Memorial Day weekend marks the traditional start of the summer vacation season, but Americans' customary yearning to travel can no longer be taken for granted.

Some could decide to stay home this year amid concerns about terrorism and associated airport-security headaches, fears about political tensions and labor strikes in Europe, and awareness of gasoline prices in California.

But others will still be enthusiastic about braving the worries and inconveniences — and even intent on carrying on with summer travel plans as usual to make a point that terrorists won't keep us down.

Are you eager or hesitant to travel this summer?

Fears about flying have been renewed by the crash of an Egypt Air flight from Paris to Cairo on May 19. Would you feel safe from terrorism if you travel by air? Have your feelings changed since the months after 9/11?

It used to be that a common dream vacation was a trip to Paris. Has that changed since last year's terrorist attacks in and near Paris?

Authorities urge travelers to get to the airport two hours before domestic flights, three hours before international flights. Security snarls led to a shake-up in the Transportation Security Administration in May. Do long lines at airport security checkpoints discourage you?

All of these variables aside, do you have the money for a vacation this year?

REPRINTED FROM THE ORANGE COUNTY REGISTER

Photo credit: Robert Linsdell