THOMAS PODVIN’S FREELANCE WORK
Freelance writer - translator - Editor

http://www.dogster.com/

With individual incomes on the rise and new pet laws, China’s city dwellers have welcomed more furry, fluffy, four-legged friends into their homes than ever before. According to government statistics, there are more than one million dogs in Beijing; and at least that many in Shanghai. Experts estimate the pet products’ market will reach RMB 6 billion in sales China-wide by 2008. So it’s no surprise that the number of monthly visitors to Dogster.com - the fastest-growing pet destination on the Internet – is also in the millions. And no wonder. It may be chic to walk a fluffy poodle in the streets of this city, but when it comes to dogged indulgence, the Yankees rule. Genuine dog lovers will enjoy surfing this canine website - funded by US dog freaks – who share pooch photos and stories, make new doggy friends, with nary a pooper-scooper in sight. International members are welcome, and have the same access as their American counterparts to pup pals and play dates. Check out the extensive dog database or other services, including forums, pet-friendly travel destinations, pet-friendly job ads; well, you get the drift.

(c) that's Shanghai Magazine
Chief editor: Steven Crane
April 2006 issue

http://www.food411.com/

China may boast one of the world’s greatest cuisines but that doesn’t mean some expatriated gourmets don’t long for home cooking. Who hasn’t dreamed of an Italian risotto, some crawling French cheese, a Swiss chocolate bar, a spoonful of handmade American peanut butter, or British-Indian inspired chutney? For those of you who admit to these cravings and more, follow the link to Food411.com, the ultimate Web food resource. Here you’ll find everything and anything related to the art of eating, including online suppliers of gourmet foods, breads, coffee, wines, spices, as well as recipes, cooking lessons and even food blogs. But Food411.com provides more than a directory of reviewed and tested links to food-related websites, it uncovers unique gift ideas: unusual kitchen tools and products for the home. Of course, the most practical advice is left unsaid at this website: spend less time on the Internet and more in the kitchen.

(c) that's Shanghai Magazine
Chief editor: Steven Crane
April 2006 issue