A practical budgeting framework helps you thrive without stretching finances. Start with broad categories – housing, food, transport, utilities, and leisure – and adjust monthly as you settle in. Seasonality matters: monsoon humidity, hotter summers, and occasional power fluctuations can influence costs and routines, so plan for longer-monsoon groceries and indoor activities. For neighborhood fit, prioritize proximity to markets, hospitals, and reliable transport routes; walkable cores often save time and money. Save by cooking at home, buying in bulk at local markets, bargaining respectfully, and combining co-working with nearby cafes. Tip: Track a simple monthly ledger to spot changing patterns and adapt.