I would recomend the sim myself. And a 30 sized nitro heli for your first bird. But that is just me. No matter which one you choose, helis are not, and never will be easy to learn how to fly. But man are they fun. They are well worth the time/money it takes to learn. Have fun, and good luck. Oh and find a person to help you when you do get a bird. It is much easier than going it alone.