Possible Core Upgrade and LAMP Recommendations

[newrecruit02]

Hi first of all I would like to apologize if this is not the right location to post this...

currently I am running the following CMS instance for our site:

CMS Made Simple™ 1.10.3 "Hyacinthe"

About a year ago I created a new instance to migrate from because of feedback suggesting I could not just directly upgrade CMS versions. So I then created this.

campaign.domain.com - running = CMS Made Simple™ 1.12.1 “Rontiki”

I have been sidetracked since and now need to get started on moving this site over. However, I want to make my work count..

Question: Can I upgrade 1.12.1 to the latest version? This is a clean install and does not have any content moved over yet.

Question: If so are there anythings I should be aware of? Pitfals, upgrade procedures/best practices?

Question: If not, what would be the best method for obtaining the latest version? Blowing latest instance away and starting fresh?

Question: Do you see any problems with me migrating this site in this fashion (same server space). Do you see a problem with links not working once we move back to our final location "domain.com" etc.

Question: I just noticed my host has been bought and they have been a great LAMP host. Would like to hear suggestions of possible other great LAMP hosts, not looking for elementry hosting here, SMB/mid market hosting preferred.

Would love to hear any feedback that may help along the way!

As always much appreciate all your hard work and feedback!!