Other seats usually open up closer to departure, often times after checkin. If I don't get my first choice I usually either check comulsively or buy a seat alert from Expert Flyer, or both. Regardless, odd numbered Polaris seats are all pretty good, not worth worrying too much about the difference. I sit in 9 every chance I get and have never once been bothered by galley or lav noise. I like the window a lot too, but the Southern Pacific at night can be kind of boring <g>. Now the Northern Pacific, on the North side, that's a different story...