UK Ferry Tickets

After the shocking events of July 7, the Queen vowed the terrorists ‘would not change our way of life’. But it’s not the royals’ way of life I’m worried about.

At the time of writing, we’ve had attacks and attempted attacks on the London Underground and buses; bombs on a bus in Turkey and three huge blasts in Sharm El Sheikh. No one will be surprised if there are more atrocities.

Will this have a big impact on how and where we go on holiday? Yes, I believe it will. There has been much talk since early July about resilient Londoners, refusing to bow to terrorists and vowing to carry on with their lives as normal. But don’t forget, few people have a choice. I now feel slightly nervous as I take the escalator under the city, but I have to work. Life goes on.

The decision about where to go on holiday is very different. Everyone wants a hassle-free time and, these days, there are so many places to choose from. VisitBritain has estimated that the July 7 bombs will cost around £300 million in lost revenue from inbound tourists who will now stay away. Respected consultancy group PKF expects occupancy at the capital’s hotels will fall over the next few months.

Meanwhile, Turkey and Egypt are also bracing themselves for a sharp drop in bookings.

Of course, attacks can happen anywhere and it would be a brave person who could say, with absolute certainty, that a destination is completely safe. But the problem for Turkey and Egypt is that the terrorists have already hit tourists – the softest of targets – and say they will do so again. Many people will think it is just not worth the risk of visiting these countries.

I believe that, at least in the short term, holidaymakers will switch away from some European and Middle Eastern countries towards other destinations in Europe, which are not perceived to be targets for terrorists. The rights and wrongs of our foreign policy is a debate for a different type of newsletter but there is no doubt that travellers see countries like France, Italy, Germany and Austria as safer places to be than Turkey, Egypt, London or New York. Time will tell whether or not they are right.

Elsewhere, security will be further tightened, leading to longer delays at airports and for trips through resorts. In short, going away will take up more of your time.

But whatever happens, it is important to remember this Crimewatch-style sign off: The chances of you being involved in a terrorist attack are minute. The British are natural explorers and it would be a great shame if this new wave of crime put us off travelling, so go forth and holiday!

Guest Article by Jeremy Skidmore

Sunday, July 31st, 2005