Travel Log:Hitting the shopping district of Nanjing West Road/Xi Lu

I love shopping, though I don't necessarily have to buy something every time I'm out on a shopping trip.

Shopping is also the chance for me to see and feel (I'm one of those people that has to touch a piece of clothing or decor in a store), hang out with friends, and soak in the environment and architecture of an area.  I was on Shanghai's Nanjing Road and was definitely there to get a feel for the district, rather than buy anything.
Tip: International brands are usually more expensive in Asia (up to 30-40% more depending on the country) except for Hong Kong.  Save by shopping in the US for most brands (or Europe for European brands!

The area itself was quite serene and intimate at night.  The buildings were relatively low and accented by soft lighting and understated architecture.

Beautiful sign (and shoes of course!)

Some malls will leave a spot empty for KFC franchises.  The fast food chain is that popular and will bring the necessary food traffic (don't mess with the Chinese people's love for chicken!)

Travel Log: Escaping to the past in Qibao, Shanghai

I am a city girl, through and through.  

But sometimes I like to escape from the usual concrete jungle and step into a different environment.  I visited Qibao aka Seven Treasures in Shanghai and got to see a bit of what an ancient town would have looked like.  The town itself was established around the 900s, but the main temple and streets were rebuilt only 10 years ago; only a large bell from the Ming Dynasty survives.  The town streets were super crowded so be warned if you visit during the weekend!  But it is an interesting change of pace from the usual Shanghai scene and the small pockets with fewer tourists are nice.

Old and new...museum in front of apartment buildings...

Bubbles!

Quail eggs inside a salt dome!  What a snack!

This was a beautiful poem and plea written by someone on the street.  I hope he gets what he is seeking!

Travel Log: Contrasts in Mumbai

I've been to about seven or eight cities in India, but have gone back to Mumbai a few times for business.  One of the first words that pops into my mind when I think about Mumbai is the word: contrast .  It is a harmony of different and distinct elements.  The vibe can change dramatically in different parts of the city.  There is a relatively linear hustle of the city along Marine Drive while there can be a chaotic mix of vehicles and people in the suburbs. One may see luxurious store and house fronts in one section, but be confronted with the cramped confines of the slums in another section.  The symbols of the old British days remain (Gateway of India) but the culture and spirit of the residents rule.

Mumbai remains a place with a bustling energy and exuberance.  I liked the shopping a bit more in Delhi, but loved the seafood here (Mumbai is known for seafood).  Here are some highlights of what I'd recommend in Mumbai.

Stroll around Marine drive and visit the Gateway of India

Have a meal at Mahesh's (talk about fresh seafood!)

Relax and enjoy a view of the queen's necklace via the Intercontinental hotel