[xubuntu] Looking for advice on Virtualisation software and setup

Hi peeps...

Looking to set up a Virtual Machine...

I plan to install windows in a VM so I can run Unity3d and Manga Studio under windows along side everything else under linux.

Have a decent system with 16gb ram and plenty of space...

Just wondering what will give me the best accessability between the two?

I tried boxes which seemed really simple but was wondering if there was a better system out there..

would it also be possible to have a partition or section that both linux and the vm could use at the same time?

I only need limited internet access for updates and such so even if i have to download these under linux and install them as and when I'm happy to do that too!!

any advice greatly appreciated!!