Hi Sand, Shangri-La Pudong is sure a good choice. it is very convenient in the city center, just on the east bank of Huangpu River. There are many malls and restaurants near it. For buying beads, i suggest you go to the Shanghai Tourist Product Shopping Mall on Nanjing Road just west of Huangpu River. There is a Pearls City on the 2nd and 3rd floor of the mall. I believe you can find whatever you want at Nanjing Road :-)