Hi there. First post here. I live in Philadelphia and plan to travel Bangkok twice a year ( actually Laos ). Because I am now retired, it is highly likely going to be a yearly routine.

Because of the distance ( exactly halfway around the world ), what Airline should I start using and establish a relationship with for this route?

I am currently on the AA program from my last trip this past April, which is not bad, but they don't cater to the Asian market that much. I currently have around 50K bonus miles with them. I plan on using that this fall and pay for the difference to Asia. After that, my balance would be zero.

It is not that often that I would be staying at major brand hotels either because of the cost, even in Asia. My main goal is to accumulate miles and use them for future free flights.

Any suggestions would be greatly appreaciated.