Hello everyone! I am new to flyer talk and have been learning a lot from different threads. I am planning to visit central Asia with a group of three late next year. I wanted to get advice from the experts here.

I have 100k+ Southwest RR and some 50k+ Marriott rewards and Marriott Platinum status. From what I have learnt, this is not going to be much useful for international travel (even with UA Silver status match to MR plat).

So far, it looks like buying LifeMiles when they offer 100% bonus and using that for the Star Alliance flight redemption seems like the best deal. Avianca is showing 64k miles for round trip in the economy class.

Is there a better way to get the points and/or a better award redemption to central Asia? Also, is there a way to upgrade to Business by spending points or earning elite status?