Home Sweet Home

Just got back from my Shanghai sojourn. This was, by far, the most memorable visit I've had. And not just because of my first day fiasco. Previous trips have almost always been hurried -- get in, work all day, hit Shangyang market then dinner, usually at Xin Tian Di.

This time, I did Shanghai like a local. There was still work, but meals were taken at places frequented and raved about by locals. I became a temporary tea drinker (never touched the stuff before) and got exposed to barbequed duck tongue *shudder*, lotus flower pastry (yummy!), honey lemon tea freeze (divine!) and the most heavenly foot massage ever! Do not even think of going to China without having a foot massage. This is the best. Period.

Instead of flying back on Saturday, I opted to stay an extra day with a friend. I ditched the car and driver in favor of the Metro (their subway) and mostly walked to places. Friday night's agenda was a little shopping before dinner then the massage at 11:30 pm. I was surprised at how safe it is to walk around the city even after midnight. At 12:30am, it seemed that everyone was out having Chinese New Year celebrations before the official holidays start next week. We couldn't find a cab so we braved the cold and just walked back to the hotel. I couldn't imagine doing that in Manila.

The next day was spent just going around the city. We spent more than two hours at my friend's real estate agent's office closing her rental agreement. I had fun getting stuck with her landlord and his wife who, together with the agent, kept telling me I had beautiful eyes *bats eyelashes*. Only they were using sign language because we couldn't understand each other. I finally got it when she made big "Os" with her forefinger and thumb, then gave a thumbs up sign. It was really amusing. Now who wouldn't get a kick out of that??!!

My last night in Shanghai was spent at one of the hottest bars on the Bund with my friends. A singapore sling, a drink called "orgasm", a glass of white wine and two margaritas later, I was having the time of my life.

No wonder I had a dreadful headache on the plane.