PETALING JAYA: Several air travellers say they plan to either delay their trips or choose destinations closer to home due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, flight uncertainties and higher prices for flight tickets.
Writer Rachel Tan, 37, who is based here, said she plans to fly to Japan but has not made any bookings yet.
“I am so worried about this actually. This is one of the reasons why I am postponing plans to buy tickets and book hotels.
“Perhaps I shall wait and see what happens, or just switch locations to safer places like within Malaysia or just Asean so I can come home easily,” Tan said, adding that buying travel insurance is a must considering the current worldwide scenario.
Trainer George D’Cruz, 30, from Gombak, said he is not too worried about the current situation as he is planning to visit Vietnam and Hong Kong.
“I don’t think my plans will be affected since these destinations are within the region.
“But I am making sure of the overall situation before flying by monitoring the conflict zone and its ripple effect.
“Initially I wanted to travel because of the strong ringgit, but if it weakens, perhaps I will travel domestically instead,” he said.
Administrator Joanne Lee, 31, remains unfazed as she continues to look forward to travelling.
“I have a trip to China in June, and so far the travel agency hasn’t updated me about the price of the flight ticket.
“However, I will keep what’s happening in mind before travelling to Europe. I am guessing the prices will go up soon,” she said.
Asked about her travel plans for the end of the year, Lee said she had none, citing the likelihood that rising fuel prices will drive up airfares.
