I would still recommend Rewards China as a way to go to China for the first time. The guides were terrific. It's true that the official trip includes many stops at government-sanctioned retail outlets. Our trip included scheduled stops to learn about (and optionally purchase) jade, fresh-water pearls, silk, herbal medicines, and tea. Our main criticism would be that too much time is allotted for the purchasing part of these stops and the "free lunch" provided is nondescript, "Panda Express" food. We would have enjoyed more opportunity to experience the real food of China. Whichever tour company you use, you may want to look into opting out of the government stops or optional added events to do some exploring on your own. On the other hand - while in Shanghai - several of us expressed an interest in riding the maglev train rather than shopping, and our guide arranged for the bus to take us to the station, purchased our tickets for us, and made it happen.