Shanghai World Expo 2010 (part 1)

First things first, let's get two things out of the way: Yes, the pavilion lines, at times, feel like it's about as long as the Great Wall, and yes, rude China men can make anyone scratch their heads in bewilderment.  But if you can get pass such minor cultural inconveniences then you just might find yourself enjoying one heck of a spectacular architectural treat before your eyes.

The 2010 Shanghai World Expo happens but once every 5 years.  With such lofty "Better City, Better Life" theme, it was being held in a neighboring Asian country again after 2005's Aichi Japan World Expo.  Having over 1 billion in population, China finds itself as this year's host. Me thinks, every one of those billion rushed to buy their expo tickets, hence the crazy lines.

Over 190 countries & 50+ organizations participating in about an almost 6 kilometer radius, and yes, it gets pretty daunting at times.  Suggest, that you guys mapped out which pavilions you want to check out first based on past reviews or your own preferences.  Silly blogger and friends found themselves being "stuck" on the Corporate Pavilions side our first night when what we really wanted to do is to check out the Country Pavilions

Expo Axis - main building - has the world's largest membrane construction built by SBA architects Knippers and Helbig

Tips:
1. Best to go at night, were the lines are shorter and the heat is manageable.
2. Day passes cost about 160RMB while night passes cost about 90RMB. (No bulk discounts are given for 3 day/7 day passes)
3. Water bottles or the likes can't be brought into the expo.  A friend learned this lesson the hard way; rather expensive cosmetic water found the trash bin its new home.
4. Most of the European Pavilions are located at Zone C.
5. The expo site is massive, hence you have to specifically instruct your cab drivers which gate to bring you to (i.e. Gate 1 is for the Corporate Pavilions; Gate 6 is for the Country Pavilions) 

More Expo images and anecdotes on the next post.

Location: Nanpu bridge and Lupu bridge along Huangpu River in Shanghai, China