Roaming Guangzhou, Staying at Xana, Tonight, I’m a Goddess!

Guangzhou is a city I love. Its ancient streets, weathered historical charm, intersecting rivers, and a variety of pavilions and terraces showcase the essence of Lingnan architecture.

Guangzhou is also a delicious city. I remember my first visit, staying on Daxin Road in the city center, surrounded by old arcade buildings. It was winter; after dropping my bags at the hotel, a friend took me for mutton. I still recall the restaurant's name: Baijia Cooked Food Shop. Unassuming, with just a few small tables under the eaves, it's said to be a nearly thirty-year-old establishment with many returning customers, open only in winter.

Many Guangzhou locals love this atmosphere: charcoal stoves, chatting while eating, even with porters unloading goods nearby. Despite the low temperature and chilly breeze, gathering around the stove for a night chat is truly delightful. The broth and mutton were perfectly prepared; the mutton hotpot is a must-try, and you can add tripe, liver, and more, then blanch vegetables or noodles in the rich, flavorful broth. The meat was tender and absorbed all the flavors—so tasty. 'Eat in Guangzhou'—from that night on, Guangzhou's cuisine left a deep impression on my heart.

The next morning, Guangzhou's morning tea won over this chili-loving Chongqing girl.

'Never forget the tea of Guangdong'—tea drinking has long been a social ritual for Guangzhou locals and a distinctive feature of Lingnan culture that sets it apart.

Guangzhou people typically enjoy 'one brew and two dishes'—a pot of hot tea and two or three dim sum items, the standard for Cantonese morning tea. Although it’s called 'drinking tea,' the dim sum steals the show.

From chicken feet in black bean sauce, spare ribs with black bean sauce, beef tripe, sticky rice in lotus leaf, shrimp dumplings, siu mai, BBQ pork buns, custard buns, lava buns, egg tarts, durian pastry, water chestnut cake, spring rolls, fried wontons, to fried milk—order two kinds a day and you could go a week without repeating.

Coming to Guangzhou without having morning tea is like never coming at all. There are so many dim sum restaurants, each with its own specialties, some with recipes passed down for generations. Just eat wherever you go—it's as good a strategy as any!

I really like Guangzhou’s lifestyle, which is a bit similar to my own habits. Sleep in, then head out for morning tea. I usually just find a place near the hotel. Of course, if you have a Guangzhou friend to guide you, it’s even more authentic.

This time I came to Guangzhou on business. First day was all work. The second day, after morning tea, we went to check out Canton Tower. After so many visits to Guangzhou, it was my first time going up.

Canton Tower is actually Guangzhou's new TV tower, affectionately nicknamed 'Little Waist'—easy to say and remember. It stands 125 meters from the south bank of the Pearl River, facing Zhujiang New Town, Huacheng Square, and Haixinsha Island. It's now a symbol of Guangzhou. The tower has five functional zones and many attractions: outdoor observation decks, the Sky Walk cloud staircase, a revolving restaurant, a Ferris wheel, the Sky Drop ride, two observation halls, a suspended corridor, a staircase, 4D and 3D motion theaters, Chinese and Western cuisine, convention facilities, shopping malls, and a science exhibition hall.

From the west entrance, we took the elevator to the 32nd floor for a great photo spot. Then, like Spider-Man, we climbed the world’s longest spiral sky ladder on foot from the 32nd floor. As we ascended, the city of Guangzhou lay beneath our feet. I especially loved the 16 'crystal' observation pods at 455 meters—this world’s highest horizontal Ferris wheel is just amazing! If you have time, I highly recommend a night cruise on the Pearl River—it’s bound to be another enchanting scene.

On this trip, I stayed both nights at Xana Hotel Guangzhou Baiyun Airport Branch, near the airport.

Located in Huadong Town, Huadu District, just a five-minute drive from Guangzhou Baiyun Airport, it's perfect for those catching early or late flights. The most thoughtful touch is the 24-hour airport shuttle service—just call the front desk twenty minutes in advance, whether you're staying or have a reservation, and a car will pick you up. The driver was very nice, helped with our luggage, and gave us a rundown of the hotel, making a great first impression. There’s also free parking and a self-service laundry, making it ideal for road-trippers.

Xana Hotel is a mid-range brand under Jinjiang Group in China, and I’ve stayed at many of them. This Baiyun Airport branch just opened this year. Looking around, the familiar color palette feels so warm and welcoming. Stepping into the hotel, a fresh fragrance greets you, instantly refreshing.

The front desk staff were well-trained, professional, and friendly. After checking our health code and temperature, check-in was quick, with no deposit required; we could pay by card or mobile. Hand sanitizer was provided, and all staff wore masks, making us feel safe and comfortable.

The lobby was spacious, with a cozy book lounge next to it.

There was also an adorable cart filled with cosmetics, skincare, and daily essentials. For 'goddesses' who rush out and forget something, you can restock right here—so thoughtful!

The book lounge has a stylish, elegant, and romantic vibe, stocked with plenty of books and magazines—perfect for quiet reading.

If a friend visits, it’s a nice spot to sit and chat for a while.

Or you can just sit alone, sip a cup of floral tea, and enjoy some quiet time.

The 'Goddess Wall' in the lobby is stylishly designed, perfect for photos.

Together with my bestie, we chatted and snapped pictures, savoring our little Xana moments.

The hotel offers a buffet breakfast. Sleeping in and then dining with my bestie in such elegant surroundings was utterly delightful.

To our surprise, the lobby lounge also serves drinks. We asked the staff to mix up a cocktail of our choice—look at this beauty, we're in love! Quick, snap a photo for my Moments :)

The guest rooms are elegant and cozy, equipped with smart controls—a wonderful stay experience.

The linens are high quality, the mattress fits the body perfectly, ensuring great sleep.

There’s a large HD LCD TV, and by the window, a sofa and small table—very functional.

The room’s color scheme is specially designed for women: black-and-white photo frames, a chic reading lamp, high-quality tea set, and even a steam eye mask... every detail reveals elegance.

The independent Wi-Fi was smooth and fast, whether for web surfing or work, the network was solid.

I especially love the double-sink design in the bathroom, so user-friendly. The wet and dry zones are well separated, the layout is logical, and smart lighting, background music, and high-end bath amenities elevate the whole experience.

Drawing a bath, turning on some background music, and enjoying a lovely hot soak—tonight, will I dream of the Little Waist?