Want to know where other families go to enjoy all this city has to offer? Welcome to Our Favorite Things, where we spend time with a Shanghai family and find out their go-to places around town.
A family with New Zealand and Singaporean heritage, Gregg (NZ) and Shirani (Singapore) love traveling, food and culture, and have lived in over 10 countries. Together with their daughters Rachel (9) and Rosie (4) they have called Shanghai home for the past 3.5 years.
Long weekend away
Alila Anji resort in Anji bamboo forest. It is extremely childfriendly and has a children's playroom, pool and gorgeous lake along with many trails for walking. There are bamboo shoots for the kids to munch and bamboo infused cocktails for the adults!
Sunday brunch
The Westin Bund Center without a doubt, given their kid's playroom, entertainment and great food. We love their themed brunches and were lucky to host a table for the New Zealand event which featured celebrity chefs, and Maori performers who were specially flown in.
Under the radar tip
If you love food, get in on all the Dining Week VIP deals as they book out fast! Released quarterly, they are a great way to try new menus or high-end restaurants without breaking the bank.
Charity
We volunteer with the Will Foundation, an organization for disadvantaged children. Shirani runs regular bake sales supported by the compound and the local community.
Date night
The glamourous Hakkasan and the more casual Hai by Goga both have fabulous food. At Hai by Goga, we enjoy sitting outside on the rooftop and watching the sunset during the warmer months.
Places for kids to play
We like Lollipop, the indoor playground at The Place mall, and the kids also like Yu Gardens to run around, hide behind structures and explore.
Child-friendly restaurant
Our 'local' is Geneva on Jinbang Lu. They have a kid;s menu, playroom and it's a bit like Cheers where "Everyone knows your name." We also like D.O.C Gastronomia Italiana for the fabulous food and play area.
Markets
The Pearl Market on Hongmei Lu is our 'go to,' but for a wander, we love the Hongqiao Bird and Flower Market (though it no longer sells birds!). It is a happy place, full of seasonal flowers, furniture, art, kitchenware and browse-worthy knick-knack shops.
Ladies' night
Azul Tapas Lounge has excellent food and then, you can 'adjourn' to Sichuan Citizen for a delicious Basil Martinis. Shake is great for live music and dancing, and Hakkasan has Wednesday Hakkatini night! Colca's RMB10 Pisco Sour nights on Tuesdays could also be a ladies' night!
[All images via Shirani Alfreds]
Find more Our Favorite Things here.
