Thank you for advice. I will also look into packages. I hadn't done so, since wanted to look into renting apt and not yet sure how many nights each place. Been checking ITA Matrix, but really mad at self or not getting that low fare, with great flights, short travel time, etc. Now seeing mostly secondary airlines, etc. especially since EWR is about $200 less car ride than JFK each way.
Also, thought about 1 tix revenue and 1 award, but only higher level awards left. I am going to try wait 1 more week, maybe see if 3/1 does anything, then just buy. Last year, AMEX offered 30% miles discount return on my Africa flight. That was great!