When I first got to silver (after losing one of those nice corporate cards they used to issue), I passed my 30th segment on a flight connecting through HK. I went to the Wing,and they checked on the computer, and said, "Sure, come in, you're formally silver now." So, it may be that after your first flight to whereever you are going, you will already be silver, and can use the benefits for the rest of your trip. Happy flying!