Originally Posted by sportmuaythai

Ok, here is my 2 cents. If you only want to learn self defense quickly, Thailand does offer an excellent option. For stand up fighting, muaythai is lauded. There are lots and lots of good muaythai camps in Thailand which fire cobra can guide you to.
The training is one on one twice a day. If you're fairly talented, dedicated, and not an aloof person, you can quite master the art in three months. To get to the same proficiency with training in the US in an equal amount of time, you'll paying with your limbs and your nose will probably bleed profusely too.
Then for ground fighting skill, Shark can direct you to camps that do BJJ, again fairly cheaply. If you need further help, just PM these two guys and I'm certain that they will help you find the right places.
As for muay chaiya, it does have charm, and it does work, albiet not as efficient as modern sport muaythai. Modern Latin dances will get you a girl quicker than waltz or tango.