 Shanghai
- China
Known in years past as the “Paris of the
East” and “Queen of the Orient”, Shanghai
is China’s most populous and sophisticated city.
Its infamous Great World Entertainment Center has been
transformed into a modern state-of-the-art theater and
Shanghai Youth Center. The wide boulevard known as the
Bund was the centerpiece of colonial Shanghai and is a
major part of the 21st century showcase that Shanghai
has become...
Recent years have brought dramatic changes to nightlife
in Shanghai. New bars and clubs open almost weekly. A
process of sorting has been occurring by which many new
offerings are tried and tested with some closing soon
after opening, only to be replaced by others (or reopened
under new management) within a short period of time. Sports
bars, comedy clubs, theme bars (Egyptian, Irish, glamour
and fashion, Middle East, colonial, and others) are all
part of the wide array of choices.
The Huangpu River divides Central Shanghai into two distinct
areas: Pudong (east of the river) and Puxi (west of the
river). The best known attractions of interest to visitors
are in Puxi, including the Bund, the centerpiece of tourism,
(though not the physical center of town). West of the
Bund is the former International Settlement and one of
Shanghai's main shopping streets, East Nanjing Road. South
of the Bund is Old Town, a maze of narrow lanes and landmarks
of the heart of the original city of Shanghai. West of
this Old Town and hidden in the backstreets north and
south of Huaihai Road (Shanghai's premier shopping street)
is the former French Concession, with its tree-lined streets,
1930s architecture, cafes, and bars. At its western end,
in Xintiandi, is the more recently established collection
of Western-style restaurants and bars. Continuing southeast,
the way opens onto the massive shopping mall intersection
of Xujiahui. Farther south is Shanghai Stadium!
Shanghai, the Eastern Pearl, is a welcoming and enchanting
city and a fascinating vacation destination
|
