A Cessna 152 is definitely the cheapest way to build flight time. But it is an absolutely crap machine as regards to X-wind handling capabilities and endurance. I would not recommend it for X-country sightseeing.
Thank goodness there is more than one person's opinion available for consideration in life!
Speaking as a 25 year owner of a 150, with 2800 hours on it during that time, I can tell you that it is a low cost aircraft, remarkably reliable, and adequate for a long cross country, as long as you're patient - but you're trying to "build hours" aren't you? So, what's your hurry?
I have flown it from central Canada to just about every area of the Atlantic coast, including the Bahamas, and Gulf of Mexico, and well into the western half of the continent. Endurance? Well yes, the C182RG or C310 I also flew, would fly those routes faster, with a bigger load, and fewer stops, but at a cost that was many times the cost to operate the 150. So for my wife and I, two folding bikes, and modest bags for a week, the 150 is just right. When the fuel ticket comes, I don't cringe at the cost.
Crosswinds always require a little extra skill in any aircraft. I have had no problem in a direct corsswind of 22 knots, though I did find 37G43, 30 degrees off the runway heading, a challenge one day. I have flown larger aircraft, which were less able to handle a crosswind than a 150/152.
And, when it comes to one day having to sell my 150, it will bring more than four times what I paid for it. So, really, I flew nearly for the cost of the fuel, considering I have done an engine overhaul, paint, interior, and new radios. Oh, and the fuel? Mogas in my tank at home, and I get the road tax portion of the fuel cost refunded to me, so it's cheaper than putting that fuel in a car.
The only plane which is crap, is the really poorly maintained one. All others are designed and built to serve a particular role. Pick what you want, and pay the cost, but don't complain about it!
My wife, on her bike, took the photo, on a beach in Georgia.....