What's the best article writing site for newbies?

I keep hearing conflicting answers on this.

Many people say AC, elance, etc. but then I hear their rates are crap and they are too strict.

I'm thinking about getting into this, but I rather not if I'm going to spend an hour trying to find a writing job that Indian people are doing cheaper, then when I finally find one, putting in 45 minutes of work for a final bill of $3.75.

Contact individual websites. Charge a lot. The ones that have a good budget and care about their website pay well and will give you a chance. Send out inquiries everyday and you will soon have a thriving business. Best of luck

I typically pay $18 - $20 per article (5-7) paragraphs for high quality on textbrokers.