The first week has been an interesting mix of life's small humiliations as well as great expectations.
Upon arrival at PVG (Shanghai's international airport), I was picked up by a car service who efficiently delivered me to my corporate housing. Or so I thought. The receptionist couldn't find my reservation, and when I finally dug out the confirmation it turns out that I was at the wrong place. Apparently I was dropped off at a hotel with a very similar name that is on the street which very closely crosses the street that the correct hotel is on. I've committed my first "assume" sin in Shanghai. The driver said he knew where he was going, and I didn't question it. Lesson learned. Luckily a quick visit to the ATM armed me with RMBs and a helpful cab driver who whisked me to my correct nest.
I found out very quickly that restaurants that service locals shut down around 9PM, so that the only way to get something to eat after that is to go to an expat restaurant. This lead to a ramen noodle and mini tangerines (fruit stands, on the other hand, are open late) dinner. Boo.
On the upside, it turns out most restaurants do deliveries, free! And ordering with the receptionist @ work was a breeze, food arrives in less than 10 minutes and is steaming hot. And my work has heated toilet seats. I never knew how essential that is. Amazing.
Shanghai so far does fulfill its Work Hard Play Hard reputation. My first week and I worked past 8PM for 3 of the 5 days, although the efficiency of work certainly leaves something to be desired. On the other hand, I've gone out 4 of the 7 nights so far, and it's really a blast to be joking around with a group of people switching freely between English and Mandarin.
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