Hot and cold in Shanghai

No, not the weather. Just a list of things I love and hate about this city...

I love:

1. the public transportation here. The subway is by far my favorite, followed closely by walking. I won't take a cab if I can help it, and even they are relatively inexpensive. Maybe when it gets really hot I'll opt for taxis more often, but for now, the subway is just fine. I haven't gotten around to riding the bus yet, but I hear they're even more convenient. 
2. how it's winter and the girls are wearing leggings or stockings with miniskirts. Although every once in a while, I'll see some girl with nice legs and find out her face looks like she's pushing 50. *Shudders* UGH! 
3. that DVDs of movies still in theaters are $0.70 cents; to own! Great quality, and you can pass them on to your friends afterward. No late fees either. Beat that, Redbox!
4. to haggle! Although I still need to hone my skills. I bought a router, at a department store no less, and asked the saleslady what else I can get. 20% off? I want more. An ethernet cord? I want more. A pair of headphones? That's more like it!
5. the energy this place has, especially at night. Also something I need to work on. Got laughed at by a cabbie for leaving XinTianDi at 9:30PM... "I'm jetlagged, goddamnit!" I told him.

I hate:

1. that there are hardly any bookstores around! Don't the Shanghainese read?!? Or does everyone just read online? The "bookstore" culture is pretty different from that of Taiwan with its Eslites and the US with Borders and Barnes & Noble. 
2. it when I'm about to get on the subway and people cut in front of me. And the people behind me push and shove to get ahead. And once the doors open, it's like musical chairs and everyone rushes to get a seat. Concepts of graciousness, courtesy, and consideration are clearly absent...
3. the abominable customer service at certain restaurants. It can literally take 15 minutes before a waiter finally notices your crazily waving hand, and another 10 minutes before he brings you some more tea.
4. that Facebook and Twitter and YouTube are blocked, sites that aren't blocked are slow, and that I can't check-in anywhere!
5. how public restrooms charge for toilet paper. And most restaurants charge you for napkins, and some even for water! It's tap water!

Anyway,  I leave you with two photos I took at the Shanghai Ocean Aquarium. Completely unrelated, I know. Just thought I'd share.