Shanghai, China
Hailed during the 1930s as the "Pearl of the Orient"—one of its repeatable nicknames—Shanghai is experiencing a renaissance worthy of its pre-WWII heyday. Despite decades of shouldering the deadening weight of Communist rule, this city never lost its vitality. Yes, it may have been dormant for a while, but when the party ended, so to speak, it quickly returned to life. It now simmers with a buzzing, 21st-century energy, from its traditional Chinese District and elegant French Concession to its dignified Bund, a waterfront lined with regal, British-style buildings. It also added a new act to its repertoire: the Pudong District with its free-trade zone. Located across the Huangpu River on what was recently a sprawl of shanties, this area is concrete evidence of Shanghais business boom, as is the citys selection as the site for the 2010 World Expo. From industry and e-commerce to finance and manufacturing (clothing and cars, the latter for the local market), Shanghai is racing to catch up with Hong Kong and Singapore. At the rate its going, were sure it will soon arrive.
Facts to Know Before You Go
Shanghai Population: 12,665,000 (Source: UN Population Estimate Revision 2003)
China Population: 1,322,273,000 (Source: UN Population Estimate Revision 2003)
Currency: Yuan Renminbi (CNY)
Time Zone: GMT plus eight hours, Eastern Standard Time plus 13 hours and Pacific Standard Time plus 16 hours
Language: The official language is Mandarin Chinese although Cantonese,Fukienese, Hakka, Mongolian and Tibetan, among others, are also spoken.
Shanghai Local Customs
In China people will always use your last name first. If you are invited to somebodys house for a meal, it is polite to arrive with an offering for your hosts such as chocolates or fruit. If you really want to impress, take something special from your home country, although such items as key rings embossed with your company logo will not be well received. When invited out, it is considered good manners to arrive slightly early. If you are hosting, then try to arrive even earlier - about half an hour or so.
Shanghai Tipping Advice
Tipping used to be very rare in China but now, no doubt through Western influence, the idea is catching on. In restaurants, a 3% tip is standard, and bellboys and room service staff expect roughly USD 1.00 or USD 2.00. You can tip in American dollars as hard currency is always appreciated.
Shanghai - Currency - Use our Currency Converter to find the latest exchange rates for all major world currencies.
Shanghai Transportation
A very accessible city, Shanghai is reachable by land, water and air. Shanghai is at the junction of the Beijing-Shanghai and Beijing-Hangzhou train lines, which means that Shanghai is reachable by train from almost anywhere in China.
Arriving by Air
Shanghai is served by Pudong International Airport and Hong Qiao Shanghai Airport. The Shanghai Pudong International Airport is located on the South coast at the mouth of the Yangtze River, around 30 km (19 miles) away from central Shanghai and 40 km (25 miles) away from the Hong Qiao International Airport, which itself is situated 13 kilometres from the city centre, towards the western suburbs of Shanghai.
Getting Around Shanghai
In Shanghai, some international hotels have free shuttle buses to and from the Bund commercial area, but apart from those, taxis offer the easiest way of getting about town. There is an excellent and rapid subway system, but it is still being developed and extended. A few isolated parts of Shanghai offer an ideal environment for those who like to explore on foot, but be warned that road developments, building sites, packed walkways and terrible traffic conditions make walking in most districts a pastime to be avoided.
Information:
The South China Morning Post published out of Hong Kong is the region’s major newspaper, offering international coverage with an emphasis on China. For more localized news, check out the Shanghai Daily, which also has a Saturday arts and entertainment section. Additional sources for finding out whats going on around town are City Weekend, Shanghai Talk and Metrozine.
Where to Stay
88 Xintiandi
380 Huang Pi, Nan Lu
French Concession
86 21 5383-8833
www.88xintiandi.com
While not a mega-business hotel like the others on our list, this tasteful property—featuring 53 executive residences—is highly recommended if work brings you to Shanghai. Located in the historic French Concession in the bustling Xintiandi entertainment district, it offers a soothing residential atmosphere. Accommodations consist of dining areas, stylish kitchenettes (complete with microwaves, refrigerators and utensils) and bedrooms separated from living areas by gauzy curtains. Basic amenities complement business extras such as in-room fax machines, voice mail and broadband Internet. Although rooms are more like small apartments, they come with daily housekeeping, concierge and room service. There is also a full complement of business services and an Executive Lounge for breakfast, afternoon tea and evening cocktails. The adjacent Alexander City Club has a lap pool, massage pool, squash court and more
Four Seasons Shanghai
500 Weihai Rd.
Central
86 21 6256-8888
www.fourseasons.com/shanghai
Reliable Four Seasons service and style make this hotel a solid choice for traveling executives. Its European ambience is reminiscent of the citys grand old hotels, but its facilities are pure 21st century. The 439 guestrooms, including 79 suites, are striking and well-equipped with high-speed Internet access, laptop safes, multi-line phones, speakerphones and voice mail. Complimentary amenities in the Executive Club Lounge on the 37th floor include breakfast buffet, cocktails, all-day refreshments, pressing, local phone calls, dedicated business and concierge services, and use of a boardroom. Included among the 13,778 square-feet of meeting space (equipped with Wi-Fi access) is an opulent Grand Ballroom; there’s also a full business center. The indoor pool is paired with a beautiful landscaped rooftop garden. The luxurious spa features Balinese masseurs who are considered the best in Asia. The elegant Si Ji Xuan restaurant serves traditional Cantonese cuisine combined with Shanghaiese favorites in a refined atmosphere. Both traditional and modern dim sum is served at lunch along with other Cantonese delicacies, and at night it’s a seafood restaurant.
Grand Hyatt Shanghai
Jin Mao Tower
88 Century Blvd.
Pudong
86 21 5049-1234
www.shanghai.grand.hyatt.com
Magnificent views set this hotel apart, although if you’re afraid of heights this is definitely not the place for you—it’s located on the 53rd to 87th floors of Jin Mao Tower. The atrium soars 33 stories high, and the décor gives more than just a nod to the Art Deco movement. Claiming to be the most spacious in Shanghai, the 555 guest rooms and suites are contemporary in style with Asian touches and, naturally, amazing views. They feature two-line phones, voice mail, broadband and high-speed Internet access and interactive TVs with email, Internet and remote keyboards. The Grand Club, which comprises seven stories, offers business extras such as complimentary boardroom use. The business center is open 24 hours, and three floors of flexible meeting space can cater groups up to 1,200. Of note: the collection of international buffets on the 54th floor, and the 87th-floor Cloud 9 for cocktails.
The Portman Ritz-Carlton, Shanghai
1376, Nanjing Xi Lu
Central
86 21 6279-8888
www.ritzcarlton.com
Well-known for its excellent business amenities, this hotel is a favorite with more conservative business travelers. Old school offerings such as the cigars (theres a walk-in humidor with private lockers) and malt whiskeys in the bar have traditional appeal. The 578 guest rooms and suites include Club Rooms on the 39th to 44th floors; the latter enjoy their own lounge and five complimentary food and beverage presentations daily. Two-room Executive Suites enjoy access to the lounge, as well. Along with meeting space for up to 500, the hotel features the Sheng Rong Guo Ji luxury cruise boat for up to 250—ideal, and impressive, for private upscale events. Additional facilities include a 24-hour business center, six restaurants, a truly beautiful pool area and a health club with indoor tennis, squash and racquetball courts.
The Westin Shanghai
88 Henan Central Rd.
86 21 6335-1888
The Bund
www.starwoodhotels.com
Surrounded by the Bunds landmark buildings, this modern hotel stands out—were not sure how we feel about its crown, which resembles the top of a pineapple, but we do have to admit its distinctive. Inside is a tamer story, with tasteful décor that follows the Westins signature style. The 301 guest rooms and suites are furnished with all the basics; for more business-oriented amenities, check into a Westin Executive Club Level Room. The 1,410-square-meters of meeting space are comprised of the Diamond Ballroom (capacity: up to 800 for a reception) and twelve function rooms, including a boardroom. A full business center and Wi-Fi are available. For relaxation there’s a fitness center, an Asian-style spa and a contemporary and light-filled indoor pool area.
Pudong Shangri-La Shanghai
33 Fucheng Rd.
Shanghai
86 21 6882-8888
www.shangri-la.com
Situated on the Pudong side of Shanghai in Lujiazui finance and trade zone, the ultra-luxurious Shangri-La is a perfect location for business travelers. The 981 modern rooms in two 28-story towers feature floor-to-ceiling windows, flat screen TVs, and marble bath facilities. Many rooms overlook the Bund and the Huangpu River. Yi, the largest of the hotel’s restaurants, features ten international cuisine stations. The signature restaurant, Jade on 36, is an elegant, modern dining room and bar. The hotel has large banqueting facilities and an always-open business center. The award-winning holistic Chi spa is one of the most beautiful and relaxing in China. You’ll also enjoy an indoor swimming pool and tennis courts, along with a well equipped gym. The executive floor Horizon Club, which boasts breathtaking city views, provides the many extra services that business travelers require: Personal concierge, valets, breakfast and sumptuous hors d’eouvres and drinks in the evening. The hotel also offers Rolls Royce transfers to and from the airport.
Where to Dine
1221
1221 Yanan Xilu
86 21 6213-6585
One of the first restaurants to capitalize on the citys turn-of-the-21st-century expat invasion, 1221 has stood the test of time. Both expats and locals remain loyal to its homey attitude, vast menu of Shanghainese and classic cuisine and moderate prices. The convivial, bustling atmosphere is reminiscent of a traditional Chinese restaurant, without the fluorescent lights and sensory overload. It’s well suited for a casual business lunch or dinner.
Jade on 36
33 Fu Cheng Lu
Pudong, Shanghai
86 21 6882-3636
www.shangri-la.com
Jade on 36 (located at the top of the Pudong Shangri-La), is a superb restaurant with a spectacular setting. Designed by American architect Adam Tihany, who designed Le Cirque in New York, the restaurant offers a futuristic interpretation of Chinese traditions. To enter it you walk through a dramatic deconstructed rice bowl. Diners luxuriate in the breathtaking views of the Bund and the Pearl Tower (known locally as the Jetson tower). Chef Paul Pairet, a transplanted Frenchman who came to China via Australia, cooks like a dream. He practices some molecular gastronomy, with innovative textures and tastes incorporated into his creations. It is his witty, innovative Euro-Chinese dishes that truly delight and excite. Complex teriyaki short ribs are surrounded by a pool of velvety mashed potatoes. The caramel-coated foie gras opera cake is a savory, not sweet, treat. Shrimp on lemon grass skewers are cooked and served in a Mason jar. Nothing is what it seems, but everything delivers a lot more than you expect. On offer are three or four tasting menus with different price points, plus a very knowledgeable sommelier will make excellent pairing choices if you prefer.
Jean Georges Shanghai
3 Zhong Shan Dong Yi Rd. (The Bund)
86 21 6321-7733
www.jean-georges.com
Jean-Georges Vongerichtens first eponymous restaurant outside New York City, this venue blends Shanghais romantic French influences and urban Asian style. The dining room is imposing, with its dark wood pillars and rich tones. In contrast, the cuisine emphasizes simplicity—light French flavors enhance organically grown local produce and fresh local seafood. An excellent wine cellar (over 5,000 bottles) and a hip, attractive clientele make this the place for impressing on an expense account.
Lu Bo Lang
131 Yu Yuan Rd.
86 21 6328-0602
www.lubolang.com
Founded in 1979, this state-owned eatery is the real deal. Pay no heed to the hordes of tourists. Theres a reason they line up with the locals here. In a word (or two): dim sum. The three-story, faux Ming Dynasty restaurant (complete with upturned eaves to deflect evil spirits) resides in the Old Chinese City. Although not the hippest spot in town, its definitely worth a visit. Just ask Castro, Queen Elizabeth II and Clinton—all have raised their chopsticks here.
Meilongzhen
1081 Nanjing Xilu
86 21 6256-6688
In a city that has seen its fair share of revolutionary changes over the past century, its nice to know that some things remain the same. Meilongzhen, established in 1938, is considered an institution both by locals and in-the-know travelers. Szechuan style influences the cuisine, providing a variation on the typical Shanghainese dishes served at many other upscale Chinese restaurants. Because the dining room is divided into smaller, traditional Chinese-style eating areas, it makes a good choice for a quiet business meeting.
Nanxiang Steamed Bun Shop
Yuyuan Bazaar
85 Yuyuan Lu
86 21 6355-4206
While this isnt the place to go to seal a lucrative business deal, you can sample the city’s authentic Chinese dumplings here. Located in Yuyuan Bazaar in the Old Chinese City, the shop has been drawing crowds for almost a century. Locals line up at the downstairs counter for dumplings to take away, but you can grab a seat upstairs and dine in on buns stuffed with pork and crab meat. Fun facts: dumplings originated in Nanxiang in Jia Ding District, and Nanxiang Steamed Buns popularity has turned it into a brand name.
Shanghai 811 Club—South Beauty Restaurant
881 Yan An Middle Rd.
Shanghai
86 21 6247-1581
www.qiaojiangnan.com
Full of trendy young Shanghai sophisticates, this bustling hot spot serving spicy Hunan and Sichuan food takes stylish dining to a new level in Shanghai. Situated in an elegant 1930s-style mansion, the front features comfortable white and beige banquettes for lounging and relaxing. The back of the restaurant, the shimmering Glass House, has a more traditional layout enhanced by 19 private dining rooms. The elegantly presented and served cuisine is modern, leading-edge Sichuan. Try the fiery dan dan noodles and the tongue-numbing tofu. Fish and seafood preparations are wonderful, but the most popular dish is beef cooked over hot stones with a heat-defying sauce of garlic, chilies and peanuts. Service is professional and helpful, but you’ll want to ask for an English speaking waiter. There are other South Beauty restaurants in Shanghai, but this is the flagship property.
T8 Restaurant Bar & Club
8 Xintiandi N. Part Ln.
181, Tai Cang Rd.
86 21 6355-8999
www.t8shanghai.com
T8 is one of those restaurants responsible for bringing the phrase "reservations required" to Shanghai. It belongs to the mass of sleek new eateries in the Xintiandi Entertainment District, and it is also arguably the most popular. Aussie chef Patrick Dang crafts Western cuisine with Asian influences, and the wine list showcases boutique vintages. The kitchen is open, the décor dignified, the clientele stylish and the menu worthy of both discriminating palates and expense accounts.
Whampoa Club
3 Zhong Shan Dong Yi Rd
(Fifth Floor, Three on the Bund)
Shanghai
86 21 6329-1003
www.threeonthebund.com
Three on the Bund is the place to eat Chinese. It serves serious, sophisticated modern Shanghai food in an Art Deco atmosphere with Asian touches. Look for the chandelier in the dining room that practically touches the floor! Jerome Leung, the executive chef, is one of Asia’s youngest master chefs. His contemporary Shanghaiese dishes use the finest ingredients, and he applies his natural talent and flair to make the old seem startling new. Specialties include contemporary interpretations of drunken chicken and stuffed crab claw with shrimp mousse, crab meat and roe jelly. Shrimp, stir fried with the extraordinary Long Jing tea, are delicate and light; his Shanghaiese dumplings are among the best in town. The best way to experience the complexity of his food is through the tasting menus. Service is attentive, but attempting a few words in Mandarin usually improves it.