Holiday Plan to Shanghai and Hangzhou needed please

Question

My four sisters just thought about planning a trip to Shanghai in September taking our 91 year old mum who has limited mobility. Upon arrival in Pudong, we plan to stay in Shanghai for three nights at hotel near or along Nanjing Road - is that the right choice with our elderly mum with us? After Shanghai we will go to Hangzhou and stay there for 4 nights? Really like to watch Zhang Yimou Impression show while we are there. From Shanghai to Hangzhou is it easier just to hire a mini bus or van? If we use Hangzhou as a base where else should we go either as a day trip or head towards another town or city and spend two or three nights there before we head back to Pudong Airport?

Appreciate some advice please. Thank you

Answer

Planning a trip to Shanghai and Hangzhou with your elderly mother requires consideration for comfort, accessibility, and minimizing long travel times. Here’s a detailed guide and advice for your itinerary:

Shanghai Stay:

Staying near or along Nanjing Road is convenient for shopping and city sightseeing, but it is extremely crowded and busy, which may be overwhelming for a 91-year-old with limited mobility. A better alternative could be:

Stay along the Bund or near People’s Square – quieter streets, easier access to parks and river views, and still close to main attractions.
Choose a hotel with elevator access, spacious rooms, and easy access to taxis or Didi ride services to minimize walking for your mother.

For sightseeing in Shanghai:

The Bund – iconic views, paved promenades, wheelchair-friendly paths.
Shanghai Museum at People’s Square – free entry, accessible, cultural experience.
Yu Garden and Old City – accessible with caution, avoid peak hours to reduce crowd stress.
Maglev train or short river cruise – convenient and enjoyable for seniors without long walks.

Shanghai to Hangzhou:

Traveling to Hangzhou with an elderly passenger is most comfortable via:

Hiring a private mini bus or van – flexible departure, door-to-door service, comfortable for luggage and mobility aids.
High-speed train – about 1 hour, accessible stations, but may require some walking between train platforms and taxis.

Hangzhou Stay:

Using Hangzhou as a base for 4 nights allows relaxed sightseeing. Recommended accessible highlights include:

West Lake – many paved paths, boat tours are wheelchair-friendly and less physically demanding.
Lingyin Temple – reachable via taxi or short shuttle; some uphill paths may be challenging.
Longjing Tea Plantations – scenic, but paths can be uneven; consider tea houses near the main road for comfort.
Zhang Yimou Impression Show – best to book front-row accessible seats in advance; check theater accessibility.

Possible Day Trips or Nearby Stays:

Wuzhen or Xitang – traditional water towns, cobbled streets; choose areas with accessible bridges and paths.
Shaoxing – historic town, famous for canals and ancient streets; fewer crowds, easier for seniors.
Moganshan – if you want a mountain retreat, ensure you select accessible resorts and paths.

Tips for Traveling with an Elderly Parent:

Arrange transportation in advance – taxis, Didi, or private mini bus for city transfers.
Limit daily walking distances, include rest breaks in sightseeing plans.
Book hotels near main attractions or with easy access to taxis.
Carry medications, water, and sun protection for comfort.

Overall, Shanghai and Hangzhou are doable for your family, but choose quieter hotel locations and prioritize accessible attractions to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable trip for your mother.

Holiday Plan to Shanghai and Hangzhou needed please

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