Airlines on recent trip
 

I am trying to use up my United miles and have just returned from my first of my last two trips to accomplish this goal. This trip only affirmed my decision. United planes are old, flights were late and amneties did not match the other airline we took-SAA. Although the personnel did their best and worked hard,the return flight home was only adequate. The SAA flight, although not as full,provided more services, amenties and help.

If you like to fly Star Alliance airlines but don't need status on United, then British Midland or Lufthansa (the latter only if you fly paid business or first) are better places to save your miles. You don't need to fly these airlines: just stick your miles there, as they are much easier to redeem.

It's not going to be easier to redeem miles on a UA flight with partner miles than using UA miles. In general, they come out from the same bucket.

Yes, but the OP doesn't want to redeem on a UA flight--he wants anyone but United. Try booking LAX-LHR on Air NZ with United miles, then try doing it with BD or LH miles. United blocks many of the seats available through Starnet, the others don't.

BD also has cool miles+cash options and 1-way awards.

Yes, that makes sense. Thanks for the clarification.