Hi George,
I have limited experience of the Enstone side of the operation so cant really comment on the instruction standards as dont know the guy whos name is given. The aircraft at Enstone however were top notch last time I flew there using one of there TB20s. Very good setup and the guy who owns it, Steve, is very approachable.
The US side I can comment on as used as one of 3 FBOs I use over there. So here goes...
Instruction - Excellent. The outfit is run by an Irish guy, Seosamh, who now lives over there permanantly. He is very professional and both an FAA and JAA instructor. He will cover all the things you need to know for your FAA licence but also the JAA side so when you come home to do your conversion it will be much easier. He only had one intern last time I was there (Nov '04), but between them they managed the operation very well. He does post on here (Dickon) so may be worth getting in touch with him and asking how he is finding his internship - from the horses mouth as it were. Never had any problems with slots moving and they are up for trips rather than just flying round in circles all day. Scottsdale, Vegas, Santa Monica, etc - if you want to do a 'road trip' whilst getting your instruction they can arrange it so doesnt havent to be boring! They also dont just take your money and run but socialise with you outside of office hours.
Aircraft - They dont have any. They use other FBOs aircraft which has proved a big advantage as when one goes tech they just get one from somewhere else. There are quite a few clubs round there as LGB is a major airport and never had problems with availiablty (apart from when we were all fighting over the Symphany
).
Prices - They dont add a mark up to what they are charged by other FBOs, as I have seen done in past. I have found prices pretty reasonable to be honest, I think it was $35/hr last time I flew.
Accomdation - If you are in the Guest House HOtel then you wont have any problems (check where they are putting you but would suspect this is where). Large clean rooms, cable TV, en-suite, some even with kitchens. Decent bar next door, a 7-11 and a few places to eat out.
Area - You will need a car! LGB is not a bad area to live but everything is very spread out - dont expect to walk!!! For nightlife there is Di Piazzas next door or you go down to 2nd St.
Any specific questions then PM and will answer if I can but on the whole a pretty good outfit and a lot better than some I have used in the past.
Julian.