This was one of China's first luxury hotels (1982) -- an ugly, labyrinthine monster whose dominating location on Shamian Island and views over the Pearl River have all but destroyed the island's colonial atmosphere. The more you pay, the higher your room. Refurbishment is a continuous process, and the hotel is unusual among long-standing hotels in keeping up standards and adding facilities. Some slightly larger rooms come with dataport, some with broadband Internet access, high ceilings, and new furniture. The tacky lobby features a waterfall and fish-stocked pools crossed by bridges. Former guests include Queen Elizabeth II and former U.S. president George Bush. Many agencies organizing adoptions use the White Swan: Every floor is fully stocked with diaper service, parents get a free toy, and the hotel goes quiet at nap time -- no wonder it has been nicknamed the White Stork.
Facilities: Multiple restaurants; nightclub; 2 swimming pools; golf driving range; 10 tennis courts; squash court; fitness room; sauna; extensive children's facilities; tour desk; business center; forex; extensive shopping arcade with bakery, florist, bookshop, and pharmacy; salon.