Shanghai literally means the city by the sea, and it is the gateway to China. There are endless things to do and see, like shopping in high-end venues for designer items, or stroll through the backstreets for photo opportunities… or to hunt for interesting trinkets and traditional Chinese handicrafts.
Read Barry’s Journey to Asia, Part 1: Discover Hong Kong.
Read Barry’s Journey to Asia, Part 2: Kuala Lumpur here.
WHERE TO STAY
Jing An Shangri-La – Located on the Puxi side of the Huangpu River in the Jing An Business District – one of Shanghai’s most prestigious and fashionable business and commercial districts. The hotel boosts spectacular 360-degree panoramic views of the city.
Peace Hotel – This has been a Shanghai landmark for over eight decades, enjoying a premier location on the Bund. The hotel faces the Pudong area over the Huangpu River, where you will find all the impressive high-rise buildings and towers.
WHERE TO EAT
Here are a few suggestions:
- Yong Yi Ting at the Mandarin Oriental – A one Michelin star restaurant featuring Chef Tony Lu and his unique vision, combining the diverse gastronomic influences of Shanghai and its neighbouring provinces.
- 1515 West at the Jing An Shangri-La – The 1515 West, Chophouse & Bar combines the aesthetics of an old Shanghai movie set with the décor of a classic American bar and grill.
- Din Tai Fung – This is the chain of restaurants that made Xiao Long Bao (soup dumplings) famous, so it’s only logical that they serve some of the best in the world.
- Yang’s Dumpling – With multiple locations throughout the city, they serve their famous pan-fried soup filled buns.
- Shanghai Grandmother (by the Bund) – Shanghainese restaurant with many classic local dishes.
GAY NIGHTLIFE
There are not many gay bars in Shanghai, but here are a few top picks of places to go for a drink and to meet locals:
- Lucca – One of Shanghai’s best-known gay bar and club in the French Concession area. It gets busy on weekends and attracts upscale local and international crowd.
- Happiness 42 – Modern and chic, with a sexy red lighting throughout the bar. It’s a good place to start off the night.
- Paw & Six – Located in the same building as Lucca on the sixth floor, this place attracts more of a bear crowd.
- Snap! – Monthly party where people gather for a night of dressing up and dancing. Each party generally has a unique theme, and the location may change so you should check with a local or on WeChat (Chinese social app) for details.
Did you know that most visitors require a visa to enter China? Want more information about this and the Transit Visa Exemptions? Visit asianmapleaf.comto read more about our adventures in Shanghai. Also, stay tuned for more of our ultimate must-see travel stops around the Globe.
The LGBTQ Travel Expert. Educator. Speaker. Author. 