Shanghai Tourist Trap Tips by koolkatz_76

Xiangyang Market

This is a hugely popular market with the tourists.

Granted, it's a sprawling place with plenty of stalls, but the merchandise start to look the same after a while.

It can also be quite difficult to navigate, as the market is built like a maze, with streets crossing each other. If you find something unique you like, suggest you try to get it at the shop where you first spotted it, because you may not be able to get back to the same shop after you move on.

Also, beware that most of the "branded" items here are imitation goods, even those sold in the little alley "warehouses" that the touts lure you to.

Unique Suggestions: Bargain like there's no tomorrow. Stalls here charge tourist rates that can be brought down 20-40%, depending on your negotiation skills.

If you like Chinoiserie homeware, you can pick up some pretty tissue-box covers, chopsticks etc, at lower prices than you would normally get back at home.

Lastly, bathrooms are not readily available, so try not to develop an urge while you're there. If you must go, there is a little bistro on the border of the market, and you can always grab a drink and rest your legs after exploring this sprawling place.

Xintiandi

This is a very popular haunt with the expats and tourists, and are full of trendy restaurants and nightspots.

If you're longing for something familiar away from home, and want somewhere cool to hang out, this is the place to go to.

But I reckon if you're in Rome, then do as the Romans do. There are plenty more places that offer great food, albeit without the ambience. Recommend that you explore the real Shanghai and not just confine yourself to this area.