Excellent for the language, outdated for other stuff!, July 28, 1999
Reviewer: A reader
I just returned after 6 weeks in China. This book is excellent in terms of the useful words and phrases that it lists for virtually every situation you might encounter. It also has a nice little dictionary section at the back (both English-Chinese as well as Chinese-English) that comes in handy. HOWEVER, it badly needs an update in terms of the descriptions and "tips" that it provides regarding things like travel, currency, food, taxis, shopping etc. If you're buying this book - and I certainly recommend it as a handy phrase book - I strongly suggest that you ignore all the tips and advice it provides you. You're better off getting something else that is more up-to-date for this.

As important to have in China as your passport!, March 12, 1999
　

I've done international business with China for 20 years, speak some Mandarin, and I carry this book in my passport/airline ticket folder. My general Chinese is pretty good, but this book is invaluable. The tips and hints are also extremely insightful, and I heartily recommend it to anyone traveling to China or Taiwan for the first or the hundredth time.

Incredible book for students and travelers to China, September 21, 1998
　

This book was an incredible resource for me as I toured through China this summer, studying the language and culture. I kept it in my pocket everywhere I went until it finally wore down and broke apart. But have no fear, I taped it back up and let it work some more Chinese magic. The book is organized into sections such as "Meeting People" and "Shopping" and "At the Doctor" that will help you with more than enough information, from vocabulary to suggested travel iteraries to understanding of the indigenous culture. I just lost my copy in the New York Subway so I'm gonna get another. «Ü¦nªº®Ñ!

Best, most practical traveler's companion, January 23, 1998
　

This book is an excellent resource for both the tourist and the student. Carry this handy reference around China or keep it within arm's length as you study the language at home -- you'll be reaching for it often in either case.