Just understand that, sometimes, Bluey is here to save the day
Phones. We love them. We also hate them… at least sometimes… especially when we’re trying to enjoy a movie at the cinema, relax by a waterfall, or, worse yet, get a nice tan at the beach while someone nearby blasts Taylor Swift at full volume.
Recently, there was an interesting discussion on Reddit regarding the use of phones in the Main Dining Room on Carnival Cruise Line, and whether they should even be allowed inside restaurants and specialty dining venues.
In the case in question, a guest was trying to enjoy their meal, but at nearby tables, nearly everyone was on their phones and tablets, especially children watching Bluey with the volume high enough for other passengers to hear. Hey, can’t blame them, Bluey is pretty good.
The guest argued that the Main Dining Room is all about “fine dining,” which doesn’t make much sense if other passengers are just staring at their phones or watching a movie or cartoon. However, Carnival has branded itself as the fun cruise line, and in that case, there wasn’t much to be done. Everyone was essentially free to do as they pleased to enjoy their time however they wanted.
I don’t think phones should be banned inside restaurants, but I understand what the guest was trying to say. We are connected to the online world 24/7, and for families with children, sometimes you have to resort to extreme tactics - like letting them watch Bluey - just to have a few minutes to enjoy your meal in peace.
With that in mind, I don’t think phones should be banned in the Main Dining Room, especially since it’s a complimentary dining venue and should remain a more casual space, even with the “fine dining” label attached to it. Just make sure to lower the volume on your tablets and phones, people!
The question becomes even more interesting when we consider a specialty dining restaurant, like Enchanté or Palo aboard Disney Cruise Line. These are high-end restaurants that truly take “fine dining” to another level. Sure, they’re adults-only, so you probably won’t find anyone watching Bluey there, but should guests be prohibited from checking their phones or watching a quick video just because they’re having a meal?
I don’t think so. What I do think is that sometimes we need to pause, reflect, and use common sense. Watch the volume, friends.
What about you? Do you think phones should be banned in Main Dining Rooms or any other restaurants? It’s something to consider next time you’re dying to watch Bluey and Bingo in the middle of the Atlantic.
