China Hotel A Marriott Hotel Guangzhou, Guangzhou

We stayed at the China Hotel for 2 nights in late November '04, and it was a fairly pleasant experience. Overall, the hotel's common areas were clean, and service was prompt, attentive, and cordial. We were greeted by the general manager, Rauf, and made to feel welcome on the property. Guest Services was very helpful, as was the Concierge desk, which was very busy most of the day. The room was not as clean as expected, as there was hair in the bathtub and the sink surround was dirty. Also, the bathtub was slow to drain, and the water, while clean, was slightly discolored and smelled fishy. On the upside, the kingsize bed wasn't as rock-hard as the New World Marriott in HK, and the feather pillows were very soft. The 18th floor restaurant was wonderful - the service was first rate, the food was tasty, and the menu contained many western dishes. HOWEVER, the first floor restaurant was the opposite - the service was horrible, there wasn't a non-smoking area, and the method of ordering left much to be desired. Avoid this restaurant, if possible. The cafe' overlooking the parking lot/McDonald's provided good service and the quality/selection of the food was satisfactory, as well. What happened to the Sports Bar/Restaurant?? The sign said it was closed in October '04 for "renovation", which must mean 'Out of Business' because it was empty. For the consumate shop-aholic, there are numerous stores inside the hotel, offering goods at a "convenience" price, and a Starbucks for the coffee klatchers. Outside, taxis were plentiful, but it's too bad there are so many sidewalk hawkers near the hotel/McDonald's, wanting to sell you a stolen laptop or "change your money"(into what? more money?!!). It was reassuring to see a number of security personnel inside the hotel, just in case something were to happen. The hotel is easily within walking distance of the nearby parks, convention centers, and subways. The map provided by the Concierge was fairly accurate, as long as you know which way is North. While many taxi drivers recognize the "China Hotel" name in spoken English, the hotel will provide their business card with the name/address in Chinese. Lastly, take advantage of the Chinese foot and body massages at the hotel spa. They are to die for(!) and are only $10 & $13USD, respectively, for an hour's worth of heaven! Enjoy!