Hi all, I am completely inexperienced in FF programs but I have lately started to accumulate URs on my Chase that can be transferred to UA. I am wondering if the most effective way to obtain United status as a casual traveler. As mentioned I am building up miles with CCs and I enjoy international travel. I wish to go back to Asia (Japan/China) as well as visiting Turkey/Greece. Being based in NY obviously this is a decent chunk of flying, but I am wondering if I should structure my travel in a specific way to maximize miles earned in the most cost effective way. For the long haul international flights is it possible to buy the base ticket and then use the miles to upgrade, while still receiving the miles for traveling? The international flights in coach are just brutal. Other flights I have planned at the moment are NY to LAX. Would another airline program be better? It seems like United covers most the destinations I wish to visit. Thank you.