Shanghai Stadium. [File photo: beijing2008.cn]

 Shanghai, nicknamed "Paris of the East" and "Queen of the Orient," is China's largest city with nearly 17 million people.

Shanghai will host 12 football games in 2008 Summer Olympics, including preliminary and semi-final matches from August 3 to 22.

Shanghai is China's business and financial center. Its people are the most diligent and business-minded.

Shanghai gentlemen are considered as the most "groomed" and family-oriented throughout all of China, while the ladies are the best at careful calculation and strict budgeting.

So don't be surprised if you see a Shanghai gentleman in a fine suit bargaining with a street vendor while carrying home a basket filled with the raw materials for dinner. And never argue about how to split the expense of sharing a taxi with a Shanghai lady.

When getting to know the Shanghainese, you will be impressed by their politeness and how much they take pride in being Shanghainese.

But always remember: When having dinner with your Shanghai friends, they will always be happy if you suggest going Dutch.