Mrs. AC110 and I will be travelling, we hope, to Shanghai in September for a conference at the Ritz.

The hotel conference rate seems to be, for 2 people with breakfast, 2,200 yuan (or renminbi - could never get that straight) + 15% tax. That's going to be a little tough to get past the approvals process at work, and may kill the trip, which would be very disappointing to say the least.

Can anyone suggest a more modest alternative within walking distance or at least a short transit ride? There will be evening activities centered around the Ritz, so it will be difficult if we're not close by.

Even a short term (5-6 day) apartment rental would be fine - we're not fussy as long as it's clean and safe - though hotels are more convenient. If government rates are an option we can get travel orders.

We'd really appreciate any advice, we really don't want to miss this trip.