Why avoid the states? It certainly is the cheaper option and definately the more sensible one if want to get an FAA ticket.
All you have to do is the Category shift, which means 20 hours dual and 10 hours solo (not the full 40/45 etc.) You could easily get it done in 3 weeks or less in the states. In europe however..........
Think about other things rather than not wanting to travel the distance!!
Good luck anyway!
Jack