Thanks everyone for the very detailed replies. I have to admit I am
surprised at just how helpful the member of this list are to
beginners. I would prefer a 2 seater so I can fly with
friends,family, or other fellow pilots. At the moment (this may
change with experience) I am primarily interested in a Let Blanik L-23
or L-12 simply because I am flying an L-23 in my lessons and enjoy it
quite a bit.

-tom