New twist on old scam

I'm sure that all of you have received one or more of the following emails.  But just in case you haven't, a hotel contact is the latest addition.  Very creepy.

"I'm sorry for this sudden request.  It's because things actually got out of control.  I'm in Madrid, Spain.  I came here for a conference and I was mugged.  All my belongings including cell phone and credit card were all stolen at "GUN POINT." It's such a traumatic experience for me.
 
I need your help flying back home as I am trying to raise some money.  I've  contacted my bank but the best they could do was to send me a new card in the mail which will take 2-4 working days to arrive here.  I need you to lend me some money to sort my self out of this predicament.  I will pay back once I get this over with because I need to make a last minute flight.
 
Western Union or Money Gram is the fastest option to wire funds to me.  Let me know if you need my details (full names/location) to effect a transfer. You can reach me via hotel's desk phone.  The number is +34 981600916891.
 
Waiting to hear from you,

(a friend you know whose email list has been compromised)"