I'm looking to use my miles on oneWorld partner airline, Cathay Pacific. I have never flown on Cathay Pacific, in any class, anywhere.

The reservation agent told me that the only first class seat available within three weeks of my intended date is SFO-HKG flight #873, which leaves at 1:10AM. It's not that bad, so I just took it.

Here are a couple of newbie questions:

1. this appears to be a Boeing 744 flight, so which is the best first class seat for someone flying alone?

2. what meals are served on this flight?

3. is there a first class-only lounge at SFO/HKG and is it accssible for someone on a first class award ticket from a oneWorld partner airline program?

4. there is an alternative: YVR-HKG, 2:35AM flight also in first class.... is there any difference in service between SFO-HKG and YVR-HKG, as far as the "fist class experience" is concerned?

5. is Cathay Pacific's first class better/worse/equal to Japan Airlines? (since it's the same amount of miles for the same award) I have flown JL transpacific first class a few times... but it's not that special these days....

Thanks in advance for all replies.