Having taken in nightlife the world over, nothing compares to the diversity, openness and all around freedom of Shanghai nightlife.  Start with dinner around seven, then move to a lounge for delectable cocktails.  Around midnight head to a major dance club and get your boogie on.  Finish the night with karaoke at one of the city’s infinite KTV establishments.  As you emerge to a rising sun, head to one of the all-night cafes for breakfast.  Now that’s a real night in Shanghai.

Night in Shanghai

Citizen Bar (222 Jin Xian Road at Shan Xi Road, French Concession) Laid back, phenomenal cocktail menu and a large patio upstairs.  $7 for a martini.

New Heights (No. 3 on the Bund, 7F, 3 Zhong Shan Dong Yi Road (entrance on Guangdong Road) The best view in Shanghai.  Arrive early or reserve to land a table outside with sweeping views of The Bund and Pudong.  $7 for a martini.

Glamour Bar (7 20 Guangdong Lu Corner of the Bund Shanghai) Also offers great views of Pudong with a distinctly Asian feel.  $7 for a martini.

Time Passage (No 183, Lane 1038 Hua Shan Lu) Shanghai’s equivalent of Cheers.  Cheap beer, live band and a slew of regulars make this the perfect place to chill out.

Shelter (5 Yongfu Lu at Fuxing Xi Lu) Also housed in an old bomb shelter, Shelter Bar offers cheaper than usual drinks, an expansive space to lounge or dance and host to some of the world’s most well-known DJs.  Ask around for what’s on.

Kyle got the travel bug after moving to China following graduation. He has since visited over 50 countries on 5 continents working in International Development. More online at www.kyletaylor.com.