Absolutely correct, never hurts to try. But when going from Africa over to South America, two different zones. I don't understand any of it. I have never spent more points for flights. But I think Marc is looking for something different here, one zone.

Come to think of it, I may have used Amex points changed to Delta for my last flights last month, but on Air France. All within Europe. That's where you luck out, on partner flights. Best just to email Ben or Gary. If they can't help, there is no charge, and they have access to more info than most of us. I am happy to pay them when they can do it.