Guangzhou Carat Hotel

Was here in June 19 for an overnight stay. Ambience - The first thing that will hit you is the foul carpet smell in the 'grand' lobby. It smelt like they have not cleaned the carpet for years! I couldn't stop sneezing whilst in the lobby. Nevertheless, I can imagine it has seen better days as the hotel was ashamed to display their accolades earned years ago. The hotel is also located right beside a highway, so expect vehicular noise very early in the morning. Location - There's really nothing much around the hotel. The nearest decent shopping center is the Baiyun Wanda Plaza, which is a 15 min cab ride (costs RMB25). We appreciated that there is a Walmart in Wanda Plaza, which is a good place to stock up items. Service - don't expect english speaking staff. The concierge was useless, couldn't even call a cab for us. We went out to hail a cab by the road. Room - Open concept room that leaves very little privacy if you are rooming with someone else. Shower stall was poorly designed, which causes inevitable flooding when in use (ask for extra towels). Food - Breakfast was ok, but the pastries were not entirely fresh. Chinese selection is decent, but Western selection is dismal.

Ideal hotel to stay at the foot of Baiyun Mountain and not far from City centre. Quite location. Easy taxi ride from main train station, Guanghzou East (Dong) and to the shopping district. Location of hotel is such one can walk around the vicinity. There is a lake and a park; walking distance from the hotel.

This hotel is nicely furnished and clean. The breakfast was very good! The rooms were quite cold and difficult to heat! Surrounding the hotel are large busy streets, but there is a good bus connection (No. 24 and 265) into the city center. We didn't like the open bathroom. It's okay for a couple, but not for friends. The toilet door didn't even close properly. Plus point: pool!