More confused than ever...

[d7o1n4]

Newb status...first post. I have been on the forums since yesterday.
I've been thoroughly  reading through the forums in an attempt to educate myself. I'm not one to just start posting questions until I feel I have put in the work first.
The more I read, the more confused I get.
SO..
Is there or is there not a reputable place to buy and sell BTC/LTC at the moment? I want to purchase BTC/LTC with USD but only if I can actually convert it back to USD at some point.

[Minecache]

Kraken seems decent but everyone has their own preferences.

[Gator-hex]

The most trusted by users is the one with the most volume usually.

This is an un-regulated market, there is no-one to bail you out, should they run off with your money or go bust.

Don't speculate more than you can afford to lose.