I have been alone in the town I moved to for 16 years. When I plan on being alone for a holiday.....all you have to tell them is that you "already made plans". They don't need to know those plans are to enjoy the holiday alone. You don't have to reveal all your details to anyone asking...the details are none of their business & there should be no guilt in doing what you want.....changing your thinking regarding guilt may be something that needs worked on in your life