Originally Posted by moondog
i posted the phone numbers of 2 or 3 reputable drivers in another thread (search "beijing driver"). as for guides, you will meet scores of chinese people eager to show off their city during your travels. if you find someone you like, bring them along.
If you go to Forbidden City, there are many students (real students) who will provide multi-hour tour of FC. They probably would also be good resource as guide for beijing, ming tombs, great wall.
Many of the taxi drivers in many of the hotels, the ones with the black sedans can be hired out for the day, usual cost is RMB$500 8 am to 5 pm. Most only speak Chinese...if you tie up with guide at FB, they can then help you find the driver.
I use one driver for last 5 years, he now has a mini-van, RMB$800 per day but he only speaks Chinese....let me know if you want his contact.