Lax-can Help!!!
 

This is my first time flying to China and I need some help.

Looking to fly 10/12-13/2007 from LAX-CAN, returning on 10/22-23/2007. Anyone have any suggestions on this?

I have status with AA, so, looking to them first, but, because I have found the tickets to be so expensive, AA loyalty isn't on the top of my mind.

you can look to fly to hong kong or shenzhen and then take the train (1-2 hours). may possibly be cheaper, but who knows.

Yes you can take CX LAX-HKG and then go by bus as well as an alternative to train. Be sure to have you CX ticket booked in minimum "H" class to get the AA miles.

Another alternative is you can book CX for LAX-HKG and then connect to CZ HKG-CAN. CX has provided many agencies with special fares HKG-mainland add on fares where if everything is booked under one ticket in conjuction with a CX transpacific, you can get the deal. You would have to contact local agencies to book this though. Remember the key is to purchase H, B, or Y if you are traveling in coach. Of course any revenue biz or first booking class will get you the mileages as well.