London is one of the most expensive cities in Europe. This is partly because of the strength of the sterling against the dollar, but also because of the cost of services such as public transport, parking and leisure activities. Rental accommodation is expensive but there is a much larger selection than in many other European cities, on both short-and long-term contracts. There is a large choice of public transport throughout the city and for residents there is also an efficient system of on-street parking. However, travel time from home to work or place of study can take up to two hours each day. There is an almost unlimited choice of leisure activities, with excellent concert halls, theatres, cinemas, restaurants, pubs and sports facilities in most areas. There has been extensive new building along the river Thames in recent years, especially in the reconstructed docks around Canary Wharf.