A quick scan of reveals that few other global cities “capture so much history, indulgence, glamour, mystique and exotic promise in just a name”.
Even back in the 1930s, the silver screen had cottoned on, releasing movies such as Shanghai Express, starring Marlene Dietrich. Of course Madonna and Sean Penn got on board with Shanghai Surprise in the 1980s, and Jackie Chan and Owen Wilson even got a sequel out of Shanghai Noon with Shanghai Knights.
So what will Cahill get out of the city that is home to almost 15 million people? After all, he’ll have a lot of time on his hands with western social media banned everywhere but the city’s Free Trade Zone.
Here are a few ideas for the Socceroos great.
Karaoke
The Chinese love karaoke, or KTV as it’s sometimes known. If you’re invited to a KTV party, it’s a sign of respect and a host’s desire to treat you to something special. So, should Tim be invited to a KTV night, he’d be wise to attend.
Tai Chi on The Bund
Shanghai’s popular waterfront, The Bund, is a hive of many activities, particularly the ancient martial art of tai chi. It’s a great way to wind down from the excitement of a match in China’s Super League, and should suit Tim perfectly, given his noted athletic ability.
Acrobatic shows
Shanghai’s famous acrobatic shows are legendary, and give any Cirque variant a serious run for its money.
The tension of Chinese chess
Like everywhere else in China, Xiangqi, or Chinese chess, is wildly popular in Shanghai. The tension some games creates will get Tim’s adrenalin pumping like nothing else.
Food mecca
Shanghai soup dumplings have been known to cause endless queues in Sydney and other parts of the country. They’re delicious, and everybody knows it. Tim will be in the heartland of the dumpling, and can just get them any time he likes on the streets. Yum.
Amazing views and selfies
The Bund, mentioned earlier, is a fantastic place for photos. The view is great, and what better place to snap a selfie with your mates when they come to visit.
