The next stop was Shanghai, but not before a very eventful trip on an overnight train! After being caught in very heavy peak hour traffic, we all had to make a dash for the train with luggage in hand - I'm sure we created a few early Olympic sprint records! It was actually another very bonding moment and was great to see how everyone pitched in and help each other to get luggage up and down stairs and through a crowded train station.
Once on board we settled in for a long night of relaxation and socialisation. No, some people didn't make a lot of use of their very comfortable sleepers, but we all loved the experience.
We arrived in Shanghai to clear blue skies, and quite hot weather. After checking in to a great hotel, the morning was free to explore, catch up on emails, or sleep!! In the afternoon we went on a tour of Shanghai, including the Pearl Tower for spectacular views and the old Shanghai area with its original buildings and beautiful gardens. Jess and Jamie performed a 'free willie' act by releasing their new little pet fish back in to a pond … with mixed success!
Shanghai is David's home town - so he was able to point us in the right direction for food, drinks and shopping … thanks David!!
Everyone was pretty tired so most had an early night (including some fabulous massages!!) All were now looking forward to the next round of great company visits.
Thursday night we attended an industry panel session and cocktail party which was sponsored by KPMG and Manage China. The stayers in the group then went on to O'Malleys for a late run at the Trivia night presented by our very own David Benham!! (and we still couldn't rig the competition to win)
Friday night was definitely a highlight with Lauren's 'tour guide' partner Steven (who was quickly adopted for a few days). Muralbar and Muse got the thumbs up for great fun places to practice our new dance moves ('tossing the ball', and 'the lawn mower' to name but two!)…. And what ever did happen to your midnight Maccas snack Lauren and Steven??? ;o)
Saturday night was a little more sedate with a great Japanese all you could eat buffet meal, and a little more bar hopping.
Sunday was our next departure day, but not before a bit more shopping was squeezed in … oh, and for few of the group, an amazing brunch experience at the Westin.
