Shanghai is a fascinating mix of East and West. It has historic shikumen (石库门） houses that blend the styles of Chinese houses with European design flair, and it has one of the richest collections of Art Deco buildings in the world. As there were so many concessions (designated districts) to Western powers during the turn of the 20th century, in many places the city has a cosmopolitan feel. There is everything from classic Parisian style, to Tudor style buildings that give an English flair and 1930s buildings reminiscent of New York or Chicago.

There is a saying that goes, "Shanghai is heaven for the rich, hell for the poor," People from all over China flock to Shanghai - everyone from farmers seeking jobs in manual labour to university graduates seeking to start a career or wanting to live in a cool up-tempo city. Even well-off people, though, complain that buying a home is becoming impossible; prices have skyrocketed in the last few years.

Most of Shanghai's 6,340.5 square kilometres (2,448.1 sq mi) of land area is billiard table flat, with an average elevation above mean sea level of just 4m (13 ft). The dozens of new skyscrapers that have been built in recent years have had to be built with deep concrete piles to stop them from sinking into the soft ground of this flat alluvial plain.

Shanghai is a dynamic and cosmopolitan city that serves as a gateway to both modern China and its rich history. As China's largest city and one of the world's major financial hubs, Shanghai is known for its futuristic skyline, featuring towering skyscrapers like the iconic Oriental Pearl Tower and Shanghai Tower. However, beyond the modern architecture, Shanghai offers a unique blend of cultures, with its colonial past seen in the historic buildings of the Bund and its deep-rooted Chinese heritage reflected in traditional gardens, temples, and bustling markets.

Understanding Shanghai also means recognizing its position as a melting pot of Eastern and Western influences. Once a key trading port, Shanghai has been shaped by centuries of international commerce, which is evident in its diverse food scene, blending Chinese flavors with international cuisines. From the classic Shanghainese soup dumplings (xiaolongbao) to high-end global dining, the city's culinary landscape is vast and varied.

In addition to its economic importance, Shanghai is a cultural powerhouse. The city boasts world-class museums, contemporary art galleries, and a thriving theater scene, reflecting its role as a leader in China’s creative industries. While exploring Shanghai, visitors can take in the contrasts between the modern and the traditional, from the peaceful Yu Garden to the bustling streets of Nanjing Road, and from ancient temples to trendy nightlife in districts like Xintiandi. Shanghai is a city that offers something for everyone, providing a deep insight into China's past, present, and future.