Essential Guide Books
The following books are highly recommended by China Travel Wire:
Guidebooks
The Lonely Planet China
Probably the most comprehensive travel series available. Sometimes this book caters to the less adventurous traveler (those seeking a “good croissant” in Liaoning), but nonetheless an essential item to have. There are also individual guidebooks for major cities/regions, such as Beijing, Shanghai, and Hong Kong. However, don’t depend solely on this book — use it as a general guide that allows you to independently explore a region in more depth.
Fodor’s Exploring China, 6th Edition
Another excellent regional guide, and gets better with every new edition.
China Eyewitness Travel Guide
Thorough, dense, and lean on the pages — a great book and easier to take with you than some of the heavier publications.
Phrasebooks
Lonely Planet Mandarin Phrasebook
A key strength is the organization by subject. There’s also a nice two-way dictionary.
Speak E-Z Chinese in Phonetic English
Very nice companion book with a 130-page dictionary and pronunciation key for every word. Very well organized.
The Rough Guide to Mandarin Chinese Dictionary Phrasebook
Unlike other books, this edition’s strength is its unique organization and emphasis on grammar and sentence structure. Not to dismissed as too academic, this is actually immensely helpful with quick rewards.
Chinese-English/English-Chinese Dictionary & Phrasebook
Developed by an expert in linguistics, this book is about learning quick phrases and learning the basic grammar you need. Includes a nice pronunciation guide (a MUST!).
