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Shanghai is a city of many, many things, including the second-highest city population in the world with 26+ million people, a thriving culinary scene and shopping like you can’t believe. Located on China's east coast, Shanghai is about 750 miles south of Beijing and 750 miles north of Hong Kong and set along an estuary of the Yangtze River. With such a large population, Shanghai supports two international airports: Shanghai Pudong International Airport, the main international airport; and Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport, used mainly for domestic flights.

This powerhouse city, which is an economic, financial and cultural center, is also home to the second-tallest tower in the world, Shanghai Tower, at 2,073 feet and 128 floors. Getting around the city, which encompasses approximately 2,500 square miles (roughly the size of West Virginia) with a relatively flat elevation, is easy and full of options like via taxi, bus and metro train.

A city the size of Shanghai undoubtedly has endless things for visitors to do, see, eat and experience. One place you cannot miss is the Bund, also called Waitan, a mile-long waterfront promenade with buildings featuring architectural styles from art deco to neoclassical. There are bars, restaurants, museums, boutiques and more at the Bund, which is quite a sight to see at night when the buildings are fully illuminated. Foodies will delight in the city’s long list of restaurants, offering authentic Benbang (or local) dishes to modern Chinese food as well as Western cuisine.  Shoppers should head to Nanjing Road, one of the world’s busiest shopping streets with 3.5 miles of shopping, including many luxury brands. The street also has hotels, making it a one-stop dream for serious shoppers.

SHANGHAI_en_20230702T031425Z.pdf (arrivalguides.com)

It may be the most populated country in the world, but that doesn’t mean China doesn’t offer travelers plenty of opportunities to get away from it all. Historic sites, imperial architecture, traditional settlements and the dynamic cities of Hong Kong, Beijing and Shanghai are just the tip of the iceberg that China has to offer.

One of the most varied geographical regions in the world, travelers can escape the hustle and bustle with spectacular hikes at places like Tiger Leaping Gorge, a Yunnan hike with unbeatable scenery or a journey to Yading Nature Reserve where backpackers can reenact the steps of Tibetan pilgrims as they make their way to the summit of two impressive peaks.  

Of course China is home to the world famous Great Wall, an extraordinary display of brickwork that stretches from Beijing across much of the northern portion of the country. Travelers love visiting this ancient site for the history and sweeping views of the surrounding mountain scenery. Speaking of history, China is also renowned for its archeological accomplishments of dynasties past. Some of the area’s most notable ruins available for tour include the Forbidden City, the Summer Palace and the Imperial Palace.

China’s cities are bursting at the seams with dramatic skyscrapers, fancy shops and cutting edge restaurants and cocktail bars. Shanghai impresses with its modern appeal, Hong Kong offers a unique blend of Western and Asian influence, Beijing is the country’s most popular city with its intriguing combo of ancient capital and cosmopolitan flair and Hángzh?u satisfies travelers’ desire for romance with its idyllic West Lake located in the heart of town.

The main island of Tahiti's capital city, Papeete, is the main port of call for the island and is home to a bustling harbor as well as the Faa'a International Airport. Papeete is also home to Le Marché, a large, two-story market located downtown where travelers can purchase many Tahitian products such as vanilla beans, monoi oil and colorful pareos. Travelers can easily find something special to bring home. Sundays are the best time to visit the market, as it's busy with locals stocking up for a day of family gatherings and meals.

Another great place to visit in Papeete is the Robert Wan Pearl Museum, the only museum in the world devoted entirely to pearls. Visitors can purchase black pearl or simply learn about the history and practice of cultivating pearls. The museum also has exhibits that demonstrate the importance of pearls in art, history, mythology and religion.

Vai'ete Square is the place to be after dark. The lively boardwalk is a unique place to have an informal dinner or after-dinner dessert from one of the many roulottes, or food trucks, that gather there to serve a variety of cuisine and desserts. Travelers can choose from many affordable treats, from French crepes to fresh fish and pizza.

The allure of Papeete is undeniable. Its vibrant city atmosphere itself can satisfy a traveler's wanderlust. Yet it's so close to amazing outdoor adventures, such as hiking, diving and horseback riding. It's a different kind of Tahitian experience, and one that travelers never will forget