The honorary capital is moving very quickly from the Communist shadows to become a full-on party city. Yes, it can take you a while to get around because of its sheer size.

To speak of a “gay scene” in Shanghai might be a little optimistic. What you will find is a smattering of bars where the welcome is warm and the crowd is a mix of cosmopolitan foreigners and friendly locals.

Shanghai bathhouse may sound like a whole lot of saucy fun but hold onto your ponies. These places are often exactly what they say on the box – somewhere for people to wash. Getting it on is often not on at all. But, hey, who’s to stop you looking?

If you dabble in trade or "money boys" as they’re known here, be aware these guys are often straight and in it purely for the money. This may well extend to the entire contents of your wallet. Or a brush with the police. Prostitution is illegal. Add in a language barrier and the whole experience can get pretty unpleasant.