1. Language Barrier Solutions

  • Key phrase app: Download Baidu Translate (supports Cantonese voice input).
  • Emergency card: Carry a card with your hotel’s Chinese address.

2. Transportation Hacks

  • Metro: Use “Guangzhou Metro” app (English interface) with Alipay/WeChat Pay.
  • Taxis: Show drivers the Chinese name of destinations (e.g., “广州塔” for Canton Tower).

3. Weather Prep

  • Summer (Jun-Aug): Pack quick-dry clothes + portable fan (humidity >80%).
  • Umbrella: Sudden rain showers are common year-round.

4. Dim Sum Etiquette

  • Tea pouring: Tap fingers twice when someone refills your cup (thanks gesture).
  • Must-try: Order har gow (shrimp dumplings) before 11AM for freshness.

5. Cashless Payments

  • Set up Alipay Tour Pass: Preload money with a foreign passport (max ¥5,000).
  • Cash backup: Small vendors may only accept WeChat Pay/现金.

6. Cultural Sites Dress Code

  • Temples: Cover shoulders/knees (e.g., Chen Clan Ancestral Hall).
  • Shoes: Remove before entering some traditional teahouses.

7. Nightlife Safety

  • Bar streets: Stick to Zhu Jiang New Town (English-friendly clubs).
  • Scams: Avoid “tea ceremony” invitations near北京路.

8. Spicy Food Warning

  • Request “微辣” (wēi là): Mild spice level at restaurants.
  • Alternatives: Double-skin milk cools the palate.

9. Visa-Free Transit

  • 144-hour rule: Valid if flying via Baiyun Airport to 3rd countries.
  • Required docs: Print onward ticket + hotel reservation.

10. Emergency Contacts

  • Police: Dial 110 (English operators available).
  • Tourist hotline: +86-20-12301 (24⁄7 multilingual).