Guangzhou travel information guide

Airport
Baiyun Airport is about 20 kilometers (13 miles) north of Guangzhou. It is the largest international airport in southeast China, flying to 32 cities in China and to major Asian destinations such as Bangkok, Manila, Singapore, and Sydney. The best way into town is by hotel limousine -- a bit more expensive than taking a taxi, but well worth the cost. Arrange to be met at the airport when you book your hotel room or head for your hotel's counter as soon as you arrive at the airport and book a limousine. The fare could reach 200 yuan; travel time is 30 minutes.

If you prefer to save a little bit of cash, take a taxi. Ask any of the airport staff to write your hotel address in Chinese characters as most cabbies do not speak English. The standard fare to central Guangzhou from the airport is about 110 yuan if metered. Some drivers may say their meters don't work and ask for a flat rate. In this case, step out of the cab or negotiate for an amount that is fair to both parties. A number of buses head for the city center, but are always filled to the brim and inconvenient if you have luggage.

Visas
L-visas for single or multiple entry for tourists are valid for 30 to 60 days.
BF-visas for business travel can be valid up to six months but may require the visitor to leave every 30 days. They are good for single, double or multiple entry. Those seeking business visas must obtain an official invitation from a government office or a company authorized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Climate
Guangzhou enjoys a subtropical climate. Year-round temperatures average 22 degrees Celsius, with August being the hottest month when the temperature averages 28 degrees Celsius, and January the coldest at an average of 13 degrees Celsius. The rainy season is from April to August.

Clothing
Normal Western business attire is considered appropriate for doing business in China. As Guangzhou is just Hong Kong's neighbor, local executives have learned to dress fashionably.

Government
Communist state. President and vice-president elected by the National People's Congress for five-year terms. Administrative divisions: 23 provinces, 5 autonomous regions and 5 municipalities.
Guangdong Province--15 cities, 73 counties and 3 autonomous counties; Capital--Guangzhou

Geography
China is located in Eastern Asia, bordering the East China Sea, Korea Bay, Yellow Sea, and South China Sea. Shared borders with North Korea and Vietnam. Guandong province, whose capital is Guangzhou, is 120 kilometers northwest of Hong Kong. Guangzhou covers an area of 1,444 square kilometers.

Population
China: 1.25 billion
Guangdong province: 68.7 million

Religion
China is officially atheist, but traditionally pragmatic and eclectic. Daoism (Taoism), Buddhism and Islam are practiced by about 2%-3% of the population; Christianity by 1%.