Q&A with the Seat Expert

I am on a RT to Europe red eye from IAD to FRA in business and return LON to ORD in business as well. I am flying one of United’s new configuration lie-flat 767′s. Every other row is backwards. What is the best seat to try and get for each flight? I am usually a right side of plane aisle in front for domestic flights, but is window best for sleeping?

My husband and I will be traveling beginning of Sept. from SFO to IAD (Dulles) on United. We have frequent flier miles and wanted to use them to upgrade from economy to first class. How is the best way to do this to ensure we get first class seating?