Original Message

I commuted for 18 months to SE Asia out of the west coast.

Usually with Korean or Asiana but sometimes China Eastern if the price was right.

Any foreign carrier, even China Eastern, is light-years ahead of US carriers for service and alcohol.

I'd take the Pacific route instead of via the ME.

Look at PAL or Malaysian for good cnx down to Indo as well. Avoid Garuda.

Pro-tip: Look at a foreign based FF program for easier status and better perks when in the US.