How to tip correctly in different countries
Here is all you need to know about tipping around the world. The norm in many countries is similar to that in South Africa.
Navigating tipping etiquette when travelling to different countries can be tricky. Here is a guide on how much to tip in various countries around the world. In many countries, the norm is similar to South Africa.
GENERAL ADVICE
According to Woman and Home Magazine, recent Google searches for ‘tipping abroad’ have risen by 166%. This indicates how many people are unsure of the correct etiquette when travelling to foreign countries.
It is advisable to ask for some small change when exchanging your money for your travels to ensure you can give people like taxi drivers or hotel staff some cash to show your appreciation.
If unsure, it is always helpful to ask a local. Asking the person at the information desk at the hotel or a local person dining at a restaurant, for example, can give you insight into what the expectations are.
TIPPING CUSTOMS IN EUROPE
The rules vary across Europe.
Restaurant bills often include a service charge in countries like France, Italy, Spain, and Germany. In that case, an additional gratuity fee is not necessary. Otherwise, a 10 to 15% tip is the norm.
Tipping is less common in some European countries like Belgium, Finland, Denmark, and the Netherlands.
NORTH AMERICA AND CANADA
Tips make up a significant part of a server’s income in North America and Canada. In restaurants, the general expectation is 15 to 20% of the bill, while in bars, it is customary to give $1 per drink.
If you are staying in a hotel, bellhops usually expect $2 to $5 per bag, $2 to $5 per night for housekeeping, and $5 to $20 for the concierge, depending on the service.
CENTRAL AND SOUTH AMERICA
In comparison to North America, waiters in South America don’t rely on tips as heavily. The norm is 10 to 15% of the bill, like in South Africa.
It is important to note, however, that some countries like Brazil, Chile, and Costa Rica often add a cover charge to a restaurant bill. This is generally a charge for the table and does not go to the waiter.
HOW MUCH TO TIP IN ASIA
Like in Europe, tipping culture varies greatly across Asia, and expectations in South East Asia and the Far East differ significantly.
Generally, in most Asian countries tipping is not expected. In most countries, a tip is appreciated; however, there are a few countries where tips are seen as unnecessary and can even be considered rude.
In Japan, restaurants consider waitering as part of the service and tipping can be offensive. A small gift is a better option if you really want to show appreciation. Similar to Japan, tipping is not the norm in South Korea.
In countries like Thailand and Vietnam, tipping is becoming more common in tourist areas. The norm is around 10%.
It can be best to err on the side of caution and not tip in Asia, to avoid accidentally offending someone – but you can ask a local, or staff at your hotel for advice.
AUSTRALIA AND NEW ZEALAND
Gratuity fees are not generally expected in Australia or New Zealand. Some high-end restaurants in tourist areas include a tip in the bill as a service charge. A 5 to 10% tip or rounding up the bill to the nearest AUD will suffice if you want to show your appreciation for good service. The same applies for taxis, hotels, and bars.