Can anyone give me more info about training for PPL in the US (or South Africa as I've heard mentioned)
If you buy a GA mag such as 'Flyer', you'll find a lot of adverts for US & SA PPL providers. Draw up a shortlist, make sure they're definitely going to give you a JAA-PPL and then drawl pprune for opinions/info. Remember, it's what suits you best that matters. Personally I did mine in Florida and would definitely recommend it.
As mentioned by Arrowhead, it's all a moot point if you can't get a Class one medical. (£400 from those friendly folks in Gatwick).