Goldlust, why don't you try flying AC for the first time... Since you're asking for the benefits of Aeroplan Elite, have some consideration and fly the carrier once in your life.

"Cathay Pacific has a $500 cdn fare from JFK - YVR. Thats like $35us or something." Did you miss out the zero, or just trying to make us Canadians feel even worse about our sinking dollar? Sometimes it does seem like that's the exchange rate, though. Just one problem with that CX fare, it may not be eligible for AAdvantage miles unless you are a Canadian-based member. Double check before you book it.

Scott the Flyer told me about this in NYC last weekend. I'd like to join you all, but not certain of my schedule for mid-May yet, particularly as I will have just returned from two weeks in South Africa the week before. However, business could take me out there, as I have a major project with a Vancouver-based company, and another MHD [Mexican Hat Dance] might just be in order.