You can make either work but I think Mode-2 is the better choice, especially as you advance into more sophisticated airplanes and radios. It is for me anyhow. I like having my right hand on the aileron and elevator controls at all times. If I need to fumble around for a switch or something it is easier for me to take my hand off of the left stick to do that if I have to since throttle and rudder inputs aren't quite as constant as the other two.

Mode-2 is also the standard here in the US. Suppose you are flying and get stung in the forehead by a wasp, get something in your eye, get suddenly sick, etc. With mode-2 anyone else around could take your transmitter and safely land your plane. Not necessarily the case for mode-1.

Just because they do something in another part of the world doesn't make it better. It doesn't necessarily make it worse either. It just makes it different.

You also mention teaching yourself to fly. That's fine but you'll have some great resources to learn from at your club field. I would take advantage of them. You'll be more successful in a shorter period of time that way which will ultimately save money and frustration. Just my opinion of course.