Newbie needs help with static pages and comments

I have read many things in the codex, but I just seem to be to stuck in html. I am a newbie having some difficulties understanding some features of wordpress.
I would appreciate any help figuring out how to do pages/links. I would like to have a page that gives general information. This would not be one that allows comments. I would like another page that allows visitors to rate hotels, restaurants or attractions.
What is the easiest way to do this?
Also, I don’t see what the point is of the meta links that come with most themes. Seems good for the admin, but don’t know how it helps visitors. I am probably showing my ignorance here. Thanks for your help.

mstess