(exhale)
I really couldn't remember how to spell an exhale noise but I gave it my best shot (hehe). I've been in Mexico since Sunday with my younger brother (a freshman at Indiana University) and my eccentric mother, Theresa.
We have been staying at a behemoth of a resort in Playa del Carmen, 50 minutes south of Cancun. Its been a blast on top of being one of the most exhausting vacations of my life (I've travelled through Ireland, Singapore, England, Australia, the Rocky Mountains.) I know about tiring and amazing vacations.
I have encountered great relaxation, but also great humanity. From my observations the majority of the employees at the resort are brought in and told where to tend the needy people that insist on incredible service but neglect adequate tipping.
I've seen, so far, how far a dollar can stretch and its power (ethically or not). I now know the difference a one dollar tip and a five dollar tip can make on a person. A one dollar tip is an acknowledgment of adequate service. My experience this week tells me that people give one dollar tips when they are confused as to the correct amount of tipping required. How do you tip when the bill is not reflected at the end of a meal but rather at the beginning of the vacation when you are asked to pay a lump sum "all-inclusive price"?
One dollar is typical. It says, "I acknowledge that you are hear, heading to my every need and that you are probably not even paid an adequate wage.
A two, three, or four dollar tip lies somewhere in between adequate service and PHENOMENAL service. All these tips are understandable. Making it absolutely known to the person that their service performance is essential to their experience is eye-wateringly-satisfying. (thats not a word but go with me).
A five dollar tip makes it very clearly known that I acknowledge your humanity and understand the hard work you have been putting in to deserve a lifestyle far greater than the one placed in front of you.
Nothing brightens a persons day more than acknowledging their pure humanity. I wish I could tell them how grateful I am for their incredible service but it would take them away from what the do best. Sometimes a bright smile and handshake will do. For now the five dollars and a smile is the best I can do, Ruben.
We are Playa Del Carmen regulars. When I run along the front of all the resorts early in the morning I often see the busloads of employees arriving for work. It always gives me a lot to think about, mostly centered around the idea of how hard they are working so that I can work hard at doing nothing for a week.
ReplyDeleteHeidi, that is so insanely true. We plan these vacations for months ahead of time and get to sit their and enjoy pure relaxation. The massive amount of work that goes in to power these resorts is awe-inspiring.
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