Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
to mid-30s°C (90-95°F) in July and August, and chilled-to-the-bone damp winters in Decem-
ber and January. January is the coldest month, with daytime temperatures usually below
10°C (50°F), occasionally dipping below zero at night. Snow is rare in Shanghai, although
there are sometimes late December/January flurries.
The city's most comfortable (and sunny) weather is in spring (mid-March to May) and au-
tumn (September to early November), although even then it is hardly reliable.
CLOTHING
Shanghai errs on the side of casual, but it is a city of unrelenting style: you'll be forgiven for
not wearing a tie, but never for looking like a bumpkin. Light, breathable clothes work best in
the hot, humid summer months, with a light cover-up for overly air-conditioned restaurants
and offices. In winter, several layers of clothing are the key to staying warm - coats, scarves,
hats etc. Savvy travellers always carry a foldable umbrella with them to protect against sud-
den showers.
CRIME AND SAFETY
Shanghai is a relatively safe city, but petty crimes such as pickpocketing do occur in crowded
areas like train stations, markets and busy streets. There is very little violent crime against
foreigners, but tourists should be aware of scams that generally begin with a request from
the scammer to practise their English or visit a student art exhibition. Avoid unlicensed cab
drivers or motorcycle taxis.
Shanghai is a safe city for women, who are able to walk alone, even at night, without be-
ing harassed - but again, you should be on your guard.
Every neighbourhood has its own police station or post, often labelled in English. This is
the place to report any crime, although you might have to wait for the Public Security Bureau
officer in charge of foreigners to handle your case. Otherwise, contact the Public Security
Bureau directly.
CUSTOMS
Duty-free allowance per adult is as follows: two bottles of liquor (75cl each), 400 cigarettes,
50g of gold or silver, and perfume for personal use. On arrival, tourists have to fill out a bag-
gage declaration form and hand it in to customs. There is no limit to the amount of foreign
currency and Chinese Renminbi traveller's cheques that can be brought in; the unspent por-
tion may be taken out. There is a long list of prohibited items, including animals, firearms,
plant material and media deemed 'detrimental' to China's social and political security. For up-
to-date details see www.china.org.cn . Note: antiques require a government stamp in order to
be exported; most reputable dealers can take care of the necessary paperwork.
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