You need to walk before you can run. That said, Gas (Nitro) or Electric really doesn't matter as long as you understand the system you go with. You want a high wing with tricycle (nose wheel) landing gear for improved handling on the ground and in the air. The wing should have at least some dihedral for stability. More if ailerons are not used. You want it as big as you can afford but at least a 50 plus inch wing to handle the wind better. Several pounds of heft takes more wind to knock it around and out of control than your light weight foam ARFs. Also a larger size is better to SEE it at a distance which also translates into you having more time to make decisions early in the learning process.

You also need to really try to find the nearest group of flyers to you and at least do a day field trip to them. Be it an AMA club or a group of 'Rogues', nothing beats the one on one help of an instructor. In fact, I would make this my number one priority. Even before I purchased a plane. You can start by finding the nearest RC hobby shop and asking them. A phone call can do wonders.