I keep hearing that this plane is nice for beginners or to just toss in the car for a flight anytime - Sky Scooter Pro RTF, on sale for $99.00 - http://www.hobbypeople.net/gallery/758004.asp Its all EPP foam which will take a beating and comes with real electronics that you can use on the next plane.

I personally learned on a Slo-V. Great plane but hates wind and parts are hard to come by locally. I have to keep ordering or coming up with ways to fix/upgrade on my own. Still love it and its fun and relaxing to fly on the calm day.

If you want to get a taste of it, download the FMS free simulator and the Slo-V model. Not quite the real deal, but will give you a chance to fly around, figure out orientation, etc without risking your new plane!