Customer Reviews

Frommer's Beijing (Frommer's Beijing, 1st ed)

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Right now I am in Beijing with a group from my school. Everybody brought guides, mostly by Frommer's or Lonely Planet. So far I've found that Lonely Planet's guidebook has more accurate locations, prices and recommendations of restaurants and sites than Frommer's, and it is easier to use. Frommer's is an OK guide for extensive descriptions and walking tours, but getting the Lonely planet version will make getting around Beijing and a lot easier and hassle-free.

I spent two weeks in Beijing and took Fodors, Lonely Planet and this book. This book was the most helpful and informative by far. In a country where few speak English, Frommer's tells you step by step how to make the most of the sights. For example, Frommer's is the only book that directs you to the audio tape rental at the Forbidden city. You can't find it without the guidebook and without the audio tape you are lost among one of the nations most prized and awe inspiring treasures.

In addidtion to the great maps and guides of the main attractions, I particularly enjoyed the Beiging Strolls section which led me to the best shopping, parks and my favorite find...the antique street called Liulichang.

Get it, go and conquor!

I found this book to be extremely helpful during my travel in Beijing. Loved the section on Beijing Strolls! The maps are excellent and the historical/cultural vignettes were entertaining as well as informative. I liked this book better than Lonely Planet.

Because Beijing is rapidly changing, it will be hard for this book to maintain total accuracy with the city. However, I found this book extremely useful in getting around Beijing. My personal favorite section is the "Beijing Strolls". I was only able to complete two of the strolls, and they were both well worth it.

I bought this guide along with a few others for an upcoming trip. I found it to be informative and up-to-date. They give you honest opinions, steering you clear of the tourist traps, and telling you what not to miss. They list restaurants for every budget, and give a few suggestions for day trips out of Beijing, as well as good walking tours of the city. If you go, this is a nice guide to take along.