Lisa Weir: Academic Support Coordinator, NYU in Shanghai

I usually prefer chill bars where you can talk with friends and make the most of the restless nights. Cotton's is ideal as the nights get warmer, though Kathleen's Five or Paulaner are also good for a relaxed evening. On bitter cold winter nights, I prefer cozy places where I can lounge on comfortable couches and enjoy well-mixed drinks. People 7 has excellent martinis and their tube wine is perfect for a small group. Fridays are great at La Bella Cafe and Lounge, where the music is live and the Long Island Iced Teas are deliciously strong. When we feel like dancing on the weekends, we usually head to Muse or wherever they're playing good hip-hop. The best drink in all of Shanghai, however, is strong coffee served over brunch at Element Fresh or City Diner, where hangovers are nursed and gossip is spread.