I think I will go with the BA first all the way thro lhr...to me it doesn't matter whether I am in the 380 or 747 with BA the seat, food, service will all be the same....it definitely makes a difference with Emirates however and as much as I loved the 380 flight, I am not sure about the Durban to Dubai segment if they had the first class suites on that flight it wouldn't be an issue.....thanks for your input and happy travels!!!!