I soloed in gliders first (and flew locally for a season) ... then got
a power ticket ... then came back to soaring and immediately started
going XC. Glider instruction focuses on energy management and
coordination (i.e. pure flying) ... and skills and a decision making
process that is specific to flying an engineless airplane. (I loved it
when my power instructor did simulated engine failures). Power involves
more training in airplane systems, airspace/airports, navigation and
ATC (all good knowledge)... but is particularly great for getting you
accustomed to going places, with emphasis on navigating by dead
reckoning, which makes the transition to Soaring XC easy. The cheapest
way is probably power first ... however, some might argue that your
will have to unlearn some things to become a glider pilot ... (-8

"KK"
Ken Kochanski