Actually, I used the current exchange rate to do that comparison of prices and the dollar is much stronger against the pound now than it was two years ago. Also, i don't know if you realise this but although we have a reasonable public transport system in Britain, the prices are extortionate in many places, especially if you're travelling between cities, so a lot of people choose to drive instead anyway. My point was that if you convert our fuel prices to the same terms you use in the US ($/gallon rather than £/litre) we're still paying nearly twice as much as you. Rising fuel costs also lead to rising costs of public transport as the bus/train companies pass it on to the consumer, with a profit margin on the side. The 3 hour train journey from Manchester to London (about 165 miles) can cost £200 ($350) for a return ticket if you have to but it on the day - that's why I'm complaining!