The Build Box is a pretty good area to hang out.
Here's he list I used to get started: http://auxiliaryexistence.tumblr.com/post/49103103625/places-of-note-for-new-and-old-sl-users
INSILICO is really graphics intensive, but it's beautiful.
If you want help getting an avatar or learning the general functions of the game, just add me. Username is Razurz.