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. As with many aspects of traveling, we first need a fall back position. If people don't understand us, we automatically start talking louder. With tipping, we need a fall back percentage. When all else fails, 15 percent is usually a good percentage. The next issue has to do with the tipping burden. Simply put, who is responsible for initiating the tip? In some countries, the tip is automatically added to your bill for services. In others, it is up to you to cough it up. Touch down and pay out. No, I am not talking about betting on football. Instead, I am referring to the airport where you will be doing your first tips if you packed heavy. Skycaps will help you move that luggage and you should pay them a few dollars. 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. Prior to your trip, you should also ascertain whether tipping is even going to be an issue. In some countries, tipping is verboten. In others, it is simply frowned upon. The cost of the service is already built into your bill, so no need to feel guilty. 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 not the only country that feels this way. Many major cultures have the same view. In Europe, Switzerland and the Netherlands disavow tipping. In Asia, the Thais feel the same way. At the end of the day, tipping is about respect. If someone treats you well or takes that extra step, show them respect by paying out a few bucks.
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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.
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