Definitely read, read, read here at Flyer Talk. I've gotten quite a traveler's education here and the FTer's are wonderful with answer all your questions- from simple to complicated.
I've also learned so much from
www.dansdeals.com -- how to get more miles by moving around credit cards, points and mileage programs available and how that all works, and crazy low fares that have just popped-up somewhere. His trip reports and how he achieved that trip are just amazing. (no connection to them, just have gained a lot from the sight)
Good luck and happy travels!