It remains one of the more confusing aspects of the travel experience, tipping. To tip or not to tip and to whom, when, where and how much.
Tipping originated in the 17th century in England where guests could get better service in taverns if they put money in the tip jar. The jars in the taverns were labeled “to insure promptitude.”
Across North America, tips are expected for restaurant and hotel employees and taxi drivers. But if you’re traveling to China or Japan, think twice before you give an employee a few extra dollars, because it’s considered impolite.
In most countries, tipping the hotel staff is expected. You should tip $1-2 for the bellman who helps with your luggage and $3-5 per day for hotel maids.
Now if you use rideshare apps, the tip is included, but you have an option to add more. And unless you’re taxiing around South America, Asia or the Middle East, make sure to leave a couple extra dollars for your driver.
And last but not least, it can get tricky in restaurants. In many foreign countries, the tip is already included in the bill so be sure to ask before you get the bill if service is included and then if the service is really great, you can add 5-10%. Well if push really comes to shove and remember I failed math, go to one of those apps. You may need it more than you think.
By Peter Greenberg for PeterGreenberg.com
Comments ()
View All 
