It's funny how strong words are isn't it? Most Americans have a hard time to even associate the word "immigrant" with white-skinned people. By definition, the word has nothing to do with wealth, but yet society has created a secondary subtle subconscious meaning.

     It's funny you mention"cruise ships" too, because I know that world all too well. I have lots of Filipino friends, and also here in Suriname our landlord's daughter is a cruise ship worker, and she has similar stories. There is certainly a caste system within that world, not only with the job types and pay scales, but also who can be granted permission and trusted to leave the ship and return at ports of call.