Brief information on Guangdong University of Foreign Studies  

Although this may not, on first glance, appear to be a traditional tourist attraction, from my experience it can provide the visitor with a set of unique experiences-among them the chance to meet some of China’s most talented students (the university specialises in English studies, often combined with management or International Trade). It is situated adjacent to a large foreign language institute, ensuring a large and lively student population. During the 18 months I lived near the campus, I was often drawn to its green sanctity and the quiet studiousness of its surroundings. In recent years, the campus has enjoyed a multi-million Yuan makeover, including the construction of a new library, and there are ample lawns to stretch out on and seek shade under the trees during the blazing tropical summer.

As I mentioned earlier, the university is well-renowned for the quality of its students, and I was fortunate to make many friends during my time living nearby. The students I spoke to shared my feelings about the campus, all of them taking the time to enjoy the serenity of its environment (when they had the opportunity to tear themselves away from their arduous hours of study.)

Aside of the well-preserved lawns, the nearby YunShan Cafe is an excellent place to relax, escape a sudden rain shower, or meet friends. It is staffed almost wholly by students, so the general vibe is young, friendly and relaxed. You can enjoy regular cafe fare, such as tea, coffee and juices, along with a range of sandwiches and cakes; or you can choose from the separate green tea menu. The cafe also has separate ’tea rooms’ where you can sit and enjoy a tea ceremony, as the tea is served on a traditional carved tray and in ornate, tiny cups. The cafe was probably one of my favourite place in all of Guangzhou, and I must have whiled away days sitting in quiet contemplation, writing, pondering the reasons behind another failed relationship, or meeting new friends. I think that, along with the reasons mentioned, the main reason I love the university is how easy it is to make lasting friends here, along with the fact that students take responsibility for running many of the extra-enterprises. This gives the university a unique feel, and the campus became a second home for me-all the more so as I later chose to come back and study for a semester!

Alongside the many good reasons to take the time to visit the campus, there is another excellent reason: It is in very close proximity to one of the most spectacular sites in Baiyun District- Baiyun (White Cloud) Mountain. The mountain can easily be visited at the same time, and, so long as the visitor avoids the traditional holidays, he or she can enjoy the tranquil environment, spectacular views and clean air.

So, a chance to meet the friendly and talented face of China’s future; the opportunity to wander at leisure around a modern, elegant and leafy-green campus; the chance to make new friends in the unique, student-run cafe; and, finally, to round off you stay by visiting the nearby scenic delights of Baiyun mountain. Who said that going back to school is no fun?

*You can download the bilingual note to show it to a taxi driver or someone else to find your way to Guangdong University of Foreign Studies if you plan to visit Guangdong University of Foreign Studies and have language problems.