The White Swan Hotel

May 12, 2007
Guangzhou - Day 7

We went on a guided tour of a comprador's house today. A comprador is a person who assisted in trades between foreigners and the Chinese back in the 19th and early 20th century. Because of their association with foreigners, they were not well liked individuals.

Walking through the main entrance

An elaborate residence

At the end of our tour, our guides insisted we stay to watch a Chinese calligraphy show which would start in a few minutes time. Then they skillfully left us in their gift shop with the added note that all their goods were authentic items collected from villagers. I'm not sure if this was really the case, but a lot of people bought souvenirs in the end, including myself. "Authentic Chinese" is a great marketing tool.

Afterwards, the bus drove into the French concession. A couple of us went to the nearby White Swan hotel, a famous name among those in the adoption circle. Parents from around the world reside here while they await the arrival of their newly adopted Chinese children.

At the French concession

Inside the White Swan Hotel