Help to redeem MR points and maximize return

[MontegoMack]

I have about 150k MR points and I guess i just don't really know how to come out ahead of the game without just doing 1:1 Delta points (which is the airline I generally use). 

I don't even know where to start. Any ideas? Any advice?

[wasCB14]

Home airport(s)? Economy or premium seats? Possible destinations?

[MontegoMack]

I live in CT, so I can conveniently fly out of BDL, but BOS, JFK, or LGA are easy to get to as well.

I don't have a particular destination yet and I'm always a fan of a better-than-economy seat. 

Is converting to airline miles the most lucrative way or is a hotel conversion or gift card purchase my best bet? 

Is this done through the AmEx portal?

Is there timing that should be considered (i.e., are there promotions that are run?)

[wasCB14]

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@MontegoMack wrote:

I live in CT, so I can conveniently fly out of BDL, but BOS, JFK, or LGA are easy to get to as well.

I don't have a particular destination yet and I'm always a fan of a better-than-economy seat. 

Is converting to airline miles the most lucrative way or is a hotel conversion or gift card purchase my best bet? 

Is this done through the AmEx portal?

Is there timing that should be considered (i.e., are there promotions that are run?)

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I would discourage a hotel conversion. Hilton and Choice points aren't worth much, and as you want a premium airline seat, Marriott is likely an inefficient option.

For premium seats, direct transfers to frequent flyer programs are generally your best option.

Amex does run occasional  promotions on MR-to-airline transfers, and they can be very attractive. They might be for an extra 25%+ in miles...or maybe some status boost if you transfer some huge number of miles (maybe hundreds of thousands).

On the Amex website (in the MR section) look for links that say "Transfer Points" or "Link Loyalty Programs". You enter your frequent flyer info on the Amex website. You can then transfer points.