Business Travelers not Changing Their Plans Due to Terrorist Attacks

Although some business travelers are taking some precautions such as staying in lower-profile hotels and avoiding large gatherings, most have not missed a beat in the wake of recent terrorist scares.  

Most business travelers cite statistics that indicate that in spite of heavily-publicized terror events, the risk of coming to physical harm because of terrorist activity in most cities is very low.  Also, since terror attacks or threats have occurred in many large cities around the world, there is no concentrated area to avoid.

Paula Williams, the host of Ravenwerks, asked the question of her blog subscribers and received very upbeat but practical answers from veteran business travelers.

Subhas Biswas, a trainer, consultant and auditor, indicates that he is planning extra time for security; and keeping entry and exit points in perspective.  

Some travelers expressed that the color-based security alert system is not specific enough to be helpful.  Edward Branley points out that an “high alert” status has been in effect for seven years now and has become the status quo.

Finally, Adrienne Sasson, a travel expert, says “If people begin to run scared of a perceived attack, then they win! My ego will not permit it.”

“Which city will you give up?”  She adds:  “New York, Paris, LA, Madrid, London, Dublin, Jerusalem, Cairo, Mumbai, Amman, Buenos Aires, what have I forgotten?”

Williams asked the question after being frightened for the safety of a friend in Mumbai.

"In fact, she persuaded me to drink coconut water (an excellent cure for "traveler's tummy") in the Sea Lounge in the Taj Mahal hotel, across from the Gateway to India monument on the Mumbai waterfront last March.

Our friend works at the Times of India and was in the neighborhood of the recent attacks in Mumbai. In fact, the Times of India building was fired upon. We had not heard from her for several days and did not know what to think, but I'm relieved to report she's unhurt. She just didn't have access to email for a few days. She watched the Taj and the Oberoi go up in flames.

My husband and I were discussing the events in Mumbai over the weekend, while sitting in a restaurant in Salt Lake City. Ironically, while we were sitting there, we saw lights through the window and heard sirens outside. There had been a very bad car crash outside the restaurant.

This put these events in perspective for us. We are concerned for the safety and happiness of our friends and family, wherever they are, and we take what precautions we think are prudent when we travel, but the fact remains that the statistical likelihood of being harmed in a terrorist attack is so low it is almost negligible compared to everyday risks like driving a car or crossing the street in our own neighborhood.

Would I return to Mumbai tomorrow? Absolutely. Would I stay in the Taj or the Oberoi? Absolutely, if they're open. They are beautiful, historic, wonderful hotels and will be so again."  said Williams.