Tag

Gratuities

All articles tagged with #gratuities

From Captains to Cleaners: The Real Pay on Cruise Ships
business6 days ago

From Captains to Cleaners: The Real Pay on Cruise Ships

Cruise-ship pay varies wildly by role, with captains often earning $12,000–$25,000 monthly and galley/housekeeping staff typically around $1,200–$2,500 monthly; chief housekeepers and executive chefs can reach $4,000–$9,000. Wages depend on hiring agencies, flag-state rules, and contract terms, but perks like free housing, meals, medical coverage, and possible tax exemptions significantly boost compensation. Contracts commonly run 3–9 months (examples exist) with lengthy daily hours, and gratuities add to take-home pay, though practices differ across lines. The article emphasizes that figures are illustrative and influenced by varied factors, with substantial upward mobility and cross-border earning potential for many workers.

Cruise Lines Hike Gratuities, Sparking Passenger Backlash Over Hidden Fees
business29 days ago

Cruise Lines Hike Gratuities, Sparking Passenger Backlash Over Hidden Fees

Cruise lines are raising automatic gratuities and service charges for 2026, with Holland America implementing daily 'Crew Appreciation' fees of $18 per day for non-suites and $20 for suites, plus an 18% service charge on drinks, spa, and certain purchases. MSC Cruises and Carnival followed with higher per-night or per-day charges (MSCs rising to $17 standard, $23 for Yacht Club; Carnival to $17 standard, $19 suites), prompting passenger complaints on social media about deceptive pricing and mounting travel costs.

Boost Your Holiday Tipping: Why Generosity Matters More Than Ever
lifestyle2 years ago

Boost Your Holiday Tipping: Why Generosity Matters More Than Ever

Etiquette expert Thomas P. Farley, also known as Mister Manners, is urging Americans not to cut back on tipping this Christmas, despite studies showing a decrease in gratuities. Farley suggests tipping more generously during the holiday season, even up to 50 percent at restaurants. He advises tipping the cost of one service for long-standing tradesmen such as hairdressers and nannies, and recommends tipping between 40 and 50 percent for sit-down meals on Christmas or New Year's. Farley argues that frustration with prompts for gratuity should not penalize service workers, and emphasizes the importance of showing appreciation for their professionalism and kindness throughout the year.

The Tipping Dilemma: When and How Much Should You Tip?
lifestyle3 years ago

The Tipping Dilemma: When and How Much Should You Tip?

Americans are often forgetting to tip hotel housekeepers, according to etiquette expert Diane Gottsman. While tipping at restaurants is more common, the percentage of Americans who always tip hotel housekeepers has been declining. Gottsman recommends leaving a minimum of $3-$5 per day or $1 per person per day if there is a larger crew. Housekeepers often rely on gratuities to make ends meet, and the average hourly wage for housekeepers in the U.S. is $14.40. The American Hotel Association suggests leaving the tip in an envelope or with a note to ensure it is clear the money is for housekeeping.