I've never done the frequent flyer thing before and I'm trying to figure it all out. I have a goal to get my family (me, husband and 3 kids) to Europe next summer (2007). It seems a bit daunting but other people have said they've done it . . . So I'm starting now. I've read the credit card sticky post. We don't fly very much at all (MAYBE one flight a year) so we're going to have to get all our points from credit cards (or at least as many as we can get).

I think I have decided to get the AA credit card for our small business - in my husband's name (I like the fact that he gets all the miles from the employees spending), I will get the AA credit card so I can get the bonus sign-up and then I think I will get the Starwood because everyone has said such wonderful things about it.

My first question is there something I'm missing? Where can I get more miles?

I don't really understand the whole partner thing with the airlines - American Airlines is partnered with certain airlines - when it's time to turn in the miles I can fly an any one of those airlines. Also, if I purchase a flight on these other airlines I can give them my AA frequent flyer number and get credit for the miles - correct?

I would love any advice or links to other posts that discuss things that would be of value to me. I just found this website today and I'm very excited - thanks!!