Carnival Responds to Criticism Over Tipping Practice: "Virtue Signaling"

Photo byCarnival Cruise Line

A recent photo of a cruise passenger leaving a creative tip for their room steward has sparked a heated debate, according to news reports. The passenger spelled out "thank you" with dollar bills on their bed.

While some found the gesture heartwarming, others criticized it as outdated and demeaning.

One passenger wrote, "STOP showing these photos, John. You are just virtue signaling. Pay them a living wage. This is outdated, offensive, and demeaning. If you are going to give a worker cash, hand it to them or place in an envelope. They are not children. This kind of photo should be trashed, not celebrated."

Carnival Cruise Line's Brand Ambassador, John Heald, defended the practice of tipping.

He responded,

"I refuse to get into the living wage reference although I will say that the crew love working with us, it gives them the ability to provide for a far better life than they could provide if they were working from home."

Heald also praised the crew member, saying that they were likely "smiling when he saw it and appreciated it so very much."

The debate highlights the ongoing discussion about the role of tipping in the service industry and whether it is a fair or equitable practice.

Photo byjonathan leonardoonUnsplash