Ereda’s Adventures

I recently had the incredible opportunity to visit Shanghai for a work trip in January 2025. It was my first time in China, and I’m still processing all the new experiences and insights I gained. From the food to the city’s incredible sights, there’s so much I want to share with you.

The Food: A Whole New World

One of the most exciting parts of traveling is, of course, the food. And let me tell you, Shanghai did not disappoint. As someone who’s always been a fan of Asian cuisine, I was especially excited to try local delicacies. I was able to enjoy lots of hot pot, which was an absolute highlight. For those unfamiliar with it, hot pot is a traditional Chinese dish where you cook your own ingredients (meats, veggies, noodles, etc.) in a simmering pot of broth. It’s incredibly flavorful and a fun dining experience, especially when shared with others.

Now, here’s a funny part—before my trip, I made the silly assumption that I’d find sushi everywhere in China. I mean, it’s Asian food, right? But I quickly realized how wrong I was. Sushi is actually a specialty of Japan, not China! I laughed at myself for thinking that. China is more famous for its dumplings, noodles, and of course, hot pot. It was a funny mix-up but also a good lesson in cultural differences.

The City Center: Shanghai’s Bustling Heart

When I wasn’t eating, I spent some time exploring the city. One thing that really stood out was the city center of Shanghai, also known as People’s Square. This area is the heart of the city, packed with iconic landmarks like the Shanghai Museum and the bustling Nanjing Road, one of the world’s busiest shopping streets. I was able to see the skyline with its towering skyscrapers, like the Shanghai Tower and the Jin Mao Tower—it was an unforgettable sight!

Shanghai is a city that never sleeps, and the energy of the city center really made me feel alive. If you ever visit, be sure to take a stroll along the Bund, where you can enjoy views of both the modern skyscrapers and the historic colonial-era buildings along the Huangpu River.

Where I Stayed: Hilton Hotel

During my stay, I had the pleasure of being hosted at the Hilton Hotel, a luxurious five-star property that exceeded my expectations. The service was impeccable, and the amenities were top-notch. I’ve included a Snapchat snapshot of the hotel below, so you can get a peek at where I stayed.

[Snapchat image of Hilton Hotel here]

The hotel was in a prime location, making it easy to explore nearby attractions. It was a fantastic place to relax after long workdays and enjoy the comforts of world-class hospitality.

A Few Fun Facts About China

While in Shanghai, I also learned a few interesting tidbits about China. Did you know that China has a rich history of tea culture? The country is famous for its traditional tea ceremonies, and you can find beautiful tea houses throughout the city. Another fun fact: Shanghai is home to the Shanghai Maglev Train, which is the world’s fastest commercial train, reaching speeds of over 430 km/h (267 mph)!

Wrapping Up

In conclusion, my work trip to Shanghai was an amazing experience, full of new tastes, sights, and lessons. It was an unforgettable journey, and I’m grateful for the chance to explore such a dynamic and fascinating city. From indulging in hot pot to standing in awe at the city center, it was a trip I won’t soon forget. If you ever have the chance to visit Shanghai, I highly recommend it!

Thanks for reading, and I’ll be sure to share more stories from my travels soon!