Ive decided to take a trip over to unix and see how it is due to the perl compatabilities, What distro would you recommend? Im somewhat new to perl, and would like something with a "n00b-friendly" environment. Ive been running Linux boxes for some time now, and want to try a new os also.

Run a search on the website this question has been answered serval times about distro's.

Though you can try

www.linuxiso.org

If you're looking to an alternative to Linux, then I'm assuming you're looking for a version of Unix that'll install on x86 architecture, right? That'll limit your choices somewhat. I don't really hear much about any versions of Unix that are great for x86. I know Solaris will run on x86, but I don't think it's something you'd want in a production environment. It's more for academic interest, IMO. I think FreeBSD/OpenBSD/Linux are pretty much the best choices for x86 architecture. What you learn to do with Perl on any of those will be applicable to any other version of Unix, since it's pretty portable among the Unixes.

I think you have it a bit backwards on Solaris x86. The problem is it doesn't run on a big variety of PC hardware so for casual use it isn't as easy as linux or one of the BSDs since your hardware might have problems. You can't throw it on any old PC and expect it to work perfectly or be stable if you do get it working.

But for production use where you will be installing it on harware certified by Sun to work with it, Solaris x86 is a good as you can get. Very stable and mature, and with tons of tools you don't get on other versions of Unix. And I'm pretty sure if you are installing it on certified hardware Sun will even sell you support just like they will for Sparc Solaris.

However, I'm guessing that isn't what the OP is after, so your suggestions for a home PC version of Unix are just fine.