I no longer try to master cities in the game; instead I just very selectively loot items. Since my goal is to build the strongest fighter I can. My attack is at 975, defense 805, with health of 275 and stamina of 75. Energy is at 1125. Once attack and defense are post-1000, I'll rethink where to put points. I have not put anything into energy in awhile, everything goes into attack and defense; extra bangkok skill points earned from mastering a job to open another level goes to either stamina or health. By tag-teaming with my looter, which has 2250 energy and no attack or defense of consequence, I am able to continue to increase stats with good stuff.
I find that I get more bang for my buck doing jobs for ubicjas or zolotos or overcoats than I do achieving the 4th level of Bangkok mastery for just ONE item at the end.
Just a different approach to the game.
That's the whole point of playing games is personal enjoyment! I don't think there is any correct way of playing the game, just way that brings you some amusement. That is the point of games, isn't it? Me, I live to kill.