Philadelphia Travelers to Israel Seem Undeterred By Mideast Flareup
By Pat Loeb
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- The fighting at the Israeli-Gaza border (see related story) doesn't seemed to have discouraged Philadelphia area travelers who have been planning visits to the region.
In fact, some people have booked flights to show their support for Israel.
Igal Hami, president of Gil Travel, an agency that specializes in tours of Israel, says he has groups leaving all the time.
And, so far since the escalation of hostilities between Israel and the Palestinians, not a single cancellation.
"We have people calling to ask questions," he admits, but "not a lot of questions."
In fact, Hami says, the conflict has motivated some travelers.
"We had a group leaving Saturday night to show support to Israel," he tells KYW Newsradio. "We have people that left Philadelphia yesterday on US Air to Tel Aviv."
Hami, who has children and grandchildren living in Israel, takes more than professional satisfaction in his clients' resolve, but says he'll be prepared to adapt if the situation changes.
Though he's hoping for the best.
"Let's pray for peace," he said today.
