General DIY Soldering Questions

Having been intrigued and swayed by a number of folks doing DIY electronics projects, I'd like to give a few a go myself. I have not used a soldering iron in about 30 years (no electronics-based experience) and seek some advice. I do plan to buy a couple of cheapo kits first to hone a few skills. Before doing so, I respectfully seek answers to the following questions:

1. While likely a matter of personal taste, is there a consensus on which soldering iron to buy for electronic use(wattage, tip style, etc.)?

2. Is there a solder of choice for most electronics applications?

3. I know from memory that things must be very clean and that flux was generally used. Is the flux contained within the solder sufficient or do most of you use additional flux?

4. I assume rosin-based flux solder is preferable. Yes? No?

5. I recall my grandfather using copper (I think) heat sinks to protect surrounding areas while soldering. How big of an issue is this?

5. What are the myriad questions that am I blithely and that should be answered before beginning?

Thanks