Shanghai is a city that, a few weeks ago, I knew nearly nothing about.
I know it’s a city in China. And I know that according to, eh, Wikipedia that it was originally a textiles and fishing town, and now it’s described as the “showpiece” for the world’s fastest growing economy.
However, now I know that I’d love to visit the Brown Sugar bar in Zintiandi, Shanghai’s “nostalgic” area. I also know that I’d like to take a trip to Design Republic, which showcases a collection of international home furnishings and accessories, and spend a hefty amount of money in Madame Mao’s Dowry - an eclectic boutique which sells jewellery, homewares, and even quirky gifts like Cultural Revolution propagandas posters.
Even better, I can tell you the addresses and phone numbers of each of these establishments. In fact, I even have a Taxi Card, which I can show a cab drive that has the address of the establishment I want to visit in Mandarin.
Clever, no?
And how exactly do I know all of this?
The brilliant Shanghai Tang “City Chic” iPhone application, that’s what.
Luxury lifestyle brand, Shanghai Tang, embodies the words “Chinese Chic”, and this app is definitely as cool as the brand.
I’ve been playing around with the City Chic app on my iPod Touch for a couple weeks, and despite not being in Shanghai, it’s still really interesting. Of course, it would be of more use if I were already in Shanghai, however, this app is awesome if you’re interested in city, or especially if you’re planning to go on vacation there.
City Chic presents 30 of Shanghai Tang’s recommendations on the sexiest bars, restaurants, shopping destinations, hotels, and even art and cultural events in the Shanghai area.
Incredibly comprehensive and easy to use, I have to admit admit that I’m properly impressed with this application, and that a luxury brand like Shanghai Tang are attempting to be so tech-friendly.
Not only can you view the “Love Restraint” and "Lounge" collections from Shanghai Tang on the app (as well as locating the closest Shanghai Tang shop near you so you can purchase the items you like), but they’ve also built a microsite that visually embodies what the "Love Restraint" collection is all about.
Now if only I could afford a ticket to Shanghai...
The City Chic iPhone application is available for free on iTunes.
Image © BitchBuzz