The rest of mainland Europe is ok. They can get about by train, car, bus etc. Here in the UK, in my island nation, I'm starting to feel isolated.

No need. There's a Channel Tunnel, after all. And plenty of boats.

All this is excellenet preparation for the future we're going to face a few years down the line when the oil runs out.

I heard that at the school my son used to go to there are at least nine teachers unable to get back from abroad after the school holidays. I rather suspect they won't be broken-hearted...