I would avoid considering using a UA connection because of the extra Customs/immigration step in each direction. You don't have the same transit options that you have in non-North American airports: From FRA, you'd have to clear customs & immigration in the U.S., then do it again when you got to YVR. On the way back, you clear U.S. customs again (in YVR), then a 4th time when you get back to FRA.

Also, if "middle of November" includes the week of Nov 20th, you'll be travelling during the U.S. Thanksgiving holiday, which is one of the busiest air travel times in the U.S. You increase the risk of delays, ultra-full flights, etc. (Canadian Thanksgiving is in early october.)

[This message has been edited by wideman (edited 10-27-2000).]