Just the thread I was looking for. PDX based as well and just started concentrating on miles & points. The community's experience and wisdom are greatly appreciated.

I currently have AS MVP and UA Silver (left over from my east coast days).

2012 had me fly mostly Denver west locations (SFO, SJC, LA area, SAN, DEN, SLC, PHX, YYR, etc) with a few east coast & mid-west trips thrown in there. I am on track for about 60-70 segments in 2012 split between AS and UA evenly but barely 60-65K total miles flown.

I enjoy the few perks MVP and Silver provide but Gold seems like a significant step up.

What can I do better in 2013 if I am anticipating a similar year in order to maximize miles and status?
AS and UA seem to have the most nonstop flights from PDX but I'm open to other airline suggestions for 2013.

Vacations spots on the dream list are Hawaii, South/Central America (Costa Rica, Brazil, Colombia, Argentina), and Europe (I know that's broad but we haven't nailed down locations and dates yet). Asia at some point.

Thank you all for your advice in advance!