English: View of The Bund in Shanghai, China. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

After months of anticipation, we finally arrived in Shanghai which was soon to exceed all our expectations.

After saying goodbye to Martine and Ella at Dubai airport, we had an easy eight-hour journey from Dubai to Shanghai. The quality and service at both Dubai and Shanghai airports are excellent, putting airports like the UK’s Heathrow and Gatwick to shame. For example, arriving at passport control at Shanghai we were greeted by a security guard who welcomed us warmly to Shanghai in English.

We were met by our guide, Leon (not his real name of course), who kindly took charge of our luggage and led us to our awaiting car and driver, the same driver and guide who were to be our team for the rest of our stay here in Shanghai.

We quickly arrived at our historic hotel on…