just try to get in contact with a teacher before you leave.

indeed, buying a planeticket and go directly to a teacher is more cheap then those 'organised' tours.


just look around on forums... there are several people who went to China.
Use their knowledge... they know where the good teachers are and where not.

do your homework and try to know what you want to learn. Look for a teacher. Buy a planeticket ... and that is all.