To not go on hol for friend’s 40th

[tinmrn]

One of my bf’s has organised a girls trip away for her 40th. 4 nights, in middle of rural Italy, nearest town miles away, late Oct (end of half term). I will only know her and 1 other of the 7 women.. I really don’t want to go for a number of reasons (money tight, won’t know anyone, my son will need supervising for revision, but mainly what will we do for all that time, it won’t even be hot to sit by pool??!!) but she keeps saying I have to come, it won’t be the same without me, etc etc .. I’ve so far swerved committing but as it’s getting closer we obviously need to book. How can I get out of this without offending her? Or AIBU & should just suck it up & go..?

Older generation here, so apologies if I’m out of touch, but wow! The absolute entitlement of people expecting others to spend lots of money and use up leave on an expensive holiday THEY’VE chosen…and then guilting them into going.

I can’t imagine having the cheek or chutzpah to demand this.

Just tell her you can’t afford it and need to be with your family. If she doesn’t like it, what a shame.

I can’t stand being dictated to about how to spend my own money. Unless you are very comfortably off it takes away your own choices for holidays and meals out.
OPs friend shouldn’t insist. Why should someone dictate how their friend should spend £500-1000?
Just say no. She can’t force you.