In my opinion Ubuntu sucks. It's goal is to be a Windows replacement for the common people. By trying to do that it becomes to bloated and really negates Linux's advantage of being streamlined and lightweight.
I've been looking at installing xubuntu, is that any better?
How do I install it to a flashdrive? Is that on their website?
http://www.pendrivelinux.com/universal-usb-installer-easy-as-1-2-3/