So, how many friends will you be carting about ?? If it's more than 1 for any length of time, I wouldn't recommend the 500. Don't get me wrong, it's a fine helicopter, and great to fly. Unless you are stuck in the back seats. It's very LOUD, and very cramped back there. They are quick, though most newer designs go faster, agile, and nice and stable in the hover. The 500 makes slope/offlevel landings into a non-event. I've personally seen 15 degrees on the AI with both skids on the ground.
If you take a few friends flying, why not a 206L (with the C20R conversion). Operating costs of a 206, but with the room to take 6 friends. It is also smooth, and has reasonable speed (110 kts). It is also reasonable to maintain. The AS350 series is another very popular a/c. Nice roomy cabin, decent speed, and good endurance. Costs are higher than the Bell's, but they are really nice ships to fly.
Cheers
Randy_G
