I cant contribute much here, but would be interesting to hear opinions in high wing v low wing aircraft. When I decided to start training, I had the option of several aircraft, PA28, Tecnam or C172. So the tecnam is out because I am a big lad, so its PA28 or C172. The reason I decided to start flying (besides my long term interest in aviation) was after a R44 scenic flight in New Zealand. So the reason I went with the C172 was simply because I like the fact its great for checking out the scenery. Can confirm this from my recent trip to Noumea over their barrier reef. Just as good as an R44 (better actually, because I was flying it!) Added bonus is high wing aircraft provide good shade from the Aussie and NZ sun.
Actually, to be honest, I want to learn in a heli first, till I did the maths on it. Too expensive.