Very much agree with the above, the FAA IR is a lot more "convenient" for PPL's.
Study wise its a simple matter of obtaining a VHS or DVD course (around £150-£200) and then going through all of the questions so you know what to expect in the exam - the FAA publish all of the questions.
If you then wish to add a JAA IR to your JAA PPL then all you'd need do is the JAA IR theory subjects and a 15 hour "upgrade" course.
You'll then have both an FAA PPL/IR and JAA PPL/IR to use on N and G registered aeroplanes all around the world *and* will probably work out around the same sort of cost for a JAA IR.
Which ever route you decide to take then all the best, an IR is one of the most useful ratings to obtain. It is just a shame the JAA bods make it so difficult for us to obtain one.
Can't wait for a flying holiday around the States, having an FAA IR will make it even more predictable where I'll be staying each night, with the exception of any thunderstorms/hurricanes etc.
Best wishes,
Charlie Zulu.