Dining out with friends can bring people closer and make for an enjoyable experience.
Which raises the question: Who pays the bill when drinkers and non-drinkers dine together?
My wife and I enjoy going out to dinner with another couple, but theres an issue.
We dont drink, but our friends do.
We dont think we should be responsible for splitting the check 50/50.
Are my wife and I being total cheapskates?
Traditional etiquette states that the person who extends the dinner invitation foots the bill.
Often, people simply dont notice that they ordered more food or drinks than their dining companions.
(See a list of Dry January dos and donts below.)
Money Manners
Lizzie Post is AARP’s financial etiquette columnist.
She is the great-great-granddaughter of etiquette legend Emily Post.
Email us at moneymanners@aarp.org.
This way, everyone goes into the meal knowing what to expect.
Wanting a fair split isnt cheap, so dont feel embarrassed or awkward asking for separate checks.
Its a perfectly reasonable request and if your friends balk, maybe its best to doat-home mealswith them.
Taking a break from alcohol evenfor one month can come with some health perks.
Other research has found that people who stop drinking for a month experiencemore energyandbetter sleep.
Interested in giving the month-long Dry January challenge a try?
Explore the alternatives and find something you like, the health care providers at Massachusetts General Hospital suggest.
Doidentify why you drink alcohol.Is it social?
Is it to unwind?
Maybe ayoga sessioncan replace your nightly wine, or agame nightwith friends could sub in for happy hour.
Dontkeep it a secret.Let your friends and family know youre participating in Dry January, the NIH says.
They can help hold you accountable, and they may even decide to join you.
Rachel Nania
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