Originally Posted by Gardyloo

I'm going to let this post stand for the time being. Yes, cross-posting is against FT rules, but inasmuch as you're shopping between alliances and have the ability to transfer into various FFPs, it's understandable that you might do so.

The reality however is that it's really the airline-specific boards where you're likely to get the best help, not the alliance boards. Availability using one airline's miles is not the same as using another's - that can only be ascertained by looking at the specific airline's redemption rules and availability.

Given that only two Oneworld airlines fly into CPT (BA and QR) you're probably best using BA's website to look for availability, as it will also show various carriers for the transatlantic portion too.

As you have Starwood points, I'd also look at Alaska Airlines (not an alliance member) for possible routings via the Pacific on Cathay Pacific. Alaska's redemption rates for premium cabins on CX to JNB are quite favorable. Alaska also now allows "mixing" partners on award flights, so you could go, for example, from JFK nonstop, or connect via O'Hare or Vancouver or LAX/SFO to Hong Kong, then on to Joburg, then on BA/Comair (BA's South African affiliate) down to CPT. Worth looking at anyway.