ElmurstNick:
In answer to your question:
1) No. You would have to travel LHR - JNB - HKG. After leaving Europe you cannot return.
2) Yes. If you simply transit LAX to South America you could add SA as a continent using your routing since 2 intercontinental departures are permitted for NA if SA is one of your continents.
HK,
1) 3 stops per continent with the exception of your continent of origination.
2) SIN - (HKG) - NRT is 2 segments whether you stop or not in HKG.
3) As of 1 week ago with a BA issued ticket there are no max transits per city.
rich
[This message has been edited by RichLond (edited 03-13-2001).]