If your budget allows there are real electric trainer planes that are by far supperior to any of the electrics mentioned so far.
an example:
http://www3.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin...I=LXNVC0**&P=0
does not include battery or charger. Add about $100
http://www3.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin...I=LXJKU338&P=0
does not include charger.add about $50
There are more RTF packages if you look around and planty of ARF where you buy the radio equipment seperately.
Along with a plane joining a local club and getting proper instruction will be your best bet and will save you a ton of money from crashed airplanes.