Shanghai is the largest city in the People's Republic of China; it is one of the most important cities in China in terms of commerce, finance, and tourism. Once a sleepy fishing town, it became highly developed when the city was opened to foreign trade and mostly because of its ideal harbor location. Today, the city owns the world's largest cargo port and is considered to have the world's fastest growing economy - silent statements of how far the city has grown from being a fishing town.

Shanghai is accessible not just through the port but also by air transport (Pudong International Airport and Hongqiao Airport which serves domestic flights), by train, by bus, or by car. Tourists may wish to buy a Shanghai Jiaotong Card which can be used for various transport options - metro, bus, and taxis. Tourists are advised to take extra caution when boarding public transports like the metro else he/she will be caught unaware when the passengers make a mad dash for available seats.

It is important to consider that large as it is, all of Shanghai's attractions could not be visited in a day. Tours may be grouped to attractions that are relatively close to each other so as to minimize travel time. There are also several sightseeing bus companies that offer tour packages across many of the popular attractions in the city - it might be best to book a ticket beforehand.

Tours can start from anywhere in the city but many will go to the most popular attractions such as the Yuyuan Gardens, The French Concession in Xuhui District, Urban Planning Museum, Shanghai Wild Animal Park, Shanghai Ocean Aquarium, the Bund, and the Shanghai Museum.

The Chinese are known for their tea - tourists can taste some of the native tea concoctions at local tea houses such as the Tang Yun tea house which also serves traditional Chinese delicacies.

Links
http://www.shanghaimuseum.net/en/history/history.html
http://www.sh-soa.com/en/
http://www.shanghai.gov.cn/shanghai/node17256/node17432/node17447/userobject22ai22047.html
http://www.shwzoo.com/zoo/gotozoo/aboutus.jsp?one=en
http://lyw.sh.gov.cn/en/