I am one of the multitude of folks who have cancelled an upcoming trip. It's hard to believe that just ten days ago we were weighing the pros and cons of going to Italy--seems like a long time ago. I want to express my gratitude for the people working on the "front lines" of tourism. I planned our trip independently; everyone from the airline to B & B hosts to tour guides have been most gracious about cancellation. When it is once again safe to travel (not just for travelers, but for the communities we visit) I will contact these gracious hosts to spend our travel time and resources supporting their businesses. I wish them only the best as they grapple with rapidly-changing situations with grace and professionalism. Wishing everyone health and peace in these challenging times!
Posted by
Paris
10104 posts
Things are going to be rough in Italy for a long while after they make it through this crisis. I know they will appreciate your patronage when it becomes possible again. You are thoughtful to mention it and to state it publicly.
Posted by
Forest Grove, OR
11741 posts
Amen! My friends in Italy are putting on a brave face, but can you imagine those who have to work, like grocery stores, suppliers, pharmacies, transit workers and yes, hospitality too. No restaurants open at all. We will be back in the fall and ready to spread a little currency. BTW, you can donate to non profits and that may help out, like the Cat Sanctuary in Largo Argentina. They need help right now and will continue to care for the cats.
Posted by
Washington DC
27908 posts
Take care to switch the currency-conversion option on cat sanctuary donations from "PayPal" to "credit card".
Posted by
Atlanta
2509 posts
I cancelled my trip to Italy this week after the lockdown. Delta was generous with allowing me to rebook by Sept. 7 (a year from the original issue date). I plan to use it for my RS Poland tour in Sept.
I have to email the B&B owner in Venice and the hotel in Florence with our cancellation. I feel so sad for these hard working hosts and plan to stay with them in the future. My prayers for Italians and Italy, that things will return to normal. Prayers for healing and recovery for those who are ill.