Hi guys, <BR>As many of you, I´ve been planning my holidays to the UK for the last month. I´m due to departure on Monday, but I´m still not sure if I should go. <BR> <BR>I've asked in the travel agency and I can´t get a refund for the ticket because it was a bargain and I´d to pay for the first night in the hostel to book it,as well. <BR> <BR>So, what do you think? how does people in the UK feel about what is going on? <BR>Thank you so much, <BR>MARIA <BR>

Maria: <BR> <BR>I too have tickects to the UK, but not until mid October. I have asked myself the same question. Obviously, after last night's speech, there is no question the UK is with us so I'm not worried about that. Also, I don't worry about something happening in flight because, well, I believe when it's time, it's time if you know what I mean. <BR> <BR>My concern is that if something happens while I'm there it could mean not being able to leave for a while etc. That's why I'm thinking maybe going somewhere within the US so at least, worst case scenario, trains or even buses would be available. Perish the thought, right? <BR> <BR>Anyway, good luck with whatever you decide. God Bless America!!

We leave October 5 for London, unless all air travel is cancelled. If we get stuck there, we'll figure out something. "We" are three single women with no young children, employed by major corporations, so our position is a little more flexible than for others with families to consider or businesses to run. <BR> <BR>My non-refundable ticket is "exchangeable" - in other words, for $150, I can reschedule at a later date (like next year). If you have the ticket in your possession, call the airline directly and ask about the policy. At this point, most U.S. airlines are offering to either rebate the money, or eliminate the exchange fee on ALL tickets. Don't take the word of the travel agency; do some sleuthing yourself. <BR> <BR>Contact the hostel directly also; they may still charge you for one night, but be willing to see it as a credit toward a future stay. Can't hurt to ask. <BR> <BR>There are lots of things to consider at a time like this. There is no "right" answer; everyone's situation is different, and decisions need to be made by each individual based on their own concerns, responsibilities, etc. Don't let anyone shame you into going, nor terrify you into staying.

If you can't get a refund, go! However, I'm sure not going to plan any new trips 'till things settle down-maybe a year or two.

I am going to Paris and Spain for 10 days over Thanksgiving week. I live in NY and i am still going We <BR> can't let them control our lives We must keep our freedom to live the american dream if we sit home and hide <BR> they win !This is what they want we must carry on and go on with our lives we can't . change the past But we <BR> can change the future We must over come and show to the world that we are strong and not lie down! take a <BR> stand resume your freedom !and god bless the people who have perished and the people who will keep or <BR> freedom !

Hi Maria, <BR>I was in Venice last Tuesday. It was horrible being there, I just wanted to come home, and it took a week for me to get back to DC. It was inconvenient and awful, but of course, nothing like what was going on here. <BR>I think if you read all the other posts on here that relate to this, you'll agree that everyone feels differently. It truly is a personal decision, and one you will have to make. I think that honestly, all countries are at risk now, and it clearly is also dangerous here. <BR> <BR>I think you just need to listen to your gut instinct, and think about what you want to do. Talk it over with family and friends, and decide. Good luck, whatever you decide to do. <BR>Susan

Someone posted this msg. with which I do agree:"The reason the hijacking succeeded is they were the first where the <BR>hijackers were taking a plane as a weapon and were going to die in the deal. No one will ever let a hijacking proceed from now on. Passengers may die in the fight, but definitely the hijackers will. The pilots will not let the plane be taken over as they were instructed to do previously. You think the pilots who are strapped in will not take evasive maneuvers with the plane <BR>that have the people trying to walk down the isle flying around the ceiling? <BR>Pilots crew and airport security will not go easy anymore!" <BR>In short GO you are now much safer then you were before this attack - since people realized that crazies are all over the place - and with some special handling maybe necessary. I have my vacation in few weeks and yes I'm flying to Europe! Enjoy! <BR>

Should you leave your house ever again. You have a better chance of being killed in a car accident within a few miles of your house than on an airplane or by a terrorist attack!

GO! You should have a great time. <BR>Do your research and take a good map. I will be in London 11/2-5 and may go to Paris 11/9-11 if I've had my fill of England by then. p.s. Taking a tour is a good way to meet people. Don't chicken out, I'm leaving from Dulles on 11/1 on United Airlines, just bought my tickets yesterday. ENJOY <BR>

You guys don't get it. The terrorists will not repeat exactly what they've done before. They have in their arsenal all manner of tricks, I'm sure, from nuclear to biochemical to electronic; and they may or may not keep hitting the US. They aren't all that pleased with Europe, you know.

I just flew into Glasgow on Thurs. and was worried about flying, but the flight was fine. Not too many people on the flight, and I honestly almost backed out an hour before I was supposed to leave. I'm glad I didn't though, or I would've regretted it. I don't know about England, but in Scotland the people are very friendly and some have posted American flags in their windows saying how they need to help the Americans. If you want to go, then go. Don't back out on a trip that will give you some great experiences and a lot of fun.

If we all try to hide and do not travel or do the normal activities that a FREE people have always done the terrorist will have achieved another victory. <BR> <BR>Go, I intend to, Jim

All very good points, specially Peter's. It's a personal decision, but I'd go since I believe that the danger from terrorists is now even less than before this dreadful incident because of the heightened security at all the airports around the world. I am continuing with my planning my trip to Italy next year.