Post #2 has probably the best strategy. ^ I don't think using WN points to travel international is a good use of points (too expensive).

Using AA, it's only 35K one-way on Economy MileSAAver award to PVG (so, basically 70K roundtrip). Also, there is usually good availability flying Cathay Pacific (using AA miles, they are both OneWorld Alliance) to PVG (with a layover in HKG).