I don't have to tell you how hard it is to use miles for international upgrades. The last time I tried, I could get a restricted business tkt for less than the price of the only upgradable (Y) coach ticket.

I want to use my ff miles (I have no elite / 1k status) to fly or upgrade from SBA to CDG . ( Actually, all I need is business upgrade on the outgoing transatlantic leg so I can get some sleep). Someone told me a good travel agent has connections not available to the rest of us that could help get better deals for business upgrades or even the holy business class ff award ticket. (I don't see how they make any money in such a deal)

What do you think? Any experiences?