Travel Guides & Tips in this video
- Tip 1Navigating China's cashless society can be smooth with a local friend or by using cash, as credit cards aren't always accepted for foreign cards. However, many places readily accept cash, making it a viable option for tourists. (2:11)
- Tip 2While English isn't widely spoken, many locals are willing to assist with translation apps, making communication easier than expected. It's helpful to have a translation app on your phone. (7:48)
- Tip 3Shanghai offers a high quality of life with its safety, cleanliness, and modern amenities. The city feels very safe, even to the point where people leave belongings unattended in public places. (8:57)
- Tip 4Public transportation in Shanghai is incredibly affordable and efficient, with metro rides costing less than a dollar. Taxis are also reasonably priced, making getting around the city easy and budget-friendly. (13:30)
- Tip 5China's 15-day free visa program (for certain nationalities) makes it easier than ever to explore the country. Check visa requirements for your nationality before traveling. (14:18)
- Tip 6Shanghai is more affordable than many expect. Local restaurants offer delicious, large portions of food at reasonable prices, making it easy to eat well on a budget. (24:27)
Ken Abroad shares his honest experience in Shanghai, defying Western media portrayals. He found the city surprisingly well-organized, modern, and clean, with friendly locals. He details the cashless society, delicious food (especially noodles and dumplings), and efficient, affordable transport. Despite the language barrier, Ken highlights the helpfulness of locals using translation apps. He addresses concerns about surveillance, emphasizing his feeling of safety. Ken's trip cost around $1000 for six days, including flights. He plans a return trip, inviting viewers to suggest destinations.
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This vlog by Ken Abroad details his six-day trip to Shanghai, China, addressing viewer questions and dispelling common Western misconceptions. Ken's initial surprise was Shanghai's organization, modernity, and cleanliness, contrasting sharply with preconceived notions of chaos. He found the locals friendly and welcoming, even outside tourist areas.
The cashless society, while initially challenging without Alipay or WeChat Pay, ultimately proved convenient. Ken raves about the delicious food, specifically mentioning noodles and dumplings, and the efficient, affordable public transport. He notes that a typical metro ride cost less than a dollar.
Addressing concerns raised in comments, Ken assures viewers he wasn't paid by the Chinese government and felt safe despite the numerous surveillance cameras. He describes the air quality as surprisingly good compared to other Southeast Asian megacities, and highlights the overall safety and livability of Shanghai.
The language barrier, while present, wasn't a significant issue thanks to the helpfulness of locals utilizing translation apps. Ken concludes by discussing the cost of his trip (approximately $1000 for six days, including flights) and expressing his intent to return to China, inviting viewers to suggest other cities to visit.
Ken's experience challenges negative stereotypes and provides a refreshing perspective on Shanghai, highlighting the city's positive aspects and the kindness of its people.
FAQs (From the traveler's perspective)
- Q: What was the biggest difference between your experience and the Western media's portrayal of China?
- A: The biggest surprise was how well-organized, modern, clean, and peaceful Shanghai was. It wasn't chaotic at all, which was unexpected for a city of 26 million people.
- Q: What did you think of China's cashless society?
- A: I really liked it! Although I couldn't use my foreign credit card everywhere, cash was widely accepted and my friend Joseph was able to pay for everything with his phone. It was very convenient.
- Q: How much pollution and poverty did you see?
- A: I didn't see any poverty in Shanghai at all. The city was super clean and the air quality was very nice, much better than in many other Southeast Asian cities I've been to.
- Q: What was your favorite food?
- A: The noodles were amazing, especially those I had on my first day. I also loved the dumplings, which you can get everywhere as a street snack. The pork dish we had in the Venice of Shanghai was also delicious!
- Q: What were some challenges you faced as a visitor?
- A: The biggest challenge was the language barrier, as many people don't speak English. However, people were very helpful and often used translation apps to assist me.
- Q: Did you feel under surveillance?
- A: No, not at all. All the cameras actually made me feel safer. I was never followed or told to stop filming.
- Q: How much did your trip cost?
- A: Around $1000 for six days, including flights, hotel, food, and everything else. Shanghai itself wasn't as expensive as I thought it would be.
- Q: Will you visit China again?
- A: Yes! With the new 15-day free visa, it's very easy to go back, and I'm already planning a trip for January or February.
- Q: What surprised you the most about China?
- A: How quiet and peaceful Shanghai was, despite its size. Also, how open, friendly, and helpful the people were.
