Shanghai Nights by Kristina

The bustling city of Shanghai has long been known for its cultural mix of Eastern and Western lifestyles. This vibrant, fast-growing metropolis has lots to offer the visitor. Daytimes can be spent strolling through People's Park (Renmin Guangchang), checking out the shops along Nanjing Lu and Huaihai Lu. The French Concession offers a glimpse of life in Shanghai during the last century, while the quaint Yu Yuan Gardens provide a tranquil escape from the flurry of the modern city.
But Shanghai truly comes alive once the sun goes down. There's a club, bar or pub for just about any taste. Whether you're part of the hostel crew and want a fun, cheap place to exchange travel tales, or a business person looking for a slick cocktail bar, you're sure to find something to suit you.

A night out on the Bund will be pricier than most other places, but it's worth it for the views over the river to the skyscrapers of the Pudong District. Start your evening at the rooftop bar at the Captain's Hostel on Fuzhou Lu where you can drink reasonably priced beer as you enjoy the vista. Then move on to Bar Rouge at 18 Zhongshan Dong Yi Lu. This is where the beautiful people come to drink cocktails. You'll find expats and natives alike, all dressed to the nines and enjoying the mix of funk music and great atmosphere.

If grunge is more your thing, head to the Shelter at 5 Yongfu Lu. After walking through a dark corridor you emerge into a dimly lit, smoke-filled den reverberating with early hip-hop and reggae. Look out for special themed nights which happen regularly. Another great place for some reggae is Logo at 5 Xingfu Lu.

Another classic Shanghai bar is Zapata's. Part of a chain of Mexican themed clubs, this place is a favourite for visitors and residents. It's located at 5 Hengshan Lu, and has special 'Ladies' Nights' on Monday and Wednesday, where girls can drink free Margaritas until midnight. Dancing on the bar is encouraged, and a tequila fairy appears on the hour to administer shots to revellers. It's quite an experience!

To see how the native Shanghainese party, head down to BonBon on Huaihai Zhong Lu. It's all you can drink for 120 RMB (about £8) and there is usually a DJ or MC. This is where the trendy young crowd go to dance.

And if you're not partied out by the time the clubs close, there's a host of after-hours bars and cafes where you can go for one last drink or a cup of coffee. What ever you get up to, you're sure to leave Shanghai knowing exactly why the city is famous for its nightlife!

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