Shamian Island serves as a reminder of Colonial influences on a land seldom associated with the West. It has certainly stood witness to a great amount of Chinese history. Located in Guangzhou, a stroller- friendly port city in the northwest of Hong Kong, Shamian Island has attracted foreign trade from time immemorial. Pair your visit to the past with modern luxuries made available at Springdale Serviced Residence Guangzhou. Your stay in the area will be more pleasurable if you choose to stay at these remarkable Guangzhou serviced apartments. It is time to take in an ambiance that you will rarely relate to this region of the world. It will calm your travel- weary nerves and ensure that you raise a likely question, “am I in China?”
Covering an area of 0.3 square kilometers, this little island was a pivotal location in Guangzhou’s foreign trade. You might have to allow your mind’s eye to travel back to the Song and the Qing Dynasty, as it was functional at that point in time. It also played an important role in the second Opium Wars from 1856 to 1860. It’s during this period that the story of the island becomes more gripping. In 1859 Shamian island was divided between the British and the French as their concession. And then, many buildings blossomed, that display architectural magnificence as seen in most Western countries. Ranging from styles such as Gothic, Baroque, and Neoclassical,the buildings reach an astounding total of 150.
What’s more? Avenues such as Shamian Avenue, Shamian North Avenue, the South Avenue and many more hold little surprises of their own. White Swan Hotel is remarkable in many ways, but what’s most interesting is that it was the first five star hotel in China. Its walls priedinto the lives of many prominent personalities. Superbly maintained this hotel is worth a visit, simply hovering around its grand structure brings a unique satisfaction.Situated in comfortable corners of the island are little cafes that are welcoming as the scent of brewing coffee wafts onto neighboring streets.
Your stroll around the island would not be a lengthy one, but greatly satisfying!
Shehera Fioni is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Catalina Forbes. Her content is based on many thrilling escapades offered to travellers across the world. Google+
