How to get the most from Asian frequent flyer programs

What's the fastest way to earn air-travel mileage rewards toward flights to Europe or a new toaster? Rather than fishing through 10 different membership cards at the check-in counter, air miles users should pick one program that suits their needs.

Why Join?: Lifestyle benefits
Asia Miles has by the far the largest and most diverse number of program partners. Regional carriers participating in Asia Miles include Air China, Cathay Pacific, Dragon Air, Japan Airlines, Vietnam Airlines, Jet Airways and China Eastern. Newshounds can earn substantial miles when they subscribe to the "Financial Times" or "The Economist," while spa junkies can indulge themselves while earning credits at the Institut Clarins. Asia Miles customers can also use iShop to earn miles when buying an iPhone from Apple Japan.

Insider tip: Hong Kongers and Canadians can use the Cathay Pacific American Express Card to accrue Asia Miles. Since Cathay Pacific is a Oneworld alliance program member, Cathay Pacific's "Marco Polo Club" is also a good way to earn flights on Quantas, American Airlines and British Airways for trips abroad.

Why Join?: Hotels
Thai Airways’ frequent flyer program, Royal Orchid Plus, is the only regional program to partner with the “Leading Hotels of the World” association, which represents 450 properties worldwide, including the One&Only Resorts in Asia. In addition, program members can earn miles by staying at luxury regional hotels from Sofitel, Mandarin Oriental, W Hotels, Langham Hotels and InterContinental Hotels Group.

Insider tip: Use Royal Orchid Plus miles towards a Royal Orchid Holiday package in Asia or elsewhere to take advantage of both their hotel partnerships and discounted airfares.

Why join?: Airline partnerships
Singapore Airlines' mileage program, KrisFlyer, has become a powerhouse, with partnerships with Air India, SilkAir, Virgin Atlantic and Star Alliance. KrisFlyer is the choice for earning miles with many different regional carriers, including Air China, Asiana Airlines, Thai Airways and ANA.

Insider tip: Star Alliance Gold members with the KrisFlyer program can access any Star Alliance lounge worldwide with up to one travelling companion. KrisFlyer also has co-branded credit cards with American Express in Singapore, Hong Kong, India, Japan, Malaysia, and Taiwan, allowing members to earn miles while shopping.