Thrill seekers can now count China as a destination to get their kicks. A ferris wheel with an incredible view, built near the top of a newly constructed 1,480-ft. tower in Guangzhou, China, is now open for business. The ferris wheel circles the perimeter of the Canton Tower, also known as the Guangzhou TV Tower that overlooks the Guangdong provincial capital. Holding up to 96 visiters, a ride in one of the 16 beachball-shaped pods will give the fearless 360-degree views through glass walls, allowing them to see the city of 15 million in all of its glory. A complete trip around the track will take anywhere between 20 and 40 minutes for about $20 USD. Unlike traditional vertical ferris wheels this one operatates horrizontally with a 15-degree incline. To enure the ride was safe architects had to account for extreme weather and earthquakes when building the wheel. According to officials the ride and tower can endure magnitude eight earthquakes and extreme typhoons.
Traveling to Guangzhou: China’s Los Angeles
Guangzhou, China’s third largest city, is in the midst of a facelift. Now known as the country’s LA, it is home to high-end shopping malls, and skyscrapers, But not long ago it was a city of bad architecture and neverending freeways. Today it is cosmopolitan and full of cultural attractions, including 123 historical sites and the oldest mosque in China. American citizens must apply for the correct visa before traveling and ensure that at least six months remain on the passport; failure to do so will result in a fine and limited options.
