China's Garden City

QUESTION: We will be at a conference in Shanghai in June and would like to visit Suzhou to see the Chinese gardens. How should we travel there, where should we stay, which gardens should we visit and how long should we stay there? - Riana Russouw

ANSWER: The most convenient way to travel between the two cities is by bus or train. There are regular bus services, but it may be more interesting to catch one of the high-speed trains. Suzhou is a major stop along the Beijing-Shanghai railway line and there are more than 40 daily train services which stop at Suzhou. The best place to stay is the Sheraton Hotel, which has stunning traditional Chinese architecture and beautifully landscaped gardens. It is located in the
Old City, within walking distance of many attractions. A cheaper option would be the Bamboo Grove Hotel. There are 10 major gardens, with the Humble Administrator's Garden and the Lingering Garden the most important. It might be worthwhile to take a two-day tour, which takes in both gardens as well as the Grand Canal, Tiger Hill and one of the famous silk factories. I would suggest staying 3-5 days to fully appreciate this enchanting city.