Yes, the Shang in Shenzhen is below the average Shang quality level. It is walking distance from Lo Wu and that is the main attraction I suppose.

The GC is great for recognition, but there is very little reward in terms of clocking points. Competing hotel programs have regular promotions where you can earn free nites very fast. The 1000 miles that I get from GC in my MPC or WP are simply not much use. I have so many airmiles already, it is hotel points I need.

If I stay at a hotel 25 nites in one year all the staff know you and you can expect extra service in any hotel chain IMHO.