i havent had any issues with coin base..
and its a usa company so i feel more comfortable with them.
I second this. I do use foreign exchanges simple for diversification I prefer Coinbase over them. Its linked to my bank account for instant buys and very simple to use.
I also like its a US company with big backers. Who knows if it's "safer" than Bitstamp or Gox, but I trust it a bit more to get my money out, fast, if ever needed!