Guangzhou or Guangdong is not very far from Macau. You take a bus from Zhuhai, which borders Macau, and it only takes 2 hours 15 minutes. My first observation is that China doesn't seem as strict as I thought. You don't get facebook and google is limited. Along the way, was most surprising is I was able to see parts of Zhuhai on my way out that intrigued me to take future visits. Our route was along the coast for about 20 mintutes, which had breathe-taking views of the ocean, boats. Most people I know who visit Zhuhai (including me), go directly to the underground mall for cheap items such as clothing, bags, DVDs, and anything else you can imagine.
The journey was quick and I arrived in Guangzhou without a map or destination so I started to wander. I went to the zoo area because I thought I would find a nice place to stay. When that failed I went into a hotel for a free tourist map. Then I went in search of food so I could also sit and make a plan. Also when traveling in China if you go to a sit-down restaurant, there are better chances of clean toilets. I have to say most places have the squatting toilets that I have yet to master. After eating some very bad pad thai, I ventured to Shamain Island which comes recommended by Lonely Planet. Shamain is right along the Pearl River and when I walk along the path it reminds me of walking along the Seine in Paris. All the buildings are Colonial style and painted in various bright colors. This one mile area perimeter (1.6km) has so many different characteristics. Once I got a room for the night, I went in search of food and beverage. Afterwards I met some friendly fellow travelers who were staying in the same place, they enlightened me about Guangzhou and other places to visit. We sat outside and drank the local beer, which isn't so bad and spoke of life and experiences. This all happened the day I arrived, which I surprisingly had to say I didn't get too badly lost.
The next day I got lost constantly and wandered mostly. I thought I knew where to go but I didn't. The problem with Guangzhou is there is so much development everywhere that it completely covers all the scenic areas. It reminds me of Taipei because you could be walking near different buildings then all of a sudden there is this gigantic park with wonders to see. I found a nice cathedral and a couple temples, but what I really loved was the park which I accidentally found and had to pass. I was staving because I had not eaten a meal all day so once I was well-nourished I returned to the park. It reminded me of Central Park in NYC because it of size and multiple sights within the grounds. I saw an amusement park, museum, memorial, and huge goat statue. I didn't even see everything. While in the park I met this kind Chinese man who helped me find the goat statue and the exit. He was kind to even take my photo. I really loved that fact that people were so friendly because I find that most Chinese people only stare at me because I am always so out of place and then they have nothing to say to me except: "Can I take you picture?" or "Where are you from?"
I sadly did not have much time to spend in Guangzhou. I missed so much because of sheer exhaustion; but I know I can easily return. Here are some strange things I noticed:Chinese muslims
A lot of Africans
Overloaded bikes
Very few Westerners
Painfully hot weather in October
Recycling bins
Crossing guards
Chinese people playing hacky sack
Only a few Starbucks locations...
