Tipping Guidelines When Visiting Countries
by Richard Chape
Traveling is a good way to experience new things, but certain practical matters can be a pain in the rear quarters. Tipping is one of those things. Following is a general guide for handling tipping when abroad.
The first issue is figuring out what constitutes a reasonable tip. For the most part, you can use fifteen percent as a default figure. When in doubt, add this to the bill and you usually will end up okay.
We now have a default percentage, but what about initiating the tipping process? Much like dancing, someone has to lead! In some areas, you are expected to add the tip to the bill while others simply incorporate it in the bill automatically.
The first place you will do some tipping is probably the airport. Do not attempt to tip the customs officials! The airport skycaps, however, should get a dollar or two depending on how many suitcases you are having them carry for you.
Taxi rides should be considered part of the cultural experience of any big city. For you, it will be a necessity if you want to get from the airport to your hotel. A standard tip for a taxi driver is in the 10 percent range.
If you are staying in a youth hostel or small hotel, don't sweat tipping for the lodging. If you are staying in a nice hotel, however, break out the green stuff. Bellhops pick up and move your luggage. Tip them a couple of bucks in thanks.
Alas, you might be able to escape the world of tipping etiquette all together. In some countries, the culture is such that tipping is frowned upon as a matter of course. Any attempt to tip is considered an insult, so don't!
An example of an upcoming tipping faux pas will be China. As you know, the summer Olympics are in Beijing in 2008. China has a unique view of tipping. It is seriously frowned upon! Imagine all those tourists and the confusion.
China is hardly in the minority in its views on tipping when it comes to major cultures. Much of Asia holds with the view. Russia, the Swiss and Holland are other countries that also frown upon the idea.
There is little reason to get caught up in the etiquette debate on tipping. Just use appreciation as a fall back position. If you appreciate the service provided, then show it with an appropriate tip.
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