Sofitel Guangzhou Sunrich

The Sofitel Guangzhou Sunrich -- a massive property in a twinkling set of high-rise towers -- delivers a slice of Paris by way of Guangzhou's Tianhe District. The curvy architectural design of the hotel’s towers dazzle at night, with lights reflecting off the glass exterior and a pond at the entrance. Two floors of windows at the front of the hotel provide lots of natural light in the luxurious lobby, whose impressive foyer is decorated in red hues with colorful modern artwork hanging behind the front desk, and lavish chandeliers dangling overhead. With a full-service spa, indoor pool, and well-designed meeting spaces, the hotel draws luxury-seeking tourists, especially Europeans, though business guests are far and away the most frequent guests here. The number of on-site facilities is also helpful as there's nothing much to see or do in the immediate area. When weather permits, guests can expect photo-worthy city views from rooms and common areas.

Set on a busy road, the hotel is in the business district of Guangzhou. However, don't expect to walk to any interesting shopping or dining. Just a few restaurants surround the hotel, along with a 7-Eleven. The hotel is a five- to 10-minute drive to the CITIC Plaza and the Guangzhou East Train Station. The Guangzhou Library and Guangzhou Opera House are just over 10 minutes away by car. More dining and shopping possibilities are across the Tianhe Straight, and driving to the Pearl River, Guangdong Museum, and Canton Tower takes about 10 to 15 minutes. It's a 20-minute to the Canton Fair, a major business event that takes place twice a year. Baiyun Mountain is about a half-hour away by car, while Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport is a 50-minute drive. Limousine airport transfers can be arranged on request, and on-site parking is available.

The 493 rooms at the Sofitel Guangzhou Sunrich are elegant, inspired by Paris, with photos of Parisian landmarks hanging over tufted headboards. They have pops of red furnishings, lacquered wooden furniture, Chinese-style fabrics, and French poetry in carpeting. Large windows offer city views, when weather cooperates. Superior Rooms have 38 square meters of space (409 square feet) of space and Luxury Rooms offer 58 square meters (624 square feet). Suites, with between 75 to 100 square meters (807 to 1,076 square feet) of space, offer 180-degree views from curved windows and separate living rooms. There are six elegant Honeymoon Suites and Paris wedding packages. Amenities include 40-inch flat-screen TVs, DVD players, iPod docks, minibars, coffeemakers, bathrobes, irons, and safes. Sleek black-and-white bathrooms have TVs in mirrors, showers and/or soaking tubs; some have whirlpool tubs. 

With almost 500 rooms, it's perhaps no surprise that this international luxury brand feels a bit like a large resort-in-the-sky. That's a good thing, too, as the immediate area isn't exactly packed with charm or things to do. Set against floor-to-ceiling windows, the indoor heated pool features boat-shaped lounge chairs and glowing wooden ceiling and wall designs that look like a cracked eggshell. The seven-room So Spa uses L’Occitane products and has a hot tub, hammam, ice room; there's also a nail salon with Champagne service. Open 24 hours, So Fit is stylishly designed and offers city views, modern weight and cardio machines, and free weights. Personal training and fitness programs are available. There are also ping-pong tables near the gym. 

Multiple dining possibilities are available at the hotel, including the Le Grill steak house with dinner service, as well as 2 on 988 Cafe, serving Chinese and Western buffets. Le Chinois offers Cantonese fare in a dining room that’s decorated in regal red furnishings. In the lobby is the Mar Tea Ni bar, where afternoon tea is served. Faubourg Bar is open in the evenings with live DJs and a garden terrace. There are 17 meeting rooms, including a ballroom that can accommodate banquets for up to 600. The hotel also has a business center, currency exchange, and concierge service. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property.