Thanks for the tips everyone.
I had to book due to very high loads / sold out flights. The options were disappearing very quickly. Apparently, Asia is very popular for spring break.
I got a flt from SDF-DTW-NRT-GUM on NW in WBC. The routing through NRT was recommended by other associates who have traveled there. I think I've read various things here about the 744. I also booked my stay at the Marriott.
Any comments are welcome.