Shanghai Day 8

I can’t remember whether my eighth day in China was a hot or cold one. Whatever it is, it definitely still beats the hot weather back in Subang Jaya. The eight day was of very little sightseeing. It was mostly on last minute shopping. I had a “long” list of items to purchase. In the morning, we headed to 七宝古镇 (Qi Bao Water Village). 七宝古镇 is not a tourist hot spot but a place for the locals. Commercialized water villages charge an entrance fee and the prices there are cut throat!

七宝古镇 is known to be a crowded area depending on which time you are visiting. To avoid the crowds, we were there at a relatively early time. Still, pessimism was lingering in my head. Much to my surprise, the walkways were not as packed as imagined (seen on photographs). What a relief! We walked along the path passing by stalls on both sides scouting for unique sights. I saw a myriad of meats being sold. From your average meats to exotic meats ie. dog meat. Didn’t muster the guts to try them out as hygiene was a concern!

One thing about the (China) Chinese people. They seem to have a thing with staring. So far the only staring I’ve noticed are coming from the males. From your head to your toes, they’ll scan you as though as you are some kind of an exotic animal. I do not know the reason behind such behavior. Perhaps they were just curious on what kind of “aliens” are we. Well, it does give you a sense of danger. As though as they are interested in your belongings! Furthermore, crowded areas are prone to pickpocketing! And 七宝古镇 is the right place for such vice to occur! Anyhow, my friends and I exited the water village unscathed.

We did buy a thing or two at the water village. I got myself 500gm of walnuts, a few bookmarks and some textiles (tissue box covers). We had lunch at Blue Frog at the entertainment street with Eugene’s former schoolmate. I would say that lunch at Blue Frog was the most economical so far! For 50 yuan, we got a set lunch (appetizer, main course and a drink). Not to mention that Blue Frog is considered a posh restaurant! As for the rest of the day, we went to the International Pearl City (it’s a flea market by the way, just higher “class”) and Chao An (another flea market). Only managed to get two calculators from both places!

Last 5 posts by Christopher

• In Hope of a Better World - February 6th, 2011
• Free Phone Calls for iPhone - December 6th, 2010
• Enabling Stereo Mix on Windows 7 - December 2nd, 2010
• UQC : Getting Around - November 18th, 2010
• UQC : Getting Connected - November 18th, 2010

Popularity: 1% [?]