It's remarkable how you guys have this stuff at your fingertips !

The comparison of four one-way to two RT with stop-overs is instructive.

And -- it seems to go without saying that I should book now, and deal with cancellation fees if needed (about how much is that likely to be ?).

For best economy - one-ways seem best, and probably would be easier to book (plus spreads the point burning across several programs)

For comfort on long-hauls - it's tempting to consider the RT business seats for 30k extra points (although it burns through almost all my US Air miles)

{I guess DL is just not relevant here, and nobody knows what DL points will be worth starting 2015 ...}

I'm an average-size, middle-aged guy -- basically frugal traveler (nice hostels, cheap motels), but not into self-torture. Will business class make me a happier, better-rested person in this case ?

Thanks again for sharing your insights !