Greetings everyone from Venice, <BR>I have been in italy for 2 weeks, with another week planned. I just wanted to let you all know what is happening here. <BR>needless to say, everyone, everyone is devasated. We have all been glued to our tvs and to cnn in english since tuesday (today is thursday). my current travel partner is due to fly home on sat, and a friend due to fly in on Friday, and of course, no one knows what is happening. <BR>I am tempted to tell my friend to cancel her plans. Not only am I worried for all of us, but there is no joy for me now. <BR>On Tuesday, when a woman at a store told me in italian, what had happenend, all she could say was "I am sorry". There were groups of Americans standing on the streets crying. British, Irish, Italians, all kinds of people have come over to express their sadness and their anger. <BR>We all feel sacrilegious being here, in this beautiful city, with such horror around us. Everyone wants to go home to their families and their loved ones. And of course, the airlines are booked, and no one knows when anyone can get out. <BR>I would like to ask for your help. I want your best advice on this: <BR>Should my friend try to come, or should i tell her to stay home? <BR>And if anyone has any news on the international air travel, and what is happening, please let me know. <BR>Thanks for your help, Susan <BR>

Oh Susan I am so sorry <BR> <BR>I have just watch the 1.00 am news hers - people are trying to book flights to America even for next week - they showed a queue at Rome airport trying to get help - no one can give any definite information. <BR> <BR>I am in the centre of Italy - if I can help please email me with a phone number where I can ring you - I have a spare room and am quite a good cook - let me help. <BR>

Susan, I can offer no advice, except that you should not feel guilty in any way to be in Venice. None of this horror and the ensuing delays are your fault. You and your friend have to decide what's best in your particular situation, maybe your friend's presence will help you cope, maybe it is not the right time, who knows. <BR> <BR>I am due to visit friends in Arizona with my mother, starting oct. 4. My father wants us to cancel, I've told him "no way! our friends expect us and would feel betrayed if we cancel, and if we do out of fear of terrorists, those scums will have won". <BR> <BR>However, my situation is not yours, and I cannot and will not judge you. May you find the answer in your heart. <BR> <BR>On the other hand,

Just checked back for a quick moment as I am signing off now for a few hours. <BR>Thanks for your quick responses. <BR>helen, i am so touched by your offer, thank you so much. I have a reservation in Florence for a week, after that...who knows. Thanks again, looking forward to hearing from all ofyou. <BR>susan

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