Paper Tiger - I'm with you on this issue!
It is high time that we followed the lead of the Netherlands and forbade the outward wearing of religious clothing or symbols in public places. If someone so chooses, their religious books can be read and prayers can be silently recited in the comfort of one's own seat.
My opinion is not having a go at anyone's beliefs - it is to prevent others' faiths from being intrusive to those of other faiths, non-believers or "non-understanders" such as the Original Poster.