Okay, Who's the Genius That Said Shanghai Was 'Fun'?
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Hello everyone! I recently returned from Shanghai, and I would like to share some thoughts with you.
In my opinion, Shanghai may not be the most suitable place for so-called "check-in" tourism, but rather a city where one needs to slow down their pace, explore and experience it. It is a true international metropolis (has that very 'city' vibe!) and “city walks” (casual exploring of alleys and streets to get a taste of city's atmosphere) in this bustling place suit perfectly.
But! These recent scorching 35 degrees hot days? The sun blazing down, make me seriously reconsider walking around for several minutes without getting exhausted!
This being my first time visiting Shanghai, here are some objective remarks on my impressions:
- Prices seem slightly more expensive than Beijing (China’s capital), yet costs can still match that of Beijing in some aspects. Overall, the cost of living in Shanghai is moderate.
- Accommodations can get pretty pricey! Mid-tier chain hotels like All Seasons Hotel can go up to 600-700 RMB per night (not including breakfast). Compared with other major cities, there’s been more than a twofold increase in price while halving in services; not exactly a great value for money.
- Shanghai is truly quite inclusive. People from different nationalities can easily be found roaming the streets. It isn’t uncommon to see children and the elderly having fun at amusement spots here-and-there.
- Shanghai has plenty of spots that are mainly for photo-taking as “tourist attractions.” The famous 'Instagrammable' locations tend to have long queues, while most other interactive experiences are sparse. That makes it less conducive to pure sightseeing tourism.
- The city’s major streets are extremely congested; the sidewalks and cycle lanes (a few motorized scooters share too) are fairly narrow. You may struggle if dragging around a heavy suitcase.
- Important Travel Note: Sidewalks might not provide ample space for pedestrians, especially with lots of vehicles and e-scooters sharing the space. Using public transportations like subway can ease the burden of traveling around.
- Free exhibitions are plenty in Shanghai and can really boost one's aesthetic tastes; much more than what is provided in other cities.
- “Highly developed” (a Chinese common term, implying being advanced/internationally-styled) indeed! Walking from Nanjing Road, (one of the most famous commercial streets), to The Bund (by the Huangpu River facing Lujiazui Skyscrapers), that spectacle was jaw-droppingly surreal. It makes you feel so small yet prompts the impulsive idea to start making money there.
Here are some advice from me:
- Important advice: plan ahead and make reservations!
- Planning well and booking in advance is crucial. For instance, I ran into issues with Shanghai Post Museum being closed during my visit.
- Many museums (e.g., Shanghai Museum, Shanghai Natural History Museum) are free but require booking online prior to visiting.
- For those who can't bear the heat, it is advisable waiting another month before visiting. This hot weather isn’t very suitable for extensive city-walking.
- Shanghai is a fascinating city blending contemporary trends and historical impressions beautifully. You need to take your time exploring thoroughly. Overemphasis on photo-taking would weaken your experience. To be honest, in such hot weather, I'd prefer finding somewhere cool, like hitting the beach (there are no traditional beaches in Shanghai but same idea!).
Last but not least, my personal little complaint: I didn't visit Shanghai Disneyland. Their recent donations to Israel have completely erased any positive feelings towards them. That ticket might as well have been spent on enjoying a comfy foot massage (traditional Chinese foot reflexology) instead.
That's it for this article. Shanghai offers so much more than just scenic sights. It requires you to immerse yourself into its city soul and culture. I hope you find my sharing valuable!
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It shouldn't be too hot to visit these days, right?
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Seriously, don't come. It's scorching hot!