hi wh6cto, tmelanio

thank you so much for the feedback! i am glad that you've done these routes before. i will definitely check out the silver kris lounges, hopefully they won't give me much trouble--actually all i am looking for is a place to shower and grab some food before having to turn around and head right back to the states!

thank you for the star alliance pdf--that is super useful and will be on my phone from now on (and already shared!)

tmelanio--unfortunately i am only gold so i doubt the transfer desk will do much for me... and not flying business or first. (ha! that's a good one)

a question for you guys--i don't need to check out when i get to singapore, right? i should just be able to hang around the terminals/lounges and then head right to the gate prior to departure? or do i need to actually go through customs and then come back in. i've never done mileage run internationally (except for san juan, and that didnt need custom clearance)

thanks for the tip for the sdc--i just looked and there are only middle seats left, but certainly something to consider in the future...

thank you guys again. much appreciated!

best
kcw