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China Attractions

SEG Electronics Market

SEG Electronics Market is the kind of place that techies enter and vanish never to be seen again. It’s housed in two buildings (a third one functions as the SEG Digital Market) on Huaqiang Bei Lu. The largest building has eight floors and is on the corner of Huaqiang Bei Lu and Huaqiang Z...
SEG Electronics Market is the kind of place that techies enter and vanish never to be seen again. It’s housed in two buildings (a third one functions as the SEG Digital Market) on Huaqiang Bei Lu. The largest building has eight floors and is on the corner of Huaqiang Bei Lu and Huaqiang Zhong Lu. Next to that on Huaqiang Bei Lu is a building with four more floors of electronic products. Behind these two buildings, and accessible by walking between them is SEG Digital Market.
 
The electronics market stocks mostly computers and computer accessories. The digital market is good for entertainment devices like MP3s, personal stereos and DVD players. Having said that, the distinction is often blurred and you might want to check out each building no matter what you are in the market for. Aside from computer hardware and software, SEG also stocks just about every electronic-related product imaginable from telephone leads to RC toys. It is also possible to have electronic products repaired here.
 
Many of the stalls have prices displayed on their products but it is still acceptable to bargain. If there are no prices displayed it is highly advisable to bargain. Examine what you are purchasing very carefully and ask for a receipt. Obviously, buying laptops of dubious origins from the shady characters that stand outside the market is not recommended. 
 
How to get there
The best way to get to SEG is by metro. Exit A of Huaqiang Lu station will bring you out on the corner of Huaqiang Bei Lu and Huaqiang Zhong Lu. The market is on the opposite side of the street. If you take a taxi tell the driver to take you to Huaqiang Bei Saige Dianzi Shichang.

Babi, Mix, and Fashion Clubs

Babi Club is currently the hottest club in town. Young Chinese and foreigners alike come here to wear their sunglasses at night. Patrons do their best impression of dress styles as seen in MTV’s raciest videos. DJs mix beats from around the world from decades past and present. The kids...

Babi Club is currently the hottest club in town. Young Chinese and foreigners alike come here to wear their sunglasses at night. Patrons do their best impression of dress styles as seen in MTV’s raciest videos. DJs mix beats from around the world from decades past and present. The kids could hardly care though as the dance floor is packed until the sun comes up. There are actually two separate sections of the club that try to play contrasting styles of music. There is no admission fee, but beers are Y30 and mixed drinks start at Y40, so drink before you come. Private tables are available as well.

 

Fashion and Mix Clubs are right next door to Babi within the very same building. These spots fill up on weekends and play music similar enough to Babi. Drinks are a tad cheaper at these two than at Babi.

 

 

 

Babi Club is on the south 2nd ring road, west of Renmin Nanlu. Since you’ll be headed there after the buses have shut down, just hop in a taxi, and say "Babi", the driver should know where to go. The clubs are across the 2nd ring road and a bit to the west from the Yulin Life Plaza (Yulin Shenghuo Guangchang, 玉林生活广场).

Little Bar

For more than 10 years, Little Bar has been a stronghold of the Yulin neighborhood. The interior is dimly lit and the walls are covered with post-modern art in all shapes and sizes. The bar attracts a more mature crowd when compared with other local hangouts. Professionals, artisans, and foreigne...

For more than 10 years, Little Bar has been a stronghold of the Yulin neighborhood. The interior is dimly lit and the walls are covered with post-modern art in all shapes and sizes. The bar attracts a more mature crowd when compared with other local hangouts. Professionals, artisans, and foreigners frequent the bar with their friends to discuss current trends and events and forget the day’s hardships. Everyone is a friend at Little Bar. Thankfully patrons are also able listen to soft beats played at a very agreeable volume. The Beatles, Lee ’Scratch’ Perry, and the Theivory Corporation are just a few of the tasteful musical selections put on by the staff. Chinese beers are Y10-15 while imported beers range from Y20-30. Bottles of red and white wine along with a full selection of liquor are available for Y15-40 per drink. A few snacks are available, but there is no real kictchen. Weekends often feature live bands from around Asia, so keep an eye out for advertisements around town.

Directions/Address: 55 Yulin Xilu (55 West Yulin St.), take a bus or taxi south on Renmin Nanlu. As soon as you pass the Sichuan sports arena after crossing the south 1st ring road, make a right on East Yulin St. Follow the street a few blocks and eventually you will arrive at Little Bar on the right-hand side. 

Jean Georges

Jean Georges is one of Shanghai’s well known, highly respected restaurants that actually lives up to the hype. I’m always somewhat nervous going to “THE” restaurant in town with guests, as I am never sure if it will live up to my hopes and the high prices on the menu. Fo...
Jean Georges is one of Shanghai’s well known, highly respected restaurants that actually lives up to the hype. I’m always somewhat nervous going to “THE” restaurant in town with guests, as I am never sure if it will live up to my hopes and the high prices on the menu. Fortunately Jean Georges’ service, food and ambiance certainly did – we had a wonderful experience.
 
The ambiance is warm and a bit dark without being too claustrophobic. The adjoining dining and bar spaces are huge.  The ceilings must be 10 meters high, allowing for huge windows which offer a full view of the Bund and Pudong.  The clientele certainly prefers Gucci and Prada, and you will likely want to take a walk around to see which famous couples might be snuggling in the booths.  Dignitaries and moguls enjoy a separate lounge to smoke cigars and talk business, but the rest of the restaurant is thankfully non-smoking.
 
The menu is varied but decidedly French. Each of the four guests in my party enjoyed both their appetizer and main course equally well. Particular favorites were the “Ribbon Tuna” appetizer, which was a healthy serving of raw tuna with a wonderful dressing and fresh radishes.  We also loved the shrimp salad, the beautifully presented mushroom soup, and the red snapper encrusted with nuts and seeds.  Cosmopolitan fans should not skip the Shanghai Cosmo; it was the most delicious cocktail I have had in a long time. With cocktails, a bottle of wine from the exceptional wine list, appetizers and main courses, you are looking at a bill of at least 800RMB per person. For a night out on the town, Jean Georges is definitely worth it.
 

How to get there: Take a cab to arrive in style! Otherwise, the restaurant is at the corner of the Bund and Guang Dong Lu.

Cotton's

I have been consistently hearing about Cotton’s since I moved to Shanghai. It’s therefore possible I was set up for disappointment, because it could not possibly live up to my expectations.  An old favorite of Shanghai expatriates, Cotton’s closed its doors last year to t...
I have been consistently hearing about Cotton’s since I moved to Shanghai. It’s therefore possible I was set up for disappointment, because it could not possibly live up to my expectations.  An old favorite of Shanghai expatriates, Cotton’s closed its doors last year to the horror of its customers.  Fortunately, when Cotton’s announced it would be opening a new locale on Anting Lu and JiuJiaBang Lu, the Shanghai English publications were a-flurry with excitement.  Since it opened this past winter, rave reviews had me looking forward to my first visit.
 
Cotton’s is housed in a fantastic historic residence that combines an air of old Shanghai and the integration of some cool new architectural elements.  Old living spaces now house bench seats and tables for low key drinkers, while a new glass addition holds the chic bar space and small café tables.  The bar area seemed a little more social, as the space inside the historic home felt a bit stuffy.  Despite the high ceilings, the space felt strangely small and crowded as if I was in a fish bowl... that is, patrons more interested in staring at other people than enjoying their drinks and company.  It could very well just have been the crowd on that given day though. I will definitely go back to Cotton’s when the weather is nice enough to enjoy the charming outdoor space.
 
Cocktails ranged from 45-55RMB.
 
How to get there: Take Metro Line 1 to Hengshan Rd. Station. Follow the signs to YongJia Rd, and then turn left on Yongjia Rd.  Take the first right, which will lead to Jian Guo Xi Lu; Cotton’s is on the corner.

Senso Massage

Senso Massage (“顺道” SENSO) has made a concerted effort to hit all of the aspects of a massage experience that are important to western guests.  First, the location on Nanchang Road (南昌路) is perfect after a day of boutique shopping in the neighborhood.  More importantly, the ...

Senso Massage (“顺道” SENSO) has made a concerted effort to hit all of the aspects of a massage experience that are important to western guests.  First, the location on Nanchang Road (南昌路) is perfect after a day of boutique shopping in the neighborhood.  More importantly, the interior is clean, warm, and creatively decorated.  Guests are welcomed in and invited to sit on couches in front of a faux fire place, which lets out heat created from a hidden electric heater. Above the fire a flat screen TV shows relaxing seascapes while guests browse a menu of massages.  Music lightly plays in the background, helping you completely remove yourself from the bustling Chinese world outside.
  
The “menu” of massages is displayed in an upscale handmade book with options written in Chinese and English. While the prices may be a little higher than the average, the ambiance makes it worthwhile. I also feel that the massages I have had here have been of superior quality to other places I have tried. I recommend the Oriental Full-Body Massage at 128RMB for 1 hour (全身128元一小时).  For those new to Chinese massage this choice is the easiest to enjoy, as the masseuse uses a towel between her hands and your body wherever she touches you.  Furthermore, you are completely dressed. Senso provides clean, pre-packaged two-piece pajamas. Other massage parlors usually provide bathrobes.  Another popular choice is the Aromatic Oil Massage, where guests can choose from several choices of aromatherapy to alleviate various ailments. (Full body, RMB368/hr,全身368元/小时)
 
After making a selection, guests are led upstairs to one of two rooms. One room is more private and used when two guests come in together.  The other room has more beds, three or four, divided only by curtains, but the space is still very quiet and private.  After changing, the masseuse will appear with a clock to ensure that guests receive a full hour.  First lay on your stomach first for a full back side massage all the way down to the feet. Then turn over for the legs, arms, head and neck massage. The masseuses are extremely sensitive to guests’ requests, so do not hesitate to ask them to avoid or concentrate on a specific area.  Part of what I like so much about Senso is that their goal is your utmost comfort. There is nothing questionable about what services they provide.  I’ll leave it at that.
 

Take Metro Line 1 to Shanxi Rd. Station.  Exit onto Shanxi Rd., and then head south one block to Nanchang Rd. Take a left on Nanchang Rd. and walk four blocks (about 10 minutes).  Senso will be on the left side of the street.

Physical Fitness and Beauty

With gym memberships at 2300RMB for a year, or 1700RMB for 6 months, Physical is the best value in Shanghai.  Several gyms around town offer similar prices, but Physical is by far the most westernized and professionally run.
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With gym memberships at 2300RMB for a year, or 1700RMB for 6 months, Physical is the best value in Shanghai.  Several gyms around town offer similar prices, but Physical is by far the most westernized and professionally run.
            
The gym itself is clean and spacious.  A large selection of equipment includes dozens of cardio machines, stair climbers, elliptical trainers, treadmills and stationary bikes. Those looking to tone or build muscles will be pleased by the plentiful weight machines, as well as a full selection of free weights. Each branch of Physical has a unique layout. The XuJiaHui branch is two stories, and features a woman’s zone on the top floor.  This area is marked by a large selection of cardio machines versus far fewer weight machines for the women not interested in the many weight machines downstairs.  The membership fee at each location includes free access to all class offerings, including dance, step, and yoga.  
           
Full size towels cost 5RMB to rent, and the charge for for obtaining a membership card is also 5RMB.  The locker rooms have lockers, showers, a sauna and hairdryers. Each branch offers different benefits, such as tanning or a swimming pool, so be sure to inquire when taking the introductory tour.  Enjoy!
 
1F, 283 Huai Hai Zhong Lu
Hong Kong Plaza, South Tower
TEL: 21 6390 8166
Mon-Sat 6:30am-11pm, Sun 7am-10pm
How to get there: Metro line 1, Huangpi Rd. South Station
 
No.1111, ZhaoJiaBang Lu, Shanghai
Metro City, 4-5F
TEL: +86 (0)21 6390 8166
Open Daily 7am-10pm
How to get there: Metro line 1, XuJiaHui Station
 
No.268, Xizang Nanlu, Shanghai
7F Raffles City
TEL: +86 (0)21 6340 3939
Mon-Sat 6:30am-11pm, Sun 7am-10pm
How to get there: Metro lines 1 and 2, People’s Square Station

Top China Tours

$150 Per Day

Guangzhou

Day 1 Arrive in Guangzhou

Arrive in Guangzhou in the morning, you will be met and transferred to hotel, then visit Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall. The Memorial Hall is a very famous historical scenic spot. It is in memory of Sun Yat-sen, the great revolutionary forerunner. After that proceed to visit the Ancestral Temple of the Chen Family. It is a unique site for offering up sacrifices to worship ancestors of 72 Chen families in Guangdong. This ancestral temple is also the largest, best preserved and best decorated ancient architecture existing in Guangdong province.

Day 2 Guanzhou Tour 

After breakfast, you will go to Yuexiu Park first, the largest and the most famous park in downtown Guangzhou. There are three artificial lakes and seven hills of Yuexiu Mountain. Then you will visit Temple of Six Banyan Trees, which is one of the four best Buddhist temples in Guangzhou and located on the Liurong Road (meaning the Six Banyan Trees Road). The Nanyue King Tomb Museum is a must-see Guangzhou attraction, which dates back to 2,000 years ago, is the earliest large scale painted stone chamber tomb ever found south of the Five Ridges. Buried with the tomb owner in a jade shroud are a gold seal and a lot of exquisite jade adornments. It has become a world famous museum. After the day tour you will be transferred to airport for your next destination.

$53 Per Day

Pingyao Highlights Walking Tour

Pingyao Highlights Walking Day Tour

With our guide to know the Ancient Pingyao better!

Our guide will meet you at your hotel lobby at 08:00 or 08:30, then show you the ticket office to get the ticket for the museums we will visit later.

First we will visit the 700 years old City wall, We will climb up from south gate and have a walk on the wall. We are not sure how many km we can walk, because of the renovating of the wall. Normally we will walk from south gate to the Yunlu Exit.

Then visit the Confucius temple, there is a old building named Dacheng Hall which is over 840 years old. From outside, we can see the big wood joints to lift the big roof around the building which is named Dougong. Due to this design, there are less columns inside the hall for giving the big space for the statues and the prayer. We have chance to see the Confucius statue and learn the philosophy of Confucius. If you like, you can pray for you and your children to get better study.

There is the Paper Cutting master named Wentao nearby the exit of Confucius temple. She is very smart and create the new style paper cutting with much more details and good wishes on it. Her products are made by hanks. It is worth to visit and buy as a souvenir from Pingyao. From the table standing and wall hangings. Please remember, take the red one because of red is the traditional and happy color. But the white one is the best. It is really difficult to choose, because of all of them are really nice.

Then you can have coffee break or tea break if you need at Chummy coffee, after this, visit the City god temple (ChenghuangMiao) which is most beautiful temple inside the wall. Because of the roof is covered by the colorful glazed tiles. There is not only city god and also the three money gods, Now you know why pingyao was the financial center.

Next we will visit the Ancient government building, to see the pingyao politics center in the ancient time. It is the complete building with officials bed room, kitchen and private garden. Follow the guide to look the official’s life from the 250km far away from the hometown.

Have a stroll in the alley to the Rishengchang exchange bank, which is the first bank all of china.You can not miss it.

After lunch, walk to the Ming and Qing street, this is the shopping street full of the stores on the both side of street. You can find alot things here , from post card to lacquered boxes, and wall panels. One more place to see, it is the Armed escort agency also named security and transport service for the business man before the bank founded.

Inlcusions

1.private english speaking tour guide servcie

2.bottle water for the tour

 

$310 Per Day

3- Day Popular Tour In Zhangjiajie

Day 1    Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

Full day trip to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park,take Bailong Elevator up Yuanjiajie,Bailong Elevator is the said to be the worlds tallest full-exposure outdoor lift,double-deck sightseeing elevator.Yuanjiajie is the inspiration for Hallelujah Mountain in AVATAR , Where you will also find the aptly named First Bridge under Heaven, Lover Peaks and so on.

Continuing to Tianzi Mountain, it takes you 40 minuts from Yuanjiajie to Tianzi Mountain by public bus, after arriving in Tianzi Mountain, you will have a bird’s-eye view of all the mountains and valleys of the Wuling Mountains. Visit Western Sea, Helong Park, Viewing Terrace etc.Take Tianzi cablecar down and check in hotel for a rest.
Accommodation: Wulingyuan Downtown

Day 2    Baofeng Lake & Glass Bridge

After breaking in the hotel, we head to Baofeng Lake where is the masterpiece of nature and human beings’wisdom. Baofeng Lake is pure just like a big crystal among Bao feng mountain Range.When you cruise, you can hear authentic song from Tujia minority people,you can fully understand the harmony and peace between human beings and nature.

Transfer to Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon, have a walking on the Glass Bridge, Glass Bridge is the highlight of Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon, located in Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon, Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon Glass Bridge is the highest and longest transparent glass bridge with a length 430 meters and a width 6 meters. It is 300 meters above the ground level and it can bear 800 persons standing on it at the same time. (need to book the tickets in advance)
Accommodation: Wulingyuan Downtown

Day 3    Tianmen Mountain

Full day to explore Tianmen Mountain,take the longest cablecar in the world up Tianmen Mountain,have a walk on the mountain plank road built along the face of cliffs. You will feel like walking in a fairy land when the mist is still heavy.The must-visit scenic spots are: Tianmen Cave, Glass Road, Tianme Temple.

See you off in the airport and looking forward to seeing you again in Zhangjiajie.