Dang you guys had a good start, I started with a Parrot v1 lol. Then upgrade to Phantom 1, now the P3A. I am a pilot and consider myself a safe player (and checklist prone). Recommendations? I wouldnt be too scared to go all in on a P3, it is a wonderful machine, if you begin slowly and dont get too overconfident. Not sure about the Syma X5, people like it and it seems like a good starting point.
The problem with any UAS is that they are deceptively easy to fly and to do stupid things. But if you have a decent amount of knowledge, follow a proper pre flight routine and have good boundaries you should have plenty of fun. I find that the P3 is a lot safer and easy to fly than a P1, although I could probably crash 3x P1 to cover the price of a P3. The only drawback is initially the amount of settings and functions on the P3 can be overwhelming.
As above: prop guards are a must for 1st timers or any flight closer to obstacles.
I would avoid people/animals by at least 50m altogether.
S... could happen, so a tracker (I use Marco Polo), getterback and extended warranty (Neary Aerial) were my bet.
Have fun!