Absolutely get Applecare. It seems like a lot to put down at the time when you have already shelled out a lot on a new computer, but in a year or so, you will be happy you did when something happens.
I have used Applecare to replace iMac screens, logicboards...even gone through a few Airport Extremes (Applecare also covers any Apple peripherals attached to the computer). When you see how much the repair would have been without Applecare, and the actual cost to you as zero, you'll be thanking yourself.
Besides that, Apple provides outstanding support for its products. I have continually been impressed each time I call for support. I do not buy extended warranties on other products, but Applecare is worth it because they truly do stand by it.