When choosing a mini laptop (either Ausus EeePC or Dell), I have to choose either a Linux operating system or Windows XP operating system. What are the differences between the two systems, and which is better for a mini laptop that will be used for web-surfing and e-mail?

I want to buy an eeepc (4g,2g, or 4gsurf) for a short trip abroad. I will be creating documents to email to people who have regular pc’s so I’ll have to download microsoft office. Is office compatible with eeepcs? Will I need to download a microsoft operating system such as XP in order to use office? Will having office on the eeepc slow down the system?
Thanks.

can you guys tell me if normal Mandriva linux is what comes preinstalled on a linux eeepc or is it a special version of Mandriva. if it is special version please could you give me the link to the install cd image
and will a eeepc that originally came with windows xp support Mandriva.