I`m wanting to move to a new instrument, and seriously considering a flute. I have absolutely no idea about what I should look for, I`ve read some other posts on what some features are, but I`m still a bit lost.

When the flute description says "Flute in C", does that imply that only music in C scale can be played?

No, it means to when you play with other instruments you don`t have to transpose the music, unless that instrument is in a key other than C.

thanks for that, makes sense....how many octaves can a flute have?

another Q, where would you recommend I buy one? and for beginner to intermediate level, would a closed hole or open hole flute better, or is that just an option?

Okay, as to the octave question if you have the low B foot, which means it has an extra key allowing you to play the B below middle C then it can play 4 octaves, give or take. As to where, that depends if you`re in the States of Canada, so Ic na`t really recommend, if you meant Brand name go for a gemeinhardt or an Armstrong are the best 2 brand names. As for Open or closed hole, it is harder to play with open holes, and they`re more expensive, but they get you better sound quality, due to the fact that they release more air when up.