The service industry is renowned for having different tipping cultures from country to country. In the United States, tipping often is a significant share of a worker’s salary. Locals and tourists give 15 to 20 percent of the final bill to restaurant waiters, taxi drivers, porters, and tour guides.
For international travelers, here’s what to expect outside the U.S.
- Gratuities aren’t expected, but 10 percent or a rounded-up bill is appreciated by wait staffs.
- Tips in should be left in a discreet manner, as Brazilians prefer to be subtle when it comes to the exchange of money. It’s customary to charge diners a 10 percent service fee. Another five to 10 per cent in cash is common.
- China. Tipping in some places is frowned upon. However, some high-end restaurant and heavy tourist spots may be accustomed to small tips.
- It’s customary for change to be left at bars, three to five percent to be given at casual cafes and restaurants, and 10 to 15 percent at a higher-end place.
- Egypt. Leave between five and 10 percent as a cash gratuity to the servers.
- France. Restaurants, bars and cafes will generally include a service charge in the final bill, so a tip isn’t expected.
- There is no strong tipping culture, but rounded-up bill or small tip is okay.
- Tipping is completely optional and never expected, but 10 percent tip is acceptable if no service fee is charged.
- Locals don’t tip, but tourists can do it in cash.
- Japan. Workers refuse tips and might even consider them insulting. Cultural expectations are that good service should be the norm rather than something to be rewarded.
- Have servers keep the change or offer small tips, even though Dutch law requires establishments to include tips in their published prices.
- Spain. Tipping isn’t expected or customary.
- Thailand. Tipping isn’t customary in Thailand, but small gratuities are appreciated.
- United Arab Emirates. A 10 per cent service charge is required in certain cities like, but workers expect an additional 15 to 20 percent tip.
Source: Stressfreecarental.com.