DEAR ABBY: This year I have the opportunity to travel to Europe with some friends. One of them, however, has the tendency to burp loudly when we are in public. She often does it at restaurants or other sit-down areas. I have tried telling her it's rude and disrespectful, but she doesn't care.
I don't want to go to Europe and have her burping in front of other people. I don't want to be labeled as a disrespectful tourist because of her. Is there anything I can say to her? Or is this a problem that I shouldn't get involved with? -- EMBARRASSED FRIEND
DEAR FRIEND: Could your friend have a medical problem that causes her to burp? If so, that may be why it happens and you shouldn't criticize her for it. However, if that's not the case, because her behavior causes you embarrassment, either rethink traveling with her or make sure you sit far away from her in public places.