The Vatican is outfitting Rome to handle an expected crowd of millions. Israel and the Palestinian Authority are counting on huge crowds in Jerusalem, Bethlehem and Nazareth. Paris, Berlin, New York, Hong Kong, London, Chicago, Cairo, Athens, Las Vegas, Branson, Atlantic City, Key West - virtually every world capital and resort town is planning a bash to draw tourists. Many are extending the promotion throughout the coming year. Of course, all 25,000 rooms at Disney World's 27 hotels are reported reserved, too, with a waiting list almost as long.
Pilgrimages are on sale worldwide.
And there are choices for those who want something with starlight rather than lasers and noisemakers. But packages are still available for Ankgor Wat, Machu Picchu and Kilimanjaro. The bookings have rolled in despite the prices being asked. Travel agents and tour operators quoted in news stories during the past several months have noted markups of from 100 percent to 500 percent for Y2K tours and resort and hotel accommodations. Ticket prices are rising and Y2K reservations are being rationed to wholesalers and agents.