Mad About Shanghai
David Tan runs the blog Mad About Shanghai, which I’ve been following for several years. His blog is about moving to, living in, and doing business in Shanghai. With the Shanghai World Expo coming up in May, I was wondering what David might recommend for visitors to see and do besides the Expo. Here are his suggestions:
David Tan’s Shanghai Tips
Shop
If you are looking for custom-made business wear, the prices at the Lu Jia Bang Road Fabric Market are unbeatable. Tailored shirts, suits and overcoats can be made for a fraction of the price you would otherwise pay in Western countries. US$80 can get you a well-tailored suit. A good cashmere overcoat or qipao should be around US$90. Don’t be afraid to haggle for the best price!
Eat
Dine at Bao Luo (Paul’s) for a taste of authentic Shanghai cuisine in an informal and bustling setting.
There are many star dishes in this restaurant but my favorite is the gigantic pan-fried buns. This is also the spot for supper after a long day of work or after some late night partying.
Address: 271 Fu Ming Road, Near Chang Le Road.
Nightlife
Hengshan Road is a street in the former Shanghai French Concession of Shanghai. Many of the mansions along the road have been converted into bars, nightclubs, and restaurants, which makes Hengshan Road one of Shanghai’s more vibrant nightlife districts.
Explore
Seeking a quiet night out?
Visit Tian Zi Fang at Tai Kang Road (Art Street). Tian Zhi Fang, which is at the heart of Tai Kang Road, consists of many art studios and galleries embedded in a mixture of old brick houses (shikumen) and old Shanghai alleys. These studios feature many works of design, painting and photography.
A great way to experience a slice of Old Shanghai amid an artistic setting.
Relax
After a long day of walking, the best thing you can do to soothe those tired muscles is to go for a foot massage. Have your senses (and feet)
tickled by a foot masseur as she contorts your back, slaps your calves and pummels the soles of your feet. Once, a masseur asked me if I overate at dinner after pressing a specific section of my foot. She was right. Amazing!
Oddly therapeutic. Weirdly pleasant.
For more things to do and see in Shanghai, check out David’s blog. See also National Geographic magazine’s feature story on Shanghai this month, and the photo gallery by Fritz Hoffmann. Photo: Fritz Hoffmann
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