Hi:

I am new to the forums and am thrilled to have found you. Here is my problem.

We want to fly from ORD to either Capetown or Johannasburg, South Africa using award miles (preferable business or first class). I have been reading the issues on the forums regarding lack of inventory, etc. I finally got an idea that might be the issue: THe FRA to CPT or JNB is actually flown by South African airlines ( a partner of Lufthansa but not UAL). Is it possible that one cannot use UAL miles for this last leg because it is not a UAL star alliance? I have checked the internet using many combinations and cannot find any award seats available as well as calling. NONE to be found.

Maybe this is a thought, can we "exchange" UAL miles for DELTA miles, then fly Atlanta - Capetown via South African Air? Is this possible? Is this smart?

Any help would be appreciated.

Thanks in advance.