Thanks for all the helpful comments so far guys.

I registered with Aegean and but didn't have the option to select their program when updating my itinerary on the SAS website. I started to wonder was it more hassle than it was worth after that.

RE MelesMeles:
I'll be working in Dubai for the next year usually flying emirates as the connection times dont suite via frankfurt. Therefore i don't think CO will be of any benefit to me. On a side note, if i were to register for a program with United or CO which one should i choose before the merger? Cheers

RE Boraxo:
Usually i just spend my miles on a Business upgrade after purchasing Economy extra tickets for myself and the Girlfriend once a year. I kinda figure this was the best way to get value for my miles as it would take me years to get a full Business round trip anywhere!
Do you know if certain carriers require more or less miles for any upgrade ticket? Thanks for the input

On a side note, what alliance do ye think Aer lingus will join next year? If they go with star then its problem solved, however OW are the favorites at the moment. Can anyone recall what EI's FF program was like when they were in OW pre 2007?

Thanks again for all the info,

Japasca