Experience modern China in Shanghai
Shanghai is undoubtedly one of the most forward-thinking cities in Asia and the metropolis has been heavily influenced by Western culture. The ultra-modern region is widely viewed as an important global financial hub and the city's skyscrapers are a sight to behold.
With so much wealth in the area, it is unsurprising that Shanghai has an impressive selection of world-class gourmet restaurants, luxury hotels and upmarket shopping districts. Nanjing Road is famous for its extensive range of boutiques and is a paradise for people who have a penchant for designer goods.
Scott Dunn's Asia expert Amy Welfare insists that Shanghai is definitely a wise choice for people who want to experience the finer things in life during their luxury holiday in China.
"The Peninsular in Shanghai - which opened maybe 18 months ago - is probably the most hi-tech, high-spec hotel I've ever stayed in," she remarked.
Although it is a very advanced city, Shanghai still manages to cling on to its roots. The futuristic glass tower blocks in the financial district stand side-by-side with older, more traditional buildings, which means the conurbation has a really unique look. If you want to escape from the trendy Western retail outlets, Shanghai's Old Town may be the best place to go.
Many see this as the "real China" and the Yuyuan Bazaar is a vibrant market that is always full of people attempting to secure some bargains. Most of the traders in this part of town will expect you to barter for their goods, so it may be worth honing your haggling skills before you board the plane.
Some of Shanghai's more traditional architecture is a joy to behold and the City God Temple and Huxinting Teahouse - which are in close proximity to the Yuyuan Bazaar - are definitely worth a visit.
You should not leave the Old Town until you have sampled some of the region's more traditional eateries. Ms Welfare says that every part of China has its own unique take on cuisine and the fare you receive in Shanghai will be very different to the food served up in Beijing. People who think they are an expert on Chinese gastronomy because they frequent their local takeaway in England on a regular basis will also be in for a surprise.
"I think people - until they go to China - they think of Chinese food as what you get over here in takeaways but each region has very different styles of food and Beijing's quite far in the north, while Shanghai's down in the south - so they're quite different in that way," Ms Welfare added.
"In Shanghai, you've got some of the world's top restaurants and a bit more development so that's a difference," she continued.
Although it has a population in the region of around 12 million, there are plenty of secluded parts of Shanghai to explore. The French Concession area has quiet, colonial parks that are perfect if you are looking for a peaceful retreat. Many of Shanghai's most luxurious hotels are also set in idyllic areas away from the hustle and bustle of the city centre.
There is some stunning accommodation available in the surrounding areas and few places are as glorious as the Four Seasons Hotel in Hangzhou. The hotel - which was opened in October 2010 - is set in the middle of some picturesque gardens and overlooks the gorgeous West Lake. Alternatively, travellers may prefer the more urban setting of the Puli Hotel and Spa, which can be found in downtown Shanghai.
The hotel is situated next to the picturesque JingAn Park, which means guests feel like they are staying in the countryside, even though they are in the middle of one of the most vibrant cities in the world.
