by Debbie Ross, founder of the Womens Travel Network
TIPS FOR TIPPING: When is it appropriate to acknowledge services rendered? And how much?
To tip or not to trip. That is often the question when travelling, where customs in far-flung destinations may vary from norms at home, or in new and uncertain situations. When to offer a gratuity, to whom and most important how much.
In which currency to tip…..
It’s always best to tip in local currency; however, in many places, such as the Caribbean, Vietnam or India, U.S. dollars acre acceptable and often welcomed. But bills, never coins unless the local currency.
The ethics of tipping…...
For the most part, tipping is always welcome – especially for services rendered. While tipping a porter is obvious, tipping a local who led you to somewhere you needed to go or a local whose photograph you took would be a kind gesture. However, local guides will often caution against simply giving money for nothing, especially to children.
When, and when not to tip……..
For all those rules and etiquette, tipping of course is optional and the amount is discretionary. Exceptional service sometimes warrants a larger reward while overtly bad service requires nothing. But, no matter how much you leave, don’t forget those two magic words “Thank you”
Who to tip and how much.
Amounts vary widely according to destination and quality of service. Here is a general guideline that will work wherever you travels take you.
Airport
- Porter: $1-3 per bag
- Wheelchair attendants: $3-5
- Shuttle driver: $1-3
Hotels
- Bell boy: $2 for first bag, $1 additional
- Housekeepers: $2-5 per day depending on how messy year are: note the staff may change from day to day so daily gratuities are best
- Concierge: 10% of activity fee arranged up to $20 for standard requests
Transportation
- Taxi: 10-20% of fare, or modest round-up
- Uber: not required, but suggested for outstanding service
Restaurants
- serving staff: 10-20%
Tours
- Guides: $10-20 per person per day: 10-15% of the cost of a day tour
- Drivers: $5-10 per person per day
Cruises
- Once the bane of cruises – who, how much, how many?
Tips can now be prepaid and included in the overall price.
If not, the cruise line will provide a suggested guideline.
Spa Services
- 10-20% of treatment cost