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Shanghai Travel Tips

Shanghai Travel Tips

Shanghai Shanghai, China Travel Guide

Lounge Access

Frequent travelers often find airport lounges a comfortable retreat. Independent airport lounge access is a valuable amenity.

Lounge Benefits

  • Comfort: Enjoy a quiet space before or after flights.
  • Amenities: Wi-Fi, food, and liquids.
  • Access: Priority Pass for independent lounge access worldwide.

Flight Disruption Support

Flight delays, cancellations, or denied boarding can disrupt travel. Services exist to help passengers claim compensation.

Compensation Assistance

  • Delays: Service for flight delays.
  • Cancellations: Help with cancelled flights.
  • Compensation: Compensair offers support for claims.

Customs & Immigration

Prepare for passport control and customs procedures upon arrival. Digital customs declarations are often available.

Arrival Process

  • Documents: Passport and visa (where appropriate).
  • Declaration: Complete arrival forms accurately.
  • Biometrics: Fingerprint scanning may occur.

Airport to City Transport

Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) and Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (SHA) provide different options.

Transport Links

  • Maglev: High-speed train from PVG to Longyang Road (fastest).
  • Metro: Connects both airports to city center.
  • Taxi/Ride-share: Available from designated stands.

Airport Resources

Airport Websites

  • Official airport websites offer real-time flight information.
  • Maps and service details are available online.
  • Check for specific airport services before arrival.
  • Flight status updates are regularly posted.

Travel Apps & Info Desks

  • Travel apps include airport guides and transport booking.
  • Information desks provide assistance upon arrival.
  • Queries about directions and local services are handled.
  • Ground transport information is readily available.

Traveler's Reminder

Give yourself plenty of time for the airport procedures, especially during peak travel seasons, and have all necessary travel documents readily available.

Environmental Considerations

Your travel choices can positively impact Shanghai's environment.

Conservation Initiatives

Shanghai has wetland parks and nature reserves like Chongming Dongtan National Nature Reserve for migratory birds and coastal ecosystems.

Waste Management

Mandatory waste sorting began in 2019. Public bins are categorized for wet, dry, recyclables, and hazardous waste. Follow local sorting rules.

Water Conservation

Water scarcity is a concern. Tourists are invited to conserve water by taking shorter showers and reusing towels. Small actions contribute.

Carbon Offset Options

Some airlines offer carbon offset programs. Choose direct flights and efficient public transport like the metro to lower your carbon footprint.

Reducing Emissions

  • Offsetting: Consider programs like Terrapass.
  • Public Transport: Opt for metro over taxis.
  • Direct Flights: Minimize layovers.

Eco-Friendly Tourism

Look for hotels with environmental certifications or stated sustainability practices. Some travel agencies prioritize environmental protection.

Responsible Tourism

  • Accommodation: Seek hotels with green policies.
  • Tour Operators: Choose ethical operators like G Adventures.
  • Sustainable Gear: Brands like Patagonia.

Cultural Sensitivity

Cultural Preservation

  • Support businesses that maintain historical areas.
  • The Bund and traditional Shikumen houses benefit.
  • Patronage to local, historically sensitive establishments.

Respectful Interactions

  • Show respect to elders.
  • Be polite and patient in your interactions.
  • Don't speak loudly in public spaces, especially temples.

Thoughtful Travel

Engaging with local culture and making conscious choices benefits both visitors and the Shanghai community, leaving a positive impression.

Economic & Ethical Choices

Your spending decisions directly support the local economy and community.

Supporting Local Businesses

Choose local restaurants, independent shops, and local guides. Use local transportation services. Your travel dollars circulate within the Shanghai economy.

Local Engagement

  • Shops: Patronize independent local shops.
  • Dining: Eat at local restaurants and eateries.
  • Transport: Use local buses and metro services.

Ethical Shopping

Seek out local craft shops or galleries directly supporting artists. Be cautious of mass-produced or falsely represented "antiques."

Conscious Purchases

  • Crafts: Support local artists and artisans.
  • Antiques: Verify authenticity carefully.
  • Conservation: Support The Rainforest Site.

Scams and Exploitation

Be wary of scams pressuring you to buy overpriced goods or services. Educate yourself to recognize and avoid practices that exploit people or the environment.

Stay Aware

  • Scams: Be cautious of unsolicited offers.
  • Pricing: Question unusually high prices.
  • Fairness: Prioritize purchases that genuinely benefit local creators.

Charitable Giving

If you wish to donate, do so through established and reputable local or international charities working in China. This signifies contributions reach those in genuine need.

Responsible Donations

  • Reputable Charities: Support established organizations.
  • Direct Giving: Avoid giving to street beggars.
  • Impact: Funds support organized channels for greater good.

Positive Impact Travel

By practicing sustainable and responsible travel, you positively impact Shanghai.

Environmental Benefits

Lowering carbon footprint, conserving water, proper waste disposal.

Cultural Enrichment

Supporting local heritage, respectful interactions.

Community Support

Boosting local businesses, ethical consumption.

Shanghai Travel Tips. Money, Safety, Culture - MileHacker