Finally managed to get around all the restrictions, unavailable days, etc., and actually use some of my frequent flier miles. Have to fly 1000 miles out of the way but will get to Madrid for a total of $77.00US. Not bad.

Looking forward to several weeks on the Peninsula.

44

That's not bad, considering all the restrictions. Shame they make it so hard to use those miles after spending so much money with their company. I think I've only had one (maybe two) fully-paid (except for some taxes, maybe) Frequent Flier trips in my life.

And we're looking forward to seeing you again in Spain, admiral44!! Hope all is well with the book sales.

Saludos, MadridMan

MadridMan,

Thanks for that. Things are going very well.

All the best to you and your family.

Will be in touch as the voyage approaches.

44

The Wife and I have been very lucky, she's a member of Miles and More (Lufthansa) and never had a problem booking peak season flights. Generally the earlier you book the better the flights and you have to call, booking online doesn't get the same flights.

Wow. Congrats on that. I use an American Express "Blue Sky" card and earn points towards flight credit. The good thing about the card is that there are no blackout dates or anything like that -- you can use your credit towards any plane ticket you purchase with the card. The bad thing is you have to spend over 7,000 bucks to earn a $100 credit.... Still, I've used it to get a little money off my flights.

Our flight to and from Spain was mostly covered to VISA travel points - book any flight, any agent, any time. It's great. I'm booking the hotels thru them now too - and get 9 times the points! Maybe my NEXT trip to Spain will be covered too (I'm anticipating that this won't be my FIRST trip).