We took an evening flight and landed at Shanghai’s Pudong Airport in about five hours, after which we got a cab for the 45-minute journey to Fraser Residence Shanghai. Fraser Residence was actually a compromise that Puey forged between Ade (who wanted the comfort of $300/night hotels), and me (who believed in $20/night hostels). We ended up paying a total of $630 for five nights at a Studio Deluxe; a very good deal seeing as it’s a spacious studio apartment with a living room and a small adjoining kitchen, washing machine (detergent included and refillable by housekeeping), comfortable bathroom, and a bedroom hosting a king-sized bed that easily fit the three of us. I’d gladly stay there again. Highly recommended!
We met up with Puey’s friend, Shi, on our first night. Shi had relocated to Shanghai for work a year ago, and he took the time out that night to show us the nightlife in the area. He brought us to M2 nightclub, which was an experience in itself, what with the club configuration giving emphasis to reserved tables for the multitudes of rich locals lounging disinterestedly on couches. We also got to witness Shi’s dance moves, something I’ll remember for a long time. Last of all, when I accompanied Ade outside the club for some air, a Caucasian suddenly came up to us to introduce himself and his shy local friend (“Rate my brother from 1 to 10! Do you believe that we are brothers?” he asked, pointing to the very Chinese-looking guy who spoke in a very different accent from him). We ended up striking a friendly conversation with the local, who recommended Wan Shou Zhai for some authentic food, among others. He was a good guy, and I felt a little sorry for him being pulled into his friend’s n00b pick-up schemes.