On September 27th, Shanghai celebrated World Tourism Day with a unique twist: the “Feel Shanghai: Travel as a Local” showcase. Held at the Liu Haisu Art Museum and organized by the Shanghai Administration of Culture and Tourism, the event aimed to attract international visitors by highlighting the city’s vibrant cultural and tourism scene through the lens of its diverse expatriate community.
This initiative invited international residents from six countries to share their personal experiences and favorite spots in Shanghai, serving as “local expat guides.” The event offered a diverse range of perspectives: French citywalk guide Clarisse Le Guernic led a vibrant exploration of the city’s hidden corners, while renowned chef Corentin Delcroix took participants on a culinary adventure through Shanghai’s local cuisine. French graffiti artist Paul Dezio brought the city’s thriving art scene to life, while German entrepreneur Eric Baden delved into the dynamic cafe culture that defines Shanghai’s urban landscape.
Other participants included Hungarian museum professional Steven Back, who showcased the beauty of Shanghai’s ancient towns, Spanish pianist Mario Alonso, who dazzled with captivating performances, and Australian host Cameron Andersen, who introduced the city’s exciting sports scene. Siblings Maya and Anton Wagener introduced the city’s “Wonderland” attractions, while Italian kung fu master Kleber Battaglia brought focus to wellness and martial arts.
The event culminated with the launch of the “Homie Hunt” project, a series of engaging street challenges designed to highlight Shanghai’s most captivating cultural and tourism hotspots. This project underscores Shanghai’s commitment to embracing diversity and serving as an inclusive, international hub for cultural exchange.
Shanghai’s tourism sector has witnessed remarkable growth, welcoming over 3 million visitors in the first half of 2024, a 140% increase compared to the previous year. The city has also introduced over 120 premium tourism routes, further strengthening its position as a leading travel destination for global travelers. The “Feel Shanghai: Travel as a Local” event exemplifies Shanghai’s strategic vision to leverage the perspectives of its diverse expat community to attract a wider international audience and showcase the city’s unique blend of tradition and modernity.
