FF from Melb - Hamilton island? re May 05 changes...

[freakflyer]

Dear Gurus,

Points 70,000, Bronze

Planning a holiday from Melbourne to Hamilton Island in Sep 2005
Have 70,000 FF points, but finding the whole FF system changes in May confusing.
We are two adults and three children (3,7,9).
Is it better to redeem points and book flights now - from what I can gather it is 30,000 for return (so 2 flights). After May 2005 is 20.000 one way (three flights), and then do you book cheap Jetstar return flights? What are the taxes in this situation?
Hoping someone can help! Thanks in advance - freakflyer!!!

 

[Mal]

If you know your dates, then I'd suggest booking it Asap.

My reasoning:

1) As a bronze, you have limited award ticket availability. Both Gold and plat have better award ticket access -- so the flights you want may be gone by the time you want to book

2) I'm pretty sure the taxes will be higher on a three flight journey vs a two flight journey. I don't know the airports involved, but assume this would be the case.

3) It is possible that the fuel levy will go up again soon ... if you book now, you avoid that issue.

4) If you book before the award changes happen, then you'll get the cheaper flights even though they are after the change date.

If you have 70000 points, you may end up buying a flight or two. Don't know the finer details here, and not going to go pricing up the flights etc. If you purchase after May 25, then you have to buy flights back anyways.

 

[freakflyer]

Thank you very much! We'll get booking!