SHANGHAI:

A holiday in splendor

Glamorous and shabby, decadent and modern, old and new – a slew of contradictions describe the magnificence that is Shanghai, where writer-photographer Marco Antonio Misa Torres went from enjoying tea in colonial 1920s China, to sipping a cosmopolitan while gazing at the skyline

words and images by Marco Antonio Misa Torres

If you’re looking for a holiday destination where you and your family can experience the joys of winter, swanky Shanghai may be a great choice. You’re family will definitely be thrilled to experience vacationing in winter garb. Here’s a chance to wear those fashionable winter coats with matching scarves and gloves. If you’re lucky, the forces of nature might even cooperate and let you experience snow for the first time.

The happiest place on earth, Disneyland, is also here, which means that there’s a guarantee of loads of fun and adventure for everyone. What’s more, Shanghai is so diverse architecturally and culturally; there’ll be plenty of things to see and experience.

I called Shanghai home for over two years and I assure you, in the mainland’s financial capital, you’ll have a holiday packed with new experiences.

WHERE EAST MEETS WEST, AND OLD WORLD MEETS NEW WORLD
Shanghai is the largest city proper in the world with a population of 24 million. As China’s financial capital, many roads, railways, and metro rails lead to it. The city holds the record for having the longest subway system in the world, spanning 538 kilometers, consisting of 14 lines, connecting 329 stations. This does not even count the 431 kilometers per hour-fast Maglev hi-speed bullet train, which takes you from downtown to the airport in just seven minutes.

Known as the Paris of the East, Shanghai has not lost any of its old world charm. Colonial buildings continue to be romanticized by Shanghai’s beautiful martini’d set who party here like there’s no tomorrow.

On the other hand, futuristic Shanghai is developing with abrupt speed. No other skyline in the world can match its intergalactic splendor. When seen with the Oriental Pearl TV Tower, the triptych of 88-story-and-above megatall towers – Jin Mao, the Shanghai World Financial Center and the Shanghai Tower – is like a scene straight out of an extraterrestrial movie.

HEAVEN FOR THOSE IN SEARCH OF GUSTATORY PURSUITS
When I travel, I love searching for adventures to satisfy my palate. For that, Shanghai is an unbeatable destination. Wolfgang Puck, Jean Georges Vongerichten and Jason Atherton are just among a few of the culinary giants who’ve made their legendary dishes available in Shanghai. The chef with the most Michelin stars, Joel Robuchon, also holds forth here.

So if you’re an intrepid traveler like me who likes living it up, come on over and I guarantee you – in Shanghai, there’s never a dull moment.

WHAT TO SEE
Shanghai is a paradise for the trigger-happy, I recommend you bring an SD card or a handy phone with lots of memory space.

Yu Garden
This Ming Dynasty garden built in 1577 is one of the most popular landmarks. Snap one selfie after another before its most iconic feature, the Nine-Zigzag Bridge, and then stroll at the Qing Dynasty Old Street in Fangbang Road for souvenir shopping.

Ancient Water Towns
You won’t need to take a time machine to return to ancient China. Within Shanghai, there are decadent water towns resembling period film sets like that of Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon. Zhujiajiao is a cab ride away while Qibao can be reached by subway. Aside from postcard-perfect images, there are plenty of Shanghai street delicacies to snack on.

Buddhist Temples
Jade Buddha Temple and Jing An Temple are active monasteries teeming with hyperactive trigger- happy tourists. Zhenru Temple in Putuo District is stunning and serene.

The Pudong Skyline
Meander at the new Bund promenade, take the evening cruise or party late at night at Bar Rouge and enjoy the free light show from the towers.

The Acrobatic Show
A visit to China is never complete without seeing this dazzling spectacle that will leave you enthralled.

WHAT TO DO
I have so much unforgettable experiences in Shanghai, I’m sharing with you just a few.

Strolling in Xintiandi
An upscale entertainment complex on traditional alleyway homes (lòngtáng) is a perfect spot for a cup of coffee. It’s also lined with a wide array of dining choices.

Exploring the Shanghai Museum
Immerse yourself in Chinese history and creativity at this open museum. After you’ve had your fill, observe how locals while away their time at People’s Square.

Getting lost in the French Concession Area
Relive colonial 1920s Shanghai as you stroll along its many chic cafes, restaurants and shops.

Experiencing the Bund Sightseeing Tunnel
Cross from the past to the future, from Puxi to Pudong, in a surreal, psychedelic time machine. Prepare for RMB70 for a roundtrip.

Delighting in Nanxiang Xiaolongbao
Have your fill of Xiaolongbao in this local favorite at the Yu Garden. Take it from the locals who queue patiently for these heavenly soupy dumplings. Prepare RMB20 for eight pieces.

WHERE TO EAT
Lost Heaven
You’ll find Chinese gastronomic heaven in Lost Heaven. Aside from succulent Yunnan dishes, the interiors are enthralling. They also have a rooftop terrace that’s oriental in design yet modern in vibe. After you’ve had your fill of their delicious food, walk over to the Bund promenade which is just a five-minute strut away.

1221 The Dining Room
If you want some of the best local delicacies, 1221 is where you can experience Shanghai cuisine with a modern twist.

Mr. & Mrs. Bund
Also of Paul Pairet, it serves simple French and global dishes using avant-garde methods, family-style. Insider tip: there’s late night dinner (11 p.m. Onwards, Thursday to Saturday) that’s easier on the wallet.

Fu He Hui and Fu 1015
Chef Tony Lu, at the forefront of modern Shanghai cuisine, is the only local who has successfully taken on the global gustatory giants like Jason Atherton and Jean Georges in the Shanghai culinary scene by landing two of his Fu restaurants in the 100 World’s Best Restaurants List.

L'Atelier Joël Robuchon
If you’re into Michelin stars, here’s food from the man with the most Michelin stars ever. It may cost dear but the experience is all worth it.

WHERE TO HANG OUT
Found 158
This recently-opened al fresco dining and drinking area is now one of Shanghai’s most popular places to hang out. It’s a great place to have cocktails in the company of expats and locals.

Bar Rouge
Find out why this glamorous bar on the Bund is a mainstay in the “World’s Best Bars” lists.

Le Baron
This discotheque, that’s got the French queuing in Paris, has a nice decadence to it that will inspire you to party like Mick Jagger.

The Nest
Their chic cocktails are just perfect to indulge on as you tete-a-tete with friends in this uber-chill setting.

Unico
This cocktail and tapas lounge by Michelin-starred chef Mauro Colagreco comes to life just before midnight.

WHERE TO SHOP
Nanjing Road
It's part of the world’s busiest shopping street. You can start on the East side after your homage to the Bund for cheap bric-a-bracs, then head on to the West side where you’ll find colossal flagship stores of the world’s most luxurious brands.

Tianzifang
Located on Taikang Road in the French Concession area, it is a stylish shopping enclave with craft stores, coffee shops, art studios and narrow alleys for the chic and the trendy. The Old Street near Yu Garden is where to find souvenirs and trinkets at wholesale prices.

WHERE TO STAY
You won’t want of choices for good accommodations on any budget in Shanghai. There are nice hostels which you’ll share with backpackers from everywhere in the world. There are also budget hotels such as Jin Jiang Inn or Hanting. However, if budget is not an issue, you’re guaranteed a sublime experience in these hotels.

The Waldorf Astoria Shanghai on The Bund
This elegant, historic hotel has restored the heritage of the Shanghai gentleman's club to its former glory.

The Puli Hotel and Spa
Part boutique-hotel, part spa, Shanghai's first and finest urban retreat is a place for luxurious respite after a long day of sightseeing.

The Park Hyatt
The world's second highest hotel in the iconic SWFC has stupefying views and exudes luxe from top to bottom.

Shangri-La Hotels
As in Manila, you know you’re in good hands when you’re with this brand. Shangri-la Hotel and Kerry Hotel are great options in the Pudong area.