Originally assigned to Hangzhou to support the growing automotive industry within China, the Sajan family – John, Monique, Simon (16) and Sophie (13) – traveled from their hometown of Royal Oak, Michigan, a small community outside of Detroit to start their expatriate life. Having enjoyed their experiences in China so much, they jumped at the chance to move to Shanghai when John’s Hangzhou contract ended. They have been living here for two years, and loving their journey as it continues to evolve.
Our Favorite...
Places to dine
As a family, we like Asian cuisines, with Japanese, Chinese and Indian being our favorites. Hakkasan and Lost Heaven have never disappointed us and they are both suitable and comfortable places to take family and friends. Our kids’ favorite casual dining venues are Kebabs on the Grill and ChiChi Sushi.
Family activities
We always plan our holidays around outdoor adventures. We love hiking, biking and exploring on four wheels, and snorkeling when we get the chance. We, like so many others, also enjoy market shopping to find unique local items and try to snatch up a bargain.
Child's favorite venue
We have two teenagers who enjoy entertainment places like Disc Cart Indoor Karting, Jump 360, Mr. X and Big E Entertainment Center. Here in Shanghai, the opportunities for fun and the facilities provided for young people are second to none.
Grocery shops
We have many dietary restrictions in the family, so it can be difficult. Thankfully, I find that Fields, Kate & Kimi and Grand Market are sufficient to cater to our specific needs. Grand Market has the best steak and salmon. I often order online but also like to go to Swiss Butchery and the fruit man on the corner of Lan’an and Biyun Lu – he has the best fruit!
Shopping streets
My (Monique) favorite shopping spot is the Hongqiao Pearl Market, they have a wide selection of unique jewelry and the size is not too bulky or overwhelming. For boutique shopping, our choice destinations are in the Former French Concession. The streets are full of character and you can find many interesting shops, some of my favorites are on Fuxing Lu.
Memory in Shanghai
Our fondest memories have to be those we’ve shared with friends and family who have visited Shanghai. Having spent the last two years in Shanghai, we are getting to know more and more about the city and its different areas. We have come to appreciate the cultural differences and love to show off Shanghai to our visitors.
Enjoyment of living in Shanghai
For us, the thing we enjoy the most is the ability to step out of our small community life, and into a metropolis that is so culturally diverse and drastically different. Living in Shanghai is like seeing the world through a child’s eyes. Everything is new, different and exciting. Every day brings new experiences for all of us, things we have never seen or done before, and it’s that realization which makes us smile a little bigger and love living in this city.
