Thanks rustykettel . For #2 sounds good - I haven't had luck with online changes involving partners but will try to see what works. Really good to know about the limit of changes. I was not aware of that. On #4 that's an issue for a different kind of professional or internet forum I think safe to say the S/O's preference would be that I didn't enjoy premium cabins and flying on miles, and very much that I should prioritize more time away. But since the S/O's return itinerary is not great for me work-wise not exactly a fair scale there.