Basically, you are looking for RT TATL in C for circa $2k
I assume you are aware of the regular mile sales that US run. miles sell at 1.9C US and you can usually buy 100k per person which gives you enough for TATL C (or some much better options to other parts of the world). See some of the threads in the US forum for more details.
Actually, no, I'm not aware of this, except that I'd read this thread which hinted about it:
http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/star-...-alliance.html
I was going to ask questions there, but it seemed as if there was hesitation in that thread to provide too many details. I'll take a look at the US forum, but if anyone wants to share anything via PM, feel free.
Would this suggest that I should start accruing all my flight miles to US? I have hesitated doing that since I cannot top up US with AmEx MR points, whereas I can do so for AC or SK, and I also have an SK MasterCard on which I earn some EuroBonus miles. But I'm all for optimizing my ability to fly C at the most reasonable cost.
I usually like to book an upgradeable Y fare, and upgrade with miles because then I also earn miles on that trip, but if I can buy miles and get a C award for about the same price as an upgradeable Y fare (usually $2,000 - $2,500), I'm all for it! I guess the only challenge will be finding the awards for the flights and dates I want when that time comes.
Cheers!
Susan