In a recent article on Shanghai, I was surprised to learn of the incredible changes that have taken place since my visit over 20 years ago. The city has transformed itself from a gritty industrial hub of crammed tenements and rusting steel mills and shipyards into a showcase of glittering skyscrapers, quaint but quiet alleyways and meticulously landscaped parks. It is now being touted as an elite travel destination, especially for gourmet dining and shopping and is the most competetive market in the world for luxury hotels. A few years ago, that would have been hard to believe. But key parts of the city have been transformed by a craze for upscale urban renewal and if, like me, you haven't been in a while, it's very likely worth a visit. If you have been a couple of times and have a "before and after" story, tell us about it!