i think i'll speak for everyone (mostly) when i say that a "bobcat" like pusher or ducted fan is out of the question. if you don't want a trainer, the most i would recommend would be a great planes big stick or a hanger 9 ultra stick. while still having the same "basic" look as a trainer, these planes can be "tuned" for mild relaxing sunday flying in low rates (that would be great for learning also) and thrn "tune" them to high rates for a completly different experience. one of our flyers, for a set price, will take someone new, hand build them a .40 size ugly stick (from original plans), install motor and radio, and teach them to fly with that plane. if i'd have nkown this when i started flying, i would have went this route.

ultimately though, it's like this. if you're going to rely on someone ( an instructor ) to teach you to fly (which is HIGHLY suggested), i would say get with them and find out what they are comfortable with teaching someone on. they may feel that you would do okay with a stick but then again, they may not. remember, they're your "teacher" they've been in the hobby and they know what to expect. they can also provide you with a wealth of knowledge IF you're willing to learn. if you have to start with a trainer, so be it. you're not the first, you won't be the last. i still find it fun to take my trainer out and wring it out from time to time. AND down the road if one of your friends wants to try that "looks so easy" hobby, bring out the old trainer and put them on a cord to see if they'd be interested. in my opinion, you never REALLY outgrow a trainer. they can always teach you something new.