This city literally never sleeps. If you’ve never been to Shanghai, just imagine the biggest city you've ever been to, cranked up to 11. Move over Big Apple, welcome to the Big Dumpling! Tons of people, busy streets, towering modern buildings, and a sizable expat community are peppered with longtangs, noodle stands, waving cat figurines, and the occasional chickens (yes, chickens), making Shanghai a very electric and dynamic city.
Compared to other big Chinese cities, such as Beijing and Guangzhou, which have more relics from the ancient past and more traces of China’s tumultuous recent history, Shanghai is a shiny new example of China's optimistic future. That isn't to say there is nothing old in Shanghai; there are glamorous art-deco buildings, the infamous Yu gardens, and even an Old Town to send you back to the past (history buffs breathe a sigh of relief!).
Shanghai is often compared to Paris in the sense that it is arguably one of the trendiest, most cosmopolitan, and expensive cities in Asia, with plenty of luxurious shops for students in need of a little retail therapy. But don’t fret, a good meal can be had on the cheap! Dedicate a few days to exploring all of the market stands while studying in Shanghai, and make a To Taste list of all of the city’s foods you can’t pronounce (yet).
The nightlife in Shanghai is unparalleled; after dancing until dawn in one of Shanghai's numerous clubs or checking out the vibrant art and music scene, your face will beam as brightly as the neon signs above. Need a reprieve from city-life? Hop on the train for a quick trip to Shanghai’s laidback neighbors Hangzhou or Suzhou.
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