Wow, DR Jason that story is incredible. But I'm confused. Did the rest of the people not realize that they were supposed to tip you? I think there are some things that people KNOW require tips (waiters, valets ...). But I can't believe EVERYONE was disrepectful last night on purpose.
Btw, how can that guy get away with never tipping anyone? I can't imagine that he could show up at the same restaurant twice without people talking. That is totally crazy for him to have that much money, and go around without giving tips. I could even maybe understand if he just tipped 10% or some cheapo amount. But not tipping at all? Wow.
As for not tipping...
I've met some people who assume that if someone is working at the Met - or the Kennedy Center, the Waldorf-Astoria, etc. - that everyone there must be making a nice wage. Unfortunately, nothing could be further from the truth.
However, most of the time, "not tipping" is just a sign of rudeness and inconsiderateness.
And as DR Jason's post indicated, there are people who go to the Metropolitan Opera because they do not like opera. ?!?!?! For some people, it's basically an opportunity to see and be seen. The furs, the suits, the shoes, the gowns, the jewels are the primary reason for going out. Not the music. Tipping doesn't even come into the picture for them, no matter how many coats and bags they check.
I have a friend who comes from a "wealthy" family, and they sort of have automatic renewals when it comes to their Metropolitan Opera subscriptions. Unfortunately, most of the current family does not like going to the opera. Fortunately, however, they give away their tickets to those who do love the opera. -And, as a bonus, they actually have the tickets that qualify for a partial tax deduction!
Oh, and they tip too!
