Why limit yourself to one frequent flyer program? Why not obtain the Stardwood American Express card which would give you more options when planning your trip?

If you go the route of the Continental credit card when you're ready to make your reservations you will be limited to CO and their partners. If you were to obtain the Amex Starwood card you would then have the option of callimg almost any airline you choose (between the airlines in the Starwood program, and their partners you can go almost anywhere in the world).

As a bonus, or another reason for picking the Starwood Amex - when you transfer 20,000 points to any airline they give you a 5,000 point bonus.

Hope this helps.