I really envy all these upgrade tales in the US. As a frequent flyer in Asia with elite status at various points in time with Qantas, Ansett, Singapore Airlines and Cathay Pacific, I have to say that the number of "free" upgrades have been few and far between, say a 2 p.a average over the last 5 years despite averaging anywhere from 300 - 700 kms p.a. (60 - 100 flight segments approx) over this period generaly on Business Class. And when I mean elite, I mean elite as in Qantas Gold (the highest level), Ansett Diamond (the highest), PPS on SIA(need 5 years consecutive to make Solitaire, I am on 3rd), Marco Polo (just joined, will make Diamond before long). But then again, I guess the frequent flyer game is still young ou here. There aren't even that many affinity cards for the programmes out here.