Ultimately, I split the difference: since the last night is free on all Club Carlson
award reservations separated by at least one day, I booked our first two and last two nights in New Orleans at the Country Inn & Suites, and the middle three nights at the Hilton New Orleans / St.
Not exact matches
In this case, both directions were cash (just
separate reservations), but they could also include things like mixing a one - way
award and a one - way cash ticket.
You'll save 1,000 per round trip when you book two one - way
awards, well worth the few extra minutes of booking a
separate award reservation.
Then make a
separate reservation with miles for the 3rd ticket, provided there is
award availability on the flight.