Just because these don't work, doesn't mean the program doesn't. I haven't been denied a reward I wanted as a Gold or as a Diamond. Once I had to phone the hotel directly (london in summer) but each time I have been successful. Hong Kong Conrad on short notice, Cancun during high season, Europe in high season etc.

Dalian Hilton seems to have lots of availability later on so maybe there is some kind of conference that has these rooms occupied. I know my experience in China is that, except for SARS, I often find the hotels full or close to full.