I replied "I am here"
Almost immediately got back "My family and I are in terrible trouble".
Now I know this woman is well off and takes flying lesson for example. I also know she is currently visiting family in Palm Spring. On top of that I am the most casual of friends (we belong to one common organization, but different clubs).
Given this, I was pretty sure it was a fake, so I simple saved a screen shot of our supposed chat and emailed her immediately. Of course, she was fine and appalled. I just told her to change her facebook password.
I guess for all of you, never believe anything sent to you on the internet. Always verify in person. For example you could have asked for the name of the Hotel in London and called them and asked to speak to your friend.
I have had to delete emails from me to me!