I am travelling for the first time on the long SIN-EWR flight and using for the first time, too, the Newark Intl Airport. I would appreciate your observations and advice.

Which seats would you recommend in Raffles Class? I am presently considering 11A. Is this ok? Is the distance between the bulkhead and the seat longer/shorter than (or about the same as) the usual spaces between Raffles Class seats? I saw in the SQ seat map that it is also next to the lavatory. Or is 12A better? Or some other seat? Any advice on how to get an "A" seat and a vacant "C" seat on this flight?

Is Newark Airport and the SQ lounge there worth arriving for early on the return EWR-SIN flight? Are there good last-minute shopping choices in EWR airport?

Looking forward to your feedback.
Thank you very much!

P.S. I am PPS and have travelled on SQ only in Asia. Many thanks.