Get a PS3 dude if you want online.
You have friends with it, so your online experience will be better anyway.
So pretty much do this:
PS3 80gb Bundle
HDMI cable
$420
If you don't want to go online, or you don't value online get a 360. You can also buy a LOT of cheap games for the 360 when you're in America as well so the total cost of ownership will be lower as you can buy 5-6 games of your choice to make up the difference in price.
Xbox 360 Arcade $200
HDMI Cable $220
Total $220
So really now its a question of how much you value online, Blu Ray or that $200 you can spend on a huge selection of cheap used and new games.
So to sum up:
The PS3 is better if you value online with your friends, value blu ray or the specific Sony games.
The 360 is better if you want a greater value machine for just playing games at home with no online.
Tease.
