I am really interested in getting into mountaineering and I am considering taking a summer course. I like the look of the NOLS courses (I don't like the prices!) but I cannot decide which place would be the best.

NOLS offers the following courses in the following locations:

Wind River Range: $3,800, 30 days
North Cascades: $3,800, 31 days
Waddington Range: $4,630, 31 days
Alaska: $4,820, 30 days
Patagonia: $5,470, 34 days
Himalaya: $6,380, 40 days

Which place would you like to visit the most? What is the best bang for your buck?

I am really interested in hearing anyones personal encounters with NOLS. Also please suggest better guide services or an alternatives to learning proper mountaineering. Thanks!