Thank you for the replies. For this trip the 1/2 credit won't be that big of a deal. I have already qualified for gold next year and won't have a chance at anything above that. The IRROPS always concerns me, especially when traveling in the winter. We won't know for sure if we can take the trip for another month. I am just now researching my options and for $240 difference, it is very tempting to try basic economy.