Yeah, barcons are the way to go. I can't tell you how many times I have almost fallen while focusing my balance and attention on shifting DT's, and how many times I have stuck my fingers through the spokes while feeling for the shifters. Avoid stem shifters too, because those are in the perfect place to get hit by your knees while youre going uphill.

I feel friction is more reliable and longer lasting than indexed, but I have also heard that a good many people use an indexed RD and friction FD combo. Friction is also definitely way easier to maintain and adjust than indexed if you are just starting out.

Yeah, if youre going to use DT's make sure to practice plenty and be aware that you may have to wait for 'safe moments' on the road before you can do your DT shifts, unlike bicycles with other systems such as barcons or brifters.