Originally Posted by jiejie

4) Guide definitely can be helpful on this, since they know the eccentricities of local systems. But most useful in places not well served by public transport and not walkable, such as rural or small town areas where distances require a vehicle. Little value-added in big cities such as Beijing and Shanghai with extensive subway systems, also in cities with decent taxi availability and if needing only a couple of rides.

5) Ditto with item 4. In major cities with an established foreign tourist presence, a dual-language guide can be useful but not essential. Mostly an "enhancement" if one wants to interact with locals in parks, etc. In lesser cities and smaller and/or less-touristed places, a guide can be invaluable for the non-Mandarin speaker. However, where only language/translation for logistical matters is needed (not true "guiding") the option of cheaply hiring a local university student to accompany you for a small fee, lunch, and English language practice along with their translation services, exists most everywhere.