Countdown to Shanghai 2016!

November 16, 2016

Countdown to Shanghai 2016!

Hi peeps!

We are literally, counting the days for our long hopefully wonderful holiday.. Aaaahhhhhh *relief sigh*

As usual, I would like to share with you guys some preparation that I have don't to be mentally and physically prepare for our upcoming trip. Boy, I am for a challenge as this time round, we are going to a place that is nearly winter and definitely need to pack up some legit amount of thick clothing.

Flight

We booked through airasia.com. Basically from the time of booking, the total amount that we finally pay (including luggage, food, seating,etc.) has doubled. From RM 1400 to RM 2900. Yup, you got that right when we ever learn. I believe the most expensive was the luggage costing us about RM 600 per way. In addition, because it is cold and wet, we have to bring thick clothing which means heavier loads.

Visa/Passport

Make sure you have your visa/passport with you. For our family of 4, we have applied for the visa through a friend. The total amount that we have to pay to get the tourist visa is RM 3++ for the whole family. Overall, I find the amount ridiculously expensive. You may click on this link for further information (Malaysian applied).

Hotel

For a short stay of 7 days, we are going to experience 3 different hotels. The first hotel we are going to stay in is very close Yuyuan Garden or Old Shanghai. I told Mr. Bob that since we are going to spend so much time in the modern Disney area, it would be best to experience the old as well. I am not going to spell in detail of the hotel but most likely write about it more when we are back. Insyallah.

The next hotel will be of course near to the theme park. We are going to spend a couple of nights there and on the last night in one hotel which is close to the airport because our flight back is at midnight. It sounds a bit crazy but we will see. :)

Transfer

Well, I cannot share the full detail of the plan yet. But what I could share with you guys a company called MK Shanghai that we had approached to arrange our transfer from the airport to the hotel. Most of the transport that we are planning to use is of course the taxi, just because we have small children tagging along and I do not want the hassle to manage our tower high luggage and the kids! However, be prepared to pay because the price is higher compare the normal taxi.

Insurance

I couldn't stress enough that purchasing a travel insurance is one of the most important purchases that you should make while traveling outside of your home country. There are just so many people neglecting the importance of insurance. I got ours here. When you are traveling with small ones it somehow will give you a peace of mind knowing that you could get help needed at any time of need.

Social Media

You guys should also know that China block many different websites such as Facebook, Instagram, Google, Whatsapp etc. I could say most of the social media sites will be blocked. In order for Mr. Bob and I to tackle this issue, we decided to purchase one VPN solution that is known for its stability in China which is the ExpressVPN. Couldn't vouched on the service though, haven't got the chance to try it. But will update you guys on the performance later ok. Price is RM 50 per month subscription. For someone, who is really into social media sharing, it is quite crucial. But for those who could survive without it, you could save that extra RM 50 yo!

Disneyland

Finally! The absolute main reason for us visiting Shanghai is to experience the ever new Shanghai Disneyland!! *Wuuuuuhuuuuuuu!* This Disneyland was launched sometime in June 2016 and truly can't believe that we are able to visit one Disneyland brand new. So, hopefully when we come back, we could share with you wonderful experience of the park. *pray*

I downloaded the park app on my mobile and bought the tickets online just to be prepared because I heard there will be a long security queue just outside the park.