I've always felt that PC and laptop purchases should really be left to the buyer as it depends more on personal preferences and intended use. My brother wasted $2200 on a laptop that does everything but have sex with him, and all he really uses it for is music downloads and an occasional online game.
Make a list of the things you want the laptop to do, and then go shopping.
BTW, I use
http://www.xe.com/ for exchange rates.