Our 2025 team trip took us to the incredible city of Shanghai, and what an unforgettable experience it was! With China’s new 30-day visa-free policy, traveling to this dynamic and ever-evolving metropolis has never been easier.

Getting There

We flew directly with Air New Zealand, arriving in Shanghai early in the morning. After collecting our luggage, we hopped on the Maglev train – an engineering marvel that reaches speeds of up to 300 km/h. This quick and efficient ride brought us closer to the city center, where a short taxi ride took us to our hotel.

Where We Stayed

We chose the iconic Fairmont Peace Hotel on The Bund, a beautifully preserved historic landmark that offers breathtaking views of Pudong across the Huangpu River. The hotel’s old-world charm made it the perfect place to immerse ourselves in Shanghai’s vibrant atmosphere.

Exploring the City

We began our adventure by heading straight to the famous fabric markets, where we couldn’t resist the opportunity to have bespoke clothing made from luxurious silks, cashmeres, and leather. Tailored fashion at its finest!

Next, we ventured to Tianzifang, a labyrinth of narrow lanes teeming with over 200 small businesses, including boutique shops, art galleries, bars, and restaurants. This enchanting area, set within the renovated traditional residential zones of the French Concession, is perfect for wandering and discovering hidden gems.

Dining in Style

That evening, we dined at the iconic Lost Heaven on The Bund. Known for its consistently excellent food and elegant ambiance, it never disappoints. The blend of traditional and modern flavors was a perfect culinary introduction to Shanghai.

A Day on Two Wheels

The following morning, we explored the city on a bike tour, starting from the French Concession and winding through picturesque spots like Fuxing Park, Xintiandi, Old Shanghai Streets, Nanjing Road, People’s Square, and the fascinating Marriage Market Gardens. Riding through the tree-lined avenues, it struck us how unexpectedly green and serene parts of Shanghai are – truly a beautiful juxtaposition to the city’s bustling core.

Shopping Adventures

Our afternoon was spent at the city’s best markets, where we couldn’t resist the thrill of bargaining with locals. Everyone enjoyed scoring unique souvenirs and fashionable finds!

Evening Elegance

On our final night, we treated ourselves to cocktails at a rooftop bar overlooking The Bund. The sparkling skyline, the river glistening in the night, and the almost Parisian vibe of the area were nothing short of magical. We wrapped up our Shanghai experience with a decadent meal at Hakkasan, a sophisticated venue known for its modern Cantonese cuisine and signature cocktails. An absolute must-visit!

A Snapshot of Shanghai

Shanghai captivated us with its seamless blend of tradition and modernity, offering everything from historic charm and lush gardens to high-end shopping and culinary delights. If you’d like more information or tips on planning your own Shanghai adventure, feel free to reach out to our team at You Travel Ferrymead.

Looking forward to more adventures?

We’re hosting a shopping tour to Shanghai in 2026! Contact Melissa at melissa@youferrymead.co.nz to pre-register your interest. Trust us – you won’t want to miss it!