kirsti

Some people are acting like they can’t do anything now. What’s up with that? I’ve got friends who are out there taking advantage of the killer deals on airfare, and I’ve also got friends who are canceling plans they’ve had for years. Why? I’m not quite sure. They had planned to go to Vegas for their anniversary, but now, they say, they’re ready to cancel because they’re scared. There’s no reason for them to cancel their plans. In my opinion, they will only be giving in to the terrorists. In fact, it’s my guess that they will be sorry if they do cancel. Especially when they hear about people like me who are still going to places like Vegas. What do you think? Should people bury their heads in the sand or get out and do stuff?

Phil

Kristi,<BR>You're assuming that all people are cancelling plans only because of terrorism. I think the fact that we are in a recession and that unemployment is at a 10 year high, might also be impacting travel.<BR><BR>Personally, I don't fault someone for reducing their travel plans because of the terrorist fear. I don't see that as "giving into them." Caution, is warrented right now especially with the anthrax cases. <BR><BR>In my case, I still travel on business and have been on 4 trips since 9/11. However, I have cut 3 other trips because I didn't feel they were critical and my first responsibility is to see my son grow up. Why risk that when the option to travel will still be there once things have stabilized.

Kathy

I went to DC a few weeks ago, and just returned from San Fran. I didn't come home with anthrax infection and the bridges are still there. In other words, I'm traveling more than ever. Next month, it's Europe. Actually online right now looking for a flight for Thanksgiving and a package somewhere for Christmas. I'm taking advantage of the great deals and know I"m going to die someday whether I get on a plane or not.

me

Kathy,<BR>good for you, we need people like that to keep the economy going.

Melissa

If people don't travel, there is a whole business sector that will some day go out of business. I work in travel, our business is down, which is causing lay offs in airlines, travel agencies, hotels, car rental companies, so on and so on. If people stop travelling even more people in this sector are going to lose thier jobs. Once they lose thier jobs, they will not have money to spend in malls, on housing, buying cars, etc. This will make people in those areas lose thier jobs. Once they lose thier jobs, banks won't be lending, stores will be closing and on and on it goes.<BR>This is very scary...so people stop hording your cash, spend like there's no tomorrow, and keep everyone in thier jobs.

xx

Kirsti - <BR><BR>Bravery, like many things, comes in varying degrees. Going to Vegas is not exactly living on the edge. In fact, many people would consider it the least adventurous trip a citizen of the US could take. I'm sure you wouldn't take to kindly to someone criticizing the lack of imagination in the trip you have chosen - so lighten up on your friends.

Penny

Kirsti,<BR><BR>There has probably never been a safer time to travel than right now. The whole world is watching. As a travel professional, I would get on a plane tomorrow, and every week after that if I could afford it. AS for being in a recession, this time it is "SELF MADE". The people of this great country of ours have caused it themselves with their refusal to spend their money. Whether it be for travel or whatever. I do not feel sorry for the airlines, they have made their bed and now must sleep in it. AS for the "GREAT DEALS", you can only book them thru certain web sites. The airlines are looking ot create a monopoly with their web sites in the flying industry, and you as consumers who continue to book thru those sites are condeming to death the travel agent industry. They are not allowed to compete with those web only fares, and when the oil industry tried to run the small/little guys outta business, the government stepped in and said I don't think so....where is the government now that the airlines are pulling the same manuevers? Just remember, that when you book online, you don't have anybody to fall back on, as opposed to booking with a knowledgeable and experienced travel agent.