5 things to do in Shanghai on a budget

Nihao! Or should I say hello! If you are reading this, it is most likely that you are underlining some tips from you to know what to do in Shanghai on a low budget. Shanghai is known as the East Paris, not because you're going to find macarons and baguettes around every corner, but because of its unique fusion of East and West. Shanghai is the largest and most prosperous city in China, and rivals other iconic cities, such as New York in terms of modernity and Paris for its aesthetic. Although like any other major city in the world, it can be quite expensive. But do not worry, because I have a list of the best things to do in Shanghai without putting you and your wallet in a bind.

1. Marriage market

Why spend hours in Tinder without finding love when you can have someone who finds true love for you? The marriage market is one of the perfect places in Shanghai to study profiles on Saturday or Sunday afternoons; Imagine a mix of agricultural markets and blind dates. And although most of the profiles do not have images or names, information about salaries and properties is usually available. Economic security is very important in China, so this information is essential for any union. It's an interesting experience, even if you're not thinking about getting married, because you can see the profiles and get to know first-hand the Chinese customs about marriage and courtship.

2. A great tourist attraction in Shanghai: Bund

The Bund or Waitan (outdoor beach in Shanghainese), as the locals call it, is a coastal area right in the center of Shanghai with fantastic views of the city, and is what you always imagined Shanghai would look like; an oriental Paris without the Eiffel Tower. It is one of the main tourist attractions of the city and, for architecture lovers, the 52 buildings that are here present a variety of architectural styles, ranging from Art Deco to Neoclassical and Neo-Gothic.

3. French Concession of Shanghai

From 1849 to 1956, this foreign concession in Shanghai was the main commercial and residential district. If you like Art Deco, there is no better place. You will understand the nickname "Eastern Paris" when you see the European-style coffee shops, the beautiful gardens and the small bars and restaurants of the district. You can also do a walking tour on your own to get to know the place between Xintiandi in the east, Tianzifang in the south and Fuxing Middle Road in the west. Do not miss going to Xintiandi, a pedestrian walkway with restaurants and luxury shops. In this area you will also find many shikumen houses, narrow alleys and cobblestone courtyards. And you can go to see the location of the first national congress of the Communist Party of China, which is now kept as a museum.

4. Art in Shanghai: Moganshan Street, 50

50 Moganshan Street, or "M50" as they call it the most modern, is known as the contemporary art district of Shanghai, and rightly so. Many famous local artists have left their mark, such as, for example, Ding Yi, Qu Fengguo and Wang Xingwei, among others. Many of the warehouses and factories have become art galleries, artist studios that you can visit for free. It is a true paradise for hipster.

5. Zhongshan Park tourist park

Although I love visiting urban points of interest, my favorite places in any big city are the parks and natural areas where you can get away from the hustle and, perhaps, do some exercise. The older generation in Shanghai is well aware of this and that is why Zhongshan Park is the ideal place to watch older people exercising with synchronized dance. If you're not ashamed, you should join them and try. After all, you're in Shanghai, right?

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