Up until just recently I left my th outside of the walls away from everything so it's easy to destroy. This gets you a shield and hopefully dont get your loot stolen.
Farming is just going after loot with not trying to beat the person. Usually can be done with inexpensive troops. Once you get higher you have no choice but to use bigger troops. I'm finally at a point now where it's difficult for someone to get me 50%. But usually happens once a week. Find a cup level where you comfortable stealing loot and stay there. I now hover around 2000. Once i get to 2100 i throw a couple to go back down.
Mike