Pushy friend not wanted on European trip

Q A couple of friends and I (all 60-plus) are planning a trip to Europe. We don’t get to take holidays often.

Another friend heard about it, and asked to join. We hadn’t included her because she’s pushy, opinionated, and frequently creates drama.

She has to have the last word and often creates a lot of friction and uneasiness.

What’s the best way to say that we don’t want her along?

OR, are her feelings going to be hurt no matter how we say it? Awkward Decision

A You’re going to hurt her feelings either way.

It’s crucial to your enjoying this rare trip that you tell her that her behaviour’s often offensive.

It’s equally crucial to any future relationship with her that she either be told why she cannot join you, or what you won’t put up with if she does.

If you don’t tell her and find an excuse, the “friendship” is a sham whatever you decide.