Han Chinese (93%), plus 55 ethnic minorities

 

 

 

Principles of decorum and respect for women are deeply ingrained in Chinese culture. Despite the Confucian sense of superiority accorded to men, Chinese women often call the shots and wield considerable clout (especially within marriage). Chinese males are not macho, and there is a strong sense of balance between the sexes. Nonetheless, in its institutions, China is a patriarchal and highly conservative country where virtually all positions of political and state authority are occupied by (old) men.

As one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the country, Shanghai in particular will provide few woman-specific challenges to women travellers. Tampons are readily available, although it may be best to take plentiful supplies of the pill as the variant in China is locally made and you may need a prescription.

 

Gay & Lesbian Scene

Shanghai has a few venues catering to gay and lesbian patrons, but the locales keep moving around, so check local listings. Look for the cryptic comments in local listings magazines. Greater tolerance exists in cities like Shanghai than in rural China, but even so it is recommended that gays and lesbians be discreet about their sexual orientation in public. There are many gay venues but they tend to keep a low profile. Check out Utopia Asia for loads of tips on travelling in China and a complete listing of gay bars nationwide.

 

Disabled Travellers

Shanghai has few facilities geared for disabled travellers, but that doesn't necessarily put it out of bounds for those with a physical disability (and a sense of adventure). Many hotels have lifts, so booking ground-floor rooms is not essential, unless you are staying in very budget accommodation. Some hotels at the four- and five-star level have specially designed rooms for people with physical disabilities.

The roads and pavements make things awkward for the wheelchair-bound or those with a walking disability. Pavements can often be crowded, in a rundown condition and with high kerbs. People whose sight, hearing or walking ability is impaired must be extremely cautious of the traffic, which almost never yields to pedestrians. Escalators leading from subways frequently go up only.