Need Advice Urgently Please Regarding Relative Wanting To Come Over From The Usa

[scruffbag]

Hi
My cousin wants to come over visiting and stay at our house over Christmas.
I cannot do this for really personal reasons and need a good excuse for her not staying at our house.
I do feel guilty, but know this is the right decision.
I have too much going on, with health problems etc.
Please what excuse can I give! I need your help urgently, please.
Many thanks.

[anneasquith]

Don't make-up any excuse, tell her it's just not the right time for you and family.

[Jackdaw33]

Tell her you're going abroad for Xmas.

[Barmaid]

I would just tell her the truth.

[Theland]

"You would be welcome ordinarily, but domestic issues rule thet out. So sorry!""

[andy-hughes]

The truth is usually best - as Theland says, take the sting out by saying you would love to have her, but personal circumstances mean it's not possible. You don't have to go into details, and if she is family, I am sure she will understand. If she doesn't understand, she's not someone you'd want as a Christmas guest anyway.

[Tuvok]

Do you a spare room?

If so, can you do something that would prohibit it from being used? eg.temporarily use it as a storage room etc.? That way you could tell her no space - and find a local B&B for her?

[TonyV]

I would go down B & B route if one close to you is available, or do you not want her in the house at all? If this is the case just politely explain it's not convenient for you.

[Buenchico]

Rather than just saying "Don't come" it might be better to say "Come another time". (e.g. "I'd really love to see you but, to be honest, Christmas isn't going to be the best time for me. Perhaps I could have the pleasure of your company some time in the new year?")

[woofgang]

I agree. I have been where you are and said I am really sorry that's not going to be possible this year. If you are asked why say that its personal problems and you are sorry but it won't be possible and just keep saying it....If you'd like to see them then add that you could send them details of local hotels and b and b...otherwise just say maybe next year.

[waterboatman]

Just explain and tell the truth.

[emmie]

be honest, say you cant manage it but you could tell them there are plenty of hotels (if there are) hotels in the vicinity.

[waterboatman]

Or B&B, usually cheaper.

[rowanwitch]

I have a friend with a big house who offers to put up people for me. It works really well guest has a homely experience and can get to my place easily to spend time together.

[murraymints]

I would just say it is not a good time to have house guests but you'd be happy to find alternative accommodation for them...

[scruffbag]

Many thanks to everyone for all your help.
I will follow the advice of telling the truth and cannot do it for personal problems. Xx

[anneasquith]

Yes. Best to tell the truth from the beginning, people lie and get " found out " in the future . Good luck .