7AM : Devote yourself to a tai chi class on the Bund for a rare moment of serenity before this stretch of waterfront moves into top gear. People of all ages practice this martial art every morning at dawn here. Join in or simply watch their moves.

8AM : Eat a hearty breakfast at the Sukhotai Shanghai, designed by Neri & Hu. Fresh juices, cereals, organic breads plus delicious Chinese, Thai and Western specialities.

NOON : Drive to Taojiang Road and stop off at LMDS (Le Monde de SHC), an irresistible multi-brand concept store spread over three floors. Look out for shirts by Casablanca, bags by Koché, dresses by Samuel Guì Yang and Port Tanger eyewear.

3PM : Don't miss the latest major exhibition at the Power Station of Art (PSA) Museum of Contemporary Art – open all year round and featuring cutting-edge shows by Chinese and foreign artists from all walks of life.

5PM : Take a break for a coffee or tea at the Vesta Blackstone & Garden in the M+ hotel, a stone’s throw from Nice To Meet You bookstore. Alongside a thousand books, the shop offers curiosities and vinyl jazz, rock and classic gems from Mozart to Pink Floyd.

8PM : Marvel at the glowing, pastel green and black interiors as you dine at the whimsical and sublime Yu Ba Xian (also called Sense 8), the flamboyant restaurant designed by Song Yuxin (aka César). A surreal greeting is provided by an Indian dressed in a sherwani, followed by a dinner rich in a thousand flavours.

2AM : Rave till dawn in the underground atmosphere at Elevator, where the electro-metaphoric beats attract a crowd of night owls hooked on its techno, house, drum and bass, funk and soul.