Shanghai marked World Tourism Day with the “Feel Shanghai: Travel as a Local” showcase on September 27 at the Liu Haisu Art Museum. Organised by the Shanghai Administration of Culture and Tourism and operated by Shanghai Daily, the event aimed to present the city’s vibrant culture and tourism offerings through the eyes of its international residents.
The initiative encouraged local expatriates to share their favourite hidden gems and must-try experiences, offering valuable insights for foreign visitors. Organisers hope the showcase will foster global interest in Shanghai, reinforcing its position as a premier destination for inbound travel in China.
Ten international residents from six different countries, organised into nine teams, acted as “local expat guides” during the event. Notable figures included Clarisse Le Guernic, a seasoned city walk tour guide from France, who led visitors on an engaging exploration of the city’s streets under the “Citywalk” theme. French celebrity chef Corentin Delcroix showcased the local culinary scene, tantalising attendees with delightful dishes during the “Food” segment, while renowned French graffiti artist Paul Dezio brought a burst of colour to the event with his “Art” presentation.
German entrepreneur Eric Baden, founder of “Coffee Commune,” brewed up excitement under the “Cafe” theme, enticing guests with discussions about Shanghai’s vibrant coffee culture. Hungarian museum professional Steven Back introduced the charm of the city’s “Ancient Town,” while Spanish musician Mario Alonso, known as the “Piano Prince,” entertained guests with his performance, highlighting the city’s artistic talents.
Australian host Cameron Andersen focused on the thrill of “Sport,” while siblings Maya and Anton Wagener, born in Shanghai to Chinese-German parents, presented the enchanting world of “Wonderland.” Italian kung fu master Kleber Battaglia rounded off the presentations by emphasising the importance of “Wellness” in the community.
The event featured a themed video titled “Feel Shanghai: Travel as a Local,” where participants shared their favourite local experiences, further enriching the showcase with personal anecdotes and recommendations.
Among the attendees were Cheng Meihong, deputy director general of the Shanghai Municipal Administration of Culture and Tourism; Liu Oi, editor-in-chief of Shanghai Daily; and Yu Zhenyu, director of the Liu Haisu Art Museum. They presented special gifts to participants and posed for photos, celebrating the cultural exchange fostered by the event.
The showcase concluded with the launch of the “Homie Hunt” project, which includes street challenges at major cultural and tourism hotspots across Shanghai. This initiative aims to highlight the city’s role as an open and inclusive international hub for vibrant cultural exchanges and diverse perspectives, inviting residents and visitors alike to engage with Shanghai’s rich heritage and contemporary vibrancy.
By encouraging interaction between local expatriates and visitors, the “Feel Shanghai: Travel as a Local” showcase sets the stage for a deeper appreciation of the city’s unique cultural tapestry, ensuring that both residents and tourists can discover the authentic spirit of Shanghai.