SkyHigh Shanghai

Tasnia Mozammel
Apr 27, 2021
3 min read

Shanghai, situated on Mainland China's central coast, is perpetually considered one of the world's most riveting futuristic global financial hubs. The sprawling city, populated by approximately 26 million, is famed for prime landmarks including The Bund, the Huangpu River, Pudong Skyline, Yu Garden, Shanghai Tower, and the Oriental Pearl Tower.

Shanghai World Financial Center Observatory, Mainland China.

Things to Pack:

1. CASH. This is one of the very first obstacles you may encounter when arriving in China. Foreign credit cards are not accepted with the exception of chain hotels for example. Thus, it is VERY important that you take enough cash with you during your travel and tours.

2. WeChat. WeChat is an app ubiquitously used in China. It essentially is a combination of social media, WhatsApp, and your wallet. You should install and create an account prior to arriving in China.

3. VPN. You will not be able to open international applications (Google, YouTube, emails, social media such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, etc.) unless you have a VPN to connect with. Some great VPN networks are Express and Nord. My mother currently uses Betternet and it has been working exceptionally thus far. Some other options may be found on this link. Most of the VPNs offer 1-3 months free trials (download prior to departure as you may not download them there).

4. A Translator App or Dictionary (whichever floats your boat). The language barrier is prevalent in China. The majority of people, even among tourist locations, do not speak English, nevertheless other foreign languages. However, the Chinese people do not fail to surprise as they communicate by speaking through translator apps. Their technological advancements may seem frustrating at first, but they are also incredibly patient and welcoming to tourists.

5. Comfortable Footwear. In China, walking is a major culture. It's important to have proper footwear when visiting Shanghai.

6. An Umbrella. Umbrellas are significant in China as the weather is quite unpredictable. They are also utilized as protection from both rain and shine.

7. Camera! You will be surrounded by picturesque settings, architecture, and history.

NOTE: VPN must be downloaded prior to arrival in China as otherwise it will be blocked. Both WeChat and VPN apply to all parts of China with the exception of Hong Kong, where international sites are not restricted.

Hong Shao

Having visited Shanghai while my mother worked there as an expat, we spent majority of our time in Hong Shao, also known as foreigners' lane. Hong Shao was an excellent location to reside as it offers an array of global cuisine and a vibrant international community.

The Bund

The Bund, an ultramodern waterfront promenade lined with colonial-era facades, is one of the most famed attractions to view Shanghai's futuristic sky-high skyline. Observations of technological advancements, structural organization, population-control, culture, and food on the way is extraordinary. Despite geo-political isolation, Shanghai exhibits the world's fastest and most advanced technology making the city a futuristic fantasy with a synergy the country's rich cultural heritage.

Experience all that the city has to offer, from paying with your face to watching advertisements projected on the windows of moving trains...

Shanghai World Financial Center Observatory

Three observation decks, transparent glass-walled walkways, and unique experiences, Shanghai World Financial Center Observatory offers an exceptional sight!

Other Sites to Visit:

Oriental Pearl Tower, Nanjing Road, Yu Garden, the French Concession, infinite traditional pavilions, ponds, and more!

GALLERY:

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