How does this deal with damage deposits? Why would I pay with bitcoin when many rewards cards pay out extra when you use them for travel-related use?
Honestly, the cynic in me says the use case for spending bitcoin is a quick way for speculators to "cash out" in a way that makes it easier to hide earnings from the tax-man.
Honestly, the cynic in you may say everyone buying a kitchen knife plans to cut a child throat, but that won't decrease the usefulness of kitchen knifes.
Damage deposits - not something Expedia does with credit cards or PayPal, hotels have to ask their clients for a credit card at check in.
Rewards - it's just a matter of time for Bitcoin rewards schemes to appear.
Honestly, the cynic in me says the use case for spending bitcoin is a quick way for speculators to "cash out" in a way that makes it easier to hide earnings from the tax-man.