I just got back from using a 200k award to Palm Springs. Wow what a deal. Each airline is different. We flew NW and were given some certificates from Marriott and presented them to the city ticket office. I suggest you plan well in advance to match hotel and air reservations. I think the 200k award may be the best deal around. My only complaint with Marriott resorts is they do not honor the free breakfast for black ard holders.