I have the opportunity to take a "quick vacation" at the end of this year. Here is a proposed itinerary:

1. GCM-MIA-MAD [via AA]
2. MAD-LHR-SYD [what is the best routing?]
3. SYD-LAX [via QF]
4. LAX-MIA-GCM [via AA

The AA RTW desk advises this trip is 4 continents (???) because of a required refueling stop on the LHR-SYD segment in Asia, despite the fact that it is a single flight number (BA or QF) from LHR to SYD.

I was also considering changing this from economy to business but it's starting to get a bit pricey for a vacation. Meanwhile, it seems that RTW fares vary depending on country of origination. For example, in Canada, business class is only $1000 more than the USA economy ticket and $1000 less than ex-USA business. I have no problem originating this trip from YYZ and would welcome any suggestions.