Quoting myself… saw the same situation this morning at breakfast in YC. After an older man left the lounge, his wife said to the CM “he’s trying to find a way to tip you”. The CM was a younger male, answered “please don’t, we’re not allowed to accept”. The woman replied he really wants to, after some back & forth a few times I heard the CM say something about small things like a pin from the parks.
I know this question has come up here over the years. I’m glad both CMs had the same answer, so we can know for sure they’re not allowed to accept. But we’ve been staying CL for over 25 years & have never seen or heard it in person in the lounges. Now twice in 1 stay! I’m sure with how prevalent tipping has become absolutely everywhere guests just assume they should tip here too.