Unterwegs,
That single flight number to Sydney comes and goes and depends on who you talk to. It is NEVER enforced by Cathay, but always by BA in my experience. Others I am sure have different experiences.
The two transfer rule keeps coming up, but was not enforced when I bought my last ticket (2 weeks ago), so I wonder who has this rule.
Also you got lucky since you seem to have two intercontinental arrivals in Europe (CHI-FRA-LON-CPT-LON-BUD) which is completely against the rules unless you originate from certain parts of Africa. However, you are not alone, as others I know have gotten this exception approved and ticketed.
Darren,
Hope you have a great trip. Did you buy First in the end? When are you heading over to London. I will be there for Presidents day weeeknd.
rich
pps. The SEZ origination continues to drop with their currency. Now at 6.4 to the dollar and a 6Con FC under 6K!!