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Shanghai

Shanghai is the face of modern China. A buzzing, vibrant high-rise metropolis, it is the New York of the Middle Kingdom, to which people from all over the vast nation flock in search of roads paved with gold, to mix with the great and the good, to see and be seen. The centre of this is the historic Bund, a long wide avenue bordering the Huangpu river. As part of a deal struck between China and Britain during the Opium Wars, the British opened their first concession here in 1842. This has shaped much of the architecture that adorns the area. Grand historical buildings line the street, intended by the British to make a statement, looking over the Huangpu river and out to Pudong and that iconic skyline. Once banks and trade headquarters, some have been converted to opulent restaurants and hotels, others are still functioning banks and it’s possible to enter the buildings and study the wonderful interiors. The sprawling district on the other side of the Pu river known as Pudong, meaning ‘east of the Pu’ was until relatively recently undeveloped, and the famous skyline as we see it today is as much a showcase of modern China’s ambition, as it is an indication of how quickly urban China is developing.

Britain was not the only foreign nation to occupy a part of Shanghai. In the mid-1800s, the French also claimed their bit and by the 1930s, Shanghai had achieved international status as Asia's foremost commercial centre and became known as the colonial 'Paris of the East.' Shanghai retains some of those former charms in the tree-lined streets of the former French Concession, a very charming area to spend time exploring.

Now the financial capital of China, Shanghai is the perfect place to see the old, the new and the foreign in this worldly economic and cultural centre. Places of interest include the vast Temple of Heaven where you will often see locals practising their Tai Chi, The Shanghai Museum, which houses one of the world's finest collections of Chinese artefacts, the beautiful and classically designed Yu Gardens. A walk along the Bund is also a must, in order to learn about Shanghai’s colonial past, whilst looking over the river to its very modern and futuristic skyline.

Shanghai is also a marvellous base for exploring further afield. Near Shanghai are numerous ancient water towns that make wonderful day excursions. These towns, many of which can trace their routes back over a millennium and a half, are in perfect contrast to the bustle of the city. Historic and characterful traditional Chinese houses line intricate canal networks, much of transportation is conducted by boat, and the pace of life remains slow. The area is known for its wet climate, and the often foggy skies really add to the atmosphere that the towns project.

The best time for a tailor-made tour incorporating Shanghai is during the spring or autumn when the weather should be dry and warm.

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To my mind, the greatest reward and luxury of travel is to be able to experience everyday things as if for the first time, to be in a position in which almost nothing is so familiar it is taken for granted.
Bill Bryson

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So many highlights to choose from! The hotels were amazing but Maya Villa was a highlight… I loved just hanging out in the hammock reading my book and watching the peacocks chase the cows!
- Krista Weir, Sri Lanka
Without question, you put together the best trip I have ever taken. We were shown around like visiting dignitaries, the hotels were fantastic and the itinerary was just right. Everybody I know will hear about how amazing Ampersand is!
- Leslie Siben, India
I had a very lovely time and was looked after splendidly. My first visit to India could not have been better, save for being longer! But I shall return at some point and I shall look to you to make the arrangements.
- Matthew Nicklin, North India
We have just returned back from a wonderful trip. Thank you very much for organising everything. The transfer was excellent – for once they had perfect car seats. The villa was lovely, just what we needed and the hotel had helpfully put us as far away as possible from everyone else. The breakfast buffet was the best I have ever seen – and I am slightly obsessive over breakfast!! There was an incredible choice, something for everyone and so beautifully presented. A real highlight of the trip. Thank you again for sorting everything - and at such short notice!
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- Mr Richard Stoughton, Sri Lanka
Ballyfin was great - we loved it! Best things were the amount of space, it felt like you had the whole place to yourself, the history of the house, and the staff. We'd definitely recommend it. Thanks very much for all the help getting it booked!
- Mr Wyburd, Ireland
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- Mr David Wallace, North India
Difficult to choose the highlight of the trip, can’t choose between… 1) Taj Mahal & Oberoi Amarvilas. 2) Ranthambore. 3) Lake Palace. We have to say a particular thank you for selecting Parmod as our driver. He is a delightful and kind man who took our holiday and our enjoyment as his responsibility. Thank you for putting together such an amazing trip for us. The balance of city and rural destinations was perfect for us and the variety of rooms and hotel types brilliant. Our driver and guides also added so much to the trip with their knowledge of India’s history and culture and their willingness to discuss it both from a professional and personal angle.
- Carruthers family, North India
We had a wonderful holiday - everything was perfect. Thank you for helping us to make a thoughtful plan to enjoy and make most out of our trip. The places we visited, the guides, the transportation and driver, the hotels selected... Everything was great!
- Jaime Benitez, South India
Ampersand provided a bespoke and flexible holiday, tailored to my every whim. Their highly professional staff had only one goal which was to arrange an exceptional holiday and some unforgettable experiences in India. I have no hesitation in fully recommending them and they will be the first company I approach in the future - 10/10
- Anonymous, India
I barely know where to begin... though a sincere 'thank you' would be the best. You have organised this trip perfectly. May was an inspiring and delightful companion in Myanmar – thoroughly professional and friendly at the same time. My accommodation throughout has been superb, especially The Governor's Residence and The Mandarin Oriental. The view from the cottage at Inle Lake was beautiful and I loved every moment of being there. And here I am now on the last leg of this extended holiday at my favourite place. I could stay here for ever, the peace, silence and surroundings all amazing, plus the people and the whole aura of Vana. Thank you for much, and I look forward to speaking to you on my return.
- Ms Margulies, Burma, India & Thailand
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We really enjoyed the trip and were happy that we squeezed so much into a few short days. The Burmese people were lovely and the sites were fantastic. We really enjoyed the balloon ride and would highly suggest it to others in the future. The trip went super smoothly and a good time plus learning happened for all. Yangon was nice as the Strand was quite amazing and we of course loved the giant gold temple. Many thanks for all of your help and look forward to future travel with you.
- Wallace Family, Burma
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- Matthew Annable, Rajasthan, India
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