[DigitalTurk]

I don't get it.

If you're a foreign guy in China there are always tons of girls who'll go with you to wherever you want to go and who'll translate for you. If you speak just a little Chinese you can have a very comfortable life there.

[tel]

Sure, it's not impossible to get around. You're just always going to be dependent on said girls. Even with the foreigners-don't-need-to-know-Chinese excuse, being illiterate is difficult.

[DigitalTurk]

Sure. I guess we're just disagreeing on how much of a problem it is and after how much time this will get to you. I suppose it's a subjective thing.

[tel]

Agreed, my experience was stated above: I spent 4 months there and some a persons confidence deteriorate. Being slightly literate myself was frustrating but extremely manageable.

[matthewrudy]

For some people, the freedom to go to a restaurant and understand the menu is considered valuable.

[DigitalTurk]

Many, if not most, restaurants in China have picture menus.

Update: that's in the major cities anyway.