IMO It's easiest to learn with the ladybug, never tried the simulators.

Up,down,left,right is not really an issue. The issue is when you want to rotate and fly with the "front" facing toward you. Its like looking into a mirror. Flying at anything over 500' is a little sketchy.

It doesn't help that I mostly fly over water too. I also recommend getting the first crash out of the way in shallow water.