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Hi Sophie,
I started visual with a 5" reflector on a EQ mount.
I then upgraded with a 10" dobs.
I really enjoyed the EQ mount. Even though I did not spent time to polar align accurately (I just put in the direction showing the south celestial pole by Sky Map on my phone), tracking with the 2 slow motion cables was easy and stable especially at high magnification. Very easy.
The dobs is also very easy to use but I was a bit frustrated by the movements (a bit less after improving the azimuth bearing with the ebony star laminate). Then, for sure I saw a lot more with the 10".
As a beginner, I would recommend to start small i.e. 5 or 6", portability is good. You will be able to see all open clusters, some globular clusters like Omega centauri, some nebulas like Orion and Eta Carina. Dark sky site recommended for fainter objects.
A 5" reflector on EQ mount or a 6" dobs should be in the same price range, $400-500 brand new or $200-300 second hand.
Then you will be able to upgrade according to your liking and budget.
Regarding a GOTO/computerised scope, I am happy I started without. I waned to learn where the constellations and objects are, and I found it fun, exiting to locate objects myself. But as Bernie said, for a guided tour it is very convenient though. This also depends on your budget...
Cheers,
Quentin.
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