So due to a last-minute ORD-NRT work cancellation, I find myself short of EXP by 16,000 EQM's. Therefore, I need an 8,000 BIS mile trip (w/ DEQM) to reach status. I'm basically free from Nov 29th - Dec 15th, and prefer a non-stop. I've an ORD-BRU and ORD-FRA on hold (will chose based on seat/hotel avail), both $820 or so which seems to be the best I can find. Both require a full overnight stay (e.g. leave Sat eve, return Mon).

I realize its late in the year, but $800 is a lot to Europe. I could do another ORD-NRT on my own dime for about the same price and a bunch more miles, but don't think I'm up to that (again) in Y. I haven't found or seen anything that is cheaper and can basically be done in a weekend. Are there better opportunities around? Thanks!