For a Web site, FlyerTalk has an unusual high number of Mac users, and of course fans. I think you'll have no problem finding plenty of advice including that above.

There are actually many threads existing about advice for potential Mac users in both Travel Technology and OMNI. It is highly likely either forum will get you additional advice on this and perhaps even more tips on how to save with your purchase and pitfalls. The member above is correct about MacWorld coming up in a few weeks and that does sometimes generate a lineup change.

I'm going to relocate this thread into Travel Technology where I'm sure many other FlyerTalk members will enjoy offering additional information for your decision.

I do have a tip since i have bought laptops for all my nieces and nephews for school and they use theirs in the very same way you describe your needs - if you carefully watch the "reconditioned" sales part of the Apple Web site i think you'll find some really great bargains. These are like new and come packaged as such but had been taken off the assembly line for additional repair or demo units that have been returned to brand new condition.

As a footnote: The House of Miles is entirely Mac and have been so since we started with a 512e in 1986. The early days of FlyerTalk and to this day, some or all of the servers used for serving flyerTalk have been Apple servers. Yes, we drink the kool aid.

Good luck, i think you've made the right decision to go with a Mac (raise my hand to admit bias).

P.S. and to save you from Mac head insults, i have made Mac an upper/lower case word. All caps insults some Mac heads!!!!!