almost unobtainable anymore. I used to be able to fly to Japan for roughly 50k - 70k miles. I quit checking after it hit 110k miles a few years ago. Now I just wait for fare sales. It's easier to manage.

Sure, I still book with my SkyMiles number, but I don't make accommodations for Delta schedules. If I can get a better flight or cost via another airline, I take that without worrying about miles. Also, the seats on Southwest are more comfortable to me. That being said, it was nice when there was a direct flight from SLC to Narita (Tokyo).