This doesn't surprise me at all, Zylphia. Spaniards are no strangers to terrorism with ETA and they mourn when people are killed/murdered no matter if they're Spaniards or others in the world. I've always found Spaniards to be very sensitive with regards to humanity. I think they would have felt the same if a similar terrorist attack had happened in Japan, Russia, or Argentina.

[ 09-18-2001: Message edited by: MadridMan ]

I am finding MM's and everyone else's comments to be very true.

I have been canceling all of our reservations for the trip we WERE going to take in October, and each and every hostal, hotel etc. has responded back adding very warm comments expressing their sorrow over the happenings in NY. This is without me even mentioning it in my cancellation request!

And, just as an aside to those who may want to comment that we shouldn't cancel or trip....We are looking at it as a mere postponement. We aren't AFRAID to take the trip. We simply have chosen to spend the time traveling within the US visiting those friends and family we don't see as often as we like and spending our dollars to support the US economy. It is a very, very small sacrafice we can make to contribute to the healing of this great country.

We WILL be going to Spain - just not when had originally planned.

Pookita (who anxiously awaits NEXT October...or maybe Spring?)

I posted this in another part of the forum but felt it relevant here too. After all, what I read here is what helped to make up our minds ....We had a group of 40 people leaving for Spain in a few days. Since the tragedy that has dropped to 10. We have been struggling with whether or not to go on with the trip. After having reviewed here and in another section of the forum, we are more determined than ever to go. These ten Americans will not let the terrorists intimidate us. We will not be cowered into submission. All I have read says the people of Spain have anguished with us over this tragedy and I am going to thank them personally. Thanks to all from Spain who have posted the wonderful notes. We will see you in a week!
Kelly B

I totally agree with Kelly B. I am leaving for Madrid on the 29th for three weeks of Spanish language study. I am excited about meeting the people of that wonderful city.

I want to thank Kelly B and arthurg for your posts and for coming here in such difficult times for you.

I really understand the reasons and problems that could keep you for coming. So coming here has a special value (in my point of view).

You will be very welcome to Spain ;-)

I hope you enjoy your visit here.

Fernando

With such nice people in Madrid like you, Fernando, how could we not have a good time?

When I read Aznar saying, " America was there to help us with terrorism and now its our time to help them," a bitter sweet chill covered me.
From keeping up with Spanish news in the past couple of years, I know all Spaniards know the horror of terrorism.
I know they feel our pain in the US.
I, from the bottom of my heart, thank them for mourning with us and standing up with us.
Spain's extension of friendship at this crucial time WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN!
God Bless Spain and America.
true lifelong friends