Best option is HDMI laptop>television, which we're currently using and it's pretty awesome
2) If TV has HDMI, but not laptop, you can likely get a competent computer tech (either storefront or "shade tree" local) to install one for you at nominal cost
3) If laptop has HDMI, but not television, it's time for a new television. Most all new flatscreens, even the ones under $300 - offer an HDMI port.
4) If none of the above, check with these guys because they're much better pricing than Radio Shack/Best Buy et al
http://sewelldirect.com/
I purchased one of their "laptop to tv" converters for $45 about a year ago for use with my non-HDMI television in my back office and it works great for video display. Audio in that case comes through normal computer speakers.