I'm personally hooked to php and mysql.. an occasional asp is still ok when the situation calls for integration with M$ components.
Linux or Windows dosent matter, with windows you can still drop in mysql and php into IIS or run apache off it. You got a nice GUI and remotedesktop to play with (esp if you're using windows at home)
Content management system eases your task when it comes to adding/editing content and allowing non-techie people to edit the site too. Try Mambo or Joomla.. but making a site design template takes some php/css and getting used to.
For editors I usually use a blend of dreamweaver, frontpage, notepad, acdsee, photoshop and paintbrush (and Google, your best friend) and you can do everything you ever wanted to.
