Aloha man, some decent starter kits available through vendors.
I would suggest trying to get a set with 2 1300mAh batteries (one to use while other is on charge) and a EVOD style tank (bottom coiled so liquid is always on and no need to wait for it to soak up as much (but thats personal preference)).
Liquid wise 18mg (1.8%) and a normal 70PG/30VG mix gives a good throat hit and still has good flavour and vape (when you breath out) production.
Flavours, I'm going to say that you should not expect it to taste just like cigarettes cause its not going to, there are some good one out there but just arent the same. Try some sample packs and give some of the more interesting flavours a try ('caramel', 'cotton candy' and 'black cherry coke' have been some of my favourites so far), menthol also seems to be a good alternative (if you want a strong (almost lethal) menthol look for one with the word 'ice' in its name as they are usually a spearmint and peppermint mix with an extra kick (like inhaling a tub of vicks))
Good luck and vape on