Hi Richard, Welcome to IIS
Binoculars are definitely a great way to start
. 7X50 or 10X50 are a good size, anything larger & you generally need a tripod to use them (more $$$). Check out the 'Binoculars' thread directly below the 'Beginners start here' thread, it will give you more info. Enjoy your new hobby!!
Cheers,
Kim