A Romantic Getaway : Shanghai

Many people don’t think of Shanghai as a particularly romantic place– and that is a real shame because the city is passionate, lively at times and cozy at others, and home to some of China’s best restaurants. Because it is more affordable than its European counterparts, the city has the added bonus of offering a great deal in exchange for less. If you are thinking of going anywhere else on your romantic getaway you are simply nuts!

Food. Shanghai’s sense of romance runs deep. You’ll find exotic and beautiful places to dine with your loved one in almost every neighborhood. Some of the city’s most romantic highlights include: 1.) Sasha’s. While the downstairs draws a bit of a pub crowd, the exquisite menu on the second floor leaves nothing to be desired. The fine decor, excellent service and impeccable food make this one of the best places for a romantic meal. 2) Face. This Thai restaurant has sensual and almost sexy decorations and beautiful food. You’ll pay a hefty price for the experience, but the entire structure literally exhales romance. 3) Blue Frog. This is not your traditional romantic restaurant, but it offers sports on TV for men and the best cocktail selection for women. In addition, this more laid back place has a comfortable and almost married feel.

Hotels. This is one area where Shanghai definitely gets 5 golden stars. 1.) The Grand Hyatt in Jinmao Tower has the best views in town as well as amazing interior views of the structure’s hallow center. 2.) The Portman Ritz-Carlton is the most luxurious and well known hotel and is located on Nanjing West Road, a great place for nearby shopping and transportation throughout the city. 3.) Finally, the Radisson in Shanghai has a great view of the Bund and is ideal for a romantic getaway that also includes sightseeing as well as enjoying the finer features of the hotel.

Entertainment. For any relationship, deciding what to do with the day can be a compromise. Here are a few suggestions to you on the road to creating an itinerary where both parties are happy. Get your fortunes read at the Jade Buddha Temple, after walking around Yu Gardens doing a bit of shopping. You’ll find couples T-shirts there that range from very amusing to somewhat confusing. Morning Tai Chi is a great way to get the day started, and then you can head to one of the recommended restaurants for a nice lunch before tackling a day trip to either the garden city of Suzhou or the lake at Hangzhou.

Nightlife. Shanghai has a very passionate and at times extravagant night scene. In fact, the city nearly changes shape and color at night and many establishments don’t open their doors until late to cater to the city’s lust for the latest watering hole. For romance, try one of the quieter bars like the Glamour Bar. If you’d rather get down and dirty, you might enjoy Velvet or Mao, both of which have loud music and eager dance crowds. And finally, for something off the beaten path yet delightfully all about your mate, check out the Cotton Club, which features an amazing outdoor seating area under the stars.

Events. Right now, the Shanghai World Expo is going on in the city, and this means an inflated number of visitors to the city and inflated costs for hotels, food and entertainment. However, this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to visit the Expo is lure enough to brave the crowds. With amazing pavilions on site, and interesting museums and attractions outside the expo, there is simply never a dull moment in Shanghai.