A-Z - Explore Shanghai - page 294

involve politics rather than manners: although the atmosphere is far more open now, it's still
wise to avoid political discussions, especially involving sensitive topics like Taiwan and Tibet.
G
GAY AND LESBIAN TRAVELLERS
Acceptance of the gay and lesbian community in Shanghai has been tentative on an official
level. Shanghai LGBT ( [e-mail] m) hosts events in the city's gay and
lesbian bars.
Homosexuality is generally frowned upon in China - it was only downgraded from a men-
tal illness in 2001 - but in liberal Shanghai, the gay scene is increasingly open, albeit a pre-
dominantly male one. Nevertheless, discretion prevails; China is still basically a conservative
society, so flagrant displays of affection are best avoided.
GREEN ISSUES
China is one of the world's worst polluters, but environmental concerns are starting to be
taken seriously. Air pollution is a serious problem that can cause discomfort on 'bad air' days
when the city is blanketed in thick smog. Consider wearing a mask, particularly if you're
sensitive. The China Air Quality Index app charts real-time air pollution readings of the dan-
gerous PM2.5 particles in cities across China, and alerts when protection is recommended.
On the street level in Shanghai, collecting and recycling waste materials is a means of busi-
ness for many low-income senior citizens, aided by recycling bins across the city. Cycling is
also a popular means of getting around the flat and compact inner city - though can be a
dangerous undertaking if you're not familiar with Shanghai's crazy traffic.
China is also leading the way in solar power and other environmental building technolo-
gies. The twice-yearly grassroots Eco Design Fair champions sustainable producers and
healthy lifestyles. Its website, www.ecodesignfair.cn , also serves as a directory and general
community resource. For those conscious of their carbon footprint, Shanghai's Urbn Hotel
( www.urbnhotels.com ) is China's first carbon-neutral hotel - with plenty of style to boot.
H
HEALTH
Healthcare in Shanghai is reasonably good. There are Western-staffed clinics and desig-
nated foreigners' clinics in local hospitals with English-speaking personnel. For more serious