Hong Kong may also be easier for the average tourist as they probably speak better English there than anywhere in China...
That being say I am looking forward to my trip to Beijing so I am throwing myself into unknown territory for me. I just hope I avoid any food poisoning, that is the only thing which will ruin my holiday. I have read up a little bit about what to do and not do so hopefully I'll avoid it. I am not parnaoid or something hehe and I realize that I will get an upset stomach in a way or another.