What I’ve Learned in Shanghai: My Experiences

Even as a child, I loved Shanghai because it was so different from Hamburg, where I grew up. And it’s my mom’s home – so moving here has also meant getting to know my Chinese side. I’ve learned that I feel very comfortable in both worlds. 

Shanghai has more of everything. It’s bigger, louder, more colorful, and faster than other major cities. When you’re thundering along the highways in a taxi at sunset and the neon signs on the skyscrapers light up, it’s an incomparable feeling. Even after all these years.

Pure cosmopolitanism: no other city in China – apart from Hong Kong – is as international as Shanghai. Expats from all over the world mix here, including many Asians from the US and Canada. This means you’ll meet new people almost every day, giving you a different perspective on life.

I don’t just work in nightlife, I love it too. The countless bars and clubs and great restaurants – in every price range – are simply unique. The people you meet are extremely open and hospitable. And you get to go out a lot more here than in other cities I’ve been to.

Shanghai is, of course, best known for its exciting and modern architecture. But there is also a very different side to discover here. I always take visitors to the French Concession, the old French quarter. It has a wonderful retro charm and is full of cafés and boutiques. Don’t miss a day trip to Zhujiajiao. The many waterways and bridges have earned this historic city the nickname “Venice of China.” My favorite place for dinner in Shanghai is the Lotus Eatery – super exciting southern Chinese cuisine. 

Nemo Vesper was born in Hamburg, Germany. As his mother is of Chinese origin and grew up in Shanghai, Nemo had a connection to the metropolis from an early age. He has been living there since 2017 and has started his own business as a booker for bars and restaurants.