I don't believe the odds are that bad. Practice with the simulator and give it a shot if you don't have access to a trainer. Don't let negative people keep you from entering the hobby. If you don't have access to an instructor I think you will have a very good chance of sucess if you use the simulator.
I agree. Real Flight can do wonders for someones flying skill regardless of what others may say. I had an instructor, but I was able to clip the cord pretty quick because of real flight. I say, if you cant get an instructor, go for it with the simulator, and buy cheap planes to start with
Its important to keep in mind, during a crash, chances are the most you will lose is some sticks. The expensive stuff survives more often than not.