Hi guys,
been lurking for a while, usually to pick up extra points here and there when I can. A little about myself I'm a recent college graduate. I have my first adult job working for a financial institution. I've worked very hard to start my financial future. A credit score around 740-720 (CKarma and CSesame). I have a Chase Slate, United Mileage Ex, Freedom and Amex Premier Gold (newest)

This year I want to surprise my girlfriend with a trip to Europe. She's been so supportive of my this last year and dealing with me and cramming for my securities licenses. Its always been her dream to visit and I really want to make this happen. I'm pretty sure I will have enough cash by August to make this happen but earning some points along the way to help would be great and allow me to spend money on other things to make the experience even better.

Right now I have 67k of UA miles. Amex I will have 25k sign up bonus MR with an additional 3k+ that I spent in the last two months.

1) Which one should I be concentrating on Amex or UA
a. better points conversion
b. more options in terms of partner airlines to choose from
2) Is there anyway I can somehow transfer from Amex to Canadian Air (I think thats the one in Star Alliance) to UA.
3) Any information on earning points quickly and cheaply would be very much appreciated.