First off, the reason Betta people dislike Betta vases, is the fact that the surface area is covered with roots, and many people neglect feeding the Betta ANYTHING - they let it rely on eating the plant roots. Bettas are carnivores, and only eat plants out of desperation. The plant on the top also blocks the air supply. If the vase is over 1 gallon, is changed weekly, has plenty of surface room and the Betta is fed appropriate food daily, I have no problem with vases! 2.5 or 5 gallon Minibows are really great for starters! They have a great amount of room for the Betta, and they include a filter, light and base... just buy the gravel/marbles/sand (if you want it!), plants and caves, dechlorinator and food. Here's just a basic list of what I recommend for starters. Preferably, you'd be able to buy a Betta from a local breeder (ask Ashley about this) or an aquarium store with healthy Bettas.

*2.5 or 5g Minibow (comes in black, red, purple, teal, or blue)

*Silk plant or low mainanence live plants (such as Java Ferns, Java Moss, or Water Sprite)

*Small terra cotta pot (very small, at any garden store) OR cave/rock/faux driftwood at aquarium store

*Any gravel that you like and fits your color scheme!

*StressCoat OR Amquel & Novaqua

*Hikara Bio-Gold Betta OR Betta Bites

*Hikara/SF Bay/etc frozen Bloodworms and/or Brine Shrimp

*Net (if you plan to use a net)

*Extra meds you might want to have on hand: Bettafix, Maracyn & Maracyn 2, Aquarium Salt (you can add a pinch at each water change)