Patrick O'Donovan enjoys a view of Guangzhou atop the Canton Tower. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Editor's note: As Shenzhen prepares to host the APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting in November, we are inviting young people from around the world to share their views on Shenzhen, Guangdong province, and the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. In this contribution, Patrick O'Donovan, a London native who moved to Guangzhou in 2017 and worked as a college teacher, shares his story.

When I was asked to reflect on Guangzhou, my life in the city and the development I have witnessed, the question stopped me in my tracks. How could I possibly reflect on something that is still changing and advancing at such a rapid pace? Surely, my observations today would be obsolete tomorrow. After reflecting on Guangzhou's history, culture and standing, I'm confident it can be done.

Guangzhou could almost be described as an enigma. What other city can be so historical, yet so advanced? What city can feel so small, yet be so vast? In which city could you try food from anywhere in the world, yet find that everyone has the same breakfast?

When people think of Guangzhou today, they often think of the Canton Tower, and rightly so. It is almost like a beacon, having become such a symbolic part of the city. It can be seen from so many different vantage points. It is proud and colorful, with so much to see and do. At the same time, during the day, the tower appears soft, delicate and slender. Its design makes it feel open and welcoming.

And therein lie the words that can be used to describe Guangdong's capital, Guangzhou. It is a city full of contrasting characteristics that come together to showcase its Cantonese pride. Much like the famous breakfast culture born in this region, the city offers something for everyone here, with local history and culture woven throughout.