Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Shanghai is China's most expensive city, although you can still enjoy some good bargains.
Accommodation can cost from as little as RMB 100 for a dorm bed to upwards of RMB 3,000
for one of the city's deluxe five-star hotels.
Similarly, a meal in a simple Chinese restaurant can cost as little as RMB 50 per person,
while you can easily pay RMB 500 at the one of the city's swankier Chinese or Western eat-
eries. Local beer costs as little as RMB 25; imported beer is three times more. A glass of
wine at an expensive restaurant costs RMB 60 and upwards.
The city's efficient public transport system is cheap - a bus or metro ride within the down-
town area won't cost more than RMB 5. Taxi rides are also inexpensive, running about RMB
14-30 for trips within the city centre, or slightly more after 11pm, when flag fall starts at RMB
18.
Entry fees to most attractions are under RMB 20, except for prime attractions that can
cost around RMB 100. In 2007, many parks and museums stopped charging admission, and
provincial art galleries across the country are now following suit. Most temples charge a nom-
inal entrance fee.
BUSINESS CARDS
In business and other formal situations in Shanghai, you will be expected to present a busi-
ness card. Present cards with both hands, and accept them the same way.
C
CHILDREN
The Shanghainese love children. There is not a museum, restaurant or theatre where your
child will feel unwelcome. The downside is a loss of privacy: your kids will be touched, stared
at, talked to and photographed - just take a positive attitude about the whole thing and you'll
meet new friends and gain fresh insights.
Hotels often allow children to stay with parents in a double room at no extra charge. Extra
beds are available for a small surcharge. Reliable babysitters, called
ayi
(aunty), are easily
available. If you're planning to be in Shanghai for any length of time, consider a serviced
apartment with kitchen and laundry facilities.
CLIMATE
Shanghai has a northern subtropical monsoon climate with four distinct seasons. Rainfall is
plentiful throughout the year, though most of it falls during the rainy season from June to
September. Expect hot and muggy summers with daytime temperatures hovering in the low
