Golf lessons (Sim Vs Range)

Hello everyone, I'm thinking to take up golf lessons and would like some advice. Can you share your experience with me? I'm totally new to the sport.

I would like to hear your opinions before I sign up for lessons either at a simulator or range. I know the key difference in terms of environment (data at simulator, weather, etc) but in terms of lessons wise/ coaching method you prefer?

Are there a lot of you who go for the proficiency cert? At this point I'm just thinking to play casually (range or similar, have not thought about the course yet)

Thank you in advance for sharing!