Spotting ‘original fake’ is a shopper’s delight in Shanghai
Shanghai is among the most vibrant and exciting cities in the world. It is known for its hi-tech infrastructure, culinary delights, museums, traditional Chinese temples and gardens, huge shopping malls and its natural beauty. It is surprising that the blending of modern with traditional is so seamless here.
The city is vast, but easily accessible thanks to the Metro rail system. Ticket are sold through vending machines, which have the English language option as well. In case of any difficulty, you can always ask someone in the queue to help you. The taxi is also an easy mode of travel and several cab companies have a free toll free number for language support. Many youngsters can also help as English is now taught in schools and colleges.
As soon as you come out of the airport, you find vending machine selling phones, which also translates English to Chinese, which will be useful during your stay.
The most romantic place in Shanghai is the Bund. Best part is both sides of the Bund have their own visual and scenic appeal with the riverside promenade with restaurants/pubs lining it on one side, and other side has massive colonial historic buildings with amazing fine dining options.
The evening sun sets and the neon lights make the city look both dazzling and ethereal. There are several river cruise options to explore as well. There is also an underground tunnel which takes you from one end to another of the Bund.
Shanghai is synonymous with shopping and has the world’s largest pedestrian malls on East Nanjin Street, stretching to West Nanjin Road, which is the most popular commercial street. Xujiahui and Huaihui cater to the elite with all the major brands selling their exquisite stuff. Shanghai is also known for the world’s largest fake market selling all brand look-alikes, which makes it lots of fun.
Shopping for bags, apparel, footwear of Guess, Gucci, Prada, Louis Vuitton, Hugo Boss, Ralph Lauren, Chloe is a must do. You also get fake Mont Blanc pens and Ugg boots.
Real designers would be in for a major shock if they visit markets below the Science and Technology Museum. Hongqiao pearl market and shopping centre sells stuff from Hong Kong. There have been many raids, but the business continues due to heavy demand from tourists world over. The shopping experience is like a big drama with lots of haggling and arguments and the final act of becoming friends again with the shopkeepers.
People not used to bargaining will certainly feel awkward. I also heard the term “original fake” for the first time there which was pretty amusing. Qipolu is another place for getting interesting things at throwaway prices.
For some real ancient China experience, you have amazing places like Tian zi Fang on Taikang Road. Tian zi Fang is a maze of small streets with “Shikumen” style of houses, it is a hub for artists and their studios. It also has several restaurants with world cuisine and a place to buy souvenirs, ornaments and handicrafts.
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