Originally Posted by number_6
AC club access is allowed for AA Plats if flying internationally that day, so he would have access at LAX prior to boarding the flight to Australia. He won't have access while flying AA in the US/Canada/Mexico/Caribbean (AA's definition of not international). I agree that AA Plat challenge is the best way to maximize miles, but for RTW it is really more cost-effective to buy D instead of L considering how many hours of plane and airport time it entails. You gain a day at your destination by being in better shape after the plane.
Thanks for clarifying the LAX lounge. That will make it worthwhile. I had in my mind that Plats only got lounge access if flying J or F internationally, but my brain is mush at this end of the week
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As for D vs L, some of us can't affort to pay 3 x the fare price, especially if for leisure. I will consider it if I can claim the price difference as a tax deduction if the trip is for business, but if not, then my holiday budget is better spent enjoying my destination rather than enjoying getting there.