So, disclaimers up front...I am DL Plat/AA Plat and spend a lot of time helping others on those boards...so now comes my request for help from you all.

A buddy and I decided to go to mexico in January and are looking at flights from SEA to ZIH. He actually has gold status on NW, though he doesn't much understand how to use it (last night he commented "lately they seem to upgrade me more than they used to, but I never know when or why").

Anway, now the questions.

Do complimentary upgrades include Mexico?

How do partner upgrade requests work?

If high-end coach fares are upgradeable at time of ticketing, which fare classes are included? (i.e. is it just Y or does this extend to YBM?)

Do WP upgrades work as well on Continental (i.e. is the success percentage the same for WP members on NWA and Continental? I can't believe it would be..)

The short story is what is your best advice for trying to upgrade travel from SEA to ZIH ??

Thanks SO much in advance...

Jarrett