For those of you who are really familiar with Shanghai, a couple of questions related to my August 30 trip:
1) In hot summer weather, do men wear shorts in the city, or should I stick to long slacks?
My friends and I certainly wear shorts.
2) I was a little interested in shopping for a radio scanner capable of receiving digital broadcasts from police/fire here in the US. There are two or three available for sale in the states, and I understand they are made in China. Any idea of a market in Shanghai where I might look for such things?
I can think of two electronics markets off hand; one is just SW of the old Xiangyang market and the other is on the north side of Huaihai Rd near Taipingyang. I can't imagine you'll save a whole lot of money by buying in China and there's a chance that you'll end up with a knock-off (some knock-offs are ok, btw)
3) Are there any good tailors you'd recommend, like in Hong Kong or Bangkok? (unlike the other cities, I haven't seen any recommended here).
Tailors are a dime a dozen in SH, but I can't think of any "good" ones off the top of my head.
4) Any recommendation for a good low-key jazz venue other than the Peace Hotel? I'm not thinking of a club scene, just someplace to chill out with music in the early evening, not too far from the LeMeridien or the Bund waterfront....
CJW (or is t CWJ), Blues and Jazz, Poojay's. I suggest you check out the listings on "city weekend" or similar. Also, once you get there, the same info can be found in the expat mags.