Shanghai

We planned this trip to Shanghai for some time but we always found an excuse to stay home.. Now that we have our tickets and we know that we are leaving – we quickly arranged this trip. Just to proof, that just like software management, deadlines are a critical factor …

We came to Shanghai to relax and try to get the spirit of the city; our agenda was more of 'which is the best café' rather than what is the 'latest exhibition in town'. Shallow. Yes. But fun.

Here is a quick guide for a lazy 4 nights and 5days in shanghai:

• Train
• We took the night train from Beijing to Shanghai, First class, 499RMB. When you order the tickets (there are several booths around the city) make sure that you get the lower bad. If there are two of that travel, make sure you both get beds in the same (!) booth. The train went out on time, was very clean and warm. The ride is long (~11 hours). As the price is not very competitive compared to flights – choose the train if you seek the experience. One way train and the other by air seems like a great arrangement.
  
• Hotel
• After our great experience in Chengdu (the Loft Hostel) we called them and asked for references in Shanghai. They suggested Mingtown Hiker Youth Hostel but they were full and referred us to Mingtown Etour Youth Hostel. For 220RMB you get a double room with a shower, in a perfect little ally just 1-2 minutes away from the People's Square. The hostel has a nice bar and a lounge area; a beautiful terrace (not relevant in the winter..). note that you can’t reserve the room with the shower unless you use the web to get room; if you call – they will first put you in a room that shares a bathroom with another room.
• 'Humus Pinati' in Shanghai
• It isn’t hunus but it feels as authentic as the most popular humus venues in Israel J head to WuJiang Rd, east south to 'Nanjing Rd. (W) Station) and look for 'Yang's Fried Dumpling' – order the first two dishes on the menu and head to the upper floor where you squeeze against the crowed to chew your 'baoze'. Satisfaction guaranteed.
• Dinner @ T8
• We followed a recommendation and headed to this fancy restaurant in XinTianDi (http://www.t8shanghai.com/). Expensive. Yes. But amazing. Prepare to pay about 100USD pp but enjoy an unforgettable experience. We recommend reserving seats on the bar and enjoy the 'show' of the open kitchen. It is a world class restaurant.
  
• Massage
• Don't miss the great 88RMB deal (before 6PM) for a 2 hours treatment. Best massage in China so far.

• Biggest Coffee Cup in town
• Great atmosphere and a nice place to relax. Kommune Café, in TaiKangLu.

• Breakfast deal
• Head to Vienna Café for a European buffet style breakfast. A bit expensive but a good deal if you are hungry J

• Col Jazz Club - Pix from 31.12.2007… Cool 'New Orleans' kind of atmosphere...
  

All in all - great fun. of course there is the Bund and the museums and the stores and so on... great city - a piece of Europe in the far east. Don't miss the pastries @ 'Paul' if you happen to see it...
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