OFFBEAT ATTRACTIONS - SHANGHAI

No 50 Moganshan Art District

Stroll around the galleries and art studios of this trendy district. Find a mixture of modern Chinese art and foreign exhibits. 50 Moganshan Lu (021 6359 3923).

The old Jewish Quarter

During the second world war, thousands of Jewish refugees fled to Shanghai and settled in the city. Shanghai Jews offers half-day tours. See www.shanghai-jews.com for more details.

Dongtai Road antique market

Do not expect to find more than a handful of authentic antiques; still, the numerous knick-knacks on sale make browsing fun. Dongtai Lu, closest metro station Laoximen (021 6439 3615). Open 10am-4pm Sat and Sun.

Fuxing Park

Rub shoulders with the lao Shanghai ren ('old Shanghai people'). Watch citizens play mahjong, air their pet birds in cages, and sing revolutionary songs. 105 Fuxing Zhong Road (021 6372 6083).

Flower, bird and insect market

Head to this market where locals sell flowers and animals to keep as pets. South Xizang Road.

Paramount Ballroom

The Paramount was Shanghai's most notorious ballroom during the 1930s and has served as a casino and a cinema. Today, it is a ballroom again. 218 Yuyuan Road (021 6249 8866).