The People's Square marriage market has long been an open treasure here in Shanghai, but have you heard of the gay and lesbian "fake" one? Slate takes on the trend of gays and lesbians marrying each other to ease familial pressure in a feature outlining some of the problems facing them today. The two groups find each other online or at meet ups around the city to arrange mutually beneficial partnerships "for their parents." Sure, it'd be better if societal norms let these folks come out to their parents in the first place, but it's at least a better alternative to creating yet another "homowife" (or, though it's not mentioned, homohusband). more ›

Even though our very own Eric Hu will be evaluating a series of hot pot restaurants for the winter season, we need to give the restaurant chain, Haidilao (海底捞火锅), a shout out for having captured the Chinese entrepreneurship in restaurant service form (even if veers very far from our Western/foregin standards of what is considered “appropriate"). If the patron has not made a reservation, Haidilao offers a variety of free services in their waiting rooms; aside from the comfortable sofas and chairs, diners may partake in shoe polishing, manicures, Wi-Fi, and even watch repair. There is a playground for kids, as well as chessboards, cards, and newspapers. And that's before actual dining has even occurred. After viewing the elaborate display of available sauces, we knew we were sold. more ›