Way back in January 2007 I went to Florida to do my PPL. I allocated myself 9 weeks, for 2 reasons - I wanted to take my time and enjoy the experience, and to get in some sightseeing on the ground. With gliding experience behind me I did the course in minimum hours (in a C152), plus the exams, and bought another 25 (solo) hours for good measure.
Including return flights, headset, bag, and other sundry items (all cheaper in the US), and spending money, I spent around £8000 in total. I came away with 70 hours in my logbook and a night qualification.
Would I recommend it? Definitely. But that's a personal view of course..