Originally Posted by
escapefromphl
Lowest Standard Rate: $296 Prepaid or $339 refundable.
Cash and points: 15,000 Starpoints + $275
Points: 25K points.
Hotwire: $180
Which would you choose?
Ultimately, what others might decide, based on their current points balance and ability to pay with cash, shouldn't sway you too much. It is about what *you* think works best for you.
Looking at your options above, remember that one of the advantages of a points booking is that it is effectively a cancellable booking. Some of your cash options will be non-refundable, are you sure you won't have to cancel, and if you do have to cancel, will it be for an insured reason (assuming you have travel insurance) ?
For a holding position, I might do the booking on points whilst I decide my final decision, at least that way you known you have a reservation. Who knows, closer to the time, that priceline/hotwire price might get cheaper (mid you, it might also get more expensive).