Originally Posted by
aarif1
I hope it's ok to create a new topic for this; all the existing threads seem fairly specific to the OPs.
I've never used rewards miles to fly anywhere, so I'd like some advice on my first attempt. I currently have over 80k Continental Onepass miles, and hope to have 75k or 150k AAdvantage miles (I think I just made it in on the Citi offers).
My family is planning on taking a trip to Islamabad (ISB) next year, probably some time around March. My family will be traveling there separately from me, but I was hoping to use CO miles to get there (one ticket, possibly on Turkish, or possibly on a United partner like Emirates), and use AA to get back with my family (up to three tickets, on Etihad or Gulf). My dates are pretty flexible, but I'd like to stay there for around 2 weeks.
Now, how likely is it that there are even tickets available for this itinerary? Also, how early should I try to book these tickets? Our plans are still tentative right now, but I should have a solid range of dates soon(ish).
Any specific help or general advice would be appreciated.
My general advice is to look at Continental's award search (ok engine), ANA's award search engine (much better), and at British Airways search engine (difficult to use but does the job). You'll get better advice in the specific forums but do indicate where you are traveling from also.