Originally Posted by
monahos
NH's award program takes some time to master, but has some sweet spots as it is distance-based, although it requires roundtrips, which is not helpful for limited amounts of miles.
Actually, NH is now region-based for partner flights. But it is my go-to for the Star Alliance precisely due to a reasonable award chart. You do have to pay attention to the hard mileage expiry, but transferring SPG points is precisely how I get enough for awards...
Alaska Airlines is probably the best SPG transfer partner for novices based in North America. Thanks to partnerships with a bunch of different airlines, it offers a lot more variety in terms of award options (as long as you are going to/from the U.S.)
But again, the best bet is to use hotel points to stay in hotels...