Good times, bad bills

12.10.38: ONLY FOUR DECADES ago, a big night out on the town could pack in several events and still leave you change from £100, or E$130 as it would be now.

Comparing the costs for a couple in their thirties shows how inflation and seismic economic change have raised prices. (£1=E$1.3)

Transport
1998 Two Tube tickets from north London to centre of town: £2.40; taxi home plus tip: £10.50
2038 Two tickets on the Bullet train: E$8; Supercab, a pod-like vehicle with self-program box to select the best route home: E$34

Evening drinks
1998 Two pints of beer and crisps: £5
2038 Vitamin drinks in mock revolving rooftop bar: E$16.50; plus H2Now, the serotonin-enhancing pill: E$33

Restaurant
1998 Dinner at Pizza Express: two courses: