Thanks for the additions to the thread, Memphis. It is something that I have truly been trying to get my head around. If you are already paying considerable income tax, are paying VAT on everything you buy and then having to shunt 200quid a month on some local black hole, then that really is a lot in direct and indirect taxes. I have spent so long away from home that these things really do befuddle me when I hear about direct experiences of the system. It truly is a different world.

Then you factor in utility costs, outrageous rents and fuel costs and then you have a situation where it's no wonder many are living from paycheck to paycheck. If I was in the UK I don't see how I would be any different. It would be a struggle.

Things like nutty council tax are just another kick in the teeth IMO. Korea has nice parks, I have a lovely lake outside my window with radio played for you whilst you walk and a big fountain. There are well preserved mountain trails just a stones throw away and they can keep these things ideal for a tenner. If Korea can do it so easily and on a budget I just don't know why it all has to cost so much in the UK. It has to be a massive con. There is no other way to explain it.