Jessica Georgenton planned to visit Vietnam, but fears of war and a mystery disease sent her to Hawaii instead. Elizabeth Wands’ backpacking trip across Europe is on hold because of her parents’ anxiety. Concerns about terrorism and war are forcing thousands of Americans to change their spring vacations, with many tweaking travel plans at the last minute in favor of destinations perceived as less risky. Many people are reluctant to head to the Middle East, but demand is also down for travel to Europe, Asia and Africa, travel agents say. Two cruise lines, Celebrity and Princess, have completely pulled their Mediterranean packages. Airlines are waiving penalties for changing or canceling flights for the next several weeks. On Thursday, Northwest Airlines suspended its daily nonstop service from Amsterdam to India through Sunday, citing the start of military action. And American Airlines plans to cut international flights by 6 percent in April because of the effect the war is having on bookings. The unease also extends to domestic travel. Some people are choosing to drive, rather than fly, on shorter trips and cancel others — especially to New York and Washington. Full Story
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