Originally Posted by
kmoodus
I have 134K miles on United (transferrable to CO, presumably useable for other Star Alliance). .Want to travel with friend from any NYC airport to just about anywhere in Europe, but I can only travel departing around Aug 5-6 returning Aug 13-14. Have called both airlines multiple times and keep getting disconnected while on hold; UA site keeps showing no availability whatever cities/dates I put in.
It seems you have enough miles for 2 award tix in economy.
Generally speaking, flexibility yields the best result w/r/t award redemption. However, you don't seem to give much room in this department.
Also bear in mind that you are aiming to fly to Europe this Aug and summer is a high season. You are essentially competing with those who have enough miles and are planning for a Europe visit/vacation/tour/getaway. Like others' said, savvy FTers start this planning process very early on, sometimes 330 days out. I would say you probably start too late this time.
Keep trying using different tools and calling airlines for possible options using partner redemption. You might be lucky even though it doesn't look good. Chances are you probably won't get to use your miles to Europe this Aug.
Good luck and welcome to FT!