Even seasoned travelers can encounter confusion regarding tipping etiquette, as cultural expectations vary significantly. While it's a common practice in some regions, notably North America, it may be less prevalent or even considered impolite in others, such as Japan. Determining the appropriate amount to add to a restaurant bill abroad can be perplexing, and over- or under-tipping can violate local customs. That's why it's advisable to conduct some preliminary research before visiting a new country to familiarize yourself with local tipping norms.
Tipping: a global puzzle? Where did it start and who expects it?
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What's the origin of tipping?
As an American, the prevalence of tipping might lead to a lack of consideration for its origins. Historical accounts suggest that tipping emerged in the Middle Ages but gained widespread adoption in 19th-century Tudor England, as detailed in the book "Tipping: An American Social History of Gratuities." Visitors to private residences would offer small monetary gifts, known as vails, to their hosts as a gesture of gratitude. By the early 19th century, guests staying at Britain's grand estates were often expected to provide substantial sums of money to the domestic staff. As Americans began to travel internationally, they observed this custom and subsequently integrated it into their own practices.
Where is tipping expected?
In contemporary times, while tipping remains customary in restaurants throughout the U.K., the tipping culture is not as pervasive as in North America. It's generally considered appropriate to tip between 10% and 15% of the total bill when dining at a restaurant with table service. However, it's important to note that some establishments may automatically include a service charge, in which case additional tipping is unnecessary. Tipping is less common for takeout orders, counter service, or in pubs and bars. When taking a taxi and paying with cash, rounding up the fare is still the standard practice or a tip of around 10% is acceptable. Hotel guests may tip porters and other service staff, although this is not always a strict expectation.
Tipping norms differ across various European countries, but a general guideline is that – if a service charge is not already incorporated into the bill – tipping between 5% and 10% is customary in restaurants offering table service. In France, most restaurants are legally required to automatically include a 15% service charge, rendering additional tipping unnecessary, although leaving a few extra euros or rounding up the bill is always appreciated. A similar situation prevails in Switzerland, where service charges are legally included in the total bill.
In Southern European nations, such as Italy, Portugal, and Spain, tips as low as 5% are often considered acceptable. Similarly, in the Benelux countries and Scandinavia, a tip of 5% to 10% will typically suffice if no service charge is present on the bill. In many establishments in Germany and Austria, servers often approach your table wearing a money belt. In these instances (and in numerous other European countries), tips are typically paid in cash, and the expectation is usually to round up your bill by a few euros, whether for a round of drinks or a full meal for a table. To indicate that you don't require change, you can use the phrase "stimmt so" or simply say "danke."
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Places where tipping is not needed
In the majority of Asian countries, including Japan and South Korea, a deeply ingrained tipping culture doesn't exist. Concierges, waiters, and porters are likely to decline a tip and might even perceive the offer as offensive. In Japan, attempting to round up your bill after a meal may elicit quizzical expressions – it's somewhat akin to offering your supermarket cashier the option to keep the change when paying for groceries. Moreover, the strong work ethic and inherent culture of hospitality in these regions often negate the perceived need for tips as an incentive for better service. However, one notable exception is tour guides, who are generally likely to politely accept a small token of appreciation for their services.
China also lacks a significant historical tradition of tipping. Outside of luxury hotel chains catering to international clientele, offering extra money for good service would be considered unusual. However, in Hong Kong and Macau, the cultural landscape is slightly different, influenced by the colonial legacies of Great Britain and Portugal. In these regions, practices align more closely with European norms, and tipping may be appreciated in certain service scenarios.
Unsure? Just check what others do
In other parts of the world, such as Latin America or Africa, tipping is generally not a strict expectation, although it's usually well-received. It's often customary to add up to 10% to the bill at restaurants, particularly in more upscale establishments. When uncertain, observing local practices can provide guidance: Are the locals around you leaving some small change on their restaurant checks? Did other members of your tour group offer some cash to the driver? If you haven't had the opportunity to research tipping customs beforehand, following the lead of others can be a reliable approach.
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