Historic Transformation
Shanghai has undergone a historic transformation since its liberation on May 27, 1949. In the past more than 50 years, the city has seen marked progress in its economic and social development.
Particularly, since the Chinese government adopted the reform and opening policy in 1978, Shanghai has made outstanding achievements in building itself into a megalopolis. Today, Shanghai has become one of the largest economic centers in China.
Now, the city is striving to turn itself into one of the economic, financial, trade and shipping centers in the world. It also aims to lead the country in transforming the economic growth mode, enhancing innovative ability, pushing forward the reform and opening, and building a socialist harmonious society.
By 2020, shanghai will be built into an international financial and shipping center. (source: www.shanghai.gov.cn)
 

Cuisines
As an international city, Shanghai offers all kinds of cuisines from around the world. Of course, the majority of restaurants offer Chinese food at reasonable prices.
Chinese food is famous for having Eight Major Cuisines: Sichuan, Zhejiang, Hunan, Jiangsu, Shandong, Fujian, Cantonese and Anhui.
Not surprisingly, Shanghai Cuisine, also known as Ben Bang, is not one of the Eight Major. Give it a try, you may enjoy it but Westerners often complain that it's too sweet and oily. There are certainly many better gastric options available.
(source: http://www.shanghai.gov.cn/)
 

If you like a bit of spice, go to one of the city's many Sichuan or Hunan restaurants. The food is fantastic and won't put a big dent in your wallet. Bars and clubs
 

As for nightlife, Shanghai has a huge amount of bars and clubs, catering for all tastes and budgets. There are many relaxed Western-type bars which offer all the favorite tipples from home and show live sports, from football to rugby to baseball.
 

There are also some excellent jazz bars with great live music. If you want a bit of a dance, the city's bigger clubs regularly welcome popular international DJ's who dominate the decks until the small hours of the morning.
 

If you want to get dressed up and sip cocktails, you won't be disappointed. The majority of Shanghai bars offer beautiful and luxurious settings and extensive drinks lists. And if you really want to treat yourself, go to one of the pricey bars located high up in some of the city's tallest skyscrapers and enjoy the wonderful views.
(source: www.shanghai.gov.cn)