Would you be guilty travelling during this economic downturn?  

I would be ecstatic travelling right now! I had a trip planned in a few weeks but it doesn't look like it will happen. When you travel you help stimulate the local economy in the place that you travel too. I am hoping to at least drive someplace for a day trip when my break comes up. I will not be at work for two weeks and two days worth of classes and I seriously need a change of scenery.

Despite the recession I still went ahead with my vacation in January 2009 to South Africa. I took my toddler son to Cape Town and the Garden Route. Since travel is my top hobby I would still do it even if I was very poor. My finances did go down considerably after my trip to New Zealand and the South Pacific Islands. So I decided to buy a cheap flight and take my tent with me. I managed a two week trip to Croatia, Montenegro and Slovenia. I didn't spend much money at all. Sadly since 2008 a few airlines have ceased trading and the one we flew to South Africa was half full. Employees of the airlines want all of us that like travel to keep on traveling. Many of the local people in destinations like Thailand need money that they get through tourism. I always feel happy when traveling. I saw a recession in 1991 and here we are again in another economic downturn. That is sad but enjoyment in traveling must still continue for me.

No, i won't feel guilty at all.. in fact, i have travelled with my hubby a month ago.. We went to Boracay and spent three days in the island and one day at his family's place in Kalibo... We didn't spend much as we got our airline tickets for free.. =) We just paid for our accommodation which we got for a discounted price as the manager of the resort is his sister's very close friend.. We didn't go to expensive restaurants.. we've just dined out at delicious yet inexpensive restos.. =) Travelling is one of the things i'm fond of doing.. I like seeing beautiful places here and abroad..