New country unlocked! I finally ticked China off my list — and more specifically, the vibrant city of Shanghai. This wasn’t just another long-haul; it was my first Shanghai layover as cabin crew, and it instantly stole my heart.
From bargain hunting in Shanghai’s famous markets to getting a reflexology massage just minutes from my crew hotel, here’s exactly how I spent my first day, and how you can make the most of your own Shanghai layover.
We landed in the morning, and as tempting as it was to crash, I know first-hand the best way to beat jet lag is to stay awake, stay moving and drink Pedialyte.
So I teamed up with a fellow crew member who knows Shanghai inside out, and we set off for a day of light exploring that still gave me a taste of the city.
The Shanghai markets are a must for any first-time visitor — especially crew. They’re full of unique finds, from silk pyjamas to leather bags and quirky souvenirs.
Thanks to my colleague, I visited her favourite stalls and discovered just how far the pound stretches here. I even wished I’d brought more cash (and more suitcase space!).
Crew Tip: The markets were only 25 minutes from our crew hotel — close enough to enjoy without draining your energy.
One of my personal travel goals has always been to order Chinese food in Mandarin — and I finally did it. Sitting in a local restaurant surrounded by Shanghai locals, speaking Mandarin (thank you Zhao, my nail shop owner and unofficial Mandarin teacher), was surreal.
The food? Fresh, flavourful, and completely different from takeaway back home.
No Shanghai layover is complete without a massage, and I found the perfect spa just a 4-minute walk from our hotel.
I booked a head-to-toe massage with reflexology and even got a chiropractic assessment — exactly what my post-flight body needed.
Crew Tip: Reflexology is incredibly popular in Shanghai, and it’s not just for relaxing — it helps circulation and eases jet lag.
Shanghai did not disappoint. It exceeded my expectations and even made me think, I could live here one day.
It’s sleek yet soulful, fast-paced yet friendly. In just one day, I ticked off bucket list moments, indulged in crew favourite activities, and still left wanting more. Next time? I’m heading to The Bund and maybe even a traditional tea ceremony.
If you’re a first-time visitor to Shanghai or crew on your first China layover, my biggest advice is: embrace the mix of modern and traditional — and don’t underestimate how much you can see in just one day.
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