Shanghai, the dazzling metropolis on China's eastern coast, is a city where the past and future coexist in a mesmerizing dance. As you step into this urban wonderland, you're greeted by a dazzling skyline, boasting the futuristic spires of the Oriental Pearl Tower and the Shanghai Tower. This city, often referred to as the "Pearl of the Orient," is a testament to China's rapid modernisation, and its rich tapestry of history and culture.

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Walking along the famous waterfront promenade that is The Bund, you’ll see grand colonial-era buildings that offer a stark contrast to the modern skyscrapers across the Huangpu River in Pudong. The Bund is a living museum of architecture, showcasing styles from Gothic to Baroque, each building telling a story of Shanghai's cosmopolitan past. As night falls, the area transforms into a spectacle of lights, with beams bounding off the river and creating a scene you are unlikely to forget for a long, long time.

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Venture into the heart of the city, and you'll find the enchanting Yuyuan Garden, a classical Chinese garden that dates back to the Ming Dynasty. Here, amidst the rockeries, pavilions, and koi-filled ponds, you can escape the urban hustle and immerse yourself in tranquility. The nearby City God Temple area is a bustling marketplace where traditional Chinese crafts and snacks abound, offering visitors a unique taste of old Shanghai.

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Shanghai's culinary scene is a feast for the senses. From the delicate flavors of xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) to the rich, savory taste of hongshao rou (braised pork belly), the city's cuisine is a delightful blend of tradition and innovation. Street food vendors and high-end restaurants alike serve up dishes that reflect Shanghai's status as a melting pot of cultures. International influences are strong in the city’s culinary scene, with excellent French patisseries, Italian trattorias, and Japanese sushi bars dotting the cityscape.

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In Shanghai, every corner holds a story, every street a new adventure. It's a city that never ceases to amaze, where the old and the new, the East and the West, blend seamlessly to create a unique and captivating urban tapestry. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, an art lover, or simply a business traveller coming to the city to attend a conference like FAAB 2025, Shanghai promises an experience like no other.