I have 160,000 BA miles. I am looking at using them to fly LAX-BKK on Cathay Pacific next year. It's 100,000 miles to fly in business and 150,00 in first class, I believe. I would expect higher taxes in first class as well.

I have never flown on Cathay Pacific. Is it worth the extra 50,000 miles and extra taxes to fly in first class instead of business on the LAX-HKG leg? I think HKG-BKK would be in business class (only two classes of service) in any event.

What is the main difference between first and business? I've seen photos showing private looking first class pods. It also appears that the seat folds into what looks like a real bed with turn down service. Is the food better in first class? Are there other first class perks I should be aware of? Is the service better and if so, how?

I think the first class trip would be a great experience to do once, but at the moment I am leaning towards keeping the 50,000 miles and flying business class.