Being frugal in China would be a waste

A woman in Britain went a whole year without spending money. No eating out, no drinks at the pub, no new clothes, books, not even train tickets.

Financial journalist Michelle McGagh made some exceptions for necessities; mortgage, utilities, life insurance, charity donations, and broadband and mobile phone bills. She also set aside a modest amount for toiletries and food.

She saved a whopping 22,000 pounds ($27,431), the equivalent of 188,000 yuan, plus she'll reap the rewards of writing a book about the experience, so an all-around frugal success story.