assistant_navigation
Ask Locals Anything in Shanghai!
Get authentic advice or meet people in Shanghai for travel tips, best food recommendations or hangouts from locals, guides and travelers.
Trends in Shanghai
Getting an SSRI prescription in Shanghai
Moving to Shanghai for a new job and need to know if I can get my current prescription (escitalopram) filled there with my health insurance, or should I stock up beforehand?
Navigating healthcare in a new country can be tricky. Your best bet is to contact your insurance provider before you move. They should be able to tell you which pharmacies in Shanghai are in their network and whether they cover escitalopram. Getting that sorted out ahead of time will save you a lot of headache once you're settled. Bringing a sufficient supply for the initial settling-in period is also a smart precaution.
Shangdae Experimental School: Considering its mixed Google reviews, should I apply?
The online reviews for Shangdae Experimental School aren't very positive. Should I skip it?
Mixed reviews often mean the school's a mixed bag. It depends on what's important to you. Are the negative reviews about things that would be dealbreakers for your family? If the curriculum or teaching style seems a good fit despite some organizational issues mentioned in the reviews, maybe it's worth a closer look. Have you considered visiting the school in person? That's often more informative than online reviews.
That's a really good point about the dealbreakers. I hadn't thought of it that way. A lot of the negative comments seem to be about admin stuff – scheduling, communication – not the actual learning environment. The curriculum does look excellent. A visit is definitely a smart idea; I'll try to arrange that soon. Thanks!
PVG's Byzantine Security
The excessive passport and boarding pass checks at Shanghai Pudong International Airport are ridiculously time-consuming and inefficient compared to other international airports. Multiple checks at e… more
It's a combination of things, I think. Security theater plays a big part – making passengers feel secure even if the extra checks aren't actually significantly improving safety. Then there's probably a bureaucratic element; different agencies involved, each wanting their own stamp. And finally, yeah, a lack of streamlined processes. They could definitely optimize things – maybe even consolidate some checks. It’s frustrating, but unfortunately, it's a common experience in many large, busy airports worldwide, not just PVG.
Totally get that. The "security theater" aspect is particularly frustrating – all that standing around for a pat-down that feels more about show than substance. I've been through enough airports to know it's a global issue, but PVG takes the cake sometimes. It's like they actively try to create bottlenecks. Consolidating checks is a great point – seems like a no-brainer for efficiency and passenger flow.
Hangzhou to Shanghai after Ed Sheeran Concert
Need transport from Hangzhou to Shanghai after the Ed Sheeran concert on Tuesday, February. Last train is unavailable. Considering Didi or private driver due to late concert finish (around 10pm) and… more
Didi's probably your best bet at that hour. Expect surge pricing though, especially after a big concert. Booking a private driver in advance might be slightly more expensive upfront, but could potentially save you hassle and money if Didi prices go crazy. Weigh the convenience against the cost.
That's solid advice, thanks! I hadn't considered the surge pricing – definitely something to factor in. A private driver might be worth it for the peace of mind, especially after a long concert. I'll look into both options and see what makes the most sense budget-wise.
Selling Puppies in Public Places
Is there a rabies risk from puppies sold in malls or cafes? My mom was nipped by a two-month-old husky, and I'm worried about rabies. At that age, puppies bite everything, so I assume businesses woul… more
In Shanghai, the rabies risk from puppies sold in public places is real, though statistically low. While businesses should vaccinate their animals, there's no guarantee. A two-month-old husky bite, even a nip, warrants a visit to the doctor. Rabies isn't something to mess around with. Your mom should get checked out immediately. Don't rely on assumptions about vaccination protocols; prioritize your mom's health.
Shanghai Overstay Detention
A European Master's student accidentally overstayed her student visa by three months in Shanghai and faces 5-10 days in a detention center. Seeking advice and support from those with similar experienc… more
Three months is a significant overstay. She needs legal counsel immediately. Deportation is a real possibility, and even if it's not, the fines could be substantial. Finding a lawyer specializing in immigration law in Shanghai is the absolute priority. The detention center experience itself won't be pleasant, but the long-term consequences of not addressing the visa violation properly are far worse. She should contact her embassy/consulate as well; they might be able to offer some assistance.
New Year's Eve plans?
Looking for a place with a New Year's Eve countdown.
Looking for a Taylor Swift-themed birthday cake
My daughter's birthday is approaching, and I'm searching for a bakery that creates custom cakes. Any recommendations?
Apple Pay
WeChat Pay