Time Zone: GMT +8

Language: Mandarin Chinese

Visas:
Shanghai has had a 144-hour visa-free transit policy for international passengers since January 30, 2016. China does not offer visas on arrival, so you’ll need to arrange your visa well in advance of your travels.

Local transportation:
Metro and light railway system, local buses, taxis. Uber is also in Shanghai, as are Didi Dache and Kuaidi Dache, the Chinese versions of Uber.

Where to buy a SIM card:
China Mobile and China Unicom are the big cell providers in Shanghai, and you can buy a SIM card ("SIM ka") from the telco shops in the city or at most corner stores. Most Chinese SIMs are locked to the province in which they are purchased, so you’ll pay roaming charges when texting, calling, or using data outside of this province.

Popular areas:
Jing'an District, Huangpu District, French Concession, Xujiahui, Changning, Yongkang Lu

Popular food:
Da Zha Xie (Steamed Crab), Yangchun Noodles, Nanxiang Steamed Buns, Soup Buns, Xiaolongbao

Local travel booking sites:
Chinese booking sites such as C-Trip and eLong often offer better rates, especially for domestic travel, than western booking sites.

Things not to do:
Get angry if you’re jostled or shoved when queuing - China is a crowded place, and the locals have become accustomed to a much smaller personal space. Don’t be surprised if a local tries to snap a sneaky photo of you or even comes up to ask for a picture with you. Don't forget to get a VPN for China before visiting - China’s ‘Great Firewall’ blocks sites such as Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Instagram, and most of the Google selection. Don't drink the tap water.