Free Time

Despite the demanding nature of the programme, there was still opportunities to explore Shanghai in our free time. Some highlights included the picturesque Yu Yuan Gardens, the M50 Galleries - a diverse collection of galleries of modern art, various shopping markets - including the South Bund Fabric market. I was able to have some beautiful, bespoke silk trousers made for only £20, the French Concession, Old Town and the Jade Buddha Temple.

The Yu Yuan Gardens

Please ignore the 'wet floor' sign, it was so beautiful and tranquil here!

Some amazing street art on the road leading to M50, the art district, where there were dozens of interesting little galleries

 I love the Wreck it Ralph piece especially!

The French Concession

I loved this area, especially Tianzifang, which was filled with cute little boutiques and bars

 A toilet themed restaurant! 

Old Town

The Jade Buddha Temple

Shanghai History Museum

This Museum was in the basement of the Oriental Pearl Tower. Interactive displays featuring lifelike waxwork models take you through Chinese History. Though the museum is not yet complete (it currently ends in the 1920s) it was really thought provoking and I am keen to return in a few years when we will (hopefully) be taken up to modern day! 

 This was one of my favourite 'shops.' She is making beancurd

What a find! Imitation Beatrix Potter alarm clocks featuring 'Super Lovely Garden Rabbit' aka Peter! I bought a heart shaped one for £3.50!

Nightlife

The nightlife in Shanghai was so much fun. My two favourite places are at complete opposite ends of the fancy-grunge spectrum. The first, a bar at the top of the Shanghai World Financial Centre, offers free entry and champagne to ladies on Wednesdays! The other, The Shelter, is a bomb-shelter turned nightclub with an anything goes dress code and 90s Hip Hop music!