I went to the newly-opened Attica of Singapore fame and wow, it felt like being 20 in London again. A mix of money, style, great music, a pavillion overlooking Pudong (yes, this is just a few blocks from Bar Rouge), an air of cultural curiosity and intoxication. Does it get any better?
I'm a sucker for moments. At the end of the night I bumped into Mimi, yet another member of the Hong Kong gang. Since we were both going to Dragon Club (the after-hours to go to at the moment, apparently) she offered me a ride in her car. I hate it when I'm so obvioulsy "new in Asia", but I couldn't stop myself from grinning madly as we raced through the streets of Shanghai, with thumping dance music blaring from the speakers and the sun rising above skyscrapers and french mansion.
So the question is: when will i learn? I never really get a city for the first two weeks, this time was no different. If you agree that golden week doesn't count, that's just about right for my time in Shanghai too.
In fact, I've come up with a system.
Week #1, sort yourself out with an apartment or long-term hotel room, a local phone number, a map (and a guide book if you haven't already), locate the nearest Starbucks and maybe an alternative cafe/office. Fill up on all the necessities that you couldn't be bothered to bring with you.
Week #2, spend all your free-time sightseeing, learning about the public transport system and going to as many bars and discos as you can manage. Focus on quantity, not quality, see as much as possible whether it stinks or not.
Week #3, Make friends! You know what you like about the city and can start to enjoy yourself. Leave the guide book at home.
Week #4, Fall in love with the city, discover amazing things about yourself, understand the scope of beauty on a global scale, see cultures meet and mix etc.
Week #5 Forget you were only supposed to be here for 4 weeks. Figure out a way to extend your visa. Can you live her permanently? Have I ever been this happy?
Week #6 You're completely lost, the city has rooted itself inside you. Leave now or be forever lost!
