Not really expecting an answer as this forum seems largely dead...
...but are there any tips for booking a Gold Circle hotel? There are two I'm interested in in Beijing (Hotel Jen and Shangri-La Kerry) and I'm wondering if it's worth booking direct or going through Booking.com / Expedia.
I have an Amex Platinum which apparently gets me Jade level membership, but aside from late checkout I'm not really seeing any advantages there as I was planning on booking a "club" room anyway.
Any suggestions?