Dear Eric: I have a weekend planned with my sister-in-law. We split the cost for two nights. We each paid about $250. There was a cancellation policy that after a certain date you could not get a refund. That date has passed. She now has a conflict which is completely legitimate and possibly can’t come. I can still go. Should I offer to pay her back for her half if I go without her?
– Solo Vacation
Dear Vacation: If you can afford it, it would be kind to reimburse her. However, it’s not a requirement.
You both entered into the agreement with the hotel or resort, and both paid knowing about their cancellation policy. So, the obligation for reimbursement doesn’t sit with you.
It isn’t as if you’ll be getting twice the value, so you’re not getting something for nothing. Rather, you’ll be getting what you paid for. It’s unfortunate that she can’t also get what she paid for – presumably the other bed in a double room or a room in a suite. But one presumes she understands that your hands are as tied as hers are.
On the next trip, perhaps spring for a dinner or an excursion, if you’d like. With regard to this trip, however, enjoy your break with a clear conscience.
Read more Asking Eric and other advice columns.
Send questions to R. Eric Thomas at [email protected] or P.O. Box 22474, Philadelphia, PA 19110. Follow him on Instagram and sign up for his weekly newsletter at rericthomas.com.
If you purchase a product or register for an account through a link on our site, we may receive compensation. By using this site, you consent to our User Agreement and agree that your clicks, interactions, and personal information may be collected, recorded, and/or stored by us and social media and other third-party partners in accordance with our Privacy Policy.