Gnomes of the farebox
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PUBLISHED by the Union Bank of Switzerland, Prices and Earnings around the Globe is a fascinating compilation of purchasing power in 47 cities, including 19 in Europe.
It records in its latest issue that Tokyo, Abu Dhabi and Oslo share the distinction of being the three most expensive cities. In Manila, Lisbon and Istanbul consumers need spend only half to two-thirds of the amount needed in Zurich (the city against which all others are ranked), Copenhagen or New York. All prices and wages are converted into US dollars for the survey, which also includes among its 29 tables a heading for city transport fares.
All figures are based on the conversion rates applicable in the summer of 1982 and do not take into account the rising strength of the dollar since then. Of the European cities only Oslo rates above London in public transport fares while, worldwide, Bangkok and Mexico City tie for the cheapest fare, at around Scents, for a 10km ride.