I have visited Shanghai many times, it is easily one of the World’s great cities… Shanghai is a huge city full of life and vigour at every turn…
Its population of 13 million and its access to China’s finest air, sea and land transport infrastructure make it the leading light of China’s dynamic economy.
One thing any visitor will notice about Shanghai is the frantic excitement with which residents seem to enjoy their lives. People are out and about all the time. Shanghainese are constantly involving themselves in all sorts of events. They are a group that could best be described as people that work hard and play hard. As a result you’ll find it easy to meet people in Shanghai and you may even be surprised how easily you can get involved in Shanghainese life.
Shanghainese are avid followers of culture. From the older generation who delight in ballroom dancing along the Bund or in the parks to the young who rejuvenate the city after dark in busy night-clubs, theatres and restaurants; all of Shanghai is alive.
If you enjoy travelling to cities and discovering different and interesting city life then Shanghai should be number one on your destination list. Shanghai is rapidly returning to its rightful position as a rival to New York, Paris or London.
Shanghai – Shopping
Shanghai is the ultimate Shoppaholics dream. There is a huge variety of shops to visit with all numbers of products.
Nanjing Road runs inland from the Bund. Its a place where you can find many Chinese made products including some of the Chinese made products made under licence for Western companies. THese include Esprit and Beneton which are great value. These stores generally have good quality items and are reasonable value. There are also one or two stores which sell traditional Chinese style articles that make good souveniers. Nanjing Road is home to many Chinese department stores and a few shopping centres. Its well worth entering these buildings and having a look at whats upstairs, theres heaps of variety to be found.
Huahai Road in the former French area of Shanghai provides a more upmarket shopping experience. There are some modern shopping centres and Western shops here. In this area you’ll find a French department sore and a Japanese department store along with Western boutiques like Boss and Prada. There are also some good eating places and entertainment complexes in this street which seems to be fun and alive at all times.
The area around the Yuyuan Garden provides good souvenier shopping for those who might want to take home a traditional Chinese painting or craft. There are also heaps of antique stores here in what claims to be Shanghai’s largest antique market. All I can say is bargain hard.
Pudong’s shopping hasn’t really established a reputation yet, however the East side of the river is home to the World’s largest department store.
Authors bio is coming up shortly.