While Hong Kong is one of the most crowded, most liberal, and most modern cities in China, it is no longer the undisputed king when it comes to economics, entertainment, and tourist attractions. Guangzhou (2 hours by train from H.K.) is a city on the rise. It has long been one of China's bad boy cities, with a culture and prosperity that made it seem to be outside of Beijing's zone of influence. Today, Guangzhou, which has formerly been known as canton, is a city known for its shopping, its parks, its culture, and its nightlife.

The evidence: The gardens and hills of White Cloud Mountain Park (Baiyun Shan) offer idyllic settings and an air of quiet that is not found in Hong Kong. Yue Xiu Park, inside Guangzhou itself, is China's largest urban park. Shang Xia Jia" Shopping Street is a busy and energetic place that is good for gazing at architecture as well as deal spotting.

Guangzhou's nightlife is a neon lit party paradise that might leave visitors wondering where the cold and quiet grayness that characterized China in the past has gone. Bai-E-Tan Street is a mecca for nightlife seekers as are several of the more rowdy clubs throughout the city. The city's nightlife is well covered in online publications.

Guangzhou continues to surprise visitors (in a good way).