The video offers an in-depth apartment tour in Shanghai, China, specifically a duplex in the Baoshan district, presented by Always Away. The presenter begins by introducing Shanghai as China's most expensive city and setting the stage for the apartment's cost and features. A notable initial impression is the smart lock system, a departure from typical UK locks, offering convenient access via fingerprint or passcode, which the presenter found impressive and simplifying daily life.
The tour moves into the apartment's entryway, where a shoe rack proved too small for their footwear, becoming a makeshift hatch. The kitchen area is explored next. It's revealed that most appliances, including a hob and an espresso machine, were purchased by the residents, with only the washing machine being included. The kitchen features an instant hot water dispenser and a rice cooker capable of baking cakes, alongside an air fryer that serves as an oven substitute. Storage is a recurring theme, with the presenter noting a lack of cupboard space, especially for food, due to the water heater and cleaning supplies. This led to creative storage solutions, extending into other areas.
The bathroom, equipped with a walk-in shower, also houses the fridge due to space constraints in the kitchen. The living area showcases included furniture like a sofa and TV stand, with the addition of a purchased bean bag. Unique features like blinds integrated within the double-glazed glass panels are highlighted for their design and practicality, keeping them dust-free.
Ascending to the mezzanine level, the bedroom is presented, also furnished with included items. The comfort of the bed and the effectiveness of the air conditioning, amplified by a curtain to trap cool air, are emphasized. This level also contains a versatile space that could serve as a second bedroom or office, boasting significant storage, including wardrobes and drawers for clothes and luggage. A significant find was a large mirror purchased online for a fraction of the UK price.
Before revealing the cost, the presenter details the extensive amenities available within the apartment complex: a gym, communal kitchen and lounge areas, an indoor cinema, tennis and basketball courts, green spaces, and nearby shops and restaurants, making it a self-contained and convenient living environment. The apartment's rent is disclosed as 6,000 RMB (approximately £600), which, compared to London prices, is considered very affordable, especially given the included facilities. However, a local friend's comment that the price was high due to the apartment's distance from the city center adds an interesting perspective. The video concludes with a look ahead to future apartment tours as the couple has recently moved twice.
FAQs (From the traveler's perspective)
- Q: What are the benefits of the smart lock system?
- A: The smart lock system allows access via fingerprint or passcode, making it much easier than carrying keys and offering a sense of security.
- Q: What were the storage challenges in the kitchen?
- A: There was limited cupboard space for food, partly due to the water heater and cleaning supplies, requiring creative solutions to store essentials.
- Q: What appliances were purchased versus included?
- A: Most appliances like the hob, espresso machine, rice cooker, and air fryer were purchased, with only the washing machine being included.
- Q: What amenities are available in the apartment complex?
- A: The complex offers a gym, communal kitchen and lounge, indoor theater, tennis and basketball courts, green spaces, shops, and restaurants.
- Q: How much does the apartment cost?
- A: The apartment costs 6,000 RMB per month, which is about £600, considered very affordable compared to London.
- Q: What was a local perspective on the apartment's cost?
- A: A local friend mentioned that the rent was considered high due to the apartment's distance from the city center.
