Still about $100 more expensive. I think it was because of the specific flight to a small airport. The other sites like travelocity and expedia also had higher rates. I did an extensive search. I will add btctrip.com to my list though. Thanks.
Are you including things like rent and bills in "spending"?
I currently have no rent and bills (living on a military base) but next month when I get out I will add that to my routine. It will encourage me to get a cheaper apartment instead of getting too greedy.
I will use bitcoins as much as possible, mainly because I enjoy how easy it is to spend compared to filling out a form with my credit card information.
As for how I can afford it. I'm single. I am just finishing 20 months in Afghanistan as a defense contractor making a lot of money working 12 hour days, 7 days a week. I spent most of those 20 months putting all of my money into bitcoins (after I paid off all credit cards and other debts). Now I head to Germany where my company will give me money toward housing. I have downsized my life to be able to fit all of my belongings into a carry-on bag and a backpack. I don't plan on spending a lot on material items unless I absolutely need it or don't care about donating it when I'm done with it.