What are your thoughts about Chinese KTV's?

One of the fundamental aspects of Chinese social life is drinking Baijiu, eating Shaokao outside at night, and going to the KTV with friends to sing and party. I am curious about what other expats think of this.  Now, I am specifically talking about family and group KTV's, not the business KTV's and all that.



(1)  Specifically, what do you prefer more, the small cheap KTV's that are in the villages, and are very cheap, or the more expensive glitzy KTV's that are found in the cities?

(2)  How much do you typically spend?

(3)  Do you use the Internet to get the best deals, or do you simply prefer to walk in and make the reservations yourself?



(4)  What snacks do you usually buy and what are your favorites?



(5)  When you sing, do you sing the English songs, or do you try to sing in Chinese?

I have found KTV's as one of the most important social mechanisms that China has to offer.  In fact, I will go as far that if you are NOT going to KTV's you are isolating yourself from social interaction in China.  In China EVERYONE goes to KTV's.  That includes little toddlers to crusty old grandmothers, who will stand up and belt out a few ancient songs from Mr. Mao days...

For those of you all who haven't a clue as to what I am talking about, or who wants to get the KTV experience, but don't know where to start, you can go HERE.  It's a great introduction to the newbe.

(6)  How long do you typically book the room for?

(7)  And, how many friends do you go out with?

(8)  How good of a singer are you?

(9)  Do you ever rent a hostess to sing with you and play dice with? 

(10)  What do you normally drink there?  VSOP, White WIne, Beer, Red wine, JinJiu or something else?