There are threads here on how the Euro has replaced the dollar as the currency of choice but their gas prices are at least 2x higher than ours...now how is that?
I know in the mean it is because of our huge government and personal debt, but choices must be made. France is 75% nuke, their cars are smaller and more efficient, etc. We are gas addicts, pure and simple.
We will adjust, but there will be pain as we work through the new reality of permanent, high gas prices. I personally think it is a good thing.
Welcome to the next, last big thing, energy.
http://goeurope.about.com/od/transportation/a/gas_prices.htm