Lychees, Longans and Pagodas

Travel in Southern Guangdong, China

Arrival in Guangzhou

As our flight descends into Guangzhou’s airport, the glittering lights below mark our arrival. The evening air is dense and humid. We leave the terminal nearly melting in the suffocating atmosphere that envelops the city.

First Impressions

Guangzhou, a booming industrial hub, hosts millions of workers and a biannual international trade fair generating billions in revenue. Our contact, Mr. Wu, meets us at the airport, and we quickly head to the southern bus terminal.

The Road to Gaozhou

We travel overnight through Guangdong’s lush fruit-growing region. The landscape is dotted with banana plantations and massive roadside billboards. This journey leads us to Gaozhou, famed for its Lychees and Longans.

A Spartan Stay

Mr. Wu insists we stay at his modest apartment. The spartan conditions make for a restless night. By dawn, rice paddies stretch outside our window. Despite the rural charm, we resolve to relocate to a hotel for comfort and privacy.

Settling In

We move into a local hotel, finally finding rest. Mr. Wu, ever helpful, assists us with check-in and arrangements. As we drift into sleep, we wonder what adventures await us in this vibrant corner of China.