I need to travel - please choose my destination?

[PMS]

I need to take a few weeks' holiday, and was imagining some Europe and South America. Flights will cost 3-4k if I use Qantas, so I figure I may as we'll maximise my Status Credits (am gold, have 10 mths to accrue and re-qualify). How many credits can I get if I don't need to fly direct and am open-minded about my destinations? I need to be away for a few weeks between Dec 15 and Jan 15 (give or take a few days). I'd be keen to get some hot and cold weather.

Thanks kindly for any ideas. I guess I am asking for some Status run ideas where I actually intend to leave the airports and enjoy the break (post break-up). Haven't booked anything yet and am getting nervous I might be leaving it a bit late.

 

[docjames]

Depending on what you choose to do, a LONE4 might allow you to maximise segments (up to 16) and travel to a variety of places. The drawback will be low (relatively) SC earn (discount Y).

Alternatively, use some of the "known" value flights (eg. LA to AKL in J) then start the LONE from there (typically works out cheaper than starting from Aus).

Avoiding > 24hr stop in UK helps as it avoids significant taxes (depending on the next destination).

Other "optimising" alternatives might be AY to Europe, or JQ "business" class to Asia / HNL.

You could look at JQ J to HNL then use YUPP fares on AA in the US and visit a variety of places there if wanting to maximise SCs but again that's not where you've stated you want to travel (but provides the best SC "bang for buck").

How about LA to AKL then LONE4 from there.

AKL-SCL (stop)
SCL-EZE/AEP (Buenos Aires) (stop)
EZE-SCL-MAD (stop)
MAD-LHR-TXL (stop)
TXL-LHR-DXB (stop)
DXB-MEL-SYD

All these on LA / BA / QF.

Have a play with the oneworld website where you can plug in city combos if that's what you want to do.

 

[markis10]

Flights to Asia are good value over Xmas still, no need to spend above $1k flying MH for instance, and there are some very good opportunities to travel intra Asia racking up some good SCs in J, $300 for 160 SC for instance.