Confused Young'n
 

I've just graduated from college and finally realized how much I've been wasting by not using a mileage program for the past several years.

That being said, in college I made perhaps 5 flights a year. I'm back into school, although language school in Beijing China, and I'd like to get into a mileage program. I plan to be here for at least two years, I'd probably fly back to either Houston or New York in the States.

I have a regular platinum AMEX.

Any thoughts as to programs or general advice?

Best,

William

I believe Continental flies direct from PEK to EWR...

If you don't mind a connection, I would recommend United.

Skyteam is opening a lot of flights to China these days. (NW, DL, CO, etc).

Star Alliance (UA, SQ, etc) has some flights as well, but probably more connections. I'd check pricing to the city you want to fly to, and join the program that gives you the best schedule/price, and benefits.

I'd check out www.itasoftware.com and do a general month-long search for best pricing. Also, I'd talk with other students, and see if they have a Chinese travel agent that they use. Sometimes ex-Asia you can find much better deals than from the US.

And welcome to FT, William sommers!