Guangzhou Marriott Hotel Tianhe Review

Guangzhou is China’s third largest city with a population of more than 14 million, yet it isn’t nearly as well-known as Shanghai or Beijing outside of Asia. Conveniently located on the Pearl River, almost equidistance from Hong Kong and Macau, the mega city has plenty to offer visitors, so we checked in at the Guangzhou Marriott Hotel Tianhe for a long weekend of leisure.

Photo: Guangzhou Marriott Hotel Tianhe

The three-year-old hotel is right in the heart of Tianhe business district and is attached to the Grandview Mall (the largest in Asia some claim) and the metro system, so guests will certainly not be left wanting for choice when it comes to dining and shopping.

Photo: The interior features water features in a nod to the traditional Chinese elements

The interior of the hotel is designed to inspire a feeling of harmony and freshness. Natural materials coupled with Chinese artwork nod to the five traditional Chinese elements: metal, wood, fire, earth, and the principle element used in the design (and in our opinion the most relaxing), water.

Photo: An executive suite living room

Rooms and suites offer city views along with the standard amenities: mini bar, coffee/tea service, Wi-Fi and spacious bathrooms with full-size bathtubs (and bath pillows, salts and oils).

Photo: Bedroom in the business suite

We stayed in the business suite which offered a 180-degree view of the high rises of Tianhe, particularly nice in the evening when they are lit up and the night sky covers the less appealing city scenery. However, the 18th floor room did give us front-row seats of the ludicrously high kite flying in the square opposite during the day.

Photo: The executive lounge offers a few perks that includes breakfast and evening cocktails

If you are staying in an executive guest room or suite, you will get access to the executive lounge on the 20th floor. The lounge is sizable, with a relaxation area offering sofas and chairs, a meeting room, and a large dining area. Included with access is a breakfast buffet with a nice mix of Asian and Western fare (read: cheese for breakfast); evening canapés and cocktails as well as snacks and beverages that are available all day. While the canapés are offered from 5pm to 7pm, cocktails are shaken all the way up to 9pm, making this the most generous cocktail “hour” we have come across in a while. Mid-shelf spirits and a few different wines were on offer along with seared tuna salad; a variety of cheeses, cold cuts and bread; a few Asian dishes such as satay; and a few desserts.

Photo: Dining includes classic Cantonese restaurant Man Ho

Other dining and drinking options in the hotel include Man Ho which offers Cantonese cuisine and a great all you can eat dim sum option for lunch. The City Bistro, located next to reception, offers local and international dishes as part of their buffets and on their a la carte menu. The Lounge, also located next to reception, offers afternoon tea and evening cocktails.

Photo: The indoor swimming pool offers a relaxing and calming getaway

When you’ve had your fill of sightseeing and you’re ready to relax, head to Enoch Touch Spa for some rejuvenation. Treatments include scrubs, facials, massages and a few other standard spa offerings. The indoor swimming pool also offers a respite from the hectic city, with large, relaxing daybeds located poolside and a well-equipped locker room that offers a Jacuzzi, steam room, sauna and showers.

Photo: The hotel features a well equipt gym that is open 24 hours

The 24-hour gym was virtually empty on both of our visits. It offers a good range of cardio equipment, weight machines and free weights. The chilled towels are a nice touch.

Stay tuned for more on luxury hotels and happenings in Guangzhou, including great places to eat and drinking.

www.marriott.com

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