I'm tempted to do a final trip on the UA 747's before they get retired at the end of October, and have a chance while out in the US at the end of next month.

Shanghai is the obvious option for me, as it ties in nicely with the need for a few more miles towards my 1K qualification, as well as a first opportunity to try the 777-300 on a PS flight. However, I'm nervous about commiting to it, as I know very little about the City, and the obvious language barriers that will arise from being a Brit who is totally hopeless with languages.

I understand about the need for a visa etc, but is anyone willing to share their experience in the same situation, visiting Shanghai for the first time.

How much of a handicap is it, not having any language skills?

Is navigating the public transport system relatively easy?

Are there any reasonably priced English speaking tour companies that can provide a snapshot of what the City has to offer for the couple of days I'll be there?

I appreciate that the City is now a major business centre in China, but not sure how geared up it is to foreign tourism. Any hints or reassurance would be much appreciated.