Thirst to Immerse

10 Things You Must Know: Shanghai

Photo by Héctor García

Shanghai, China

Name of city in its Native Language: 上海
Official Language: Standard Chinese
Currency: Chinese Yuan or Renminbi (CN¥)
Time Zone: China Standard Time (CST)
Closest Airport: Shanghai Pudong International Airport and Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport
Getting Around: Subway and light railway (Shanghai Metro); bus routes operated by numerous transportation companies; taxis are plentiful. You can use a Shanghai Public Transportation Card (SPTC) on any of these - even to pay taxis.
Climate: Four distinct seasons: Winters are chilly and damp, Summers are hot and humid, Spring is pleasant but often rainy, Autumn is generally sunny and dry. (More detail)
Tipping: China generally has a no-tipping culture. Exceptions are for luxury hotels, where the luggage boy might get 5 CN¥ per bag, and some fine hotels and restaurants may add a service charge of 10–15%.
Entry Requirements: Valid passport and Visa required.
Culture Tip: The toast is a part of Chinese culture that is not taken lightly and is practiced frequently. During group toasts, everyone simultaneously drains their glass. When someone toasts you individually, you should immediately stop eating to accept and toast in response; during this ceremony you should touch glasses in a way that will tacitly imply the supposed social position and importance of each person.

What did we miss? What kind of essential information do you look up while planning a trip? Tell us in the comments!

Pic of the Week #8: Location Revealed!

Yuyuan Gardens | Photo by mariusz kluzniak

And the answer is: Shanghai, China!

This photo displays Yu Garden, or Yuyuan Garden, an extensive Chinese garden located beside the City God Temple in the northeast of the Old City of Shanghai. Stay tuned all week for travel and culture tips for this "Pearl of the Orient"!

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Can you name this country? picoftheweek #8

Photo by mariusz kluzniak

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Treat Yo' Self: Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Stay at the luxurious De L'Europe Hotel, also known as "The Royal Palace" of Amsterdam. Located in the heart of Amsterdam, this elegant hotel is directly on the Amstel River that travels through the entire city.

Experience breathtaking views of Amsterdam from any window of this extravagant hotel.

Photo By: Rudolphous

Check out Freddy's Bar at the De L'Eruope hotel! This famous bar is home to the best cocktail bartenders in the Netherlands. Try the award-winning Bloody Mary!

Dine at Vinkeles at the Dylan Hotel for a modern upscale French cuisine dinner. This quiet yet sophisticated restaurant was formally an old fashion bakery located in a beautiful courtyard. Vinkeles is rated one of the top restaurants of Amsterdam. The Pigeon Dish is a fan favorite!

Looking for a place to wind down from all the sightseeing? Hop on over to High Wine also located at the Dylan Hotel. Their amazing wine selection and authentic appetizers will have you relaxed in no time. Be sure to cozy up to the romantic fireplace with your loved one.

Looking to extend your night into the morning hours, visit the Amsterdam Red Light District! The Banana Bar is always a great time. RLD is something you don't want to miss!

Van Gogh Museum

Local favorite spots such as Bull Dog Cafe and the Greenhouse Coffee Shop are great ways to experience the culture of Amsterdam.

Don't miss out on the Van Gogh Museum and Rembrandt House Museum. The talented art of Amsterdam is truly a must see. Make sure you purchase your tickets before hand to skip all the lines!

Where are you favorite places to splurge while vacationing in Amsterdam?

The Thrifty Traveler: Amsterdam Edition

1. Free Tours

Check out yet another free tour in Europe by Sandeman's. This free walking tour covers some of the greatest landmarks like the Anne Frank House, the Red Light District, the Royal Palace, and the Dutch East India Company. Join the group and trust that Sandeman's will "take you where others don’t and tell you the stories you’d never hear otherwise" More here!

EYE by Kennisland

2. EYE Film Institute
Don't miss this state of the art facility filled with culture. This museum features free interactive Dutch films on the lower level, while the art-house exhibits and main areas do have an entrance fee. To arrive here take the free Buiksloterweg ferry that departs from behind Centraal Station. More here!

3. Concertgebouw Wednesdays
The Het Concertgebouw offers free performances every Wednesday from 12:30 to 1pm. These professional musicians will undoubtedly blow your mind with their incredible talent. More here!

4. Canal Ring
It is hard to miss one of the many canals that flow through the city of Amsterdam. Dating back over 400 years, these waterways provide a peaceful stroll through history. They are also considered a UNESCO World Heritage site.

10 Things You Must Know: Amsterdam

Photo by Julia McGuirk

Amsterdam, Netherlands (Holland)

Name of city in its Native Language: Amsterdam
Official Language: Dutch
Currency: Euro (€)
Time Zone: Central European Time (CET)
Closest Airport: Schiphol Amsterdam Airport
Getting Around: Gemeentelijk Vervoerbedrijf or GVB operates the tram, bus, ferry, metro, and train (interactive map here); you must have an OV-Chipkaart or another valid travel card to ride metro. Amsterdam is walkable, and a great way to experience the city like a local is to rent a bike - or 'fietsen'.
Climate: Oceanic, both winters and summers are considered mild (more detail)
Tipping: Although a service charge is included at restaurants, it is nice to tip 5-10% for good service (but not required).
Entry Requirements: Valid passport required; Visa not required for stays under 90 days.
Culture Tip: When you greet shop owners, walk into a waiting room full of people, or get into an elevator, it is customary to say 'goedemiddag' (good day). Then be sure to wish 'fijne dag nog' (have a nice day) or 'dag' (goodbye) when you or another exits.