Save the Chinese names and map locations of your hotel, attractions and meeting points, with offline copies if needed. Translated names or pronunciation alone may not help a driver identify the place.
Tell your guide what you want to learn and confirm language, meeting arrangements and a contact channel. Mention dietary restrictions, walking pace and accompanying children beforehand.
Keep reservations and service arrangements together. Recheck the date, group size and meeting time. Ask about unfamiliar rules rather than assuming they match previous trips.