Aside from the TPE flights (which will be 3-4 times a year, tops), I can just fly Air China, earn United miles, and go from there.

I wish Air China were in the Star Alliance -- then I could use United miles to upgrade on Air China. Actually, I hope Air China buys Cathay Pacific, then Air China joins Star Alliance, then Cathay becomes part of Star Alliance, then United allows upgrades on Cathay using United points.

What's that, 6 months away? 12? tee hee..