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Why I Loved Shanghai, China


As an avid traveler, I have visited many different countries, but for some reason China was never on top of any list.  Don't know why, it just worked out that way.  It very well could have been due to some preconceived notions, some perceptions, whether correct or not.  This trip to Shanghai and two other cities, changed my view of China completely.  So, here are a few things that I loved about Shanghai.

First, I loved that the level of cleanliness was impressive, I found the people to be very kind and helpful, the food was some of the best stuff I have ever had and the transportation was enviable.  This is a well run and organized place that is also fun and relaxed.


I loved that there are buildings such as this one





 and this


I loved these neighborhoods that are still here, where people live and raise their families.  We have seen many older neighborhoods being knocked down to make room for skyscrapers. 





 I loved the beautiful temples and historical areas adding character to the new generation of buildings.

 


I loved these running paths in parks near office buildings.


I loved that bikes are just left on the street without having to be tethered to a pole.



 These bike/scooter lanes were so nice and well thought out.



The dichotomy of life.



Fancy, old world clothing for children





Where shopping centers have great design.



Stunning cakes


 and cupcakes



Loved the million of beautiful tea sets I have seen in just a few days.


Loved that just strolling down a busy street I could see a beautiful pop of color.



Loved these amazingly high elevated highways.



Since nothing in this life is all positive:

What I didn't like was the pollution.  This is nothing new, everyone is aware of the pollution in China but it was jarring to see it for myself.  The haze, the fog like cloudiness was present for most of our visit.  I was sad that we never got a chance to see this glorious skyline without the haze taking away its sharpness and color.  The day I took this photo was actually not a very bad day as far as pollution is concerned.  There are days when those buildings are almost not visible. 





Another part of China that is difficult is the censorship.  Yes, the tourists have it easy; we can purchase a special program so that our internet is fully operational.

 One evening, my husband and I were sitting in our hotel room, and watching CNN (I think it was CNN), before going to sleep.  There was a report about some crooked politician in a European country.   When that piece ended we heard the beginning of another report: "Today in Tiananmen Square...." And our screen went black.  I looked at my husband and asked why he turned the TV off, he said that he didn't.  We realized that the story has been censored, we sat there frozen watching the black screen for two minutes until the picture came back and now the reporters were talking about the American election. 

I grew up under communism (Poland), but never had seen such a downright, in your face, show of governmental control. 


Joanna




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