Shanghai Hotline

Some of you might have already known this. But for those that don’t, do you know there is a hotline for obtaining basic city information about Shanghai?

The Shanghai Call Centre, which was launched almost a year ago, provides both English and Chinese information about tourist destinations, culture, sports, trade, medical care and other issues concerning daily life in Shanghai.

I decide to put the call center to the test today by posing a few questions that a new expat might face…

Call was answered in ten seconds.

Operator: Good morning sir, how can I help you ?

David : Hi, how are ya? I am thinking of adopting a pet, do you know how I can go about doing it?

Operator: Hold the line please.

Came back two minutes later….

Operator: Thank you for holding the line. I am not too sure on the adoption process but can you contact the Pet Adoption Association for further details. Their telephone number is 51029038.

David: Thank you. I am looking to buy some English books and magazines. Can you recommend a good English book store?

Operator: Yes Sir, You can try Chatterhouse at Grand Mall. Their phone number is Tel : 5049 0668

David:  Last question. I am thinking of entertaining some friends from overseas . Can you recommend a nice restaurant that serves Shanghainese food?

Operator: Yes sir, I would recommend 1221 Restaurant at West Yan An Road. They serve nice  and traditional Shanghaiese food. Their contact number is Tel : 6213 2441.

David: Thats all. Thank you.

Opearator: By the way sir, are you Richard?

David : Richard? :S (????)

Operator:  No sir, can I know you name please ?

David : I am David.

Operator: No sir, I was asking for your name earlier.

David : Oh, ok...

At the end of the call, they made a short survey requiring your name and how you got to know about their services etc.

Three out of three!

The operator spoke very good English and was eloquent.  To sum it up, the service was fast, polite and attentive. The advices they provide are spot on too (nevermind the minor "richard" confusion).

I would definitely reuse their services again when the need arise.

Remember, save this number on your mobile. You never know when you might need it.

Its great for tourists wanting to get some pre-trip information too. The other best resource for Shanghai is of course Mad About Shanghai ;).

Within Shanghai
Tel : 962288

Outside Shanghai, within China
Tel : 021962288

From overseas
Tel:  8621962288