Congratulations Chris! Always interesting to hear your points strategies. I got married last year and did a similar honeymoon booking using a combination of points and offers. The only way!

Great comparisons Chris. I've only flown EY and QF (A380 in J) so I can't speak for the rest, but overall I found EY a far superior product and experience. Most notably the hard product (greater privacy, better bed, huge TV screen). However I found the QF crew much more friendly and less 'stiff' ...

Hi Chris. Do you know if lounge access is given to those flying United First Class to domestic locations other than San Fran and LA? 

Good move by VA, especially with the upgraded meals. I've flown QF premium economy and their meals are a step above VA's premium offerings. 

Great review. Food is definitely top notch as it the beverage selection. Agree with other comments that hard product in desperate need of upgrade - which is not too long away.