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- Dirty, filthy minds: New tourism logo deemed ‘pornographic’
- Insider Guide: Best of Shanghai
- No chance at Noma? 6 of Copenhagen’s other great restaurants
- In-flight dealerships? Chinese airline to start selling cars in the sky
- 9 top beach resorts in the South China Sea
- Meet the boss of the world's most luxurious hotel
| Dirty, filthy minds: New tourism logo deemed ‘pornographic’ Posted: 12 Mar 2013 05:13 PM PDT Ever put in hard hours on a creative project and finished it to the satisfaction of everyone involved, only to have the whole thing derailed by bizarre complaints that make little sense yet are somehow taken seriously? That must be how the creator of a new logo promoting the New Zealand region of Kāpiti must be feeling after a public unveiling sparked a controversy based on the design's supposedly lewd overtones.
Kāpiti takes its name from a large offshore island, which is a native bird sanctuary and tourist destination. The top arched stroke of the K, is meant to represent Kāpiti Island. Instead of cheers, the logo drew several jeers from members of the Kapiti Coast District Council last week. Created by local firm Eden Design, the imaginative rendering of the letter appears to have confused some members of the community it's intended to promote. "I showed it to a Scots person who said 'it looks like the Loch Ness monster on legs,'" complained council member Ross Church, as reported by The Age. Another official was even more flummoxed. "I have had feedback from the public that this 'k' image, with its bent leg, at the knee, is more than mildly pornographic," said Otaki Community Board member Jackie Elliott, also reported by The Age. "Perhaps the caption underneath could be, 'Come to Kapiti and let the earth move for you." Others objected to the omission of the word "coast" from the design. About 50 kilometers north of Wellington, Kāpiti is a picturesque coastal region with pleasant forests, dramatic hillsides and gorgeous ocean vistas. The council voted to delay a decision on approving the logo until a new version employing the word "coast" can be reviewed. 'Haven't people got better things to do?'
"It's really a storm in a teapot as far as we're concerned," a local official who asked not to be named told CNN. "We've turned it upside-down and sideways and every which way and none of us here for the life of us could find anything wrong." "I think the logo honors Kāpiti's most iconic feature and, as to whether it is lewd in any way, I certainly can't see it," said Kāpiti Coast District Councilor Tony Lester. "To be honest, I'd be pretty worried about anyone who can. "As for a legless Loch Ness monster, if you look at an abstract logo long enough you'll see all manner of things. Haven't people got better things to do?" Do you find the proposed Kapiti logo pornographic? Confusing? Let us know in the comments section below. |
| Insider Guide: Best of Shanghai Posted: 12 Mar 2013 09:20 AM PDT Welcome to the future. Upon arrival, you will be transported to the city center via the world's fastest commercial train, the Maglev, switch to a ride on the world's longest metro system, look out from the world's tallest observation deck and, lastly, climb into a bed almost half a kilometer in the air. This is the best of Shanghai, home to more than 20 million residents, 6,000 high-rises (and growing) and a constant chorus of jackhammers. It's a city striving to set all the benchmarks for the modern world. The commercial hub was developed by far-sighted European traders 160 years ago and it remains the destination for people who can't wait to experience tomorrow today. Our best of Shanghai guide shows you how to enjoy the sprawling city's -- past, present and future. And, yes, there'll be enough fun even for visitors who suffer from vertigo. Print and go -- Our traveler-friendly one-page guide here: Best of Shanghai HotelsLuxury
The Waldorf Astoria occupies one of Shanghai's oldest buildings: the restored 101-year-old former Shanghai Club. With giant chandeliers, neo-classical ceiling carvings and original marble floor tiles shipped from Sicily a century ago, the interior feels more like a royal palace than a hotel. Most of its 260 rooms are located in the newly built 24-story tower. Many deliver unobstructed view of Lujiazui's skyscraper forest. Rooms are decked out in nostalgic American style, with modern plush touches such as large walk-in closets, Hermès bathing amenities and digital TVs embedded in the mirrors. The hotel's historic Long Bar (34 meters from end to end) mixes the city's top-notch cocktails. 2 Zhongshan Dong Yi Lu, near Yan'an Dong Lu 中山东一路2号, 近延安东路; +86 21 6322 9988; rooms from RMB 2,500 (US$393) plus 15 percent service charge; www.waldorfastoriashanghai.com
Currently the highest hotel in mainland China, the Park Hyatt provides the best angle to view Shanghai: from the top. Occupying the upper part (79th-93rd floors) of the 492-meter Shanghai World Financial Center, all 174 rooms enjoy stunning vistas overlooking Lujiazui high-rises, the Huangpu River or the Puxi downtown area. Interiors follow a streamlined Chinese style with earth-tone furniture and outsize bathrooms that include a one-square-meter walk-in rain shower. The hotel lobby is on the 87th floor. On the 93rd floor, Music Room bills itself as the world's highest nightclub. 100 Shiji Dadao, near Dongtai Lu 世纪大道100号, 近东泰路; +86 21 6888 1234; rooms from RMB 5,500 (US$864) plus 15 percent service charge; shanghai.park@hyatt.com, shanghai.park.hyatt.com Mid-range
Located in a protected historic building, this best of Shanghai hotel is for travelers who want to trade Lujiazui's gridlocked avenues for the tree-lined streets of the former French Concession. The 15-story, 259-room Picardie sits opposite Xujiahui Park, one of the best locations in town to observe China's unique park culture: you'll see massive exercise groups at dawn and a public dancing spectacle at dusk. It's also a quick stroll from Shanghai's traditional bar district on Hengshan Lu, the shopping district of Xujiahui and Metro Line 1. 534 Hengshan Lu, near Wanping Lu 衡山路534号, 近宛平路; +86 21 6437 7050; rooms from RMB 550 (US$86); www.hengshanhotelshanghai.com
One of the first hotels in Shanghai built to receive international travelers after the Chinese economy opened up to world trade, the 520-room, four-star lodging is in the thick of things. It's a few steps away from Nanjing Xi Lu (ground zero for high-end shopping) and the fabulous Jing'an Temple, a 780-year-old Buddhist shrine. Two metro lines and the Yan'an Lu elevated highway are right outside, so guests can zip to any part of the city quickly and without hassle. 65 Yan'an Xi Lu, near Huashan Lu 延安西路65号, 近华山路; +86 21 6248 1688; rooms from RMB 600 (US$94) plus 15 percent service charge; www.equatorial.com/sha
This 26-room boutique hotel in downtown Jing'an District was once a post office and now claims to be China's first carbon neutral hotel. The renovation, which was completed using 100 percent locally-sourced and recycled materials, has won numerous awards for its sustainability and design. Located on a local street, across the road from one of Shanghai's best little tonkatsu joints, URBN is popular with visitors looking for innovative design and a green feel, with rooms over-looking a courtyard and bamboo garden. The food and beverage options are also none to shabby at URBN, with its Downstairs restaurant serving up delicious weekend brunch options accompanied by a mean Bloody Mary. 186号 Jiaozhou Lu, near Xinzha Lu 胶州路186号，近信札路; +86 21 5153 4600; rooms from RMB 1,300 (US$200) plus 15 percent service charge; www.urbnhotels.com
A hip address for unconventional travelers. For starters, the check-in desk is attached to a bar. Right behind the front desk, there's a pool table. Pentahotel's lobby also includes a café, a games room and a restaurant. Guests tend to chill and socialize in Wi-Fi-covered areas. All 250 rooms are fitted out in a minimalistic style with views over downtown residential buildings. The hotel is near three metro lines. 1525 Dingxi Lu, near Changning Lu 定西路1525号, 近长宁路; +86 21 6252 1111; rooms from RMB 750 (US$118) plus 15 percent service charge; www.pentahotels.com Budget
This no-frills hotel chain provides all the basics for a short stay for the price of a few drinks in a ritzy bar. Location is superb for the price. The 159-room inn is within walking distance of many tourist attractions, such as Old Town, People's Square, Huaihai Zhong Lu and Xintiandi. It's also at the south end of Yunnan Nan Lu, one of Shanghai's original food streets with some of the city's yummiest shengjian (fried dumplings) at Da Hu Chun (大壶春, 71 Yunnan Nan Lu, near Jinling Dong Lu). The budget hotel brand operates at some 85 branches all over Shanghai, from commercial zones to airports and railway stations. Jinjiang Inn (Huaihai Zhong Lu branch), 293 Yunnan Nan Lu, near Huaihai Dong Lu 云南南路293号, 近淮海东路; +86 21 6326 2200; rooms from RMB 289 (US$45); www.jinjianginns.com More on CNNGo: 5 Shanghai hotel bathtubs with incredible views Dining
This Shanghainese restaurant is housed in a 1930s colonial villa. Instead of a dining room, guests eat in private rooms furnished with antiques. On a menu of tweaked Shanghainese specialties, diners will find everything from traditional hongshao rou to creamy huangyu (yellow croaker) noodle soup served in a mug. Modern dishes include goose liver poached in sake. Shanghainese food critic Shen Hongfei (沈宏非) recommends the crab with egg white, a delicate, creamy dish brought to the table in an actual eggshell. 375 Zhenning Lu, near Yuyuan Lu 镇宁路375号, 近愚园路; +86 21 5239 7878; 11 a.m.-2 p.m., 5:30-11 p.m.; expensive
With its curmudgeonly waiters and tiny, crowded dining room, the original Jesse location on Tianping Lu isn't just a meal, it's an experience. Rica Lou, dining editor at Ganlan magazine, calls the original Jesse her "hands-down favorite Shanghainese restaurant." It's the creamy crab roe potato soup that wins her over every time. Shen Hongfei votes for the Shaoxing-wine-marinated crab, a best of Shanghai dish that's popular with locals. For an appetizer (or dessert), the xin tai ruan is a sweet dish of red jujubes stuffed with soft, glutinous rice cake. Two of Jesse's signature dishes, the eight treasure duck and green onion fish head, require 24 hours notice. 41 Tianping Lu, near Huaihai Zhong Lu 天平路41号, 近淮海中路; +86 21 6282 9260; 11 a.m.-4 p.m., 5:30 p.m.-midnight; moderate
This Peninsula restaurant cooks some of the best Cantonese dishes in Shanghai. "It's so rare to see such classic Cantonese food," says Shen Hongfei. "It's flavorful and light and it's almost like the food prepared for the managers of Thirteen Factories [an 18th-century foreign trade zone in Guangzhou]." One of Shen's favorites at Yi Long Court is beef with oyster sauce, which is "a long-lost classic Cantonese dish." To make the most out of the meal, book the eight-seat chef's table, prepared by executive chef Dicky To. 2/F, The Peninsula Shanghai, 32 Zhongshan Dong Yi Lu, near Beijing Dong Lu 中山东一路32号上海半岛酒店2楼, 近北京东路; +86 21 2327 2888; 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., 6-10:30 p.m.; expensive; www.peninsula.com
Peking duck is the star at this Chinese regional restaurant. The Hyatt recruited two Beijing master chefs and lugged a seven-ton brick oven from the capital especially to roast the ducks to crisp and lacquered perfection. The open kitchens allow diners to admire the shining fowl roasting over a fire of fruitwood logs before they're brought to table, sliced and served with sugar for dipping. Hyatt on the Bund East Building, 199 Huangpu Lu, near Nanxun Lu 黄浦路199号上海外滩茂悦大酒店东楼大堂, 近南浔路; +86 21 6393 1234 ext. 6318; 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., 5:30-10:30 p.m.; expensive; shanghai.bund.hyatt.com
The best part about eating at Hai Di Lao is waiting in the queue. Tea, fruit plates, Wi-Fi, board games, shoeshines and even manicures are provided to customers for free. Enthusiastic staff keep waiting diners upbeat. The restaurant chain boils hot pot 24/7. The meal itself embraces a staggering choice of vegetables, meat and seafood that diners cook themselves in a bubbling pot of broth placed in the middle of the table. Hot pot soups range from super-spicy to plain and diners get to DIY their dipping sauce. The hand-pulled noodles are prepared tableside with a kung fu-style noodle dance. The brand hosts a virtual dining service in two locations in Shanghai and Beijing. Hai Di Lao Shanghai Changshou Lu branch, 4/F, 468 Changshou Lu, near Changde Lu 长寿路468号中环大厦4楼, 近常德路; +86 21 6277 0701; open 24 hours; moderate Fu Chun Xiaolongbao (富春小笼包) Xiaolongbao is Shanghai's favorite snack food and everyone in Shanghai has an opinion about where the best xiaolongbao in town can be found. There are many excellent options around town, but many visitors unfortunately usually end up at tourist traps in Yu Gardens, or at chains such as Din Tai Fung. A very respectable example of the specialty can be had from Fu Chun, in the downtown Jing'an District. Popular with locals, this place is perpetually busy with diners ordering Fu Chun Xiaolongbao (RMB 6 for six dumplings) and Crab Roe Xiaolongbao (RMB 16 for six dumplings) in ample quantities. 650 Yuyuan Lu, near Zhenning Lu, 愚园路650号, 近镇宁路; +86 21 6277 0701; 6:30 a.m. to midnight; bargain; www.fuchun8.com
During public holidays, massive crowds of travelers swarm Qibao Old Street for a view of the canals, or to snap that atmospheric photo of morning haze dancing around the neighborhood's scenic bridge. But for locals, day trips to the water town are about one thing only: food. Numerous hole-in-the-wall restaurants along the 400-meter-long street sell an extensive assortment of local snacks, from xiaolongbao to stinky tofu to tuang tuan. Read the foodie's guide to Qibao food street. Qibao Old Street is approximately 30 minutes away from downtown Shanghai by metro. Take Metro Line 9 to Qibao Station (七宝站). From there, the street is 10 minutes' walk away. More on CNNGo: 35 Shanghai street foods we can't resist Nightlife
Flair is the crowning glory of the Ritz-Carlton Shanghai, Pudong. The rooftop bar's interiors were created by Japanese design gurus Super Potato, but the real draw is the terrace. Standing approximately 250 meters in the sky, this is the highest bar terrace in the city, with tiered sofa-seating that looks onto the financial district's skyscrapers. Drinks cost RMB 80 and up for cocktails. Sashimi is flown in daily from Japan. When the skies are clear, call ahead to book a table and ask if there's a minimum spend that day. 58/F, 8 Shiji Da Dao Shanghai IFC, near Lujiazui Huan Lu 世纪大道8号国金中心, 近陆家嘴环路; +86 21 2020 1778; 2 p.m.-2 a.m.; www.ritzcarlton.com
This plush club/bar/restaurant remains a favorite of the city's beautiful people. It takes up the 24th floor of a building between People's Square and the Bund and affords staggering views toward Pudong or Puxi city center. Shark tanks run the length of the entrance, while uniformed waiters and bartenders shake up pricey drinks (RMB 80-120 for cocktails). The door staff often turn away non-members when it gets crowded, so it doesn't hurt to dress up or call ahead to book a table (minimum spends of around RMB 5,000 often apply). 24/F, 318 Fuzhou Lu, near Shandong Zhong Lu 福州路318号, 近山东中路; +86 21 6391 2811; 6 p.m.-late (bar and restaurant); 9 p.m.-late from Wednesday-Saturday (club); www.m1ntglobal.com
Since opening in 2010, The Apartment has become one of the most popular bars in Shanghai. It takes up two floors plus a roof garden in the center of the former French Concession and attracts a crowd that's upscale without being pretentious. In the daytime, the rooftop is a leisurely place to eat and sip wine -- drinks cost RMB 50-80. At night it gets rammed with cocktail-sipping, well-dressed Chinese and foreign guests, and stays that way until 4 a.m. or so. 3/F, 47 Yongfu Lu, near Fuxing Xi Lu 永福路47号3楼, 近复兴西路; +86 21 6437 9478; 6 p.m.-late; www.theapartment-shanghai.com
This dim, smoky room is the go-to place for jazz aficionados in Shanghai. Inside, it's like a Parisian bar from the 1950s: a cluster of small round tables spilling out from a low stage, with a long bar at the back and a gallery up top. There's live music here every night, from Gypsy jazz to swing and blues. Drink prices are around RMB 50 for wine and RMB 70 for cocktails. This best of Shanghai nightclub fills up on weekends so come early -- or very late -- if you want a table. 46 Fuxing Xi Lu, near Yongfu Lu 复兴西路46号, 近永福路; +86 21 6431 0269; 8:30 p.m.-2:30 a.m.; www.jzclub.cn
The best of Shanghai sports many flavors of karaoke bar (or KTV, as they're known), from seedy to five-star. Cashbox is somewhere in the middle -- fun, inexpensive and hugely popular with a young crowd. The Fuxing Park branch is next to a couple of Chinese clubs. On weekends it swarms with well-dressed youths. Guests book private rooms that seat eight to 20 people. Bring your own drinks or order beer and spirits from the house. Rooms run around RMB 200 per hour, depending on size and number of guests. 109 Yandang Lu, near Fuxing Zhong Lu 雁荡路109号, 近复兴中路; +86 21 6374 1111; 11 a.m.-6 a.m.
This chain of bars is wildly popular in many of China's second- and third-tier cities and since they opened their first Shanghai incarnation it's become apparent that the formula works wonders in the big smoke as well. Simply take some insanely gawdy decor (think a cross between Willy Wonka's factory and a pirate ship), add flashing lights, tipsy people looking for a good time, an emphasis on bottle service and a setlist of top 40 remixes and you can't lose. No. 88 Bar, 2/F, Wujin Building, 291 Fumin Lu, near Donghu Lu 富民路291号2楼, 近东湖路; +86 21 6136 0288; www.no88bar.com More on CNNGo: 5 sublime cocktails you can get only in Shanghai Shopping
Crowds of tourists, artists, hipsters and fashionistas pour into the tiny longtangs (Shanghainese alleyways) of Taikang Lu to experience Shanghai's bohemian charm. The area represents a traditional Shanghainese residential form, shikumen ("stone door houses"), and is now a half-commercial complex selling everything from tailored qipao to French wine. Souvenirs are overpriced, but the ambience is worth sampling. Locals still live in some of these buildings -- travelers can see elderly people chatting each other or middle-aged women hanging laundry outside. Taikang Lu between Sinan Lu and Ruijin Er Lu 思南路和瑞金二路之间的泰康路
For anyone visiting Shanghai with time for only one market, this outdoor antique bazaar is a good bet. It's in an enclave of hanging laundry, locals washing vegetables in the street and kids playing tag. Just don't forget to bargain hard. Many of the "antiques" aren't old, but they're fun. Stands sell 1930s-style posters featuring glamorous smiling Shanghai ladies, or statuettes of Chairman Mao playing table tennis (RMB 50 after bargaining). Dongtai Lu, near Liukehou Lu 东台路, 近浏河口路; 9 a.m.-6 p.m.
This 23,000-square-meter, multi-level complex is completely devoted to Chinese cha. More than 150 stalls sort, sell and brew tea from around the nation, but green tea (and all its variations) reigns supreme. The market also sells a range of tea sets and kettles, from common porcelain to top-level Yixing clay teapots. Friendly tea sellers will provide professional tips. 518 Zhongshan Xi Lu, near Yuping Nan Lu 中山西路518号, 近玉屏南路; +86 21 6259 9999; 8:30 a.m.- 8:30 p.m.
This three-story fabric market has almost every type of fabric, from cashmere to silk. Stalls are manned by experienced local tailors and seamstresses who speak fluent English. Tailored clothes come at reasonable prices. Qipao (from RMB 250), shirts (from RMB 120) and suits (from RMB 300) are among the most popular items. Some shops accept urgent orders and can deliver final products overnight at (amazingly) no extra charge. Delivery service is available, but the stores need to be informed beforehand. 168 Dongmen Lu, near Zhonghua Lu 东门路168号, 近中华路; +86 21 6330 1043; 8:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m.
This 10-story Lujiazui building is the top shopping mall experience in Shanghai: it's loud, crowded and larger than a major university campus. Spread over 247,425 square meters, this Thai-financed mall was the largest in Asia when it opened in 2002. It reports an average of 200,000 visitors daily. The mall sells most of the mainstream fashion brands available in Shanghai. Its dining scene is impressive: nearly 60 restaurants, from hot pot chains to Hooters. 168 Lujiazui Xi Lu, near Yincheng Xi Lu 陆家嘴西路168号, 近银城西路; +86 21 6887 7888; 10 a.m.-10 p.m., www.superbrandmall.com
A perennially interesting market, traditionally selling pets, flowers, home wares and more, a recent first means the live animal section of the Hongqiao Bird and Flower Market is currently under renovation. Despite the fact that you won't be able to pick up a 100-year-old turtle or talking parrot here (for now), it's still worth a visit in order to wander among the many-hued blossoms of the real and (seriously high-quality) fake flowers on display, or check out some of the unique housewares, which run the gamut from gaudy to graceful to gargantuan (see if you can fit a life-sized white unicorn with an asking price of RMB 22,000 in your luggage!). 718 Hongjing Lu, near Hongsong Lu 虹井路718号, 近红松路; 8 a.m.-6 p.m. More on CNNGo: Best markets in Shanghai Attractions
The 1,100-meter waterfront known as the Bund forms Shanghai's backbone. British and French colonized the strip in the mid-19th century to develop international trading -- the Bund became one of the most prosperous ports in Asia in the early-20th century. Nowadays the buildings, mostly built between 1901 and 1930 in various styles, house high-end boutiques, restaurants and bars. A must-do on the Bund stroll is to pass through the revolving door of the former HSBC Shanghai office (today's No. 12, Zhongshan Dong Yi Lu) and check out the original ceiling and wall paintings. Upon completion in 1925, the Brits declared the building the most exquisite structure in the eastern hemisphere. Just off the Bund, next to the Peninsula Shanghai, is the Rockbund, a newly developed pedestrian street with more restored colonial structures. Zhongshan Dong Yi Lu, from Nan Suzhou He Lu to the north and Yan'an Dong Lu to the south 南苏州河路与延安东路之间的外滩
Almost half a kilometer up in the air (474 meters to be exact), the 55-meter-long Skywalk 100 observation corridor spans a gap in the 100th-floor summit of the Shanghai World Financial Center. As the world's highest observatory, Skywalk 100 provides a powerful perspective: Jinmao Tower (420.5 meters) is right under its nose and the view (on a clear day) extends beyond Zhongshan Park in Puxi. Walking through the deck is an almost hallucinatory experience: the observatory's angled glass walls can make visitors feel as if they're leaning over the edge. And it has see-through glass flooring. A slightly less vertiginous option is the Skywalk 97. It's a mere 439 meters high, with a glass roof that opens up. 100 Shiji Dadao, near Dongtai Lu 世纪大道100号, 近东泰路; +86 21 6877 7878; 8 a.m.-11 p.m.; admission tiers, www.swfc-shanghai.com
This restored compound is one of the most popular attractions in Shanghai. Only 15 years ago, the area was an ordinary shikumen residential area. It's since been converted to a business district populated by high-end bars, restaurants, shopping malls and the ubiquitous symbol of global gentrification: Starbucks. The location is good for a lazy afternoon walk. It also hosts some of Shanghai's best foreign restaurant selections. The Shikumen Open House Museum is another highlight. Ironic background: the Communist Party of China was founded on this block -- 91 years later it's capitalism, not communism, that does the talking. Visitors can nevertheless tour the room where the first party congress was held. Nearest metro station is Metro Line 1 Huangpi Nan Lu. Enter Xintiandi from the corner of Huangpi Nan Lu and Taicang Lu (黄陂南路和太仓路) or Madang Lu and Taicang Lu (马当路和太仓路).
The City God Temple, or Cheng Huang Miao, is a 600-year-old Daoist temple in the heart of Shanghai's Old Town. It houses the Cheng Huang God, the deity that protects local people. The phrase also refers to the temple fair and commodity market near the shrine. Although the temple can still be busy with pious religious followers, more people now come for the shopping. Endless stalls sell everything Chinese, from chopstick gift sets to Peking/Sichuan opera mask bottle openers. It's also the headquarters for Shanghainese snacks, from stinky tofu (臭豆腐) to five-flavor bean (五香豆). The best time to visit the market is around Christmas, New Year and Lunar New Year when the whole area is blanketed with festive decorations. City God Temple, 249 Fangbang Zhong Lu, near Anren Lu 方浜中路249号, 近安仁路; +86 21 6328 4494; 5 a.m.-4:30 p.m. on the first and 15th days of the lunar calendar; 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. all other days; RMB 10
Heaven for thrill-ride aficionados, the 900,000-square-meter theme park contains nearly 10 different scream machines, including various roller coasters and free-fall rides. Highlights include a 30-meter-tall, 1,200-meter-long lakeside wooden roller coaster and 60-meter-high free-fall drop machine. The super-speed log flume creates a splash as high as 15 meters. 888 Linhu Lu 林湖路888号; +86 21 3355 2222; RMB 200; 9 a.m.-8 p.m.; free Happy Valley shuttle buses are available at Metro Line 9 Sheshan Station.
The "marriage market" is less tourist attraction and more about a view into unique local culture. Every Saturday and Sunday, hundreds of parents gather at People's Park, regardless of the weather, with the hope of finding an ideal partner for their high-time-they-got-hitched offspring. Parents simply clutch single sheets of paper that present their children in a few simple phrases -- age, height, education, job, salary, whether they studied abroad and whether they own their own apartment. Female candidates outnumber male by far, so enthusiastic parents have a passion for chatting up any young single male in the area. Gate 5 of People's Square Park, 75 Nanjing Xi Lu., across from the Grand Theater. Take Metro line 1, 2 or 8 to People's Square station, take Exit 9 to the ground level and turn left. The marriage market takes place on Saturday and Sunday afternoons from about noon to three. More on CNNGo: 10 great cities, 100 fantastic free attractions Walking Tours
Planned and built by French colonists in the early 20th century, this neighborhood -- roughly bound by Ruijin Lu to the East, Yan'an Lu to the North, Zhaojiabang Lu to the South and Huashan Lu to the West -- is more Parisian than Chinese. Its quiet, tree-lined streets now teem with boutiques, bars and restaurants. Best locations to observe lingering "Frenchness" include Anfu Lu, Wukang Lu and Yongkang Lu. Or follow the route designed by a French Concession native. Several agencies in Shanghai provide multi-lingual tours around the former French Concession. Contact Luxury Concierge China or Newman Tours.
Shanghai's art deco heritage is unsurpassed in Asia. Having spent 16 years in Shanghai, architecture buff Spencer Dodington has a matchless knowledge of the city's art deco history, which he imparts on customized tours. "These lovely buildings got me hooked on the uniqueness of Shanghai 1930s architecture," says Dodington. "It's really different and interesting compared to Texas, where I'm from, but it's also different from other cities with their own art deco, like Miami and New York." Check out Dodington's favorite art deco structures in Shanghai or join his multi-lingual art deco tour through info@luxuryconciergechina.com or +86 135 0166 2908.
Approximately 300,000 Jews escaped Europe and fled to Shanghai between 1933 and 1941. They lived in the infamous Shanghai Ghetto (now Hongkou District) and made up one of the largest overseas Jewish communities at the time. Led by Israeli Dvir Bar-Gal, these four-hour tours take in some of the most fascinating elements of Shanghai's Jewish history. As the tour progresses, the story of Shanghai as a melting pot of opium dealers, colonialists, business moguls and Holocaust survivors is gradually unveiled. Tours of Jewish Shanghai, +86 130 0214 6702; shanghaijews@hotmail.com, www.shanghai-jews.com; RMB 400 per person for half-day tour. Gillian Bolsover, Angela Doland, Sophie Friedman, Casey Hall, Zoe Li, Joanne Yao, Raemin Zhang also contributed to this article. |
| No chance at Noma? 6 of Copenhagen’s other great restaurants Posted: 12 Mar 2013 06:59 AM PDT Sorry, the recent food poisoning scare won't be enough to free up Noma's crowded waiting list. While 63 people reportedly fell ill after eating at the Copenhagen-based, two Michelin-starred joint, its reservations page remains a barely disguised apology for probably being too popular to accommodate you. Voted the best place to eat in the world for three years running by the famed S. Pellegrino World's 50 Best Restaurants, as well as scoring numerous other awards, Noma has become a byword for bizarre dishes and left-field Nordic cuisine. Though it remains one impressive dining adventure, Noma's success is not confined to within its own doors. It has helped create a vibrant food scene in Copenhagen, from fancy formal haunts to chilled breakfast hangouts. "Thirty years ago, restaurants in Copenhagen were either cheap and bad -- or French and expensive," says Trine Lai, a Copenhagen food blogger who covers the scene on verygoodfood.dk. "Denmark has been through an economic upturn and that has helped Copenhagen turn into one of the world's hot spots of gastronomy. This is the golden age for Danish and Scandinavian cuisine." Here are six recommendations: Kødbyens Fiskebar
The area looks like a 1960s shopping precinct somewhere in northern England, but push through the heavy glass doors, grab a seat at the bar and enjoy some of the best seafood in town. Limfjorden mussels and an array of local oysters star. Best of all, Fiskebar won't leave you desperately turning out your pockets for any loose krone to pay for a cab back to your hotel. A main of the aforementioned mussels will hit you for 165kr (US$30). Flæsketorvet 100, 1711 Copenhagen, +45 32155656, fiskebaren.dk/en/ Geranium
"It's a wonderful restaurant, completely different from Noma," she says. Chef Rasmus Kofoed has been racking up awards for his intriguing dishes. The tasting menu is de rigeur. Billed as "a tour of our universe," expect to nibble on pine needles, sheep's butter, seaweed and Jerusalem artichokes. Stump up 2,900kr (US$518) and you'll get the full tasting experience, with natural wines paired with each dish. Then go for a lie down. Per Henrik Lings Allé 4, 2100 Copenhagen, +45 69 96 00 20, geranium.dk Relæ
The restaurant is the baby of former El Bulli and Noma chef Christian Puglisi, but while there's definitely a unique streak to proceedings, the food is pleasingly straightforward. The biodynamic beef with burnt cabbage and green strawberries is sensational, while the sheep's milk yogurt with beetroot and blackcurrant will make you look at your regular pot of Danone in disgust. After 8 p.m. you can pick seven courses for 675kr (US$120), a steal considering the background of the chef and the diversity of the ingredients on show. Jægersborggade 41, 2200 Copenhagen, Tel +45 3696 6609, restaurant-relae.dk Manfreds & Vin
Again, shared dishes are the focus, with anchovy salad (using Lolin anchovies, billed as the world's best), root veggies and ox tatar to spread across the table. Alternatively, diners can order the chef's rolling daily menu. It lets you taste new creations, with two vegetable dishes, one of meat or fish and one poached egg for 250kr (US$44). There's also a superb weekend brunch, with celeriac-packing eggs Benedict or the heftier "Manfreds sviner," replete with eggs, hand-made sausages and sour dough baked on the premises. Jægersborggade 40, 2200 Copenhagen, +45 36966593, manfreds.dk Radio
While you can grab larger, single lunch dishes for 100kr (US$18), swerve that option and share five eats for 400kr (US$71) instead. Not only are the squid, potatoes with capers and thyme turbot all delicious, picking over small plates is the way to eat in Copenhagen. Think tapas, but with fewer bottles of San Miguel floating around. Julius Thomsens Gade 12, 1632 Copenhagen, Tel +45 2510 2733, restaurantradio.dk/ Kiin Kiin
This is way beyond the basic pad Thai that might pass as a hurried lunch at your desk. The tasting menu, based on Thai street food, is the only option you should consider, 495kr (US$88). The char-grilled lobster is followed by peanut ginger ice cream and delicious tom yum. It might not be your traditional Danish dinner, but the ingredients are locally sourced, making this a Nordic take on Southeast Asia's best food. Guldbergsgade 21, 2200 Copenhagen, +45 35357555, kiin.dk |
| In-flight dealerships? Chinese airline to start selling cars in the sky Posted: 12 Mar 2013 12:58 AM PDT Who doesn't love in-flight shopping? Indulge in a nice tube of lipstick. Maybe a bottle of whiskey. Or a new car. No, we haven't been swilling too many duty-free spirits. According to a report in Hong Kong's South China Morning Post, low-cost Chinese carrier Spring Airlines will soon be adding a selection of automobiles to its in-flight shopping catalogue. "We have been in talks with a wide range of mainland car makers for a long period of time," Spring Air spokesman Zhang Wuan told the SCMP. From April, the airline will allow passengers to use their credit cards to make payments on the automobile of their choice. But selling cars in the sky isn't without road bumps. The toughest problem being encountered by Spring is how to train its 500-plus cabin crew on the different models so that they can promote and sell the cars in a professional manner, reports the SCMP. More on CNN: 'Spring' blooms amid China's air travel boom It will also be interesting to see how many passengers will take the bait, given buyers won't be able to kick any tires or take their potential new ride for a spin. The first batch of car models would be priced at 100,000 yuan (US$16,000), reports SCMP, which is considered to match the level Spring's passengers can afford. No word on how the vehicles will be delivered to buyers, what brands are on offer and whether the flight attendants will get a commission like their car dealing counterparts back on the ground. Would you buy a car from an in-flight magazine? Sound off in the comments box below. |
| 9 top beach resorts in the South China Sea Posted: 11 Mar 2013 07:00 PM PDT Vietnam, China, Malaysia and Philippines might be fighting over a few remote, uninhabitable atolls and guano heaps deep in the South China Sea, but on most islands the sun rises and sets as beautifully as ever. At these top regional resorts, you can be securely pampered like a movie star -- or senior party official. Vietnam
Six Senses Con Dao Once a notorious prison island, Con Dao is now one of the most exclusive island resort destinations in Southeast Asia. A protected national marine park, the pristine island is best reached by a 45-minute flight from Ho Chi Minh City. Six Senses Con Dao is the first five-star resort in the archipelago. Its 50 villas, each with a private pool, are spread along a mile of private beach. Six Senses Con Dao, Dat Doc Beach, Con Dao District, Ba Ria-Vung Tau Province; +84 64 383 1222; www.sixsenses.com Phu Quy Island
Boats to Phu Quy Island run every other day from Phan Thiet City. Tickets are US$7-14 and the trip takes five to seven hours. Rooms range US$10-20 at family-run guesthouses. Options include: Anh Tuan Guesthouse, +84 62 376 9245; Minh Tan Guesthouse, +84 90 732 9006; and Thanh Thao Guesthouse +84 90 944 6311. Vinpearl Occupying all of Hon Tre Island (just off the central city of Nha Trang), Vinpearl is a resort, theme park, golf course and aquarium rolled into one. Vinpearl is reachable by a 10-minute speedboat from Nha Trang or by what's said to be the longest over-sea cable car in the world. Vinpearl Resort Nha Trang, Hon Tre Island, Nha Trang; +84 58 359 8598; www.vinpearlluxury-nhatrang.com Whale Island Resort
There are even whale temples on the island, where fishermen pay tribute to the sea beasts. Whale Island Resort has a National Geographic dive center for world-class diving. Its 23 bamboo bungalows sit directly on the beach, shaded by coconut palms. Whale Island Resort, 2 Me Linh, Nha Trang, Khanh Hoa Province;+84 58 351 3871; www.iledelabaleine.com Catba Island Resort & Spa Home to one of the most endangered primate species in the world -- the golden-headed langur -- Catba is located at the southwestern end of Ha Long Bay. Catba Island Resort & Spa is the dominant hotel on the island, complete with a sizable water park, underground "Pirate Bar" and festively presented giant war-era gun turrets. Catba Island Resort & Spa, Catco 1 Beach, Catba Island, Halong Bay; +84 31 368 8686; www.catbaislandresort-spa.com China
Sheraton Sanya Hainan might be China's largest island, but it's also the country's smallest and southernmost province. Often touted as China's own Hawaii, the island is peppered with luxury resorts, beautiful scenery and rare wildlife, such as the Hainan black-crested gibbon. The Sheraton Sanya Resort occupies 300 meters of private beach along Yalong Bay and has five swimming pools. The property's seven bars and restaurants mean you never need to leave the resort to hunt for variety. Sheraton Sanya Resort, Yalong Bay National Resort District, Sanya Yalong Bay, Hainan; +86 898 8855 8855; www.starwoodhotels.com Ritz-Carlton Sanya
This includes a children's butler, Uncle Martin's Secret Garden (an active educational garden complete with fuzzy animals), deluxe pool for kids with water slides and Petit VIP -- a program to keep them busy, happy and out of your hair all day. Ritz-Carlton Sanya, Yalong Bay National Resort District, Sanya, Hainan; +86 898 8898 8888; www.ritzcarlton.com The Philippines
El Nido Resorts El Nido Resorts has four Palawan properties, each on a different island, with luxury cottages perched above the beach and coral reefs. Palawan is an archipelago of 1,780 islands in the western Philippines. The area is famous for its limestone cliffs and biodiversity, both on shore and in surrounding reefs. El Nido Resorts; +63 2 813 0000; www.elnidoresorts.com Malaysia
Gaya Island Resort Gaya Island Resort is a 15-minute boat ride from Kota Kinabalu, Borneo. Set amid the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park with stunning views of Mount Kinabalu, the resort's 120 villas are perched on a pristine rainforest hillside. The resort offers several eating options, including Fisherman's Cove, which has a grand view of the bay. Visitors can also enjoy a picnic at the private Tavajun Bay, a five-minute boat ride from the resort. Gaya Island Resort, Malohom Bay, Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah; +60 3 2783 1000; www.gayaislandresort.com |
| Meet the boss of the world's most luxurious hotel Posted: 11 Mar 2013 02:55 PM PDT With a pocket square tucked into his suit and a handshake that chimes with two large gold rings, Heinrich Morio exudes the kind of polished professionalism you expect to find in a hotel general manager. But as GM of arguably the world's most luxurious hotel -- the Burj Al Arab in Dubai -- the U.S.-born Morio, 53, has a more diffcult task than most of his peers: ensuring the world's wealthiest guests feel like they're getting something special when they stay at his hotel. Despite the recent rise of mega-attractions in the United Arab Emirates, and newer luxury hotel offerings around the world, Morio is adamant that the Burj Al Arab is still the best hotel in the world. "The enduring concern of a luxury hotel is to take good care of the guest," he says. "Our guests always feel that they are individually important to us." Walking in someone else's shoes
Another frequent guest of the hotel brought a son who was "desperately looking for a pair of Louis Vuitton sneakers, but couldn't find them anywhere in England." "Before he arrived we went out and organized the shoes in Dubai," says Morio. "When they arrived, we had a selection of Louis Vuitton sneakers available for him to choose." This kind of service is probably only possible in a hotel that has the biggest staff-to-suite ratio in the world -- 8:1. "Luxury is defined by the amount of time our colleagues can spend with our guests," says Morio, who has spent 25 years working in luxury establishments (he started out as a bellhop), the last five for Burj Al Arab. "We have over 1,500 colleagues and 220 butlers for 202 suites, so we're never in a situation that the interaction between us and the guest is rushed." Extravagant, not seven-star
It sits on an island that was built solely for the hotel; it's shaped like a giant sail in the middle of the ocean; its bold interior design uses real gold; and it has some of the most spacious rooms of any property in the world. "We have the world's tallest lobby atrium, 180 meters," he says. "The whole Statue of Liberty can fit in it. "Our smallest suites are 170 square meters, which in a lot of hotels, is the size of a presidential suite. Every suite has two levels, provides panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf, has its own concierge and a full walk-in closet. And we've just finished placing large iMacs and gold iPads in all our rooms." For all the superlatives, you won't catch Morio claiming to run a seven-star hotel. That little myth, possibly started by an awestruck journalist on a press trip, is something the hotel doesn't like to promote. Jumeirah eyes China for business expansion
Most recently the hotel group has been eyeing expansion in China. Jumeirah opened its first Chinese property in Shanghai last year and is planning five more in China, among its eight new hotels planned for Asia Pacific. Expected to open between 2014 and 2015, the five new properties are located in Guangzhou, Hangzhou, Macau, Sanya and Qiandaohu (Thousand Island Lake). The Jumeirah strategy is to be "present" in important regions. "Four years ago, Chinese guests only accounted for 1 percent of our business; it went up to 7 percent last year," says David Loiseau, Jumeirah vice president of sales and marketing in Asia Pacific. "We're hoping in the next five or six years, the number will be 10 to 12 percent." The Chinese push extended to Burj Al Arab last year, with Chinese New Year celebrations held in the hotel to attract Chinese travelers. "This year, we displayed a huge red snake on the sail of Burj Al Arab, we had a big reception, lion dance, fireworks and ice sculpture," says Morio. How does Morio travel?
"A universal adaptor I purchased a few years ago which can plug in all plugs and fit into all sockets," he says. "Connectivity is very important for me. "Having said that, many good hotels have installed multiple built-in plugs nowadays. Other than that, my gym wear as I go to gym room every morning when I travel. A key to Morio's calm demeanor might be found on his iPod. "I'm a big fan of easy listening jazz music like Incognito, George Benson or Al Jarreau. But I also have some country music," he says. As for Dubai tips, Morio puts in a pitch for the Burj Al Arab, before mentioning a favorite activity. "If you have time, you should definitely try a desert safari with Arabian Adventure, which does a very professionally guided desert safari through the dunes and a nice dinner in the desert, Middle East-style. "That will be a full day in Dubai." Burj Al Arab PO Box 74147, Dubai, +971 4 3017777, www.jumeirah.com |
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