Shanghai
Shanghai, the largest city in China, is a bustling metropolis known for its modern skyline, rich history, and cultural diversity. It is a top destination for travelers seeking a blend of traditional and contemporary culture. Whilst being the financial hub of the east, Shanghai is a large seaport. However Shanghai does not stint when it comes to its natural beauty, it has some of the most beautiful water towns, old colloquial buildings and a wide variety of cuisine to try. The city is a food lover's paradise, with famous dishes such as xiaolongbao (steamed dumplings), stir-fried noodles, and soup dumplings. This cosmopolitan city has loads to offer to its travellers, shopping, luxury accommodation and of course endless heritage to explore.
Tipping.
Restaurants and bars- Tipping is not required nor expected.
Taxi- Tipping is not necessary but if one has been particularly helpful, a few one RMB coins would be well-received.
Hotels- There's no requirement to tip any hotel staff.
Lingo in Shanghai.
Shanghai being one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the world have many languages within the city and english is one of them. Many locals are fluent in both Mandarin and English, so getting around is not too difficult. However one can only truly enjoy their holiday when they feel apart of the city. So lucky for you, we got you covered. Here’s a couple phrases to help you get by.
General lingo.
Zǎo (Zhow)= Good morning
Wǎn'ān (One-un)= Good night
Wǒ jiào... (Wuh jeow...) = my name is…
Xièxiè (Shieh-shieh) = Thank you
Bu yao = No
Ni hao = Hello
Eating out/ shopping lingo.
Hào chī (How chir) = Delicious
Xǐshǒujiān zài nǎlǐ? (See-sow-jian zai na-lee?) = Where is the bathroom?
Duō shǎo? (Dwuh shauw?) How much?
Tài guìle! (Tie gway luh!)= Too expensive!
Măi dān (My dahn) = Check, please
Get your flirt on!
Měinǚ. = Beautiful
Nǐ tài shuàile = You’re so handsome
Nǐ hěn tèbié = You are really something special.
Nǐ míngtiān wǎnshàng yǒu shénme ānpái ma?= Do you have any plans tomorrow night?
Wǒ néng qǐng nǐ hē yī bēi ma?= Can I buy you a drink?
Nǐ xiǎng tiàowǔ ma?= Do you want to dance?
Transport from Amsterdam Airport.
There are 3 ways to get from Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport to city center - by private transfer, taxi and subway.
Private transfer.
A private transfer to your downtown hotel, or wherever you want to go can be arranged by private companies beforehand. Prices start at 25 USD per person, depending on your group size and how much luggage you have. It is one of the most convenient ways to travel from the airport.
Taxi.
A taxi will take around 30 minutes and set you back between 100 and 150 RMB. This is the most convenient way to get to Shanghai's downtown from the airport. Not all cab drivers speak english so have your hotel details written down in Chinese.
Subway.
This is your cheapest option at 5 RMB. You can take Subway Line 10 from the airport's Terminal 1, and Subway Line 2 or 10 from the airport's Terminal 2. Trains run every 6-12 minutes however they can be crowded.
Best time to travel.
The best time to visit Shanghai is from October to November. This short autumn season boasts comfortable temperatures and lacks the crowds.
