Shanghai, City of the Third Millenium
Falling between futuristic dream world and the Middle Ages, Shanghai has been rebuilding itself for the last ten years, driven by an extraordinary vitality. Today, the changing face of the city continues to fascinate the West with its perpetual metamorphosis. Between forests of glass and steel, the new Shangri-La Hotel is a shining symbol of this new modernity.
The Many Faces of Shanghai
The city has truly changed. In the past, it was a traditional walled town, but today it reveals two faces: the urban sprawl of the town established at the end of the 19th Century, and the new city reaching skywards, erupting from the ground just a short decade ago.
From one block to the next, the sights are incomparable. Brick and wood houses, little cafés frying vegetable ravioli, bikes coming and going in every direction, ma and pa stores selling a mish-mash of objects - this is the old town.
A step away, it is the turn of the steel, glass and marble skyscrapers. A sea of black suits and smart women in discrete make-up invade this part of town daily.
Despite the changes, the traditional values of Confucius remain firmly rooted in the hearts of the people of Shanghai. Love of family and respect for the old and erudite remain ever present.
The Pudong Quarter, a Glimpse into the Future
Not so long ago, Pudong, situated to the east of the Huangpu River, was covered with rice paddies; today, it's the tower blocks and skyscrapers which are making an assault on the clouds in their place. Here the past has given way to the future with the skyward pointing Jinmao Dasha, (421 m tall), the glass and steel clad Jinmao Building (421 m tall), and the iridescent globes of the Pearl of the Orient (468m tall). This latter is a veritable rocket of a tower concealing television transmitters. Offices and hotels such as the Shangri-La or the Park Hyatt have invaded the quarter, a glimpse of things to come.
On the opposite bank of the river you'll find historic Shanghai. The Bund is a kilometer of majestic buildings, with strong evidence of the former British presence in the 1920's and 30's on the major thoroughfare.
The Shangri-La: Luxury, Chinese Style
The Pudong Shangri-La Hotel is the latest ultra-luxury tower to begin its conquest of the skies. Opened less than a year ago, this ultra modern glass tower offers 375 rooms, fashionable restaurants and bars, one of the cities finest spas, the Chi Spa, a beautiful outdoor swimming pool, and one of the very best restaurants in town, Jade on 36.
To experience the best of this new culture, choose a “Premier” room, which is located high in the tower and overlooks the Bund. Thanks to floor-to-ceiling windows wrapping around the room, the visitor is offered an imposing view of the heart of the city.
24-hour service from a helpful and highly professional staff is the order of the day. At Club Horizon you will find the service even more personalized, with breakfast available all day in a special lounge, Wi-Fi offered everywhere, late check-out and advanced check-in of your luggage to avoid waiting in line. A certain plus!
Jade on 36
If you are staying several evenings in Shanghai, dinner at Jade on 36, the hippest restaurant in town, is a must! Here, Adam D. Tihany has created one of his most impressive interiors, with its futuristic interpretation on Chinese traditional style. The view is sublime and with Shanghai at our feet, the cuisine is a veritable journey of discovery.
Chef Franck Elie Laloum today is in charge at Jade on 36 and uses his experience in one of the moset awarded French restaurants to please every single costumer with great French cuisine.
Sens & Bund, Southern Chinese Cuisine
If you have another free evening, why not head to Sens & Bund, owned by the Pourcel Brothers, and located on the Bund. Opened just three years ago, today it attracts the cream of Chinese society with its contemporary décor. The cuisine is Southern Chinese, with touches of local flavours added. Fish and shellfish are the house specialty. When in Rome...!
Extreme Shopping!
If you are in Shanghai, shopping is inevitable, even if the men complain a bit!
In this city, the Chinese make stunning knock-offs, although you are advised to pass on copies of high tech gadgets. However, do not hesitate to stock up on tailored suits, sheets and bathrobes when you visit the Fabric Market. Take in the sights and sounds of the old city where the old marketplace has been rebuilt. Between the traditional rooftops and the open fretwork balconies, one can almost see the palanquins. Take a walk up the famous Nankin Road, Shanghai's very own Rodeo Drive, dedicated to consumerism and luxury. Perhaps it is too up to date for some tastes, but if you are missing home, you'll find the majority of Western brands here.
If it's local boutiques you are looking for, go to Maoming Nan Lu or the new fashion district of Xintiandi.
Don't hesitate to do as the locals and get yourself a foot massage at Lianhzi or at Dragon Fly, which has several shops in different parts of town.
Shanghai is a town of extremes, attractive and repellent at the same time, but without a doubt this city of dreams has found its reality, and deservedly merits a visit.
Octobre 2012
