Learn Mandarin And Life In Shanghai
Introduction Of Shanghai
Lying on the estuary of Chang Jiang (Yangtze) River, Shanghai is regarded as the economic capital in mainland China. It’s one of the most developed cities in China. Besides its leading role of economic development, Shanghai also serves as an important cultural, financial, trading and industrial center of China. Due to economic reforms taken place since 1992, Shanghai has now become one of the leading cities in East Asia.
Once compared to Paris in the 1930s, Shanghai nowadays is more like New York City. Arriving in Shanghai, immediately, you will be overwhelmed by all the crowds, automobiles, malls and skyscrapers. As the largest city in mainland china in terms of population (18 million) and density (2,945/kmq), Shanghai is a booming melting pot of East and West.
Climate Of Shanghai
The most comfortable seasons in Shanghai are from March to early June and from September to November. The “Plum Flower Rain” season (frequent light rain) is from mid-June to early July. Always take an umbrella with you even if it’s not raining for the moment. July and August are extremely hot and humid, with temperature always above 30°C and sometimes as high as 40°C. September remains hot, yet quite cool at night. In winter, it usually snows lightly for 1 or 2 days and the temperature mostly stays above 0°C.
Clothing Of Shanghai
In summer (June to August): cool cotton garments and a light windbreaker or raincoat in case of rain. Good walking shoes are essential at any time of year.
Time Of Shanghai
UTC+8 / GMT+8
Shanghai Language
Mandarin is the standard spoken language in China. To make life even more difficult, locals also speak the Shanghai dialect, or Shanghainese, which sounds very different from Mandarin. English is not yet widely understood by locals – your best bet is to speak to someone young if you need help, as their English tends to be better than older people.
Currency / Methods of Payment
The Chinese currency is Renminbi (People’s Currency) and is abbreviated as CNY or also RMB. The basic unit is Yuan.
- 10 Fen = 1 Jiao
- 10 Jiao = 1 Yuan
- 100 Fen = 1 Yuan
Visa, Master Card, American Express, Diner’s Club, Federal Card, Million Card, and JCB credit cards are accepted at most hotels and state run shops in the major cities. Travelers should be prepared to pay in Yuan when shopping in smaller shops, at restaurants, or at smaller hotels.
2010 World Expo In Shanghai
China will be a great event to explore the full potentials of urban life; it will be centered on innovation and interaction; it will also offer a wonderful opportunity for cross-culture dialogues.There is no doubt the Chinese people will present to the world a successful, splendid and unforgettable exposition.