Hi all.

I'm looking to get into flying RC planes. I have a birthday coming up (Sept. 9) and my birthday present will most likely be an RC plane. I was thinking of buying one of the cheaper ones off of eBay. I'm looking at 3 channels RTF right now (probably a Shunda Accipiter Badius). Anyway, I was looking for any advice you can give me on how to get into the hobby.
Will a 3 channel plane do (rudder + elevators + motor speed)? I really don't want the 2 channel ones since as an experienced flight simmer these just don't look like airplanes to me at all. At the same time, 4 channels are pretty much out of my price range (and I imagine are quite difficult to learn to fly on).
Do you know if there are any clubs here in Israel that could help me get started? I'm not sure how easy it is to learn to fly one on your own.
I'd appreciate answers to these questions and any other advice you can give me on getting started in the biz.

Cheers