China's heart of the south, Guangzhou, is rapidly emerging as Asia's next stopover destination for travel throughout China, Asia and beyond to Europe, the Middle East and USA.

This gateway city, formally known as Canton – has evolved from a thriving commercial metropolis into a short break paradise, offering some of the best shopping in Asia and many unique experiences.

"Guangzhou is experiencing strong growth in hotel development, to meet a significant rise in visits from both business and leisure travellers," said James Liu, Regional Manager Australia for China Southern Airlines.

China Southern offers four weekly flights from Sydney to Guangzhou and two per week from Melbourne.

"Arriving late afternoon in Guangzhou with China Southern enables passengers to check in to their hotel by early evening and head out to dinner or an evening stroll, ready for an early start," said Mr Liu.

"In addition to its bargain shopping, Guangzhou is the centre of Cantonese cooking and also offers a vast selection of unique dining experiences, with more restaurants than any other Chinese city," he said.

Guangzhou offers a rare natural beauty along the Pearl River, and with historical sites and unique architecture scattered along its banks, a river cruise has become a must for visitors to the city.

For more information about China Southern Airlines, or to make a booking, contact your travel agent, or call China Southern Airlines reservations in Sydney on 02 9233 9788 or in Melbourne on 03 8676 0088.