I too learned nose in on a sim. I use FMS which is free and realistic enough for that sort of thing (just wish it could auto!). I practiced enough so that on my 3rd attempt on the real thing, I was hovering a couple feet off the ground (instead of 30 feet as on the first try) and was comfortable enough to bring it all the way down for a very soft landing.

Not trying to downplay the importance of an instructor, but sims can be extremely helpful.

okw