Joanna James
Known as the Paris of the East, Shanghai is a vibrant city like no other in the Chinese Republic. Here are some of the best activities to enjoy during a holiday to this glittering riverside metropolis.
Shanghai is renowned for its steamed soup dumplings or Xiao Long Bao, and the best place to sample this local delicacy is at Din Tai Fong. Dipped in soy vinegar, the dumpling is sticky and soft and consumed by biting off a corner so the soup oozes out. With a host of restaurants around the city, Din Tai Fong is the go-to hub for the dish although Xiao Long Bao vendors are found on street corners and is a part of most restaurant menus in the city.
Travellers in search of a truly Chinese shopping experience should visit the market just outside the Science & Technology Subway Station where everything under the sun from knock-off branded goods to souvenirs are found. Find cheap and well-made look-alikes of the world's leading fashion labels and pick up tech hear from power banks to nifty speakers at this bustling marketplace. Don't forget to haggle down the prices as no one pays the quoted cost for these irresistible goodies.
History buffs looking for a piece of old world charm should tour the confines of Old Shanghai which is a walled historic city in the heart of the new metropolis. Known to house the largest number of historic buildings in a single setting, Old Shanghai is lined with narrow alleyways lined with old shop houses and residences. Strolling along these ancient streets is a trip back in time to a more tranquil period in the city's history.
Tourists on the lookout for a high-end party spot and night club will find that M1nt more than fits the bill. As an international clubbing sensation, no trip to Shanghai would be complete without dicing the night away on the glamorous dance floor of this famous nightclub where globally recognized DJs spin disks till the sun comes up. What's more, the setting is also wild and vibrant with a shark-infested aquarium built into the venue. Visitors based at the Ascott Huai Hai Road Shanghai or any similar serviced apartment in Shanghai will find that it is the most popular nightclub among expats too.
Also known as the SWFC, the Shanghai World Financial Center offers travellers the most breathtaking views of the city from its observation deck. As everyone's favourite lookout point in Shanghai, soaking up the panoramic views of this colourful city by day or at night is a magical experience all visitors must enjoy at least once during a trip to Shanghai. Some of the key landmarks visible from this vaulted viewing platform among the clouds include the Pearl Tower and the iconic the Shanghai Tower which twists in mid-air as architect Jing Mao intended.
Offering tourists an alternative view of Shanghai's towering skyscrapers and grand ancient structures is, of course, the riverside promenade known as The Bund. The waterfront is not only the best place to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing but also a venue where locals and tourists alike can gather to admire the sheer beauty of the city. The People's Heroes Memorial is also located near The Bund while spectacular views of the Waibaidu Bridge are also visible from here.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
