The Bund is open!

In preparation for the World Expo which opens in May, the entire city has been cleaned up and revitalized. Our streets have been paved, sidewalks cleaned, trash bins replaced and fresh flowers have been planted everywhere. At times it is entertaining to see just how much effort is being spent on making the city look nice.

One of the key projects that was to be completed in time for the Expo is the Bund. This is one of the top tourist stops in Shanghai and had been closed for over a year as they renovated the entire area. A few weeks ago on a gorgeous Sunny day, the Bund was opened up for visitors. We made our way over on the ferry to catch a glimpse of the new walkway. Although parts of it were still closed off it was obvious that they had done a pretty good job of refreshing the area. As usual, Angela got lots of attention and loved every minute of it.

I was feeding her a banana and these guys thought it was a riot - they cheered and laughed every time she took a bite.

One old building in view of the bund - I have a feeling this won't be standing much longer

Rich and I were out for dinner over the weekend and realized that many of the local apartment buildings now have facades and new lights. A friend of ours recently told us that one of his local Chinese friends received a letter from the government about the Expo. They have assigned 'wardens' for each of the local blocks that will help to enforce some rules that are meant to help enhance the image of Shanghai. These rules include not walking outside in pajamas, not spitting in the street and not hanging your laundry from the window. It will be interesting to see how much of this is actually followed. I don't mind seeing the laundry drying and people in their pajamas. The spitting, that I could definitely live without!!