The effect in Europe is obvious. The English Royal Navy will arrive today in Bilbao to bring thousands of British citizens home to London. The Iberian peninsula is now being used as the platform to connect trains, buses and ships as the alternative means of transportation.

While airlines continue to lose money, other businesses such as train companies, taxi service, car rental and even teleconferencing companies are taking in some unexpected profits.

To get an idea of the magnitude of the event, watch the video below.

Think about the following questions for your phone conversation:

1. When will flights get back to normal?

2. Do you know anyone affected by this event personally?

3. What impact has this had on the Spanish/World economy? Which sectors have suffered the most? Which have benefitted the most?

4. Can you remember a similir event or natural disaster?

5. What is the worst travel experience you have ever had?

Terms of Interest

to take a hit: to suffer a blow, to suffer the consequences of, to suffer a loss

conservative estimate: the lowest estimate possible

ripple effects: secondary effects that start out small and get bigger and biggger

to hold out: to keep

to jack up: to raise

modes of transportation: same as means of transportation