Shenzhen: The Most Desired City in the World

Skylines and Night Light Shows

Shenzhen's skylines are a sight to behold, showcasing a blend of architectural styles that symbolize its rapid development. The city's skyline is dominated by iconic skyscrapers such as the Ping An Finance Centre, which stands as a testament to Shenzhen's economic prowess.

At night, the city comes alive with dazzling light shows that illuminate the skyline. The skyline transforms into a breathtaking display of colors and patterns, drawing tourists and locals alike to witness the spectacle.

Luxury and Modernity

Shenzhen is synonymous with luxury and modernity, offering visitors a glimpse into the future. The city is home to some of the world's most luxurious hotels, shopping malls, and restaurants, catering to the discerning tastes of travelers seeking the best in comfort and sophistication.

From designer boutiques to cutting-edge technology, Shenzhen offers a glimpse into the future of urban living. The city's modernity is evident in its efficient public transportation system, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and eco-friendly initiatives.

Sightseeing Attractions

Beyond its skylines and modernity, Shenzhen boasts a plethora of sightseeing attractions that appeal to all types of travelers. The city is home to several theme parks, including the renowned Window of the World, which features miniature replicas of famous landmarks from around the globe.

For nature enthusiasts, Shenzhen offers beautiful parks and gardens, such as the Fairy Lake Botanical Garden and the Mangrove Nature Reserve. These green spaces provide a peaceful retreat from the bustling city life.

A Mind-Blowing Destination

Overall, Shenzhen has earned its reputation as the most desired city in the world due to its stunning skylines, mesmerizing night light shows, luxurious amenities, and modernity. Whether you're a luxury traveler, a nature lover, or a fan of modern architecture, Shenzhen offers a mind-blowing experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression.

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In Shenzhen, you can find a variety of popular street markets offering everything from local snacks to unique souvenirs. Here are some of the most popular street markets in Shenzhen:

• Dongmen Pedestrian Street: This bustling street market is one of the most famous in Shenzhen. It offers a wide range of goods, including clothing, accessories, electronics, and local snacks. The street is also lined with restaurants and food stalls offering delicious Chinese cuisine.

• Huaqiangbei Electronics Market: Known as the largest electronics market in the world, Huaqiangbei is a must-visit for tech enthusiasts. Here, you can find everything from the latest gadgets to electronic components at competitive prices.

• Luohu Commercial City: Located near the Luohu Port, this market is popular among tourists looking for counterfeit goods such as clothing, bags, watches, and electronics. Bargaining is a common practice here, so be prepared to haggle for the best price.

• Dafen Oil Painting Village: If you're interested in art, head to Dafen Oil Painting Village, where you can find a wide selection of hand-painted oil paintings at affordable prices. You can even commission a custom painting of your choice.

• Laojie Snack Street: For a taste of local cuisine, visit Laojie Snack Street in Dongmen. Here, you'll find a variety of street food stalls offering traditional snacks such as grilled skewers, dumplings, and noodles.

These are just a few of the popular street markets in Shenzhen. Each market offers a unique shopping and dining experience, making them worth a visit during your stay in the city.

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Shenzhen is renowned for its diverse and delicious street food scene. Here are some of the must-try street foods you should sample when visiting the city:

• Shrimp Dumplings (Har Gow): These steamed dumplings are a classic Cantonese dish and a popular street food in Shenzhen. They are filled with succulent shrimp and wrapped in a translucent, chewy skin.

• BBQ Skewers (Kao Chuan): You'll find vendors grilling a variety of skewers, including meats, vegetables, and seafood. Try the lamb skewers seasoned with cumin for a flavorful treat.

• Sticky Rice Rolls (Zongzi): These are glutinous rice stuffed with savory fillings such as pork, mushrooms, and peanuts, wrapped in bamboo leaves and steamed. They make for a hearty and satisfying snack.

• Egg Waffles (Gai Dan Jai): A popular street snack, these are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, with a sweet, eggy flavor. They are often served plain or with toppings like chocolate, fruit, or ice cream.

• Pan-Fried Dumplings (Guotie): These dumplings are pan-fried to crispy perfection on the bottom, with a juicy and flavorful filling. They are usually served with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, vinegar, and chili oil.

• Coconut Milk Dessert (Ye Zhi Geng): This sweet and creamy dessert is made from coconut milk, tapioca pearls, and various toppings like fruits and nuts. It's a refreshing treat on a hot day.

• Steamed Rice Noodle Rolls (Cheung Fun): These are delicate rice noodle rolls filled with ingredients like shrimp, pork, or vegetables, and topped with a savory sauce. They are a popular breakfast or snack option.

• Stinky Tofu (Chou Doufu): This fermented tofu has a strong odor but a surprisingly mild and flavorful taste. It's often deep-fried and served with pickled vegetables and chili sauce.

These are just a few of the many delicious street foods you can try in Shenzhen. Be sure to explore the local markets and food stalls to discover even more culinary delights.

Street Food Locations in Shenzhen

In Shenzhen, you can find street foods in various locations throughout the city. Here are some places where you're likely to find street food vendors:

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• Dongmen Pedestrian Street: This bustling area is known for its vibrant street food scene. You'll find a wide variety of vendors selling everything from traditional snacks to international cuisine.

• Luohu Commercial City: Near the Luohu Port, this market area is a hotspot for street food vendors offering local delicacies and snacks.

• Huaqiangbei Electronics Market: While primarily known for electronics, this area also has street food vendors selling snacks and beverages to shoppers and tourists.

• Shenzhen Bay Park: This waterfront park is a popular spot for street food vendors, especially in the evenings. You can enjoy your food with a view of the bay.

• Laojie Snack Street: Located in Dongmen, this street is dedicated to street food vendors selling a variety of snacks and treats.

• Local Neighborhoods: Wander through the local neighborhoods of Shenzhen, and you're likely to come across street food vendors selling their specialties. Look out for bustling areas with a variety of food stalls.

• Night Markets: Shenzhen has several night markets where you can find street food vendors selling snacks and meals. These markets often have a lively atmosphere and a wide selection of food options.

These are just a few examples of where you can find street foods in Shenzhen. Keep an eye out for food stalls and vendors while exploring the city, as some of the best street food experiences can be found in unexpected places.

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Hotels in Shenzhen

In Shenzhen, there are several highly recommended hotels that cater to a variety of tastes and preferences. Here are some of the top picks:

• The Ritz-Carlton, Shenzhen: This luxurious hotel offers stunning views of the city skyline and provides elegant accommodations and impeccable service.

• Four Seasons Hotel Shenzhen: Situated in the heart of the city's commercial district, this hotel offers luxurious rooms, a rooftop pool, and exceptional dining options.

• W Hotel Shenzhen: Known for its contemporary design and vibrant atmosphere, this hotel offers stylish accommodations and a range of amenities for a memorable stay.

• The Langham, Shenzhen: This elegant hotel boasts spacious rooms, a luxurious spa, and several dining options, including a Michelin-starred restaurant.

• Grand Hyatt Shenzhen: Located in the prestigious Luohu district, this hotel offers panoramic views of the city and luxurious accommodations with modern amenities.

• JW Marriott Hotel Shenzhen: Situated in the Futian district, this hotel offers spacious rooms, a rooftop pool, and several dining options, including a steakhouse and a Chinese restaurant.

• Shangri-La Hotel, Shenzhen: This hotel offers luxurious accommodations, a range of dining options, and a peaceful oasis in the bustling city.

These are just a few of the top-rated hotels in Shenzhen, each offering its own unique blend of luxury, comfort, and amenities to ensure a memorable stay.

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Transportation Guide for Newcomers to Shenzhen

Shenzhen, as a modern and bustling city, offers a variety of transportation options to help you get around efficiently. Here's a helpful guide for navigating the city's transportation system:

• Metro: Shenzhen has an extensive metro system that covers most areas of the city. The metro is fast, clean, and efficient, making it a popular choice for both locals and tourists. You can purchase single journey tickets or rechargeable cards for multiple trips.

• Bus: Shenzhen has a comprehensive bus network that covers almost every corner of the city. Buses are an affordable way to travel, with fares starting at around 2 RMB. You can pay with cash or use a transportation card.

• Taxi: Taxis are readily available in Shenzhen and are a convenient way to travel, especially for shorter distances or when you're in a hurry. Taxis are metered, and fares start at around 10 RMB, with additional charges based on the distance traveled.

• Ride-Hailing Services: Apps like Didi Chuxing and Meituan Dache are popular for getting around Shenzhen. You can use these apps to book a ride and pay through the app, making it convenient and safe.

• Bike Sharing: Shenzhen has a bike-sharing program that allows you to rent bikes for short trips around the city. You can easily find bike-sharing stations throughout the city and unlock a bike using a mobile app.

• Walking: Many areas of Shenzhen are pedestrian-friendly, with wide sidewalks and pedestrian crossings. Walking is a great way to explore the city, especially in areas like shopping districts and parks.

• Ferry: If you need to travel between the mainland and the islands of Shenzhen, you can take a ferry. Ferries are available to destinations like Zhuhai, Macau, and Hong Kong, providing a scenic and convenient way to travel.

• Airport Transportation: Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport is well-connected to the city center by metro, taxi, and airport shuttle buses. The airport is located about 30 kilometers from the city center, and transportation options are readily available.

Remember to plan your route in advance using maps and transportation apps to make your travel in Shenzhen smooth and hassle-free.

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Fine Dining in Shenzhen

Shenzhen offers a diverse culinary scene, including a range of fine dining restaurants where you can sample delicious local cuisine. Here are some of the most recommended fine dining restaurants in Shenzhen:

• Yue Yuan Chinese Restaurant: Located in the InterContinental Shenzhen, Yue Yuan offers authentic Cantonese cuisine in a luxurious setting. The restaurant is known for its exquisite dim sum and seafood dishes.

• Jade Garden: Situated in the Futian Shangri-La, Jade Garden serves classic Cantonese and regional Chinese dishes in an elegant setting. The restaurant is known for its traditional Cantonese roast meats and seafood specialties.

• Shen Chinese Restaurant: Located in the Four Seasons Hotel Shenzhen, Shen offers a modern twist on traditional Chinese cuisine. The restaurant is known for its creative dishes and elegant presentation.

• Yi Jing Xuan: Situated in the Ritz-Carlton, Shenzhen, Yi Jing Xuan offers a refined dining experience with a focus on Cantonese and regional Chinese cuisine. The restaurant is known for its creative dishes and elegant ambiance.

• Fu Chun Ju: Located in the JW Marriott Hotel Shenzhen, Fu Chun Ju offers a sophisticated setting for enjoying traditional Cantonese cuisine. The restaurant is known for its exquisite dim sum and seafood dishes.

• Xin Yuan Lou: Situated in the Grand Hyatt Shenzhen, Xin Yuan Lou offers a blend of traditional and modern Cantonese cuisine. The restaurant is known for its innovative dishes and elegant atmosphere.

• Shenzhen 8: Located in the Futian Shangri-La, Shenzhen 8 offers a contemporary take on traditional Cantonese cuisine. The restaurant is known for its creative dishes and stunning views of the city skyline.

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Indirect Flights from the UK to Shenzhen