MISS MANNERS by Judith Martin, Nicholas Ivor Martin and Jacobina Martin

DEAR MISS MANNERS: My husband and I were going on vacation for our anniversary. When our neighbors learned we were renting a two-bedroom, two-bathroom condo, they invited themselves along. We didn’t know how to say no, but were a bit encouraged by the thought that our rental would be cheaper shared.

The couple, unknown to us, thought the trip was free for them. They kept telling everyone we met that they were on a free vacation, when we’d paid nearly $3,000 for the accommodations. They did not pay a penny, nor have they offered.

Are we wrong for thinking this was rude? How can we politely ask them to pay a portion of the costs?

GENTLE READER: First, Miss Manners must teach you how to say no politely.

Inviting on

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