Reddit mentions of BlastCase BCACS3 15 Sets 7.87" Bamboo Knitting Needles Double Pointed US 0-15, Multi

Congrats! Let's tackle your questions one at a time.

> Does anyone recommend something specifically to get me started?

The sidebar wiki has a tons of great resources. It's often recommended that beginners start with small projects - washcloths, headbands, etc. A scarf, while a classic beginner project, is really a challenging one because you haven't developed the muscle memory to power through endless rows.

> I want to knit a pair of socks (selected an "easy" pattern from ravelry)

I haven't done socks yet, but will soon. This sock pattern comes highly recommended. It's written with beginners in mind.

> and an infinity scarf later on,

It really depends on your personality. As I wrote, smaller projects are recommended. When I first started, though, I basically went "F the easy shit," and looked for hard projects that would make me learn new techniques. Just dove in, basically. I don't regret that, but that path isn't for everyone, heh.

Anyway, one of my first cowls was this cowl. It's actually knit flat and seamed up later on.

> but for now I'm just planning on following the wiki instructions until I get a sense of what is difficult. I've been thinking of getting one of these needle kits from Amazon, is it advisable/does it make a difference? I read somewhere that wood is better for beginners.

Wood is more "grippy" and some beginners and advanced knitters prefer it for that reason. However, I would urge you to consider getting a set of circulars (two needles attached by a flexible plastic cable) or DPNs instead, especially if you plan to do socks. I know nothing about these brands, but this looks like it's the same manufacturer as the one you linked.

My french is very poor.

> Also, I am in Paris and will do a round at stores to see what I can find, but Amazon shows me the Caron One Pound yarns at around 15 euro. Is this what I should expect to pay? I know it's an import so I assume there's something of similar quality but cheaper here.

Most knitters (not all, of course) are based in USA, and we're used to the prices here. I can't say whether that's a good price for you. That said, the Caron One Pound retails for around $7-$10 (roughly 6-9 Euros). So factoring in the import and possibly shipping as well, 15 euros is probably reasonable.

You may have some lucky shopping with DROPs yarn - that's an European yarn distributor/manufacturer, and there are probably a store or two nearby.

> If there's an European knitting online haven, someone please let me know!

Ravelry.com, which you've already discovered, also has social groups, and I'm sure there are a few specifically for your country. Check there - they probably can help you find LYS (Little Yarn Shop) for your yarns.

> Lastly, what is an absolute must-have yarn? I intend to buy at least one high quality yarn that definitely does not scratch/itch to keep me motivated.

MadelineTosh and Malabrigos are great yarns. A bit expensive, but for a special project, well worth it.