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Because I don't have a BS meter that works 100 per cent of the time, I'm going to assume that the cabin stewards and waitstaff really do come from economically depressed areas, that many are sending home much of their salary and tips for family members back home. I can't imagine anyone signing a six-month contract that would keep them from seeing their kids or spouses just for the fun of it.
So until tips are included in the price of my fare, I'm going to go on the idea that these crew members are doing something good with the money. And that they're not just giving us a sob story to gain our sympathy.
Before auto-tips became the norm on the cruises I've gone on, I have noticed many empty seats for dinner on the last night. Maybe a few have a reason other than "skipping out" on handing over an envelope, but I doubt if the majority of those are missing dinner just to pack.
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