I think the best way has to be choosing an airport like BKK or NRT to get as far as your alliance will get you, then consider buying jetstar tkts or similar on site.
we went to both BKK and Bali in the fall end Sep-end Oct dates but used Skymiles on Korean to connect from DL destinations. (NRT/ICN) With NW routes merged, it will be easier but more people vying for seats
(avoid all hoidays liek Chinese New Year, Golden Week and major convention times)
I got some good advice from UA frequent nonrev--staff travel is the term they use. TG is major stickler for listing, exact/correct zeds, and more regs. You must list 4 hrs advance on most Asian carriers (they don't do much staff travels--mostly westerners) TG will only change a listing--they will not allow agents to list you--you must list via phone. there are so many details I had to save/print them for my travel folder
Hope those bits help.
we're shooting for SEAsia this fall, but maybe just HKG/N Thailand/Cambodia