White Swan Hotel

We were supposed to make a trip to Guilin but changed our mind the very last minute. Aa we've not visited Shamian Island, we made a last minute booking at the White Swan. I was rather worried and apprehensive as I read some poor reviews. When I arrived at the hotel lobby, my first impression already started to change. We had asked for a smoking room and the front desk staff told us that it's only available on a lower floor. Though a little disappointed we agreed to take the room as we wanted to check in and rest. However, the staff managed to get one of the smoking rooms in a higher floor as cleaning was completed. Stepping into our river view room was the 2nd great impression. The room had a full view of the Pearl River. The bathroom was huge and bright. Even my 15 yr old daughter fell in love. We've stayed in some very good hotels such as Ritz, Kempinski and Capella etc, and this room can be ranked up there. We needed an extra bed and the housekeeping staff set it up quickly, bringing with them a set of extra amenities as well. We tried the Chinese restaurant. Good but I wouldn't say it was 'wow'. There's turn down service every night and the housekeeping staff leaves a nice little box of biscuits as night treat. Rooms were made up promptly everyday and bottled water refilled. The staff was proactive, knowing that there were 3 of us, they actually placed extra bottles of water for us. If I have any complaint, it would be the pillows. Though there was a pillow menu, somehow all the pillows were still really flat. I had a bit of stiff neck and I told the housekeeping staff. They very kindly brought a few extra pillows so that I could prop up to a comfortable level. Location is also convenient with many restaurants and cafes nearby. A short walk will bring you to a nearby mall and the metro station. Compared to the Conrad where we stayed the last trip, this definitely fare much much better. Will be our top choice if I come to GZ again.

The hotel is located right beside the river and in the charming Shamian Island with lots of beautiful buildings nearby. We booked a city view room which has a panoramic view over the neighbouring area. Rooms are reasonably big and clean. There are lots of restaurants in the hotel and nearby which offers good Guangzhou cuisine. Getting around is easy also. Definitely worth the price.

It is my 3rd time staying this hotel when I visit Guang Zhou. Receptionist staff are friendly and forthcoming. We were fortunate to get free upgrade to club rooms. Room is spotless and very comfy. Location of hotel is great with a lot of restaurants nearby.