These boards are full of tips and tricks that help maximize what we get from our travel experiences. Like many others, I read many posts, filing away snippets of information that might prove useful someday. Some of my mantras include "weekend flights to Asia are harder to upgrade"; "choose 747s, which have more upgradeable seats than 777s"; and "call and make sure upgrade space is available before booking a ticket".

I blithely ignored these good advices when I booked a trip to Asia for the fall. Sometimes it's hard enough to get the basics done, without making sure every i is dotted and t is crossed. This was one of those situations. I had been putting off the purchase for months before I finally forced myself to pull the metaphorical trigger. After the deed was done, I called the 1K desk with some trepidation.

Lori_Q: I'd like to upgrade an itinerary using systemwides, please.
1K Desk: What's the record locator?
Lori_Q: alpha bravo charlie, delta echo foxtrot.
1K Desk: [tappity tappity tap, pause pause pause] I don't believe it. All segments cleared.
Lori_Q: All the way to Singapore???
1K Desk: Yeah! What's your seat preference?
Lori_Q: Window bulkhead!
1K Desk: [tappity tappity tap, pause pause pause] How about 1A, 8A, 6H, then 6A, 8A, and 1A?
Lori_Q: [perform "The Snoopy Dance"] I am stunned. That never happens!

It is better to be lucky than smart.