Linux on the WinXP MSI Wind netbook?

I have the MSI Wind - aka Advent 4211, Medion Akoya Mini E1210 - and I want to put Linux on it. The problem is that I'm travelling all the time with no optical drive and limit access to extra resources.

I know I need to repartition the HDD before I can install Linux - which can cause XP issues - but other than that, and the ability to load / install from a usb stick, has anyone encountered any particular problems/pitfalls installing Linux in other Small, Cheap Computers?

I need to be able to do all the usual stuff like web, email, Open Office stuff etc., but I need the wireless to work - this is not optional - and to watch DVD files from an external hard drive.