Shanghai, China is now a futuristic city that should be on the must-visit list for world travellers. I've been blessed to visit Shanghai many times over the past 12 or so years, and have seen so many impressive changes in that period. Let me share some memorable highlights.
The Pearl Tower, which is across The Bund. Most impressive when viewed at night with the bright changing colors and flashing lights.
I had often stayed at the ShangriLa in Pudong, Shanghai when my meetings brought me to that area, and I always considered it a privilege. I would often have club floor access and have high tea and breakfast at the club lounge, which is on a high floor that overlooks the Pearl Tower and has a beautiful view of the Huangpu River. I especially enjoyed late afternoon coffee and delicacies from this vantage point. And the Shangri-La staff are always so kind. During those earlier years it wasn't so convenient to walk around that area, even to the Pearl Tower. The roads would be crowded and filled with both crowds of people and vehicles. So more often than not, we would go towards the less crowded walking area beside he Huangpu River.
Today there is a beautiful, broad pedestrian walkway along Century Avenue that leads right up to the Pearl Tower and the SuperBrands Mall. This walkway turns into a very modern, beautifully-built elevated walkway (shown in the selfie, above) you then walk above street level, peacefully away from vehicular traffic. The walkway was so generously-sized that it wasn't crowded at all.
Here's another view from the elevated walkway on Century Avenue. The walk imparts a very modern and futuristic feeling as you get to view the tallest buildings in Shanghai. And on a cool evening in September, the breeze is wonderful and the night skies dramatic.
At the Pearl Tower and financial area, you can do some high end luxury brand shopping at the International Finance Centre (IFC) Mall. I checke out prices though, and Bally, Gucci, and Montblanc had surprising price tags that were generally about 20% to 30% higher than Singapore prices. With this I concluded that Shanghai is not the place for luxury brand shopping. But still, it's a treat to see the boutique shops just check out unique displays.
The Bund with it's European architecture is another interesting spot. The Bund is located across the Huangpu River on the other side of the Pearl Tower.
Here is a view of the Pearl Tower and financial district from the Bund, a signature Shanghai skyline.
There a tunnel that goes under the river but I don't recommend this route since there's not much to see and it actually costs more than a cab ride.
The Nanjing road shopping street is also a must-visit place when you're in Shanghai. Mix and mingle with the crowd to get the feel of busy Shanghai. Just be prepared to do a lot of walking and you'll enjoy yourself more. Note that the train system is quite easy to navigate once you get used to it, and you'll feel liberated to explore Shanghai more freely.
Go to the Shanghai Museum which is a short walk from Nanjing area for some art and history. I reco going to the Museum in the morning though, then have your lunch at one of the restaurants along Nanjing Road. The photo above is the view from outside the Shanghai Museum. No photos inside the museum since. My preference now is to buy official museum books with photos of all the nicest and most notable art and culture pieces. These books I can keep as good memorabilia.
The Art Palace is essential for art enthusiasts and patrons.
To appreciate the hugeness of the Art Palace, check out this selfie and note the size of the people walking in the background. Talk about a grand place!!
Inside the Art Palace, the set-up is grand, impressive and spacious. And the art collections are immense! Extensive!
There is so much to do in Shanghai. You can even have a drive that gets you to the Great Wall of China, which I've also done on one of my trips.
Thank God for the opportunities to visit Shanghai over the years. I pray blessings on the people as China is a broad place that maintains a sense of mystery as it moves to a futuristic and modern era while still capturing and not letting go of its ancient history.
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