DEAR ABBY: I’m part of a small group of women who have been traveling together internationally for several years. One member enjoys organizing our accommodations, and we each send her our share of the costs while booking our own flights.
Recently, I had to cancel my plans for an upcoming trip due to an illness, notifying the group three months in advance. I requested a refund for the almost $800 I had already paid for lodging and car rental, but they refused. They claimed their expenses exceeded their initial estimates and that it wasn’t their fault I couldn’t go. This situation leaves me feeling like I’m subsidizing their vacation. Am I being unreasonable for wanting my money back? — STAYING HOME IN THE EAST
DEAR STAYING: You are not being unreasonable; you are definitely being taken advantage of. It’s important to think about whether you want to continue traveling with this group in the future. In the meantime, consider finding someone who can take your place on the trip. This could help recoup your money and allow the group to enjoy their vacation without additional costs.
For more advice, visit DearAbby.com.