July 1- Shanghai

Today it’s back to the big city as we catch a flight for our final destination, Shanghai. We connect in Kunming and fly from Kunming to Shanghai for a total flight time of around 5 hours. Shanghai, also known as the Paris of the east, lives up to its expectations and does not disappoint. After a week in rural Yunnan province, we are awestruck by this city that is the poster child for modern Chinese capitalism. With skyscrapers and every high-end store you can think of, I wondered if I was still in China or if I somehow transported to New York City.
We began our stay in Shanghai with a visit to Yuynan Garden. Built during the Ming dynasty this gardens highlight Ming era architecture while adding a Feng Shui, natural element with gardens and Koi ponds. The Gardens created an interesting juxtaposition as the Ming era architecture was overlooked by the modern Shanghai skyline.
We finished the evening with a night cruise down the Huang Pu River. We were treated to spectacular views of modern Shanghai and the 19th century architecture of colonial rule.