Glass-enclosed outdoor pool at the Grand Tower of Pudong Shangri-La, Shanghai.[Photo provided to Shanghai Star]

As the mercury rises, it’s time to take a dip into the cool, crystal-clear blue-green waters of your nearest sea or river. But if you are looking for something more luxurious, or even thrilling, these hotels in Shanghai have a variety of pools to choose from. Xu Junqian takes a dip.

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Atop the list of luxury pools in Shanghai is the first “hanging pool” in China. Perched on the 24th floor of HOLIDAY INN PUDONG KANGQIAO, this jawdropping pool appears from a distance to drop off from the building into space. While diving within this aquarium with its fi ve walls of glass, swimmers will feel like they are fl oating in the air. Named “Sky Fall”, the pool was designed and constructed under the guidance of aviation experts to ensure safety.

A less scary option is the Water Edge pool, an indoor heated infi nity pool on the 85th fl oor of PARK HYATT HOTEL in Pudong. The world’s highest indoor pool, 20 meters in length, boasts a breathtaking view that can reach as far as the Expo Park and starred in the latest 007 movie, Skyfall. While Mr Bond didn’t take a dip in the pool due to budget constraints, people other than hotel guests are allowed to take a dive.

This year, the hotel introduces an 8,000-yuan three-month package for non-hotel guests to swim “on top of the world”, and the price also includes a light lunch box prepared by the hotel kitchen. The fi rst 15 who commit to the package will enjoy a free fourth month.