Adam, unfortunately I can't just pop over to Germany due to my job. Just for the record, it would be cheaper for me to go to Florida to convert to JAA. All inclusive. That's ridiculous.
A first class medical in Seattle cost 100 USD. My second class medical (only private privileges) in Switzerland was 1000 Swiss Francs. I had to visit three doctors because it was my initial medical.
But I still love aviation.
Edit:
If I want a German EASA license I need a German medical as well. You need all licenses from the same country.