If you self book, why not use Travelers Advantage? You get a 5% rebate on all travel arrangements that you make through them. Air Car and hotel included. It costs me $4/month through my bank, but then again I spend thats paid for with one airticket.

You have to be patient with the booking agents, they're not the swiftest. But I found if I do the research and just tell them what to book, then it's a cinch.

%5 cash back to me, %5 back from using my GM card. It takes some of the sting out ot travelling too much.