That's amazing! You can go transcontinental in the USA for just 12,000 miles and five bucks tax? I have never looked at M&M domestic US awards, so that's interesting to know. Makes sense to just go in Business, although that wouldn't get you lounge access in the US. That much I know.
Change of subject, but referring to M&M award tickets: if I am on a 1st class ticket transiting FRA and connecting onto Thai Airways, would I be allowed access to the First Class Terminal? Or is the FCT reserved for LH passengers only, so even TG 1st pax don't get in?