STAYING IN SHENZHEN

Until 30 years ago, Shenzhen was a relatively sleepy township of only 30,000 or so residents. Shenzhen has undergone a frenetic rate of development since the late 1970s and today is one of the most modern cities in the world, a visible and glittering symbol of China's meteoric rise on the world stage. Today 23 million people call Shenzhen home, employed in industries including technology, finance and hi-tech services. Chinese mega Corporation Tencent has its offices here, as does the world's largest drone maker, DJI. Shenzhen is known the world over for its hi-tech credentials and attracts some of China's and the globe's top tech talent.

Culturally, Shenzhen is young, fun and in love with big city life. The city has a world-class bar and dining scene, striking contemporary architecture, plenty of parks and green spaces, entertainment hubs and year-round cultural happenings. From your serviced apartment in Shenzhen don't miss out on experiencing the best the city has to offer, including hanging out in some of Shenzhen's coolest neighbourhoods, exploring Shenzhen's best theme parks and chowing down on delicious street food.

GLITTERING CITY

Given the pace of Shenzhen's development, it's no surprise the city boasts some truly astounding architectural marvels. Some of the best examples of contemporary architecture in Shenzhen are located only a short metro journey away from your serviced apartment. For a futuristic shopping experience head to OCT Harbour. The complex is an integrated entertainment precinct, complete with artificial lakes and fountains, an IMAX cinema, multiple dining options, bars and plenty of shopping. For sky-high adventure, make your way to the tallest building in Shenzhen and the second tallest in China, Ping An Financial Centre. The 116th floor is given over to the 'Free Sky' observation deck, which offers 360-degree panoramic views of Shenzhen 541 metres above sea level. The trip up to Free Sky is almost as thrilling, with the elevators being the fastest in China, reaching speeds of up to 10-metres per second.

SHENZHEN ON THE PLATE

As a planned city, food and dining options are never far away in Shenzhen. Whether it's in the malls and shopping strips or tucked away on quieter streets, visitors to Shenzhen will be spoilt for choice. Some of the best food in Shenzhen can be found along many of the city's 'eat streets'. For the largest variety of cuisines from around the world head to Shekou; the largely expat area attracts chefs from around the world. For more traditional Cantonese fare, make your way down Bagua First Road East Street. Here you'll find classic Cantonese eateries aplenty serving up delectable dim sum and even some more exotic delicacies, including snake.