Shanghai Bound! What's your ONE "OMG, Don't!" tip?

[Dr. Wade Boyer]

Hello, dear friends in Shanghai, I'm here!

• I just flew to Shanghai at dawn this morning, and this is my first time visiting – I am super excited! 🥳

• Although I did some research before coming (what people often refer to as a "guide", right?), and made a list of places I want to visit, food items I’d like to try.

• However, I still want to hear the sincere advice from locals or frequent visitors to Shanghai:

  • Are there any places, foods, or accommodations in Shanghai that sound impressive but may be disappointing in reality?
    • For instance, are there any attractions where it can get very crowded but you end up feeling like “is this all?” (not as special as expected?)
    • Do some restaurants have great reputations but only mediocre taste, or even "special" prices for tourists?
  • ️ My particular concerns:
    • When wandering and eating around Shanghai, what small details should I be cautious of?
    • In terms of transportation, do you have recommendations? Or which areas are best avoided alone at night? What are the unspoken rules when ordering meals to avoid being overcharged?

• Basically, I am reaching out to gain insights on how to enjoy a more authentic, less stressful Shanghai trip and avoid any unpleasant experiences.

• Thanks in advance for everyone's valuable experience sharing. I look forward to your responses!

[Ada Muller]

Definitely avoid The Bund and Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street.

[Jeremiah Stamm-Carroll]

Skip The Bund?

[Cathy Gulgowski]

Don't bother with The Bund at night. You can also see the Pudong skyline by taking a city walk along Suzhou Creek.

[Jeannie Parisian]

Looks amazing!

[April Corwin]

Let me be honest: Big warning! Big warning! Big warning! Whatever you do, don't look for a spouse in Shanghai. Don't even ask why. If you absolutely must know, I'll just lay it bare: you won't get any 'bride price' (彩礼). Shanghainese people are the stingiest of the stingy; they'll never offer a bride price for marriage. Seriously, steer clear!

[Courtney Hickle Jr.]

As if they'd even want to marry you in the first place.

[Arnold Predovic]

Skip the 100+ yuan cruise, just take the 2 yuan ferry.

[Shawna Keebler-Satterfield]

Where can I catch the 2 yuan ferry if I'm on Nanjing Road?

[Felix Glover]

If you're looking for something not too spicy, try Shanghai Lao Tai Gong. It offers pretty good value for money too.

[Dr. Ruben Larkin MD]

What's the ambiance like? Is it suitable for bringing family?

[Courtney Hickle Jr.]

For xiaolongbao, go to Lao Sheng Xing or Lao Sheng Chang. They're cheap, delicious, and Shanghai locals have been eating there since they were kids.

[Sammy Schiller]

Lao Sheng Xing's cold noodles are delicious! They're probably not out for the season yet, though.

[Marc Price]

Steer clear of Weiting Hotel!!

[Felix Glover]

Why? That's the one I booked.

[Karen Bruen]

Xin Yi's dorayaki is delicious.

[Mr. Jody Bednar]

Any recommendations?

[Kathryn Hermiston]

It's been a bit cold these past few days.

[Hannah Rogahn]

Would an overcoat be okay, sis?

[Marcos Goodwin]

When taking photos at The Bund, definitely don't just hire any photographer you find there. Make sure to confirm the price upfront. I had a few sets of photos taken yesterday and ended up being charged over 2000.