Where to buy new MBP?

Ok, so I guess I've decided to buy the 2.2GHz MBP, just because it's the thinnest and lightest of the 15 inchers, although I could get a lot better specs for less. There's also the aesthetic difference, which is pretty huge.

I'm from South America, and I'm going to be in NYC for the month of August before I go back again to attend college, so I will get the Education Discount.

I have a few questions:

Should I order the MBP now and pick it up at relatives in August? What are the delivery times for purchasing online?
Or should I go to a store to buy it when I get there?
What do I need to do in the store to get the Education Discount?
What about the free iPod offer and the rebates, has anyone come good on any of them? How long does it take for the rebate to go through, and do they mail you back a cheque?
If I decide to try to get it in store, is there a chance that I will be able to get a cheaper refurbished one, or one thats on "refresh"? And do I just go in the store and ask about that?

Hopefully you'll be able to answer these questions for me, and help me be a switcher!

Thanks.

 

I don't know the cheapest answer, but I would go to that swanky Apple store in NYC to buy it. I'd take friends, and a camera too!

 

In order to get the Education Discount you must be a student in the US. If you aren't you won't be able to get the discount in the store. You can order online through the education site though, I don't believe they check. Alternatively Amazon usually has some rebates going on Apple computers.

 

What about the rebate questions? How long does it take, and do they mail you back a cheque?

 

iPod rebate is mailed out to you. it takes a month or two to get there.

 

Even if you decide to purchase online, I'd still go to the Apple Store if you're going to be in NYC. The store is underground with a huge glass box entrance. If you do buy at the store, it is Apple's US east coast flagship store and they should have any and every retail model in stock.

http://www.apple.com/retail/fifthavenue/week/20070701.html

 

Thanks for the tip, I'll be sure to check it out even if I purchase it online.

 

you can go to the store directly. They have a store in NY

 

fan_of_laptop, I couldnt help but notice that your post adds absolutely nothing to this thread, and you didn't even bother attempting to answer any of the questions I asked.

I also noticed that you replied with almost worthless posts to the top 6 or so threads in this forum. I guess getting a high post count takes a lot of work.

 

I am sorry, I think that you know how to use internet!!! Besides, do not be mean!!! At least I know apple.com, at least I know how to find the retail store!!!!