Are you planning for 2014? I asked the same question last year.. and got great advice but had lots of time to earn the points and shop for award tickets for Jan 2014.
Both husband and I got the United Mileage Plus Card 55k miles each and I also got the Chase Sapphire Preferred for 40k, then I picked up the Wyndham with 30k and transferred to United I believe it was 12k. We are traveling from the east coast with a stop over midway. Coach on all the flights going to Hawaii and First coming back.
So our flights are basically free.
We also picked up Marriott cards with 50k each and with them got a 5 night stay.
hope this helps.. I am sure the experts will get you timely advice.
oh also the Barclays' Arrival card ( if you can get it) will give you $400 or 40k pts for any travel related purchases.