In the UK it is relatively easy, if you have access to Coinbase. I found it awkward to set up accounts to the big exchanges to start with, but after doing it  once it became a lot simpler. I used Bitcoin initially, but found that Eth was better for me personally to trade with FIAT. I have also used Litecoin which was excellent, both were until recently faster than BTC, but this has massively improved. I have also used XRP and found it amazing quick and cheap to use.

I personally found Coinbase fees quite expensive, but I guess everyone has their opinions on this. They have so far been pretty good and meeting my needs.