Ptarmigan,
If possible, I would try to contact a club if you don't already have a site picked out. If anything you should know if there are any airplane clubs around you "before" turning on a radio. There is a heli field just down the road from me, so I have to be careful with turning on my radio.
Also, they will be able to help you with the right radio. Hate to get a JR when everyone else has a Futaba
Welcome to the Hobby!