I was never refused at any Chinese hotel when I lived over there, even cheaper ones. However, it is true that this "we want to protect foreigners" line is hogwash. The Chinese government wants to know where all Chinese are at all times. The same with foreigners in China. It is the same with marriage in China. Marriage is promoted in China become family units are easier to track and control. It has nothing to do with "morals" or "culture". Same in Vietnam. I notice that a demonstration AFL match between Port Adelaide and Gold Coast was held in Shanghai at the weekend. Incredibly, 1800 police and security personel were in attendance. Alcohol was also banned inside the stadium, although Aussies outside the stadium were drinking beer. I wonder why foreigners still want to live in shit countries like China and Vietnam. There are much better places in Asia.