Travel Guides & Tips in this video
- Tip 1Download Alipay app for easy public transport payment in China. It works on buses, trains, and even ferries, making travel very convenient and affordable. (1:08)
- Tip 2Explore local markets for unique souvenirs and affordable winter wear. Don't be afraid to haggle, but be respectful of local customs. (4:15)
- Tip 3Sample local drinks and street food. Be adventurous and try new things, but be mindful of potential spice levels. Communicate with vendors, even if your Mandarin is limited. (7:50)
- Tip 4Visit the 7-Eleven of China. It's a unique experience, offering a cocktail session where you can mix your own drinks. It's a fun way to enjoy local beverages. (14:17)
- Tip 5Explore Nanjing Road, the main shopping street in Shanghai. It's a pedestrian precinct, offering a safe and enjoyable shopping experience with many street food vendors. (15:49)
- Tip 6If you're having trouble withdrawing money, try SDP bank. It's a bank where Alan and Shannon successfully withdrew money without hassle. (16:55)
- Tip 7Observe the Chinese sports lottery stands. They offer a glimpse into local culture and are always busy, showcasing the popularity of lottery and sports betting in China. (22:17)
Alan and Shannon's first day in Shanghai is a whirlwind of vibrant contrasts. From navigating public transport with ease using Alipay to marveling at breathtaking viewpoints, their journey is filled with unique discoveries. They explore the ancient charm of Yuan Old Street, finding honesty and trust reflected in the unlocked bikes and street-side phone chargers. A shopping spree for warm winter wear leads to unexpected encounters and hilarious miscommunications. The day culminates in a delightful exploration of Nanjing Road, a bustling pedestrian street offering a blend of modern luxury and traditional street food, leaving Alan and Shannon utterly captivated by the city's unique charm.
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This vlog documents Alan and Shannon's first day in Shanghai, China. Their initial surprise at the unexpectedly cold weather quickly gives way to excitement as they explore the city. Using the Alipay app, they effortlessly navigate public transportation, highlighting the ease of access for foreigners. The initial bus ride takes them to a stunning viewpoint offering a panoramic view of the city, showcasing its cleanliness and autumnal beauty.
The cost-effectiveness of public transport is emphasized, with a bus ride costing only 2 Yen (approximately 20p). Despite Shanghai's size (26 million inhabitants), the city feels surprisingly quiet and orderly, a stark contrast to the bustling chaos of their recent trip to India. Their exploration leads them to Yuan Old Street, a charming area with traditional antique-style buildings, providing a glimpse into the city's rich history.
Alan and Shannon's search for gloves leads them through a vibrant market, where they encounter the honesty of local vendors, leaving their hats unattended without fear of theft. The vlog captures amusing interactions as they attempt to communicate with vendors, showcasing the challenges and rewards of navigating a new culture. They sample local drinks, sharing their tasting notes with viewers and highlighting the unique flavors of peach and rose flower juice. A spontaneous detour to a Chinese tea house introduces them to a robot barista, providing a humorous moment of technological interaction.
The vlog highlights the juxtaposition of old and new architecture in Shanghai, with ancient buildings standing alongside modern skyscrapers. Their exploration of Nanjing Road, described as the 'Fifth Avenue of China', showcases the city's blend of luxury shopping and vibrant street food. They encounter challenges in accessing money, sharing their experience of finding success at a specific bank (SDP bank). Their street food experience is a mixed bag, with some dishes proving delicious and others unexpectedly challenging. The vlog concludes with reflections on the city's surprising quietude and their anticipation for further exploration, inviting viewers to share recommendations for the rest of their 3 1/2-week trip.
FAQs (From the traveler's perspective)
- Q: How easy is it to use public transport in Shanghai as a foreigner?
- A: Surprisingly easy! We used Alipay, and it worked perfectly on buses and everything.
- Q: What's the most surprising thing about Shanghai?
- A: How quiet it is! For a city with 26 million people, it's incredibly calm, unlike anywhere else we've been recently.
- Q: What was the street food like?
- A: A mixed bag! Some things were delicious, others⦠well, let's just say we learned a lesson or two about what to order.
- Q: What's the best way to pay for things?
- A: Alipay! It's super convenient and widely accepted.
- Q: What's the best way to get around?
- A: Public transport is cheap and easy. The bus system is great.