I've been using Internet Explorer 8 for several weeks now. I have no problem recommending it and encourage upgrades.

Be sure you understand the "Compatibility View" button. Because IE is the dominant Web browser, Web developers took pains to make sure sites worked in IE7 even if it meant doing non-standard things. IE8 is standard, so some of those IE7 sites don't render properly. The new button makes IE8 pretend to be IE7 and thus immediately shows the site "properly."

Consult the "View any site with ease" section of Microsoft's page - there are explanations and videos.