Moving to Shanghai
Shanghai expats will experience a city manically driven to become a leading international centre, trying to step out of the shadows of Hong Kong and Beijing which seem to garner more limelight.
However its time on the international stage looks assured as through the tall harbour skyscrapers is a city with more than 20 million people, China's largest financial centre, and vibrant modern and historic districts all gearing up for Shanghai's unveiling at the 2010 World Expo.
Yet Shanghai is by no means a well kept secret. It is the gatekeeper to China's vast economy and the country's financial centre with more than 400,000 expats already in residence. Shanghai has shown a willingness to attract international business and adapt, with neaw ideas and infrastructure to do so.
For expats this means a wide range of industries needing skilled employees, international companies and their staff opening branches, and a commitment to keep the industry cutting edge.
Shanghai is spending US$45 billion for the 2010 World Expo, mostly improving the city's infrastructure. With this, expats can expect a city accelerating an already rapid transition from historic city to modern metropolis.
Shanghai is spending US$45 billion for the 2010 World Expo, mostly improving the city's infrastructure. With this, expats can expect a city accelerating an already rapid transition from historic city to modern metropolis.
For several decades the city has ballooned with urban sprawl creating many expat communities and suburbs in Shanghai more akin to western neighbourhoods than Chinese.
While this has provided security and comfort to an international population, life in Shanghai can become almost segregated. Parts of Shanghai have already become international rather than retaining Chinese character. That said, a drive through the bustle of downtown will remind everyone where they are.
Detailed travel guide to Shanghai
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