thanks guys! the help has been outstanding! the reason I use LH is simple. being based in Germany it has the best conections out of my local airport the others are airberlin eurowings and turkish klm and airfrance. the rules I have to go buy is all EMEA flights (short haul). have to be economy. business is only allowed for long haul (+6 hours). which is RARE for me.

hotels well i can stay anywhere I want and using LHG was a simple suggetsion. price range is 80-120€. with exception to ome cities where that wont get you much ( im looking at you stockholm/copenhagen/helsinki). as you can see i have some flexibility and thought i would consult the pros on this.

the usage i would probably use the miles for longhaul vacations or upgrades/lounge access etc. and the points well a free night here or there would help the vacation budget.

again. you guys are awesome with the tips!