Safety in Israel
 

We are due to dock in Haifa on 11/21 and Ashdod 11/22. Do you think HAL will change the itinerary because of the Palastinian/Israeli unrest? Where might we go instead. I live in Australia and have n't got our documents yet so I don't have HAL,s Number. <BR>

Hi -- I imagine you could find a phone number at "hollandamerica.com." Or, call your TA if you used one. <BR> <BR>As for Israel, your concerns are understandable, but remember, they've been fighting for 3000 years. I've been to Israel twice, and my sister lived there for several years. Honestly, I felt safer there than I do in USA cities... It's an odd thing, because you see armed soldiers walking the streets, but in fact, there is little crime on the streets (because of the armed soldiers? who knows). You run the usual risks there as you would anywhere. Not sure, but I believe the unrest is centered (as usual) in Jerusalem... but suggest calling HAL to ease your concerns. Israel is fantastic--no place like it! have a great trip.

Sandra, <BR> <BR>Holland America's number is 1-877-SAIL-HAL. Someone will direct you to the right person to get this information. As Peg suggested, You should check with your travel agent first and that may save a bit a of time. Good luck and have a wonderful cruise!

<BR>Dear Sandra, <BR> <BR>No cruise lines, at this time, are altering their itineraries. The clashes are fairly isolated. <BR> <BR>If a cruise line believes there will be a danger to passengers they will change from one port to another. <BR> <BR>Paul

We took that cruise in July. I have been wondering how HAL was going to handle the Nov. cruise. If the problems are escalating as reported today, I doubt very much the ship will stop at Ashdod. The Jerusalem tours would have to be canceled, just leaving the Masada tour. This is the address we access for travel advisories. http://travel.state.gov/travel_warnings.html

My wife and I are also sailing on the Rotterdam. I have been assured that we will not be docking in either port. They are substituting Santorini and another port yet to be announced. Hope this info helps.

<BR>Most all cruise lines are now changing their itineraries. They are doing this on a week to week basis. No one can get information on cruises that are leaving a month from now. <BR> <BR>Paul