton Fair. * **Proximity to Canton Fair Complex (Pazhou):** While not directly adjacent to the Canton Fair Complex, the Sheraton Guangzhou offers convenient access via the Guangzhou Metro. The nearest metro station, **Shipaiqiao Station (Line 3)**, is a short walk away. From there, you can take the metro directly to Pazhou Complex (Canton Fair) stations. Expect a travel time of around 30-45 minutes depending on train frequency and transfers. Factor this into your daily schedule! * **Airport Accessibility:** Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN) is easily accessible by taxi or the metro. A taxi ride usually takes around 45-60 minutes depending on traffic and will cost approximately RMB 150-200. The Metro (Line 3) also connects the airport to Tianhe District, but it involves transfers. * **Local Amenities:** The hotel is surrounded by numerous restaurants, shopping malls (like Grandview Mall and Parc Central), and convenience stores. This makes grabbing a quick bite or finding last-minute necessities a breeze. You'll also find ATMs (look for Bank of China or ICBC) readily available nearby. **Key Takeaway:** The Sheraton Guangzhou's location offers a good balance of accessibility to the Canton Fair Complex and proximity to local amenities. However, be prepared for a daily commute of 30-45 minutes to the Fair using the metro. ## Accommodation & Amenities: Rest and Recharge After a long day at the Canton Fair, comfortable accommodation is a necessity. The Sheraton Guangzhou offers a range of rooms and suites designed for the business traveler. * **Rooms:** The rooms are generally spacious and well-appointed, featuring comfortable beds, a work desk, a mini-fridge, and a flat-screen TV. Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel, but be aware that accessing some international websites may require a VPN (consider setting one up before your trip). * **Business Center:** The hotel has a well-equipped business center, which is invaluable for printing documents, sending faxes, or making last-minute arrangements. Consider confirming availability and pricing beforehand. * **Fitness Center & Spa:** For unwinding after a busy day, the hotel features a well-equipped fitness center and a spa offering various treatments. These can be a great way to de-stress and recharge. * **Other Amenities:** The Sheraton Guangzhou also offers laundry services, concierge assistance (helpful for booking transportation or getting local recommendations), and currency exchange. Remember to download WeChat and Alipay before your trip; they are essential for payments in China. **Key Takeaway:** The Sheraton Guangzhou provides comfortable and well-equipped rooms and a range of amenities that cater specifically to the needs of business travelers. ## Dining: Fueling Up for the Fair The Sheraton Guangzhou offers several dining options to cater to different tastes. * **Feast:** Their all-day dining restaurant offers a buffet with a wide selection of international and local cuisines. This is a convenient option for breakfast and lunch. * **Yue Chinese Restaurant:** If you're looking for authentic Cantonese cuisine, Yue is a good choice. It's a great opportunity to experience local flavors without venturing too far from the hotel. Consider making a reservation, especially during peak season. * **In-Room Dining:** For added convenience, the hotel offers in-room dining. This can be a lifesaver if you're feeling tired or need to catch up on work. * **Nearby Options:** Don't limit yourself to the hotel restaurants! Explore the surrounding area for a variety of local eateries. Try exploring restaurants around Grandview Mall for diverse cuisines at different price points. Apps like Dianping (大众点评) can help you find nearby restaurants and read reviews (mostly in Chinese, but you can use translation tools). **Key Takeaway:** The Sheraton Guangzhou offers a decent selection of dining options, but don't be afraid to explore the surrounding area for more authentic and affordable local cuisine. **Overall Recommendation:** The Sheraton Guangzhou is a solid choice for Canton Fair buyers seeking a comfortable and well-located hotel. While the commute to the Canton Fair Complex requires planning, the accessibility to local amenities and the quality of the hotel's services make it a worthwhile option. Factor in your budget and desired level of convenience when making your decision. Consider booking well in advance, especially during peak Canton Fair periods.