Good old Blighty

It is difficult to calculate accurately the exact amount - due to individual lifestyles and the costs of living of different countries.

But, more important is how can one live and study overseas economically.

Here are suggestions from a Thai-Phat scholarship student about spending wisely in England.

The British pound is considered the world's strongest currency. The exchange rate is regularly about Bt70 to the pound.

So, careless spending can result in one going broke quickly.

"Try to jot down every penny you spend when shopping. Do it as habit" suggests Ornchuma Itsathitphaisarn, 24, a Thai-Phat scholarship holder.

She says keeping records helps you figure out what you should or should not buy next time.

"Once you come back home, sit down and carefully take a look at your notes. You will see some things you buy are too expensive. This will force you to be more economical and spend only on necessities."

For personal items like shampoo, soap and toothpaste, Ornchuma says you can save by stocking up in Thailand when you are home.

But, if you still have to buy these things in a British high-street shop try buying in bulk during summer or Christmas sales. There are often two-for-one offers.

"Go to supermarkets where you get spending rewards you can use at a later date for other products," says Ornchima, who studied at Oxford.

Another useful tip is choosing to stay at college dormitories or renting digs close to school.

"It is nice to walk to school. This helps you save in a way, too," says Ornchuma who lived in the same dormitory as fellow Oxonian Abhisit Vejjajiva, leader of the Democrat Party.

Ornchuma was lucky the colleges help students with money to purchase textbooks. "I pay only 40 per cent of the actual price. The university helps with the rest."

Thai-Phat scholarships are awarded by the government for bachelors and masters degrees abroad.

Ornchuma's fixed monthly spending from her 745 pound (Bt50,000) allowance.

Accommodation and utilities - 370 pounds (Bt25,000)

Electricity - 10 pounds (Bt680)

Mobile telephone - 30 pounds (Bt2,000)

Food - 150 pounds (Bt10,000)

Fitness club - 40 pounds (Bt2,750)

Miscellaneous - 80 pounds (Bt5,500)

Total - 680 pounds (Bt46,000)

By Watchara Saengsrisin

The Nation