Honest thoughts on China after my first visit

First time in China and I tried to approach it with open eyes rather than preconceptions. Shanghai was the base and a good one — central, manageable, and with strong food options including the best dim sum I've ever had. West Lake was the big set piece and fully justified the trip.

Two things worth knowing: language barrier is significant, which is more of a factor than some guides acknowledge. But also: cutting-edge cities, which I'd never read about and turned out to be a genuine pleasure. Solid first impression — I'd return.