It's that time of year again: soon the Shanghai exodus will begin and everyone will head to far-off lands, whether for family or just for warmth. Hang out with your buddies before they leave at some of the events going on this week, from book talks to tweetups to a Christmas gala for the city's four-legged friends. more ›

• Be fabulous this Saturday with the opening of The Box, Shanghai's newest gay bar. [Smart Shanghai]
• The World Expo's Finland Pavilion reminds us why we love the Finnish as they build world-class saunas for visitors to use. [People Daily]
• Official ticket prices have not been confirmed yet, but a seat on the upcoming Beijing-Shanghai express rail is estimated to cost around 500 yuan. [China Daily]