anythursday

I have to fly to Asia early August. I usually fly via Cathay Pacific but this year, the fares are quite pricey. It's 2200CAD econ and 2900 PE. Lifemiles has a promotion with 140% bonus. I've never used LIfemiles but is it "worth it" to buy and redeem an EVA Business Class with 75,000?

gimmedub

what's the cost to buy the miles + taxes to redeem... as long as there's availability I believe you're good to go!

Tokyoite

worth is subjective. depends on how you personally value the merits/demerits of each option.

Purchase Cathay cash ticket:
Merits (some)
You can fly any day any flight you want without needing to have "availability".
You earn miles for the flight towards future redemption/status
Change/Refund/purchase process is very straight forward.

Demerits (some)
Cancel/refund charges
Cost (unless you hit a sale, or depart from a cheaper airport)
Limited to specific (= cheapest) airlines

Purchase Lifemiles ticket:
Merits (some)
Cheaper than outright cash, mostly for First class and one-ways
Many airline combinations are possible.

Demerits (some)
Availability for award flights
Wont earn miles for the flight towards future redemption/status
http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=1414380
http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=1445839