Either for fun or for the miles, starting at $1,200 round-trip

That’s the Business Class deal American and Continental are offering to Brussels, London, Paris and a number of other European cities. Both American’s and Continental’s fares must be purchased seven days in advance (although these restriction swill likely change by the time you read this). West coast departures are $700 to $1,500 higher. Travel dates: Outbound Dec. 16-Jan. 5, 2007; return Dec. 23-Jan. 1 or Jan. 4-11, 2007.

Best Seats for the Money

American’s aren’t worth going out of your way for, relatively speaking. Neither are the ones offered on Continental’s B757narrow-body service to Europe. Instead, look for Continental flights serviced with a B777—as some routes offer both aircraft and you’ll be glad you did. Aircraft finder:http://www.continental.com/web/en-US/content/travel/inflight/businessfirst/default.aspx

Delta, Northwest, SWISS, United and US Airways Can Cost Twice as Much

These carriers’ tickets are $2,100-$2,800 and are available from many US cities. A seven- or 21-day advance purchase is required, with outbound travel valid Dec. 16 through Dec. 31.

Two-Minute Warning

Now’s the time to review your mileage statement to see if you are just one trans-Atlantic flight away from earning elite status for next year. But remember, if you fly back in 2007, those miles go toward 2008 elite status.

Making It Go Down Easy

While you may think jetting off to Europe for New Year’s is an extravagance, consider it in this light: If you take a $1,200 Business Class flight, you can comfortably earn as much as
20,000 miles total, with the class-of-service and elite status bonuses. In other words, the miles earned on this trip cover almost half of your next domestic First Class fare. Happy New Year!