Phone cards as tips

[Qwiklaff]

I have heard that some people add a pre-paid phone card as part of the tip to crew members. I thought this was a good idea and wanted to do it myself. Have any of you done this and if so what is the best type of card? Is there a special type of card they need for International use or will any card do? Also do the crew members appreciate this type of tip?

TIA

 

[SnowWhite2]

They appreciate money as tips. Most crew have cell phones that can be used in port and the computers/skype that they can use on board.

 

[kcashner]

Many years ago, before everyone had cell phones, this was popular. However, now most crew have cell phones that enable them to call home, and the ship makes internet reasonable for them (as well as them knowing where all the free internet is while in port!)

The two things they appreciate most are cash and glowing evaluations that mention them by name. The evaluations directly relate to shifts that they are assigned as well as promotions.

If you still fee inclined to do some sort of gift card, the crew bus takes them to Walmart and Target when in port. However, cash is still preferred.

For non-tipped positions (like the kid counselors) you might consider something like a bag of candy or other munchies that they can share.