Erm....Sorry but can't reconcile your statement about cheaper rates with my own experiences and when compared to the weblink you provided above. I was out at a certain LA flying school a few months ago. Paid the princely sum of $57/hr wet for an archer. Came with twin VOR's, ADF, DME, ILS, dual radios, no GPS but that would be cheating and defeat the purpose of me going there to hone my navigation skills. Came out at £37/hr when I checked my c/card statements. From the link above the rates all seemed higher....
In my experience the flight schools tend to do free pickups from the airports as well and can often get you discounted rates on nearby hotels with daily pickups to the school. Having never used a flying club overseas I am not sure what sort of "comfort blanket" there is. I quite enjoy quizzing instructors that are floating around and getting information off them about weather, places to fly etc. Not sure if there would be the same ability otherwise.
So the moral of the story is do your homework and find a place that suits you.
PM me if you want more information.