Has anyone found the best way to get returns on VAT for lodging, drinks, shopping, etc?
For lodging and drinks -- there are no VAT refunds. I am assuming by "drinks," you mean drinks you're consuming on-site at a restaurant, cafe, bar, etc.
VAT refunds are only for goods that you will take with you when you depart the EU and by their very nature, lodging and on-site food/drink consumption are services consumed on-site.
For shopping, follow the Czech instructions. The total price of goods purchased at one retailer in one day must be more than 1000 Czech koruna (about US$43 at today's rates), you must get the appropriate paperwork from the retailer, apply for the refund when you are departing the EU, and if requested be able to show the goods (to prove that you are taking the goods with you on departure).
(There are different rules for VAT refunds while on business travel, but I am assuming you are a tourist/visitor).
to elaborate, only items that you remove from the EU, in this case, completely unused and in original packaging, preferably with the original seal, and over a limit which varies from country to country, and with the forms issued by vendors who participate in the plan, and must be claimed at the last point you leave the EU. If you travel to Germany with the goods you haven't left the EU yet and if Berlin or Munich or Frankfurt are your point of departure from the EU, that's where you declare and claim the VAT.
Unless you are making significant purchases it usually isn't worth the hassle.