Yesterday the 1st of February, we stopped in Naha, Okinawa. We could not get on any excursions. They were all taken by the time we booked. Maybe if we took a taxi but…..  anyways it was an ugly rainy day so I just stayed put on board and tried to get caught up with my blog.. seeing as we finally had wifi. Still, it was less than ideal. 

Today is the first “chat” on board that I have listened to, is on Shanghai. I have been a couple of times before but one can always learn something new. 

Shanghai means “upon the sea”

China is largest country with only one time zone. It has a population of 1.154 Billion but is experiencing a falling birth rate. 

Shanghai is in the most populous province. It is on the Huangpu River, a tributary of the Yangtze River.   It is a financial hub. It was the first free trade area in the country. In other words, it is a capitalist society in a communist country. 4th largest global financial market. 

Bund… historical section… long flat walk along the waterfront… 52 historical buildings. Metro system apparently is best in world. Tunnel to Pudong. Pearl tower has viewing floor. 

Yu Gardens

Roof top bars along the Bund at night

French concession area where you can find jazz

The water towns of Suzhou and Zhujiajiao, floating villages … the Venice of Shanghai

Jade temple .. Buddha made from a single piece of jade. 

Because I don’t have any pictures to post of Naha, I am posting some pictures of this beautiful ship. I will also mention that the food on this ship is “to die for”. I know some of my friends at home would really love that.