Budget is OK - you'll be getting Vista regardless of what you are sold. Go for a name though - Sony and Dell are good, HP as well, but try to stay away from Hokey-Cokey 2000s and others that are 'home' brews. Intel processors are (IMHO) better than AMD and go for as much RAM as possible. If you are storing large quantities of photographs you need a decent DVD re-writer as well - preferably internal so you don't have to carry around loads of bits. Built in Wireless (802.11b/g) and Bluetooth is a MUST. Preferably more than two USB connectors as well. If you can get one that comes with a docking station, you can then expand it when you are at home.

SHARK! 

I don't think you'll go far wrong with your budget v's requirements. I spent just under £500 on my laptop and have the same requirements as you but adding loads of music downloads. The one I got is more than capable and if you're ready to spend £800 then I'm fairly sure you'll be ok.

I'm somewhat of a novice on computers but noticed our requirements where similar, your budget bigger and I'm happy with what I got.

I've got £800 to buy a new laptop but want one that will stand the test of time.  Would like something fairly fast with good memory and would like to access TV from it.  I'm a bit confused about graphics cards and the whole duo business.  I will access the internet a lot and send emails but wont use it for business.  I wont download a load of music but will save loads of photos on it.  I'd like to use it abroad and have a wireless broadband connection at home (Sky).  Can you cut through some of the jargin for me before I go shopping and get sold something not quite right.