The city that never sleeps, Shanghai, with its luminous bright lights and crowded streets, has welcomed me. I was hooked from the moment I set foot in this wonderful city and breathed in the energy that seemed to fill every corner of it. Shanghai was a whirl of experiences—much more enjoyable than what I have described here.

Among my early escapades were some forays into the magnificence of modern Shanghai. The streets were awake, with individuals on foot swarming every which way among automobiles and motorbikes rushing past as neon lights lit up the evening. The reason why Shanghai nightlife is so great and why the city's food tastes so good is because it perfectly integrates the gloriously old with the stylish new. As I passed through the throngs of people in the streets, feeling the beat behind a busy city—car horns, chit-chat—adrenaline pumped within my veins amongst the metropolis rush.

A peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city can be found in the Yu Garden. I felt like I had travelled across time with this classical Chinese garden—endless details, and magnificent decors. This was accompanied by the colourful fish and mythical creatures that adorned Yeomiji Botanic Garden, a playful, visual delight. As I meandered among the pathways of twists and turns, I weaved through dramatic rockeries with tall pavilions alongside peaceful ponds. This was a piece of history and glimpse into the incredible natural beauty of China, showing how I imagined the country to be, an experience very much alive in ancient dignity among the neon lights.

Yu Garden was like walking through a fairy tale. Neatly groomed gardens filled with ponds of swimming koi fish and bridges grandiose in design greeted us inside, all but setting the mood for tranquility that was to encapsulate our stay here. Every nook and cranny seemed to have its own carefully designed rondelle, representing the intricacy of ancient Chinese garden design. My emotions got caught up in the beauty of lotus ponds deliciously fragrant with blooming flowers and leaves sometimes swaying to whispers in the wind.

No trip to Shanghai would be complete without indulging in its culinary delights. One of the highlights of my visit was exploring the city's street food scene. The aroma of freshly cooked delicacies wafted through the air, drawing me towards the bustling food stalls. One of my favorite treats was a delicious vegetable-filled bun. The soft, fluffy bun encased a flavourful filling that was both satisfying and delightful. As I bit into the bun, the combination of savoury and fresh flavours burst in my mouth, leaving me craving for more.

Every bite of the bun was a culinary adventure, bursting with flavours and textures. The combination of fresh vegetables and savoury seasonings made it a perfect snack for exploring the city. Street food in Shanghai is not just about eating—it's about experiencing the city's vibrant food culture and connecting with its people. I enjoyed chatting with the vendors, learning about their recipes, and feeling the warmth of their hospitality.

As I wandered through the streets of Shanghai, I stumbled upon a magnificent ancient gate. The gate stood as a testament to the city's rich history and cultural heritage. Surrounded by modern buildings, it was a beautiful reminder of Shanghai's past, offering a glimpse into the architectural splendour of ancient China. The intricate carvings and majestic design of the gate were truly awe-inspiring. Standing before it, I could almost hear the echoes of history, imagining the countless stories and events that had unfolded here.

During my stay, I also took the opportunity to visit Zhujiajiao, a charming water town located a short distance from Shanghai. Often referred to as the "Venice of Shanghai," this picturesque town, with its serene canals and traditional architecture, offered a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. The moment I arrived, I was enchanted by the town's timeless beauty.

I enjoyed a relaxing boat ride through the canals, taking in the beautiful scenery and historic buildings lining the waterways. The gentle movement of the boat and the soothing sounds of the water created a calming atmosphere, making it a perfect escape. As we glided along the canal, I admired the reflection of the ancient houses in the water and the colourful lanterns swaying gently in the breeze.

Strolling along the canals, I admired the quaint houses and vibrant lanterns that adorned the town. Zhujiajiao's charm and tranquility provided a stark contrast to the energetic pace of Shanghai, offering a glimpse into a more traditional way of life. The narrow streets, lined with small shops and cafes, invited me to explore and discover the local culture. I savoured every moment, from sipping tea at a riverside cafe to browsing through handmade crafts in the bustling market.

One of the most memorable experiences in Zhujiajiao was dining at a local restaurant by the water. The menu featured a variety of fresh seafood and traditional dishes, each prepared with the utmost care and attention to flavour. Another highlight of my visit to Zhujiajiao was exploring the many bridges that span its canals. Each bridge had its own unique charm and history. The most famous, the Fangsheng Bridge, is known for its beautiful arches and the stunning views it offers of the water town. Standing on the bridge, I could see boats gliding by the reflection of the buildings in the water and the vibrant life of the town unfolding before me.

My visit to Shanghai and Zhujiajiao was an unforgettable journey filled with vibrant experiences and captivating sights. From the modern marvels of Shanghai's bustling streets to the serene beauty of Yu Garden and the rich flavours of its street food, the city offered a perfect blend of tradition and modernity. The tranquil escape to Zhujiajiao Water Town added a serene and cultural dimension to my trip, allowing me to experience the diverse facets of this remarkable region. Each moment in this dynamic city left me with cherished memories and a deep appreciation for its unique charm. Shanghai is not just a city—it's an experience, one that I will carry with me for a lifetime.