Originally Posted by
1kBill
I believe that a RTW ticket requires a minimum of three "stopovers". I also think that current RTW Star1 fares ex-USA are about US $4,500 for Y, but travel to OZ may entail more miles that Star1 permits (and therefore, more $$$.) Economy RTW tickets book into M class, which is fairly high on the pecking list, so more likely to be available when she wants versus the really low fare buckets.
I recently priced a B fare LAX-MEL that came in around $3,500. It allowed changes, but carried a cancellation fee of $100 but only if cancelled prior to travel. It was non-refundable once travel began. A business class R/T D fare was an astounding $10,400!
She/you might look into purchasing two one ways tickets, unless she wants to decide to return at the last minute.
Yes the RTW does require 3 stops, the fare I listed was vaid and priced with the RTW tool, the stops are SYD, LHR, IAD and was business all the way (with upgrade possibilites to F), RTW trips to SYD are a much better deal than non-stops if you have time, or a need to visit other contries as well.