In Shanghai, Germany is presenting a holistic picture of itself. According to Pavilion architect Lennart Wiechell, the principle of the city in balance is also reflected in the architecture of the German Pavilion.

The 20-metre high building reflects the principle of equilibrium. “It has been designed as a sculpture in space whose four large exhibition structures only find a stable balance in their interaction with each other,” the architect explained. The suspended exhibition structures with the landscape below them for visitors to walk through create an exciting interchange between inside and outside, light and shadow, buildings and nature, city and landscape.

An outstanding feature is the silver shell, a special membrane that reduces sun radiation, becomes a light sail at night and lends the Pavilion its aura of lightness.

Glossy ribbons of water splice this ancient village, founded 1,700 years ago but with archaeological relics surfacing from some 5,000 years back. Situated roughly 30km outside of Shanghai, Zhujiajiao is a last bastion of historic Chinese culture, and stands remarkably preserved.

Boating is still the primary means of transportation, and the best way to observe the Ming and Qing-era architecture, old houses and the lion and dragon statues that perch from the 36 bridges erected over the ancient waterways. Walk up the one-kilometer-long stretch of “North Street,” the main tourist drag with its historic outposts and enviable views. Or, if you can stomach it, try the regional delicacy “chou doufu” (literally, “stinky tofu”), then wade through the throng of canal-front vendors peddling spices and dumplings to pick up a snack before resting in one of the town’s splendid parks, such as the Ke Zhi Yuan.

The Grand Hyatt boasts a commendable composite of the biggest and bests. Occupying the Jin Mao tower on the east side of the Huangpu River, the hotel makes use of the top 34 floors of this stunning 88 story building (at the time of construction China’s tallest piece of architecture). With a variety of elegant rooms elevated up in what feels like the heavens, floor-to-ceiling windows offer exquisite views over the river or Pudong skyline. Art deco interiors, marble baths and spacious floorplans further spoil guests.

While the Grand Hyatt doesn’t enjoy the most convenient location for accessing the popular highlights of the city, staying here is an experience all of its own. And with seven restaurants (offering everything from Cantonese and Shanghainese to Japanese and Western cuisine), several bars and lounges (led by Cloud 9, an extravagant modern meeting place situated at one of the highest points in the city and offering unbeatable 360 degree views), ballrooms and spa services, you certainly won’t be at a loss for unique, enriched experiences right by your room.

More of a novelty experience than anything else, it’s best to head here with a few local friends well-versed in the skill of bargaining, if you can. If not, you should still venture out and see how well you fare striking a deal with the vendors. We’re not sending you here just to haggle—we promise a good meal in store.

First things first, enter the rows of live seafoood and take your pick from shellfish (including lobsters), various varieties of fish and even snakes—they really do have it all. You’ll pay by weight or quantity, depending on the catch.

Next, take your fresh pick to any of the adjacent restaurants which will cook them to your liking for a small charge. Market trips are a great option for those traveling in large groups, as costs can be shared and a greater spread of seafood sampled. Enjoy.