By Georgia Muir
MSN NZ Travel writer
You don't want to break into an argument with a waiter over €2 to find out it's a standard government surcharge, or cop a glare from an insulted bartender because you left a generous tip and his culture perceives it to be condescending. So how do you tip appropriately?
Tipping etiquette varies across the world, from being mandatory in some cultures to being seen as patronising in others. It depends on the culture you are visiting and the customs practised, so careful consideration before opting to tip or not is the key. A little social awareness can save you a lot of confusion, time, money, energy and especially embarrassment.
United States
In the US tipping is expected and comprises a major component in hospitality wages. Tips are applied to almost everything so when you are travelling and not used to incurring these extra costs it can be a shock to your wallet if you don't remember to factor it in.
Guidelines:
- Restaurants, 15 percent or more
- Fast food, not applicable
- Taxis, 15 percent
- Upmarket bars, 15 percent
- Sales tax on goods varies from state to state
- Hotels, up to 15 percent
United Kingdom
Shadowing the US, tipping has caught on in the UK. Traditionally tipping was not standard practice but as global trends have spread, tipping is much more customary.
Guidelines:
- Restaurants, 10 percent unless unsatisfactory service or a service charge has been included in the bill
- Taxi drivers, 10 percent
- Upmarket bars, 10 percent
Europe
In European countries generally tipping is not considered obligatory but is greatly appreciated. Hospitality workers such as waiters, bartenders and concierges will generally happily accept any tips.
Italy
Restaurants and cafes won't expect tips but remember you will pay extra for the privilege of sitting down. So when you are burrowing in your bag for your last few euros for an espresso keep that in mind.
France
This chic country is pricey enough so you can sign in relief that you don't have to feel obliged. Incorporated into the bill is 10-15 percent, so no need to dig deep unless you want to leave a few coins as a sign of gratitude.
Germany
Germans often round up the bill to the nearest full number, which sounds fair. But when €36 becomes €40 you are tipping more than NZ$8.50 it does add up to a significant amount. A service charge is included in the price so you don't feel pressured to round the bill up.
Spain
By law eateries have to incorporate taxes into their retail prices so unless you'd like to leave a tip for exceptional service, save your spending money for seeing the sights.
Asia
In some Asian countries such as Japan tipping is very rare and even considered to be insulting. Leaving a tip can be perceived by staff as compensation for being incapable of performing in their jobs or that you think they need to be bribed to display pride in their work.
Japan
Gratitude is not expressed in monetary terms, a warm smile or a small gift is much more sentimental and respectful.
China
Tipping is not expected or very common in China.
South-East Asia (Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos)
Tipping is common at upmarket restaurants, in the bigger cities such the capital Bangkok and tourist areas such as Hanoi and Siem Reap, but less so in rural and commercial regions.
When visiting less affluent areas a little cash can go along way, so if you appreciate the service then tip accordingly. What you consider to be pocket change could be enough to feed a family for a month or buy some shoes for a child, so think twice about haggling over a few dollars or resisting a small well-deserved tip.
Australia
In tune with the easy-going culture, tipping is not necessary. While it is becoming more common, tips are seen as an added bonus, not an expectation.
When not to tip
Restaurants: additional items
You think you are getting impeccable service because your amicable waiter offers you olives, crusty bread, bottled water, and an aperitif to tie over your hunger. If these items are not complimentary chances are they have preyed on the fact you think they are.
Bad service
By law you are not obligated to tip unless a mandatory tax has been included in the bill. If you are not happy with the service, simply don't tip.
You didn't receive what you ordered
Sounds like common sense, but sometimes we can feel intimidated in foreign countries and aren't as assertive as we are at home. If you received an incorrect meal or one that you're not happy with then don't pay for it.
Taxis
Beware of broken meters, unregistered and unmarked taxis. If you have been taken on an unsolicited scenic drive of the city when your destination was a block away you have been ripped off, so don't accept paying the full fare or leave a tip.
NB: these tipping guidelines are subjective and are just a guideline.
Quick links:
> Travel deals
> NZ accommodation search
> Compare and book flights
> Book global hotels
