Shanghai

Always a bustling commercial hub and a romantic city, Shanghai today is a thriving metropolis complete with towering skyscrapers in Pudong and glitzy malls along Nanjing Road. Home to many international companies' branch offices, Shanghai is the economic and financial capitol of China.

The city remains an important seat of government, and Chinese leaders look to Shanghai to spearhead China's economic growth.

However, Shanghai is more than just showy modern glitz; it is also home to a number of significant cultural and historical sights. The Shanghai Museum houses one of the most impressive collections of art in China. From the museum's award-winning architecture to its acclaimed layout and format of the exhibits, this museum is definitely not to be missed.  The Grand Theatre showcases both international and domestic first-rate productions.

Whether wandering through the narrow alleys of French Town, strolling along the Bund at night, gazing at the view from the Oriental Pearl TV tower, lighting incense at the Jade Buddha Temple, or shopping in the Yu Gardens Bazaar, Shanghai clearly has all the charms of China's past and the promise of China's future.