It is always great to give back to the community that is so graciously hosting you in this city. There are so many fantastic volunteering programmes to get involved in throughout the year. It is also the perfect way to meet like-minded individuals, collaborate on projects and make a difference. We suggest the Shanghai chapter of BEAN; a global networking, volunteering and social group for young professionals, which is working on causes ranging from caring for orphans to blood donation.
Wear A Seatbelt Wherever Possible
We’ve all done it, become accustomed to not wearing a seatbelt when travelling in taxis around the city. Think about it, this is not acceptable behaviour at home, so why would it be here, where traffic seems to be about one hundred times more dangerous? Get in the habit of looking for seatbelts before you enter a cab A lot of the newer cars do have them, so make sure you utilise the strap. If it is an older taxi, try sitting upfront with the driver where there is more likelihood of a seatbelt.
Healthy Food
Healthy Food With the less than perfect air quality, pigs in the river and avian flu last year, we must find ways to incorporate high quality and nutritious foods into our diets, and ensure that we are receiving all the vital vitamins and minerals needed to maintain healthy bodies and minds. Making sure that you are eating enough greens can be troublesome in the city, but why not indulge, and perhaps get some mealtime inspiration, by arranging a raw, vegan meal at VCLEANSE Café?
Get Your Own Taobao Account
We all know what it is, but how many of us actually have our own accounts? It is so easy to ask our friends/colleagues to buy those must-have items, however, it is never nice to put somebody out. By setting up your own account, you can have so much more fun, without feeling guilty or self-conscious about putting your orders through a third party. It’s simple, all you need is a Chinese bankcard, Google translate and a bit of patience.
Web: www.taobao.com
Spend More Quality Time With Your Friends And Family
It is not always possibly to see our nearest and dearest in the flesh every year, especially if they are on the other side of the world. However, luckily, we live in an age where we can Skype or FaceTime people with ease. After all, it’s all about quality time rather than quantity time. Even if they are in a completely opposite and inconvenient time zone, let 2014 be the year when you put that little bit of extra effort in, to fitting face to face chats with loved ones into your busy schedule.
Visit The Historical Sites Of Shanghai
You may have lived in Shanghai for years, but who has actually been inside Yuyuan Gardens, seen the site of the first National Congress of the Chinese Communist Party or visited the Jade Buddha Temple? It is extremely thought-provoking to catch a small glimpse of the city’s vast history. Not only that, but you can’t leave Shanghai without ticking off the top tourist attractions. You’ll feel like a fool once you get home and somebody asks you for travel advice. All we advise is that you visit on a weekday!
Donate Your Unwanted Items To Charity
We can all be guilty of hoarding, and in Shanghai it is often hard to know where to donate any unwanted items. Start the year with a good, old-fashioned spring clean before taking your clothes and other items to a River Of Heart’s collection point or sorting party. River Of Hearts is a charity program under the administrative umbrella of the Community Centre Shanghai, which sorts then transports donated items to rural, inland areas before re-distributing them to people in need. It is, however, important to ensure that all items are clean and/or laundered before donating them, with a focus on quality rather than quantity.
Take Up A New Hobby
Yes, we know it’s cliché, but a new hobby that is beneficial for your mind and body, whilst also being sociable, is a great investment of your time. Our favourite spot this year will be Pure Yoga Shanghai with its private and group yoga session. With over 125 classes per week and 20 different types of yoga classes on offer, it is sure to keep you entertained. Wall yoga anyone?
Increase Your Public Transport Usage
If you don't already have one, get a public transport card and use it on the metro and buses. It is not only better for the environment and saves you money, but in the crowded city with an extended rush hour period, sometimes jumping on the Metro can actually get you to your location quicker than in a car. Shanghai’s traffic authorities recently launched an app that offers route and transfer information covering 13 Metro lines and 1,290 public bus routes in the city. Unfortunately, however, there is currently no English version. We suggest using the app Explore Shanghai for Metro journeys and to plan bus journeys using Google Maps.
Learn A Bit More Mandarin
We all must have a splattering of Mandarin to get by in the city, some have more than others. But perhaps this is the year when you really get to grips with the language. Spend a little bit more time studying and the benefits you could reap are limitless. Understanding Mandarin will give you a much deeper understanding of the city and open you up to new possibilities. Take the time to practise speaking with your Chinese friends and co-workers or invest some money in Mandarin classes. We suggest Mandarin House for professional and well-structured group or private lessons.
Watch Chinese Movies At The Cinema
Make 2014 your year to buff up on the Chinese movie scene. The Chinese film industry has been growing exponentially over the past few years (as has everything else in the country), so why not catch a few of the latest releases to see what all of the buzz is about. It can also help you to become more acquainted with Chinese popular culture and help with your Mandarin (revert back to previous point). Will “Chollywood” ever really catch on worldwide? This year, you decide!
