Granted, Shanghai has become one of the hottest spots on the planet, with all manner of attractions on offer. Indeed, the depth and breadth of said attractions present an embarrassment of wealth. As such, a guide is required, or better still a concierge, one whose knowledge is tailored to those whose standards are of the highest order, those accustomed to nothing but the best. In short, he following itinerary is designed with you in mind.

6am: one of the most beautiful sights in the city is watching the sun rise over Pudong’s skyline. Alight from the taxi at the corner of Henan Lu and Suzhou Creek, walk toward the Bund soaking up the creek view flanked by greenery and Concession-era buildings, and note the architectural details on either side of the waterway. If you reach the Bund promenade before 8am, you will be further inspired by the graceful movements of Shanghai’s famous taiqi practitioners. Read the rest of this entry »

There is an unsung architectural style in our midst. Writers in Shanghai have long noted the city’s art deco heriage with fervent glee, even writing fantastic books popularizing these buildings and their lavish Beaux Arts Bund cousins. Recently, the works of Hudec and other early 20th-century Shanghai architects have become the focus of new tomes, lectures and exhibitions. But there is nary a mention of another facet of our city’s pre-second world war past: the Edwardian style.
 
       Early 20th-century Edwardian represented a break with the Victorian era’s fussy over-decoration and dark interiors. Of course, in today’s landscape, Edwardian itself seems rather conservative and often play second fiddle to the more romantic revival styles. But still it lingers on in Shanghai and many other places around the world as a reminder of the last word in style around the turn of the 20th century. Read the rest of this entry »

With memories of the Spring Festival Gala Show still ringing in our ears, Chinese opera was about the last thing we yearned to hear. Nonetheless, a recent production to Si Lang Visits His Mother (四郎探母) had us kowtowing in respect of the highly talented performers. With striking gestures, fabulous costumes and spitfire singing passages interspersed with mellifluous rectal, the opera overflowed with riches. Read the rest of this entry »