The city of Suzhou, famous for its parks, gardens and waterside architecture, is located just an hours drive from Shanghai (traffic permitting!) and a great place to stop for those seeking to escape from the traffic, noise and sheer size of a big Chinese cities. Steeped heavily in tradition, Suzhou features the usual pagodas, museums, and is also a prominent site for silk weaving and embroidery. The range of accommodation in Suzhou is broad with something to cater for travellers of all budgets, from backpackers to those who want to splurge. Although Suzhou has an airport, most travellers who visit the city will most likely fly to Shanghai and catch a bus here.