Thanks for the replies, beachmouse and guv1976.

Where do I find about those market surveys that will help extend UA miles life? Or, may be I can transfer some miles (is there a minimum, otherwise I can just transfer 1 mile) from my account to wife & child's account....

Do AA miles expire too? If yes, is there a way to extend their life? Can I merge AA & US airways miles now that the two airlines have merged.

Since annual fee is due on AMEX Platinum (next month), I will probably cancel that card soon. Is it a good idea to transfer MR to a partner airline or just sell them?

Does anyone have a ballpark figure for the miles needed to travel to Hawaii from West Coast (SMF, SFO, SJC), even economy class is good.

I am saving my 218,000 United miles for a first class or business trip to India (for the 3 of us)..that is one dream I have after reading several trip reports and seeing amazing photos