Another couple of votes for the MVP2.0 and iStick. The MVP is one of the most reliable workhorses in the regulated mod (battery) world. Priced right, good size, works like a truck. Once you figure out how much power you want to run through whichever tank you decide to use, you can find your sweet spot and be happy for months and months. The iStick is newer than the MVP and has a wider range of options for power and coils. Battery life is solid for up to a couple of days, depending on frequency of use. I have three, lol. But really at this stage of the game whatever appeals to you aesthetically and will be easy to use is what you should choose.
If I were you I'd choose between those two mods...but finding the right tank for you might be what helps you convert to Vaping once and for all. It can be tricky and sometimes fiddling with coils and flooding issues is what frustrates vapers the most. I'd seriously consider skipping a few steps and go ahead and invest in a quality glass tank like the Nautilus Mini. The company that makes that tank, Aspire, has recently upgraded their coil system and with a few exceptions (which likely can be due to user error) the general consensus is that flavor and overall performance (including longevity of the coil) is very very satisfying.
Good luck on your journey. Be patient with yourself and your gear and you will find what you're looking for.
eta just saw your last comment about durability. With a protective cage around a Nautilus (Aspire makes them) and a beauty ring around the connection to a mod like the MVP you would probably be ok.