I've been using C# professionally for several years and agree it's a good language to learn: fairly easy and very much in demand. You can download a free edition of Microsoft Visual Studios at
http://www.microsoft.com/express/vcsharp/ to write C# programs, or, if you know any students, buy the student edition quite cheaply. Also, search "C# user group (your city)" to find developers in your area to socialize with. Good luck!