Visiting Beijing by myself after a business trip I decided to splurge by hiring a private guide.
Splurge is an exaggeration as the cost is very reasonable. And the cost for my own guide was less than if I arranged a group tour.
Licensed guides, such as Vivie, receive free admission to all the tourist sites and events. So your cost is just her very reasonable fee.
I wanted a guide who could drive to the Great Wall. I found the taxis not great for comfort or air conditioning.
She has a very interesting life story that I encourage you to ask about if you hire her
Her knowledge is excellent and she communicates very clearly.
On the way back from the Great Wall she chose an excellent and very reasonably priced lunch spot.
I give her my highest recommendation.
Larry Charach
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