The world
I have just returned from two years in Canada, cpl multi/ir and a year of instructing. For the people who preach that this way is better than that, i would say to maybe open their eyes a little 'cos there is a big old world out there.
Nothing will ever beat a little bit of leg work, what works for one person might not work for another. South Africa and Australia are maybe closer in training to the uk, and you might be able to reduduce the overall cost doing it this way. However, if granny is ill maybe overseas is'nt the right descision.
I have been fortunate to meet many international students, many would say that they are more rounded individuals for taking the plunge and moving overseas to follow their dream for all sorts of reasons, not all financial.
Follow your heart, but always use your head!!