Originally Posted by Tax Dude

That's the key for me - how many Aeroplan miles do you have? Even though it's been limited in recent years, IKK is still the best SE benefit to me.

Going to Africa with AC on a Flex ticket will still require a long flight in economy after a European connection though, won't it? I'd be inclined to do Canada-Europe, upgrading on Flex then Europe-Africa on points in J. Then a quick trip somewhere in December to get your SE.