There are pros and cons of both ways of learning, and it depends on the person and what they want
Fair enough Whirly, each to their own. However spending 18 months on something that could take 3 weeks and costs 2-3 times as much, will always be a 'con' in my book.
I should imagine that learning in 4 weeks, coming back to the UK and doing a few hours, then trying to fly with not much in the way of money, experience, or contacts over here, would be pure hell. No wonder so many people who try it give up
What rubbish. For a start you'll have 3-5 grand more to spend on flying than the person who fell for the 'Fly in the UK, learn in the UK' con trick. Also, 4 years down the line from my course, 100% of the people I've kept in touch with are still flying. What's the UK average? 5%?
Flying in the US does spoil you though - while not perfect, it shows you how GA could be. Coming back to the small minded anoraks in the UK scene can be quite depressing.