Our return to Shanghai included bringing family back with us. We had 3 weeks to conquer jet lag, re-discover Shanghai, and show Grandma LuLu and Papa Jack what we love most about this side of the world.
Rich history, diverse culture, and endless shopping…all in one:
Yu Yuan. Other stops included Xiantindi, Former French Concession, and Tian Zi Fang.
History, History, and more History:
Qiboa : One of many ancient water towns located within Shanghai and it’s surrounding vicinity.
Jing’an Temple : Buddhist Temple of Peace and Tranquility
The View: Whether on the Bund or at the top of numerous super-tall skyscrapers, the views of Shanghai are impressive.
The view from the 100th floor of the Shanghai World Financial Center.
Dulwich: Grandma LuLu and Papa Jack were able to send Jack, Kate, and Luke off to their first day of school. Not only is the school academically strong, but the people within it’s doors are just as wonderful and important in our happiness here in Shanghai.
First day of Year 6, Year 5, and Reception.
Friends and “family”…from every corner of the globe: The world really is a small place. During one of my first days in Shanghai, I met my dear friend Mariana. She is Argentinian while her husband is from Torino, Italy (LuLu’s ancestral hometown). No matter where in the world, there’s always a connection back to home…or at least back to LuLu.
Visiting with my friend Mariana’s mother-in-law.
36 Hour-long birthdays:
Celebrating Luke’s 4th birthday with the Bucilli family. Another family that, yet again, has connections back to Ohio.
Amazing destinations within a short plane ride from Shanghai: On our trip to Hong Kong, we rode a tram to the Peak, took a ferry across Victoria’s Harbour, visited Stanley Market, and lost some money at the Wynn Casino on Macao Island.
The photo doesn’t do the moment justice….but Luke proceeded through customs on his own and answered all of the questions so proudly.
A truly beautiful city.
The Peak
Victoria Harbour
Macao Island : Wynn Casino
Door-to-door service from the best driver in Shanghai. Wǒmen de sījī (our driver), Miao:
In sharing our “China home” with Grandma LuLu and Papa Jack, we were able to bridge the gap between Ohio and Shanghai as well as recognize how small those bridges truly are.
Thank you for such a fun and meaningful visit!
Already looking forward to your next visit!
ourshanghaidays 
Looks like it was a wonderful visit! Cool shot of Kate and Jack in front of the Buddhist temple!