Q. I am a self-employed travel specialist, concentrating on holidays in Asia. Friends (and even friends of friends) plague me asking for tips on flights and itineraries. Then they go online and book direct instead of through me. Sometimes I have spent hours putting the holiday together for them. How can I politely say ‘no’ to people seeking such one-way favours?
— M.B., London SW11
A. Clearly the petitioners do not realise that they will pay the same for the reservation either way, but that if you make it for them you will be rewarded with a small commission from the airline or hotel. Gush to the next enquirer: ‘I’d love to help and I’ve got loads to tell you but my new insurer – something to do with data protection which I don’t understand – won’t allow me to advise people unless I’m going to actually make the booking for them. But the good news is that, if you decide to go ahead with a booking, it won’t cost you any extra at all if I make it for you.’
Q. I like having people to stay, but I also like going to bed early. Is it acceptable to leave them downstairs with my husband and go up for a bath and bed shortly after dinner is over?
— S.H., Woodborough, Wilts
A. Emphasise to your guests when you issue the invitation that you are longing to see them but – although you are physically fine as far as you know – you have started to need to go to bed early. They, meanwhile, are welcome to party until dawn in your absence.
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