From International Herald Tribune:
The streets of certain districts in Shanghai this time of year have an almost dreamlike quality to them. The dream in question would be that of a prosperous and happy China.
Walk down Nanjing Road at lunchtime and you’ll be treated to sights of finely coiffed and impeccably dressed people, especially women in their 20s and 30s, whose sense of style is as smart as anything you’re likely to see in Tokyo.
Take just one step downscale and stroll Huaihai Road, the city’s second most famous shopping street, on any weekend day and in many ways the sights are even more impressive. There may not be so much polish in evidence, but the people are out en masse and, despite the Chinese reputation for holding on to money, a great many of them are consuming.[Full Text]
