Hello. I'm looking to get started with collecting points but really don't know where to begin. All these tier programs etc... are a complete mystery that I would like to better understand.

- what is your definition of best?
I don't know.
- do you value miles/points (or equivalent) for redemption over gaining status?
I'm not sure what "status" affords me...
- do you fly enough to gain any meaningful status?
This is something I would like to better understand. I travel from Montreal to Europe 4-5 times a year...
- what do you want to use the miles/points for (award, upgrade, hotels, what ever)?
Upgrades yes. Hotels no.
- what sort of flight award is of interest (destination, class of travel)?
Class of travel.
- are you interested in topping up by paying cash for miles?
Not really.
- which airline and where do you normally fly?
This is something I'm trying to figure out. My options are: Air Canada, British Airways, Lufthansa, Air France, KLM. I have mostly used BA in the past, but don't have a strong preference one way or another.
- are you primarily a leisure or business traveller?
Business.
- where do you live?
Montreal, Canada.
- do you have other ways of earning points in the various programs, e.g. credit cards, shopping, etc,?
I will consider optimizing my credit card usage if there is an obvious way to do so.