For what its worth, this is what I've got to say. I went hour building at Air Desert Pacific last Easter in California, using an Arrow II at 50quid an hour. It was great fun and the flight dead cheap with BA. However, the aircraft was really a bit tattier than I would have liked. The accomadation was expensive adn eating out pricey due to crap exchange rate.
Now I am spending some time in Bondi, Sydney. The food is dirt cheap, you dont even need a car to get around (a big prob in the states - you have to hire a car) the beer is cheap and bars are friendly and frequent. Then you've got the endless beaches, surf, the fantastic weather, views, well maintained aircraft etc... the list goes on. If time is not crucial, do Oz, it rocks!