Originally Posted by sbm12
First, it seems that each ST partner has their own way of putting together the RTW rewards. For instance, CO allows you to use VS, TP and AS as their partner airlines, even though they are not part of ST. I would assume that NW would probably let you use MH. DL might let you use El Al. I'm sure there are more. Certainly this makes things a bit more confusing from a planning perspective, but since most of us only have enough miles for the RTW on one carrier, at least we know which set of partners we're going to be using.
The one thing I learned is that 50% of what they tell you is incorrect. I would never have your plans set in stone until you have the tickets in your hand. Maybe you'll get lucky and find the agent that really knows their stuff, but I have yet to encounter such person (at least at NWA).
I really *wish* that I could ticket on MH for the NWA Skyteam award. That would make it much easier. They stick to the Skyteam members only strictly for these award tickets.
The First Class award is probably a bit of a mileage waster, since you won't be able to get such an award on many of the segments.
Do keep us up to date on what you actually ticket. I find that if you can get it ticketed, you're usually fine. When it's sent to the rate desk is when it's often kicked back.