The difference between the M fare and the P (discounted first class fare) is always low. For example, on a RT from IAH to EWR, the M fare could be $1400 and the discounted P fare was $1500. For $100 you get to sit in FC *and* you get 50% miles and PQM bonus. Hard to beat.
When you buy the M fare, wait till the ticket is actually issued in M class. Then you can either upgrade online to P or you can call United. If you change within 24 hours, there will be no fees other than the fare difference.
The difference between the M fare and the P (discounted first class fare) is always low. For example, on a RT from IAH to EWR, the M fare could be $1400 and the discounted P fare was $1500. For $100 you get to sit in FC *and* you get 50% miles and PQM bonus. Hard to beat.
When you buy the M fare, wait till the ticket is actually issued in M class. Then you can either upgrade online to P or you can call United. If you change within 24 hours, there will be no fees other than the fare difference.
OK, just ignore my answer. Did not read question carefully and did not realize this was an int'l flight. This strategy works for domestic flights where differences in M and P fares are small. I will leave this to others who have more experience with int'l market.