Testing value of the Bund despite thronging tourists

Several big-name global brands have left Shanghai's old luxury hub

The summer heat is taking its toll on the crowds of tourists on Shanghai's Bund where there are hardly any trees big enough to shade them from the merciless sun. Many seek refuge on the pavement under the shadow of the imposing old buildings that double as resting areas where sweating tourists sit on the steps or lean against the walls outside plush fashion boutiques and jewelry stores.

Nobody seems to mind. These establishments catering for the rich who made a fanfare of visiting the Bund a decade ago are quietly leaving one by one.