I agree, go with an auto if you can, you will have your hands full with the traffic, narrower roads and generally quicker driving, make sure you can parralel park too!
After living in the states for a few years then going back to the UK i realised how much more space there is here (US). I also have an auto over here for when my folks come over, they are used to a stick but its easier on them navigating etc when they dont have to worry about changing gear.