Shanghai Rocks!

Our first trip ever to Shanghai, and what a cool place it turns out to be. Unlike most mega cities around the world, this one works, and maybe other developed countries should take note. 25 million people in the city and it doesn't seem particularly crowded. Why? We learned most people take the sleek modern subways which cover the entire urban areas. And yes, there are cars but we aren't seeing gridlock, and city traffic moves efficiently. We learned that car buyers can purchase a gas powered car but they have to pay about $14,000 US for a license plate which is blue. On the other hand, if you buy an EV the license is free (green plates). So we're seeing mostly green licenses even on luxury autos like Porsche, Audi, etc.

The whole city is spotlessly clean and modern and everything works! The government plants elaborate flower gardens and parks and then scrupulously maintains the vibrant landscaping throughout the year.

Highlights today included an ascent up the Shanghai Tower, an architectural marvel. And speaking of architecture, we are staying at the Fairmont Peace Hotel (formerly the Cathay) which was built in 1929, an Art Deco masterpiece and the first hotel in the world to have air conditioning. We also visited the old French Concession, home from 1849 to 1945 of a considerable French population. Old stone buildings have since been transformed into luxury apartments, shops, and restaurants. The magnificent Yu Gardens in the middle of the restored Chinatown-in-China were extraordinary as was the Jade Buddha Temple. And finally, we ended our tour walking along the river while soaking up the lively scene of the vast promenade known as the Bund.
Tonight, we head to a Michelin one star dim sum restaurant. Locals LOVE good food, and it is abundant everywhere.Read more