If you do use Max marlonjohn, just get a space navigator at around £35 (dont know the US or Aussie conversion). Once configured you can navigate around both maya and max without having to learn to use all the different view controls again. Very handy for overcoming one of the differences.
The only other main hurdle is the menu system on the far right in Max. It's very cumbersome unless you have multiple monitors but once you get used to how it works its really not too bad.

Si