Shanghai, China
Trip Perspectives
Hi Molly! Tell us a bit about yourself and how you’d describe your travel style.
From solo female traveler to now traveling with my baby and toddler, I’ve done it all! I love exploring new cultures to experience other ways of living, and I prefer to travel to offbeat destinations. Affordability is important when selecting a destination, but I’m willing to compromise if the experience is stellar.
You spent weeks at a time in Shanghai over the years. What was it like getting to know the city through longer stays?
Since I traveled to Shanghai for work, I was able to experience the culture as a local and find a routine. This really made me slow down and get a deeper understanding of the Chinese way of life.
All my travel there is actually why I prefer to explore destinations more deeply now. I got to experience the little cultural nuances that you miss when you’re trying to cram in as many activities as possible before moving on to the next destination.
Shanghai is known for its size and energy. How would you describe the rhythm of the city?
Having spent so much time in the city, I recognize there’s a pocket of the city for every type of traveler!
Because of the cultural respect and the security systems in place, Shanghai is an incredibly safe destination for solo female travelers. I often found myself walking through ancient alleyways well after sunset (thank you, jet lag) and never once felt uncomfortable.
There’s also an expansive expat community that calls Shanghai home. Party-goers will find an active nightlife scene that extends well into the morning. Families with small children will find a warm, welcoming culture that celebrates children, no matter how big of a tantrum they’re throwing.
From well-known attractions to quieter corners, what experiences stood out to you most?
To really make yourself feel small, take the elevator up to the 100th floor of the Shanghai World Financial Center. I was lucky enough to get “backstage” access here. We rode the freight elevator up to the 80th floor, which, I kid you not, was made from plywood. Then we climbed up 20 floors to be *outside* on the 100th floor, while the other tourists looked at us through the windows.
For a quiet escape, head to a temple. There are several right in the heart of the city. If you’re vegetarian, these are safe places to eat, as Buddhist temples are strictly veg.
I found the most fascinating activity to be people watching. Seriously – you would not believe the things I’ve seen people hauling on their scooters while sitting on a corner with my boba. The most memorable was a man with a toilet between his legs, presumably going to install it that very afternoon.
I also found the best tea to be at little shops down small streets that aren’t on your maps. These tea stalls won’t have any wares for sale, and the indoor space is only used to hold the chairs that they set up on the sidewalk as customers come, regardless of weather. I remember a man sitting with me to practice all 50 English words he knew – it was a lovely cup of tea!
Let’s talk food — what did you discover about Shanghai’s culinary scene during your time there?
Malatang is my absolute favorite! Kind of like hot pot, you pick all your veggies, meats and carbs from a cold buffet. At the counter, they ask you how spicy you want it (even mild is still quite spicy!). It’s then served to you in the most delicious, creamy broth, and you make your own dip for each savory morsel.
I also highly recommend getting over any reservations you have about tofu. It’s in so many dishes, and prepared so many ways, so you’re sure to find tofu you like. Whether that’s the gateway tofu skin, or the more advanced stinky tofu.
Although from a different region, you really can’t go wrong with Langzhou noodles either. Watch the cooks hand pull your noodles and cook them fresh to order!
What does the city feel like after dark?
There are so many sides to Shanghai’s nightlife. You can dance your heart out at a nightclub until the metro starts again the next morning. Or head to a karaoke bar for a private room for you and your friends with room service.
If you’re looking for something a little more intimate, there are plenty of quiet, cozy bars where you can have a conversation.
What was your overall experience moving through Shanghai day to day?
Expect little to no English. For some reason, whenever I wouldn’t understand something, my response was always in Spanish. I imagine Pavlov would have something to say about that.
If you’re visiting in summer, be prepared for the sweltering humidity. If you’re visiting in winter, be prepared for the freezing humidity.
As for scams or crimes, keep your wits about you. Keep your belongings close on the metro, and don’t accept any “special tea ceremony” offers – you’ll likely just be hit with an astronomically high bill.
I would be remiss if I didn’t mention that squat toilets are everywhere. You’ll also need to bring your own toilet paper and hand sanitizer!
For travelers considering spending more than just a few days there, what would you share about planning and budgeting?
Do not skimp on good accommodation. All foreigners must register their stay with the local police, which will be done for you at a reputable hotel. Shanghai is a very affordable city, with hotel costs considerably less than European stays. It’s absolutely not worth the legal nightmare of having Chinese police on your tail.
Other than that, take it slow and explore! Walk into a tiny restaurant and just point at a photo that looks tasty. Ask for half a kilo of strange fruit at the wet market. Find a quiet park and watch people playing mahjong or old ladies dancing together.
Looking back on your visits, how has Shanghai shaped how you travel?
Asia was actually never really on my radar (I mean, I speak Spanish!). This was the region I was assigned for my corporate career, and it opened up an entire continent for me.
Having spent so much time in the city, I realized that there’s so much more to visiting a destination than just the tourist spots. You will get a much more authentic and rewarding experience if you slow it down and try to see your destination through the eyes of a local.
Molly Clayton
Molly Clayton is a Sioux Falls-based writer and founder of Hooked on Hiatus, a family travel brand focused on intentional experiences and off beat destinations. Her writing reflects on travel, motherhood and creating meaningful experiences and memories close to home. Having spent her 20's traveling the world solo, she now enjoys the added challenge of traveling with both a toddler and an infant.
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