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| 8 |
 Introduction |
| Guangzhou, provincial capital of Guangdong, is one of the most important gateways to China alongside with Shanghai and capital Beijing. It is a showcase of modern China with undisputed political and economic weight. While this city is well know to the West since the outbreak of the Opium war in the last century, its history can be traced back as far as 2200 years ago, when a rogue general founded the independent Nanyue Kingdom in suburb Panyu. Being the starting point of "martime silk road", Guangzhou had direct contact with the Western world for over 2200 years, which makes Guangzhou people pleasantly indifferent to Western faces. Nowadays, Guangzhou covers an area of 7,434.4 square kilometer with a population of over 6 milliion, over half of which live in Guangzhou city. Guangzhou is also known for the Cantonese style of cooking which no tourist can afford to miss. |
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Eating in Guangzhou |
| "Eating in Guangzhou" has become a popular saying both at home and abroad. Guangzhou ranks first in the number of restaurants and tea-houses in the country. Cantonese cuisine is good in color, fragrance, taste and presentation. In addition, the delicate Cantonese pastry is also well-known for its wide range of varieties, delicious flavor and beautiful color. Cantonese cuisine is among the most famous four in the country. |
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| Best Buy |
| Department stores are scattered around the downtown area, concentrated in the blocks between Zhongshan Lu and the river. Guangzhou Computer Marker is located at Tiyu Road East. Department stores specialized in selling jade, jewelry, Chinese medicine, dried seafood, antiques and flowers can be found in the area along the northern bank of the Pearl River, west of the Subway Bridge over the river. They are worth a look even if you don't really intend to buy anything. In case you do intend to buy, use your discretion if you are not familiar with what you are buying; take the trouble to compare prices and bargain.As in any crowded places, watch our belongings real closely |
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| Visas |
| Tourist visa is required. The visa is valid for 2 months. A new visa is needed if you stay for more than two months. A new visa can be applied for in HongKong. It takes only one to two days. |
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| Currency Exchange |
| The legal currency is Renminbi (RMB).The basic unit of RMB is Yuan. Foreign currencies can be converted into RMB at all banks or hotels. The Bank of China handles transactions of credit cards issued in other countries. |
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| Office and Banking hours |
| Most offices open five days a week from 8:00am-5:00pm with one hour lunch break. Shops open everyday from 9:00am-9:00pm. |
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