Midsummer Bliss: Savoring Cantonese Flavors

Due to the pandemic early this year, we missed our spring vacation. But with the progress of domestic epidemic prevention measures, inter-provincial travel and cinemas are gradually reopening, and it's time to plan a trip. Guangzhou, a millennia-old commercial hub, is one of the starting points of the Maritime Silk Road and China's 'Southern Gateway.' Zengcheng, located in the eastern part of Guangzhou, is a nationally famous lychee hometown, boasting the Baishuizhai National 4A Scenic Area, Huxin Island, and many other attractions. It features the 3-square-kilometer Gualu Lake, 367 kilometers of greenways, 257 kilometers of ecological landscape forest belts, 12 forest parks, over 30 ecological parks, and a number of nature reserves. 'Long confined within the cage, I return to nature again' — this year, we truly need such a spontaneous getaway.

After browsing hotels, I noticed the Guangzhou Zengcheng Evergrande Hotel has been quite popular recently. I checked the transportation: it's only a 40-minute drive from downtown Guangzhou, with a nearby metro station and shuttle bus service to and from the hotel. The price was reasonable, so I set off with my family. Upon arrival, I found the hotel's surroundings beautifully landscaped, with lush greenery and fresh air.

Entering the lobby, the European-style decor impressed me with Evergrande's opulence. A huge crystal chandelier hung from the ceiling, dazzling. With domestic epidemic prevention still stringent, everyone entering the lobby had to show the 'Suikang code,' take a temperature check, and wear a mask. The hotel assigned dedicated staff for this task and even provided free masks for guests who forgot theirs, making us feel at ease. As it was the summer holiday season, many people were checking in. I queued to get our room while my family rested in the lobby lounge. The front desk service was professional, carefully verifying our check-in details and requiring ID cards. Seeing our many luggage, the guest service manager promptly arranged a luggage cart and staff to help carry our bags to the room, freeing our hands. These small details instantly raised my opinion of the hotel and made me eagerly anticipate the rest of the stay.

Oversized Room: I booked this hotel not only for its convenient transportation but also because online reviews said the rooms were spacious, and now I truly understood. The room was huge, definitely over 60 square meters, with 180-degree panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows. Stepping onto the balcony, I enjoyed an excellent view overlooking the hotel's eco-garden. The electric curtains and lighting control system let us feel the charm of a smart room as soon as we entered. The oversized bed with soft, comfortable linens and two pillows of different heights promised a good night's sleep.

The bathroom was also spacious, with separate wet and dry areas. The bathtub was especially large and very clean, thoughtfully equipped with a small TV—a subtle touch of human-centric care. The shower had instant hot water, strong water pressure, and stable temperature, paired with quality bath amenities for a refreshing shower experience. The toilet and shower each had their own space, embracing the design trend of modern upscale hotels. A large vanity and a thoughtful small makeup mirror delighted any female guest.

The minibar and tea cabinet in the room were exquisitely stocked. Tea bags, instant coffee, mineral water, and beverages were all available. For those wanting a special touch, there was a tea set, so you could enjoy a quiet, leisurely afternoon tea right in your room without going to the restaurant. Gazing at the scenery outside, listening to birdsong and cicadas, I savored the slow afternoon moments.

A Culinary Delight: Guangzhou, a food capital, makes dining an essential part of any journey. The hotel's Western restaurant featured a seafood buffet dinner. In summer, seasonal fruits were incorporated into dishes, adding a touch of coolness. Over ten stalls offered a dizzying array of Chinese and Western cuisines, allowing you to sample everything in one stop—fantastic! The grill station held its own next to the sashimi and seafood area, its savory aroma wafting through the air. For Chinese food lovers, the restaurant served Cantonese-style roasted meats and rice noodles. With such variety, almost every palate was satisfied. The charm of a buffet is precisely making everyone happy.

The most popular items were, naturally, the sashimi and seafood stations—fresh, cut to order, quickly snapped up. The outdoor barbecue also drew long queues, with all kinds of grill-worthy ingredients. Layers of fat and cumin released a heavenly aroma. The smell of meat mingled with the scent of charcoal, and the sizzling sound of oil dancing on the grill was exhilarating. Barbecue, that magical cuisine, is a hit wherever it appears.

Worth mentioning was the live band performance—we not only feasted on food but also on music. Electronic beats flowed freely, a guitar strummed softly, and dynamic drumbeats made us sway. Under the starlit sky and dancing lights, it was a wonderful night that ignited the sounds of summer.

Hotel Address: Evergrande Shanshui City, Zhongxin Town, Zengcheng District, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province.

Transportation: Exit C, Zhongxin Station, Guangzhou Metro Line 21 (shuttle bus available between hotel and metro station).

Attractions: Baishuizhai Scenic Area, Guangzhou Erlongshan Park, Colorful Australia World.

Other Services: Free parking, paid airport/station transfer service, car rental, and taxi service.