My husband and I secured return business awards on DL from JNB to NYC. We now need to secure (hopefully) award tickets to Cape Town. We are over 6.5 months out from the time of travel. All of the availability right now has odd routing, though I may book something to have it as one ways are quite expensive in a premium cabin. Any suggestions? We have starwood and Amex points to transfer basically to any carrier.

Am I too late, too early, or just right to start looking right about now? We only just secured our trip details.

Just wanted to add that my husband has some BA miles but not enough to get us anywhere. We missed the Amex point transfer bonus as we initially ruled them out due to the fuel surcharges ($700+ per ticket), but now kicking myself for not doing it.

Thanks!