The new VAIO's with Windows XP and the Jog Dial in front of the touchpad are spanking - in fact, I'm seriously tempted to upgrade from my current Dell Inspiron (which has also given me 2 years of fault-free mobile computing, BTW.). I think the 'Daddy' is the P1.13ghz, 256MB RAM and a DVD/CD-RW combo which retails in the UK for about £2500.
If you are going abroad, why not buy it in Dixons or PC World, ask for a VAT reclaim form WHEN PURCHASING, and then when you go through customs on the way out claim the VAT back. Have done this twice now and have knocked £300-400 off the price of a laptop each time! (which has then been blown in the Duty Free...c'est la vie!)