I must admit I found my notebook computer really useful as well, I'm glad I took it. Both the hotels I stayed in had free Internet access. My lady showed me how to install QQ and the thing she uses to type chinese characters. We could also look at all the photos I took, and of course I could keep the guys here updated about my adventures.
It was also good as an entertainment device. I couldn't venture far in Wuhan, and the TV was mostly rubbish.
Too right brett, it keeps me sane during the time I'm not with Sunny here n Guangzhou and gives me information about stuff I want to do as well as being a link back to home and of course the forum here. Chinese hotels have free Internet as standard so if you have a small laptop or preferably a netbook - bring it.
I wrote this on my NC10 Netbook which has been to China now three times by me and i note the sticker on the bottom says Made In China!!
My 32" widescreen TV hasnt even been turned on here.