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Posted on Tuesday 12 June 2012 in China, Shanghai
Shanghai is making waves in their offerings for international tourist as well as their residents. Officials representing various organisations are expanding their entertainment, fitness and hospitality options throughout the city so locals and visitors can have an even better experience than before.
Revamped bomb shelters made into nightclubs throughout Shanghai
There is a new scene taking the city by storm when it comes to entertainment after the sun goes down. Shanghai has been turning some of their former bomb shelters into underground watering holes for young backpackers and locals to enjoy a cocktail or two well into the night.
One of the most popular is called "The Shelter," which can accommodate many party goers for an evening of mystery and campy fun.
"It is gloomy and clammy, and very unique," Kis Chen, a resident 29-year-old office worker, told Reuters. "The smell reminds me of my childhood home."
Some government officials say that there could be more than 2,000 of these bomb shelters throughout the city, which were mostly constructed in the 1960s and 70s to protect against air raids. Today, not only are clubs moving into these spaces, but they are also being used for retail shops, wine cellars and other commercial pursuits.
The Luxury Collection hotel chain plans to add new Shanghai hotels
Several upscale hotel brands are seeing the potential for growth throughout the city and are announcing their plans for new construction in the near future. One such company, called the Luxury Collection Hotels and Resorts, will be introducing the first accommodations in China this year as part of the Luxury Collection franchise.
Twelve at Hengshan will be one of the new hotels debuting in Shanghai this fall, boasting a historical downtown location and stylish, modern guest rooms. It will be surrounded by iconic streets that line Hengshan Road and designed by architects who want to emulate famous art galleries throughout the world, such as those found in cities like San Francisco and Seoul.
"This is a milestone for The Luxury Collection as we open ten new hotels and resorts - the most of any year in the brand's history," said Paul James, Global Brand Leader of The Luxury Collection Hotels & Resorts. "As a new generation of global affluent travellers emerge, we are strategically growing our portfolio beyond the traditional luxury grid and in diverse destinations."
Shanghai gets fit
City government officials are initiating a new program for Shanghai locals to head outdoors and try some active pursuits with friends and family. According to China Daily, the event called the Shanghai Citizens Sports Meeting will run through November, so Aussies may see an increase of active individuals running through the city streets during their visit. Participants are encouraged to register and take part in races, sports and contests that will happen every four years in tangent with the Olympic Games.
While the program is currently only open to Shanghai residents, Aussies are welcome to watch the events or participate in their own physical activities while on an adventure travel expedition in the area. Bowling has been a popular pastime in the country since the 1990s, and Shanghai has several alleys to visit for a few frames. Many guests will also take part in Tai Chi classes, play a round of golf or simply fly a kite in the public parks and squares.
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