A new approach to the teaching of Mandarin Chinese, this course concentrates on the essentials needed for everyday situations while travelling in China and provides a sound basis for further study. Based on authentic recordings made on location in Beijing, it exposes the learner to the genuine sound of the language, supported by carefully explained notes and scripted studio recordings with a wealth of practice activities. Unlike other Mandarin Chinese courses it focuses heavily on listening and speaking skills, backed up by simple, clear but short grammar explanations and exercises. One page in each of the fifteen units is devoted to providing fascinating background detail about China and the Chinese. Pinyin is used throughout rather than the Chinese characters.