paulfamilyadventure

Thank you everyone for providing great insight and for doing it in a way that is not insulting or condescending to others. Impressive. Here's why I believe it is a hot button issue. 1. Even though kids are probably more work - they usually don't have to pay when they are accompanied with a full paying adult. Usually kids can eat free, stay free, and even sometimes play free. 2. The word "gratuity" is contradictory to the word "required". If it is required, it should be listed as an additional "required service surcharge" and paid at the time of making the reservation. Like a tax. Paying something that sounds optional, but is required at the end of the cruise puts you right back into the reality of going back to the real world - it just steals the relaxation out of an all inclusive vacation. I think it is just bad business to structure fees in controversial or confusing way... I think it hurts the image and integrity of the company. Kinda like "Resort" fees that have infiltrated resorts in Orlando and Vegas. It's confusing, sounds optional, and is usually tacked on to the bill at the end of your stay. I've found myself avoiding these places and paying a little more for places that are truly inclusive.