I know that we can all recount stories but as cabin crew we have plenty of charm school alumni to make our day just that bit special. I find that a common habit is never to look at the person who is taking your order, and talk at them - who are they when all said and done?
As for the worst exhibition that we ever had on board - and this one always stands out - was the couple that we had coming in one night on quite a long haul flight. They were in First Class and had not so much handed rather than waved their coats at the crew member for her to collect. I forget what went on prior to take off - but when we reached altitude was got straight out and the drinks orders were taken. I came by the First Galley to find the Purser with his mouth still agape at what had taken place. Apparently when he had gone to take the drinks order - and please bear in mind that this is a most charming personable individual who is an asset to the company.
He asked Sir what he would like to drink. He was told.
"Madam, would you care for something to drink"
She did not flinch or even look at him. He bent down suspecting that she might not hear him and to get eye contact.
Excuse me Madam? Would you care for anything to drink? "
She looked at him in stoney silence. He persisted and this time gestured drinking as he wondered if she actually spoke English
"Madam would_you_Like_a_Drink?"
She remained silent but her husband's voice cut through
"My wife does not speak to the hired help. She will have Champagne. Now"
Our Purser was speechless. He had never never been spoken to like that ever in his career. He's been called names, he's had discourtesy, rudeness in it but condescending rudeness and attitude - no Never. I shan't bore you with how I dealt with it, but that was the worst that I can remember in longer than I care to remember. Food allergies - deal with them all the time and are part of the world in which we live.
For you all - and this is rather OT - there was some article in the Telegraph colour suppliment about two years ago extolling the virtue of roast or casserolled squirrel (I kid you not). Some wag wrote to the paper and said that were this served in a restaurant that menu should contain tha warning "May contain Nuts"!!
PG