Some rather odd posts, here.

I don't use guides in China, because my wife is Chinese. Even if she wasn't, I doubt we would use guides (we've tried that only once, in India, and would have done better on our own).

However . . .

1. Your hotel can arrange for a driver to take you wherever you want.
2. Taxis are plentiful and cheap. Have your hotel write the name, in characters, of where you want to go.
3. Except in the smaller towns, you will not be stared at because you are a foreigner.
4. In restaurants, if there isn't a picture menu (there will be in restaurants in larger cities), just look around you and if you see something good, point.
5. Learn a few Chinese words (noodles are "mien").
6. Read this thread: [url]http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=517944[/utl]It has input from a lot of people who visit China often (and recently).
7. No one in China will track your comings and goings.
8. Public displays of affection are not part of Chinese culture. Fixing wedgies won't attract attention. Public hugging will.
9. I agree completely about avoided taking tours that include meals. China has one of the most interesting, varied cuisines in the world. Don't confine yourself to tourist restaurants.
10. Themicah's experience sounds like a wonderful adventure! Anything that gets you away from tourist destinations for a while, and lets you see the countryside should be fascinating.