Shanghai is a city that never stops moving — and somehow, wandering through it feels like stepping into a story that’s still being written. I’ve visited twice, and both trips left me enchanted in very different ways.
The first time I came to Shanghai was at the very start of my teaching abroad journey with Disney English. Although I was stationed in Beijing, all international teachers flew into Shanghai first for orientation. We had two days to explore the city, and it felt like a whirlwind introduction to what I’d like to call, the heart of China. We wandered through the streets, sampling local treats and trying Xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) for the very first time. It was delicious!
At the time, my mind buzzed with excitement about what lay ahead in Beijing, not knowing all the wonderful adventures I was about to have. Even in just a couple of days, Shanghai’s energy, neon lights, and bustling sidewalks made a lasting impression.
My second visit came a year later when Shanghai Disney opened. As teachers of Disney English (an afiliate of The Walt Disney brand), we were also regarded as official cast members and received the same perks as cast members all around the globe. That meant free tickets to the park before their grand opening! We spent the day taking in the magical rides, exploring themed lands, and wandering the city streets afterward, soaking in the same energy I remembered so clearly from my first trip.
Of course, Shanghai’s contrasts are what make it so captivating. The Bund at twilight is unforgettable. Skyscrapers like the Oriental Pearl Tower and Shanghai Tower reflect on the Huangpu River, glowing like a city of stars. Yu Garden remains a peaceful escape from the bustling streets, with its ponds, pavilions, and winding pathways that make you forget that Shanghai is actually renowned for its skyscrapers.
And the French Concession? Tree-lined avenues, hidden cafés, and pastel-colored walls that beg to be photographed — it’s a place to slow down, wander, and discover little moments of joy tucked around every corner.
Food was a highlight both times! From street stalls to quirky cafés, each bite felt like an adventure. And yes, there were plenty of sweet treats along the way — Shanghai’s desserts somehow feel lighter, sweeter, and more magical when enjoyed on a sunny street corner.
Shanghai is a city of energy, wonder, and endless discovery. It’s a place where ancient alleys meet towering skyscrapers, quiet corners coexist with bustling streets, and every visit brings something new to explore. Here’s my Shanghai photo diary — a peek into a city that’s bright, busy, and utterly unforgettable; a city I’ve fallen for twice, in very different but equally magical ways.
LIFE OF SHAL 