Hi there,
I'm irish and so far have 220hrs PPL with my ATPLs done. I've spent about 45000 euros. Trust me there are so many hidden costs and everything involved, 40000 isnt going to get you finished. There are a lot of things i would do differently also. Initially I went into it wanting to spend as little as possible but if i could do it again i'd go to a well known JAA school in the UK and get my training done there except the hour building. I wouldnt do any licences in USA, just too damn frustrating, and annoying. At the end of the day you will probably spend as much money. One place i would highly recommend is Bristol Ground School for your ATPLs, brilliant!
Dont think in mony the whole time, think of the quality of training you are going to get. That is the most important thing.
Steve