What was supposed to be a fun luxury getaway for four friends at a 5-star hotel quickly turned sour, all because one of them couldn’t stop feeling “ashamed.”
According to a post on Threads, the OP and three other friends had decided to treat themselves to a luxurious staycation.
From excitement to awkwardness
While they weren’t wealthy, they simply wanted to experience what it was like staying at a high-end hotel.
But as soon as they arrived, one friend began muttering, “So embarrassing… so embarrassing” and tried to avoid any form of attention at every turn.
Confused, the group eventually asked why she was acting that way. That’s when the friend admitted she felt out of place.
She was embarrassed that they had arrived in a Perodua instead of a luxury car, that they had prepared packed meals instead of ordering from room service, and that they hadn’t given tips to the hotel staff who helped carry their luggage.
She said she felt ashamed, like we didn’t belong there.”
The other three friends were left stunned, especially since she had never voiced these concerns when they were planning the trip.
“We’re not rich, we just wanted the experience. But the whole time she kept hiding and repeating “so embarrassing”, which really spoiled the mood,” the OP explained.
While she doesn’t agree with her friend’s reaction, she is also curious about how the hotel staff would view customers like them.
“I want to ask those who have worked or are working in 5-star hotels — are guests like us really that embarrassing?”
Reactions
The post has since sparked a wave of comments, with many netizens sharing their opinions.
Some who had worked in the hotel industry assured her that guests shouldn’t feel ashamed for their stay there.
‘You’re a valued guest and it really doesn’t matter what car you drive. For the bellboy, I usually tip around RM10, though tipping isn’t compulsory in Malaysia. I hope you had a wonderful stay nonetheless!’
‘In the world of hospitality, everybody is a VIP. And it’s your money, spend it however you want. Tipping is recommended but not customary in Malaysia.’
‘I’ve stayed at Shangri-La and other hotels a few times. Drove a Myvi, parked like normal. Carried my own bag without asking the bellman. When dining in or ordering room service, if the staff are good, friendly and very welcoming, then we give tips. That’s it.’
