Travel Guides & Tips in this video
- Tip 1For language learning, Rosetta Stone is recommended for its bite-sized lessons, engaging approach, and focus on real-life phrases spoken by native speakers. It helps with the tones crucial in Mandarin, using a dynamic immersion method. (3:38)
- Tip 2Shanghai is surprisingly green with many parks, defying expectations of a concrete jungle. It offers a pleasant contrast to the modern architecture. (8:05)
- Tip 3Government regulations have impacted street food availability in some areas, so research beforehand is advisable. (11:07)
- Tip 4Nanjing Road, while busy, is manageable and offers a unique atmosphere, similar to Istanbul's Taksim Square. (13:00)
- Tip 5The Bund showcases the historical evolution of Shanghai, from a small town to a global economic powerhouse. The architecture reflects this transformation. (16:09)
- Tip 6Not all vendors accept international cards; it's wise to have local currency on hand, especially in smaller establishments. (20:47)
- Tip 7Despite its massive population, Shanghai is surprisingly walkable and well-organized, making it easy to explore. (23:32)
Matt and Julia's first Shanghai adventure exceeded expectations! Their vibrant vlog captures the unexpected blend of modern skyscrapers and lush green parks, showcasing a city teeming with life. From the iconic Bund to the bustling Nanjing Road, they sample local delicacies and interact with friendly locals, revealing a city that's both incredibly modern and surprisingly charming. Don't miss their delightful encounters and the unique perspective of two British/Russian travelers experiencing the magic of Shanghai for the first time.
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This vlog follows Matt and Julia's first day in Shanghai, China, exceeding their expectations. They begin in the former French Concession area, exploring a park before heading to the city's main sites. Shanghai's economic significance is highlighted, its population of 30 million people dwarfing many European countries. The city's blend of modernity and history is emphasized, with the contrast between modern skyscrapers and traditional architecture creating a unique atmosphere.
Their journey includes a humorous attempt at basic Mandarin conversation, showcasing the challenges and rewards of language learning. They share their experience using Rosetta Stone, a language learning app they endorse, emphasizing its engaging approach. Their exploration takes them to People's Square, described as a community hub with people playing games and enjoying family time, contrasting with initial expectations of a concrete jungle.
The vlog continues with a visit to Yunnan Road, a food street that, despite being less vibrant than anticipated, offers a glimpse into older Shanghai. The experience includes a search for street food, which is less prevalent than expected due to recent government regulations. They navigate the busy Nanjing Road, comparing its energy to Istanbul's Taksim Square. A long queue for mooncakes leads to a tasting session, describing the unique flavors and textures.
The iconic Bund, a highlight of the vlog, is presented as a juxtaposition of modern and historical Shanghai. The video provides historical context, explaining the city's growth since the Opium Wars and its resurgence as a global economic center. The vlog concludes with a delicious meal, including soup dumplings and other local dishes, reiterating their positive first impressions of Shanghai's organization, walkability, and friendly atmosphere, despite the unexpectedly hot weather.
FAQs (From the traveler's perspective)
- Q: What was your biggest surprise about Shanghai?
- A: How green and walkable it is! I expected a concrete jungle, but there are tons of parks and it's surprisingly easy to get around.
- Q: What was the food like?
- A: Amazing! We tried mooncakes, soup dumplings, spring rolls, and other local dishes. The mooncakes were particularly unique; one was a carrot cake with ham, and another was pickled fish with pepper.
- Q: How was learning basic Mandarin?
- A: It was a fun challenge! We tried some basic phrases, and while it was a bit funny and we didn't always understand, the locals were very friendly and patient.
- Q: How crowded was Shanghai?
- A: Surprisingly not that crowded, considering the population. We were expecting huge crowds, but it was way more manageable than some European cities we've been to.
- Q: What's your overall impression of Shanghai?
- A: We loved it! Way more than we expected. It's a well-organized, walkable city with friendly people and delicious food. We're already looking forward to coming back!
