Frommer's China (Frommer's Complete Guides)

We are using this book to prepare for our trip to China in the fall. I checked out several China guidebooks from the library for a trial read, and this one seems to be the most complete and helpful. For example, it was the only one that had a good discussion of the pros and cons of using a tour company, and that recommended a list of companies, which have some expertise in working around the corrupt Chinese infrastructure. For trip planning purposes, I am also get a lot of value out of the Frommer's "star" ratings. For example, this is leading me to re-consider a Yangtze River cruise, that is still included in many conventional tours, despite the 2009 flooding project.

Frommer's. The best trips start here.

Experience a place the way the locals do. Enjoy the best it has to offer.

• Insider tips on China's top attractions, plus extensive coverage of unique and off-the-tourist-track regions and villages.

• Outspoken opinions on what's worth your time and what's not.

• Exact prices, so you can plan the perfect trip whatever your budget.

• Off-the-beaten-path experiences and undiscovered gems, plus new takes on top attractions.

Find great deals and book your trip at Frommers.com

Detailed, objective reviews of hotels and restaurants to suit any budget are accompanied by up-to-date coverage of sightseeing, nightlife, shopping, and local activities; dozens of maps; and expert trip-planning advice, in this premier travel series. China recently broke the 100-million mark for international visitors, ranking it fourth in the world, leaving Italy in fifth place and snapping at the heels of France, Spain, and the U.S.