what budget were you thinking for a helicopter? is this your first heli?

A simulator and blade cx (cx2) would be a good start, also contacting your local hobby shops and finding a local club and checking them out would be great.

If you really want to get into the hobby and know youll stick to it, id suggest the raptor 30 or raptor 50 heli's. these two are great beginner ones, just make sure you have the help of an experienced pilot when you are first starting.