Looking for advice: flights to Europe

[gvix]

Hey all,

I have a business trip coming up in August to Europe (either Munich or Vienna) from Brisbane. My company will pay for Y and I am trying to figure out which Airline to book with so that I can finally put my AMEX rewards points to good use by upgrading my Y to J.

Not having done this before, I was wondering if the members here can help me make a decision on:

* Which airline to book with to maximise my chances?
* Tips and tricks for scoring a guaranteed upgrade (if possible)

Thanks!

 

[RooFlyer]

Which airlines do AMEX MRs convert to?

Do you have status on any of them?

 

[gvix]

Which airlines do AMEX MRs convert to?

Do you have status on any of them?

I don't have status with any of them at the moment (I used to be Star Alliance Gold at one point.. sadly lost that 2 years ago). I can get United's silver in a jiffy though, as I am Marriott Platinum, if that helps.

Amex MR convert to Qantas, Thai, Emirates, Etihad, Virgin, Enrich, Singapore and Asia Miles. Full list here: Membership Rewards® Travel Partners

 

[NZflygirl]

Which airlines actually fly to your destination because QF and VA don't. Or are you allowed to fly to nearest airport then hop a train or short flight to actual destination (more flexibility).
Do you have enough points to cover upgrades?
Are you wanting to upgrade all legs?

 

[gvix]

Which airlines actually fly to your destination because QF and VA don't. Or are you allowed to fly to nearest airport then hop a train or short flight to actual destination (more flexibility).
Do you have enough points to cover upgrades?
Are you wanting to upgrade all legs?

Hey there. Emirates, Etihad, Cathy, Thai and Singapore do fly to my destinations. And yes, I can fly to the nearest airport and then get on a train/bus. I do have enough points to cover upgrades and really just want to upgrade the longest leg.