Here at Travel Weekly we’ve been hearing all about the experiences of a colleague who has just returned from holiday in Egypt.
It’s fair to say she was extremely reticent about going following the recent unrest that led to the overthrow of the Mubarak government.
However, after travel bans were lifted she was faced with a difficult choice; either put her concerns to one side and go, or forfeit her well-deserved break.
So, it was fantastic to hear just how much of a good time she had and how welcoming the Egyptians were, particularly to the British who continued flying to the Red Sea throughout the troubles.
The Egyptian revolution, which so recently filled our media with off-putting images, is now one of the main reasons for visiting Egypt.
Tahir Square has, overnight, become the number one tourist attraction in Cairo and my colleague was proudly showing off her commemorative visitors’ badge honouring those who died.
Like Egypt, Japan this week found itself the focal point of international attention and compassion following the devastating earthquake and tsunami.
It’s at times like this you realise just how far-flung destinations have become to feel so much closer to home due to both the media and our ability to travel.
While the British will play their part in Japan’s recovery I’m also sure that as soon as it is safe to do so our tourists will return, something our latest TNS research underlines.
On Red Nose Day it’s appropriate we spare a thought for those less fortunate than ourselves and maybe feel some pride that we are part of an industry that can, and often does, make a difference.