More info from England

I had requested the cost information for the surgery and I got it today along with some additional information.  The inclusive costs for a single level L5-S1 disc replacement with an M6-L would be £18,300 (you can do the currency conversion if you're really interested).  That covers everything connected with the hospital stay, including the pre-assessment visit and investigations, all the hospital charges, the surgeons and anaesthetists fees and physical therarpy while at the hospital (and afterwards at the hospital while you stay in the locality).

They also offer arranging a car to pick you up from the airport and driving you the 1 hour to Eastleigh and also the return trip for a fee of  £300 total.  I might look into finding a taxi service that might be a little less expensive.

After the surgery, I'll be in the hospital for 3-4 days and he recommended staying in hotel for an additional week or so after that before I fly back.

I also got a list of hotels in the area, although I am also looking into perhaps renting a vacation house for a couple weeks since both my parents are planning to come with and all of us in the same hotel room for a couple weeks might drive us all crazy.  It will be a matter of finding something available that is close enough as car rides right after the surgery can be tough, and I'll need to go back to the hospital a few times for PT.  They do allow you to stay at the hospital for free for a few days before the surgery.  They will allow you stay in the hospital after the normal discharge time (usually 3-4 days after the surgery) for £75 per night for the room and meals.

I don't have the exact date of my surgery scheduled yet.  That will be the next thing to get nailed down and then I can start booking flights, lodging, etc.