If you want to start with RC helis, I highly recommend doing the following (in this order):

1) Get an RC plane/heli simulator (FMS, [link=http://www3.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXNYN1&P=ML]RealFlight[/link], [link=http://www.horizonhobby.com/Products/Default.aspx?ProdID=HANS2000]FSone[/link], etc.) and spend some time on it 1st!
2) Get an EFlite Blade [link=http://www.horizonhobby.com/Products/Default.aspx?ProdID=EFLH1250]CX2[/link] or [link=http://www.horizonhobby.com/Products/Default.aspx?ProdID=EFLH2000]CX3[/link]. Those are very stable, easy to fly coaxial rotor helis.
3) After some experience with 1&2 above, move up to a good quality CP (collective pitch) heli, electric or nitro. If you want to fly nitro or large electric helis, I highly recommend that you find a local RC aircraft club to get help and have a safe place to fly.

If you want to get started with RC planes:

1) Get an RC plane/heli simulator (FMS, [link=http://www3.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXNYN1&P=ML]RealFlight[/link], [link=http://www.horizonhobby.com/Products/Default.aspx?ProdID=HANS2000]FSone[/link], etc.) and spend some time on it 1st!
2a) If you have an RC aircraft club nearby, talk to one of their instructors and get advice on which nitro trainer and radio equipment they recommend. The [link=http://www3.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXCXF4**&P=ML]Tower Trainer RTF[/link] or the [link=http://www.horizonhobby.com/Products/Default.aspx?ProdID=HAN4400]Alpha Trainer RTF[/link] packages would serve you well, but you may be able to pick a used trainer from a club member for less $$$.
2b) If you want to teach youself, get one of the beginner electrics that Horizon sells, like the [link=http://www.horizonhobby.com/Products/Default.aspx?ProdID=HBZ7100]Super Cub[/link] or the [link=http://www.horizonhobby.com/Products/Default.aspx?ProdID=HBZ3600]Aerobird 3[/link]
3) Move on to more advanced planes after that.