Peace Hotel, Shanghai (must see)

Standing proudly at the eastern end of Nanjing Road is the renowned Fairmont Peace Hotel, an iconic structure on the Bund. Originally known as the Cathay Hotel, it was inaugurated in 1929 and boasts a striking Art Deco exterior and an iconic green copper dome, both of which have recently been meticulously restored to their former splendor.

Dubbed the "Claridges of the Far East," this spot was a pre-war Shanghai hotspot, hosting celebrities like Douglas Fairbanks, Charlie Chaplin, and George Bernard Shaw. It's even rumored that Noel Coward penned "Private Lives" here in just four days while battling the flu. Owned by opium tycoon Sir Victor Sassoon, the hotel hosted many dignitaries and diplomats. It was known for its pioneering amenities, including in-room telephones, which outpaced European hotels at the time. With six floors and 120 guest rooms, it was also the first hotel in Shanghai to feature two elevators. The lavish offerings extended to private plumbing systems, marble baths with silver fixtures and enamel-coated lavatories imported from Britain.

Today, in addition to catering to upscale clientele, the hotel also draws history and architecture enthusiasts. Its Art Deco lobby, on-site Peace Museum, and the Old Shanghai reading room filled with a diverse collection of memorabilia, including Qing-period porcelain and bronze items, black-and-white photographs of days gone by, silverware, and an array of books, are notable attractions.

The ground floor café provides an excellent vantage point for people-watching from window-side seats. Meanwhile, the rooftop bar on the 9th floor offers a pleasant spot for evening drinks with a captivating view of the illuminated Bund and Pudong skyline. If you're in the mood for some leisurely classical jazz and the opportunity to enjoy a cocktail while listening to nostalgic tunes performed by a spirited group of octogenarians, make your way to the hotel's Jazz Bar, reminiscent of the 1920s and 30s, featuring the Old Jazz Band. A quality experience is virtually guaranteed!

Tip:
Those who want to take a guided tour can book it either at the hotel's museum or online. Some tours are offered in English and come at a charge.