Guangzhou Diaries: Beauty, Bargains, and Belonging

Every time I visit Asia, my journey inevitably concludes in Guangzhou, China. The reason is straightforward: Guangzhou serves as a central travel hub for the region, and in my experience, flights from there to other Asian destinations are significantly more affordable, especially when departing from New Zealand.

Beyond its convenience, Guangzhou is a shopper’s paradise. For Black women in particular, it feels like a treasure trove. The Beauty Exchange Centre offers an impressive array of products tailored to our beauty needs. From wigs and hair extensions to skincare, cosmetics, nail accessories, and fragrances, everything is available at remarkably reasonable prices. Additionally, wholesale markets like Baima Clothing Market attract international buyers who seek high-quality goods at low costs for resale.

Personally, I love strolling through the malls and vibrant streets of Guangzhou in search of unique fashion finds that speak to my individual style. The city also boasts a thriving second-hand electronics scene, drawing those in the market for used phones and computers. During one of my recent visits, I wandered into a sprawling electronics market that was buzzing with activity. The air was filled with voices as men from across the globe engaged in animated bargaining with local vendors. Although I didn’t end up purchasing anything, the experience was unforgettable—particularly because I seemed to be the only woman in the crowd.

Navigating the city is relatively easy. I use Didi, China’s ride-share app, which is popular among tourists. While bike taxis are a common option, I personally prefer the safety and comfort of a car. Motorcycles are simply not for me.

It’s also important to note that China is largely a cashless society. Before you travel, be sure to download Alipay or WeChat, as these platforms are essential for everyday transactions and will make your experience much smoother.

Each time I arrive in Guangzhou, my first stop is usually the local market. I have a little ritual: I search for the biggest, juiciest mango I can find to mark the beginning of my stay. I usually choose a hotel that offers both breakfast and a shuttle service, which adds a level of ease and comfort to my trip. The food scene in Guangzhou is another highlight. From mouthwatering street food to upscale restaurants, there is something to suit every palate and budget.

On my first trip, I met an African man who introduced me to a simple yet incredibly useful travel hack. By using Google Translate’s camera function to hover over Chinese menus, I could instantly understand the items on offer. That tip has served me well on numerous occasions.

I recall one evening when I visited an elegant restaurant filled with local diners. After scanning the menu with Google Translate, I was grateful to realise that some of the dishes featured meats I prefer not to eat. I tend to stick with seafood and poultry, which makes dining in unfamiliar places more manageable.

Guangzhou, in many ways, reminds me of downtown Kingston, Jamaica. The hustle and bustle, the vibrant energy of the markets, and the persistent yet charming vendors all evoke that same lively spirit. I was especially struck by the presence of many people from the African continent, whether residing in Guangzhou or visiting for business or leisure. As a woman of colour, I felt an unexpected yet comforting sense of belonging. To my delight, I even stumbled upon a small vendor near the Beauty Exchange Centre selling jollof rice which is an unexpected taste of West Africa in the heart of China.

On my final day in Guangzhou, I like to keep things simple and comforting. I often dine at a modest restaurant near my hotel, a spot frequented by locals and now familiar to me. On my most recent visit, I enjoyed a warm, satisfying meal of fish, rice, bok choy, and a light chicken broth. It was a quiet and perfect end to another memorable stay in a city that continues to surprise and welcome me each time.