I've flown RC for 18 years. The trainer mentioned in this thread is a decent flyer. But if you want something a little more substantial and that won't break if you brush up against it, try something like this:
http://www3.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin...?&I=LXCAS2&P=0
Personally, I like the nitro powered models. I have a few electrics, but definitely prefer my nitro models. For a trainer, you want a high wing plane with some dihedral and a flat bottom airfoil. Another useful tool is a computer simulator. These things are great for getting the hang of it. Particularly when the plane is coming at you, as mentioned earlier in this thread. For most people, this is the hardest thing to get past. Once you can overcome that, you're almost home free! Here's a good sim:
http://www3.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin...?&I=LL8554&P=1