SHANGHAI GETAWAYS
As the Victoria’s Secret show lands in China, we explore this iconic city
Shanghai is about to join the ranks of London, Paris, Miami and New York as it prepares to play host to the world’s most iconic underwear show. The Victoria’s Secret models will descend on the city this month for the most colourful catwalk in the fashion calendar. But where will Karlie, Gigi and co sleep, eat and, more importantly, party? We’ve scouted the best places, from shops to celeb spots, for your very own Oriental adventure.
If you’ve never been to China before, Shanghai is a great place to start. Direct flights take around 11-and-ahalf hours from the UK, but you can find stopover flights from £300 return. Once you land, you’ll be greeted by futuristic skyscrapers that sit alongside ancient temples, meaning you’ll get a taste of both sides of this country’s changing personality.
Shanghai is fast becoming the next fashion capital, with major labels opening flagship stores in the city. A hotbed of technology and innovation, it’s a really exciting destination to add to your bucket list.
FITNESS
It’s not just the VS models who will be keen to get their sweat on while they’re in the city. Mind, body and soul are deeply important to Chinese culture, and in addition to a host of exclusive gyms, you’ll find a sunrise Tai Chi session taking place in front of the stunning backdrop of the financial district skyline in Pudong. When Karlie Kloss visited this year, she went for a jog along The Bund, which is the embankment of the Huangpu River. It’s home to bars and restaurants, but, most importantly, it’s the perfect place to soak up the view and take a selfie in front of the silhouette of the Oriental Pearl Tower.
FUN
When pop star Ciara was in town with her family, she made a visit to Disneyland Shanghai, which opened its doors last year. Disney has thrown all of its latest technology and animatronics at the park, so the ten major rides are seriously impressive – especially The Pirates Of The Caribbean attraction. The park also houses an entertainment district with all the Disney-related dining and merchandise you’d expect at Mickey’s place, along with two themed hotels, including the Toy Story Hotel, where you can choose to stay in either Woody or Buzz Lightyear’s wing. However, a day pass costs from £140 for an adult at Shanghaidisneyresort.com.
CULTURE
You might not have legs as long as Jourdan Dunn, but that shouldn’t stop you from getting a great view of the city during your stay. Heading up one of the many observation towers in the financial district will give you a breathtaking vista to gaze on. But once you’re back on terra firma, follow Sofia Vergara’s lead and search out some of the city’s more ancient culture by taking part in an Incense Ceremony. As one of China’s oldest preserved traditions, it’s believed to be a way of connecting to the gods and driving out evil spirits. You can book an experience from around £200 through Vayable.
com, which offers unique travel experiences hosted by locals.
PARTY
Once they’ve kicked off their stilettos, the Angels are bound to head to Bar Rouge (Bar-rougeshanghai.com) to knock back a few post-show cocktails. It’s where Tom Cruise threw the Mission
Impossible 3 wrap party, and Scarlett Johannson has been spotted sipping a drink there, too. A cocktail will set you back just over £10, but the view from the terrace is priceless. If you’re looking to stay under the radar and away from the paps, Revolucion in Jing’an is a Latin-themed bar – which serves lethal cocktails and doesn’t hold back on the party vibes or parrots (there are two massive birds painted on the walls, if that’s your kind of thing).
SHOP
Although you will be able to find most of the major fashion and beauty brands in this bustling city, you’ll end up paying more for them than you do at home. You’re better off heading to the Tianzifang district where you’ll discover boutique shops and handmade crafts. You might find the winding streets and shops, which seem to be stacked on top of each other, a bit of a rabbit warren, but if you’re brave enough to barter (never go with the first price you’re quoted in these parts!) you can bag yourself some amazing bargains on traditional jewellery and art.