Originally Posted by
joshwex90
So is it worth sticking with *A, or is this a time where I say, screw the miles and the elite benefits, fly OW (IB to BCN, IB or BA to LHR, BA to AMS, and LY [not OW, but codeshares with BA] back to TLV) or something along those lines?
Well, first of all I would avoid IB if at all possible. They are just sub-standard.
Secondly, I would personally stick to where you have elite status since you will be jumping so much in relatively short time - lounges in Europe are generally better than US lounges (free booze and often food).
How fixed are the cities you want to visit? Can you squeeze in Brussels instead of Amsterdam perhaps? or in addition?
Brussels is well worth a visit. It is a much under-estimated city because people usually think of boring EU politics when they hear Brussels. It's a great place for night life and the beer are some of the best in the world.
Also, Brussels will give you all the connections you want. Brussels Airlines have flights to BCN, LHR and TLV and they are Star Alliance.
When you are in Brussels you can reach Amsterdam in just 2½ by train (I know, I hate traveling without earning miles too) - remember not to carry any weed across the border when you go back
