Thank you! Super helpful and noted on the upgrade strategy - always wondered, and good I know now! Will just book directly with Miles or otherwise with cash.

Unfortunately can't reposition for the homebound trip (going for medical reasons) - not sure why going back to AMS is so expensive from TX in April next year. Would be great to see a few dates with better rates. Will keep an eye on it!

And yes, there are some attractive fares (about 2000 - 2500 return) to both Houston and Dallas - so if need be we can just book with cash if it's good value. Would of course prefer not to.