I agree and for what it's worth, the vitriol (based on web activity) hasn't put me off considering what looks like a good set up. The original post here was very helpful. Thanks for taking the trouble to start the conversation.
Currently looking to do my PPL over the next month or so and FIS look like the best bet (weather, aircraft availability, track record etc). I'd considered US, NZ Western Australia but Spain ticks most of the boxes rather well (for me at least) I hope..
I'll perhaps post how I get along.