I agree with you 100% - especially when it comes to younger people/people without disabilities/age-related infirmities (which both me and my husband have now). I would check for planes that have 2-3-2 seating or similar in economy. And book the "2".

I don't think we ever flew front of the plane before we were about 45-50 or so (or perhaps older). OTOH - we've always enjoyed eating great food - and staying in luxury hotels

I guess it depends on how many miles/points the OP has - and how/where he/she can spend them. Robyn